Rocky Mountains National Park 4-Day Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: City Exploration

Denver, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Snooze Eatery

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Snooze Eatery, known for its creative pancakes and local ingredients.
Snooze Eatery is located in the Union Station neighborhood, easily accessible by walking or a short taxi ride from most downtown hotels.
20, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Explore Union Station

Take a stroll around the historic Union Station, shop at local boutiques, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this transportation hub turned urban hotspot.
Union Station is a short walk from Snooze Eatery, allowing for a seamless transition between breakfast and exploration.
Free, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Linger

Indulge in a sustainable and globally-inspired lunch at Linger, located in a former mortuary with a rooftop bar boasting panoramic city views.
Linger is a 15-minute drive from Union Station, easily accessible by taxi or rideshare services.
30, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Denver Botanic Gardens

Spend the afternoon exploring the Denver Botanic Gardens, home to a vast collection of plants from around the world in beautiful themed gardens.
From Linger, the Denver Botanic Gardens are a 10-minute drive or a 30-minute walk through the Cheesman Park neighborhood.
15, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Mercantile Dining & Provision

Enjoy a farm-to-table dinner experience at Mercantile Dining & Provision, located in Denver's historic Union Station.
Mercantile is a short walk from the Denver Botanic Gardens, allowing for a convenient dinner choice after your afternoon exploration.
40, 2 hours
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Day 2: Mountain Gateway

Estes Park, USA

8:00 AM

Drive to Estes Park

Embark on a scenic drive from Denver to Estes Park, the eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, enjoying breathtaking mountain views along the way.
Estes Park is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Denver via US-36 W and US-34 W.
Gas Cost, 2 hours

10:30 AM

Breakfast at Notchtop Bakery & Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Notchtop Bakery & Cafe, known for its delicious pastries and cozy mountain atmosphere.
Notchtop Bakery & Cafe is located in downtown Estes Park, a short drive from the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park.
20, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Rocky Mountain National Park

Explore the wonders of Rocky Mountain National Park, from scenic drives and hiking trails to wildlife spotting and majestic mountain vistas.
The entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park is a short drive from downtown Estes Park, providing easy access to the park's beauty.
25, 4 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at The Grubsteak Restaurant

Enjoy a cozy dinner at The Grubsteak Restaurant, a local favorite known for its hearty steaks and comfort food.
The Grubsteak Restaurant is located in downtown Estes Park, offering a convenient dining option after a day of exploration in the national park.
35, 2 hours
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Day 3: Lake Adventure

Grand Lake, USA

8:00 AM

Drive to Grand Lake

Embark on a scenic drive from Estes Park to Grand Lake, a charming town on the western edge of Rocky Mountain National Park, offering picturesque lake views.
Grand Lake is approximately a 2-hour drive from Estes Park via Trail Ridge Road, a scenic route through the national park.
Gas Cost, 2 hours

10:30 AM

Breakfast at Sagebrush BBQ & Grill

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Sagebrush BBQ & Grill, known for its delicious BBQ dishes and cozy mountain ambiance.
Sagebrush BBQ & Grill is located in downtown Grand Lake, a short walk from the shores of Grand Lake itself.
25, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Grand Lake Kayaking

Experience the beauty of Grand Lake up close with a kayaking adventure, paddling along the crystal-clear waters surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
Rent kayaks from one of the local outfitters near the lake for a memorable experience on the water.
50, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Grand Lake Village

Take a leisurely stroll through the charming Grand Lake Village, browsing boutique shops, art galleries, and enjoying the laid-back mountain town vibe.
Grand Lake Village is easily walkable, allowing you to explore the quaint streets and lakeside promenade at your own pace.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Historic Rapids Lodge & Restaurant

Enjoy a historic dining experience at The Historic Rapids Lodge & Restaurant, known for its rustic charm and gourmet cuisine overlooking the river.
The Historic Rapids Lodge & Restaurant is located along the Tonahutu River, providing a scenic backdrop for your evening meal.
45, 2 hours
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Day 4: Return to Denver

Denver, USA

8:00 AM

Drive back to Denver

Enjoy one last scenic drive from Grand Lake back to Denver, reminiscing about the natural beauty and adventures of the past few days.
Denver is approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Grand Lake via I-70 E, offering a relaxing journey back to the city.
Gas Cost, 3 hours

11:00 AM

Brunch at Denver Biscuit Company

Savor a delightful brunch at Denver Biscuit Company, a local favorite known for its mouthwatering biscuits and gravy.
Denver Biscuit Company has multiple locations in the city, allowing you to choose one convenient to your route back into Denver.
25, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Visit Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

Explore the stunning natural amphitheater and park at Red Rocks, known for its unique rock formations and iconic music venue.
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre is a 30-minute drive from Denver Biscuit Company, offering a scenic and cultural stop before heading home.
10, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Shopping at Larimer Square

Shop for souvenirs and local goods at Larimer Square, Denver's oldest block featuring trendy boutiques, restaurants, and historic charm.
Larimer Square is a short drive from Red Rocks Park, providing a convenient location for some last-minute shopping before departing Denver.
Variable, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Farewell Dinner at Guard and Grace

Indulge in a luxurious farewell dinner at Guard and Grace, a modern steakhouse known for its upscale ambiance and exceptional culinary offerings.
Guard and Grace is located in downtown Denver, offering a sophisticated dining experience to conclude your Rocky Mountains adventure.
70, 2 hours
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