Rocky Mountain Road Trip: Denver to South Dakota

Day 1: Scenic Drive & Museum Exploration

Denver, Colorado on July 21, 2024

8:00AM

Grab Breakfast at Snooze Eatery

Start your day with creative breakfast dishes in the vibrant atmosphere of Snooze Eatery.
Snooze Eatery is located at Union Station in downtown Denver.
$15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Explore exhibits on wildlife, space, and the environment at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.
Head to City Park to access the museum easily.
$14, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Avanti Food & Beverage

Enjoy a variety of lunch options from different local vendors at this food hall with a view.
Avanti Food & Beverage is located in the LoHi neighborhood.
$20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Drive to Cheyenne, Wyoming

Embark on a scenic drive to Cheyenne, Wyoming, to experience a mix of city life and western culture.
Take I-25 N for approximately 1.5 hours.
Gas for the drive, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Metropolitan Downtown

Indulge in modern American cuisine at The Metropolitan Downtown in Cheyenne.
Located in the heart of Cheyenne, perfect for a relaxing evening.
$25, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Relaxation in Hot Springs

Hot Springs, South Dakota on July 22, 2024

9:00AM

Morning Dip at Evans Plunge Mineral Springs

Start your day with a rejuvenating soak in the natural mineral springs at Evans Plunge.
Evans Plunge is located in Hot Springs and has various pool options.
$18, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Woolly's Grill & Cellar

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Woolly's Grill & Cellar known for its comfort food and unique wine cellar.
Located in the heart of Hot Springs.
$15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Mammoth Site

Explore the world's largest mammoth research facility and discover prehistoric fossils at Mammoth Site.
Located in Hot Springs, offering guided tours.
$10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Angostura Recreation Area

Unwind by the water or take a leisurely walk in the beautiful surroundings of Angostura Recreation Area.
Just a short drive from Hot Springs, entry fee may apply.
$5, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Wild's Grill

Savor homestyle cooking and hearty meals at Wild's Grill to end your relaxing day.
Located conveniently in Hot Springs.
$20, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Exploring the Badlands

Badlands National Park, South Dakota on July 23, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cedar Pass Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with stunning views at Cedar Pass Restaurant inside Badlands National Park.
Located overlooking the Badlands, offering a beautiful start to your day.
$12, 1 hour

10:00AM

Badlands Loop Road Drive

Embark on a scenic drive along the Badlands Loop Road, marveling at the unique rock formations and landscapes.
The Loop Road is accessible from various points in the park.
Park entry fee, 2 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Yellow Mounds Overlook

Enjoy a picnic lunch with a view at the Yellow Mounds Overlook, admiring the colorful rocks of the Badlands.
Accessible by a short hike from the overlook parking area.
Cost of groceries, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hike the Door Trail

Experience a short but spectacular hike on the Door Trail, leading you through the breathtaking Badlands scenery.
Trailhead located near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Cedar Pass Restaurant

End your day with another meal at Cedar Pass Restaurant, savoring the flavors as the sun sets over the Badlands.
Relax and dine at the restaurant inside the park.
$18, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Return Journey to Denver

Badlands National Park, South Dakota on July 24, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sage Creek Grill

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast at Sage Creek Grill before you depart on your journey back to Denver.
Located near the park exit, offering comfort food options.
$10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Drive Back to Denver

Start your drive back to Denver, enjoying the scenic views along the way and reflecting on the nature-filled adventure.
Take I-25 S for approximately 6 hours.
Gas for the drive, 6 hours

5:00PM

Lunch Stop

Make a stop for lunch at a quaint roadside diner to break up the journey.
Look for local diners or cafes along the route.
$15, 1 hour

8:00PM

Arrive in Denver

Reach Denver, reflecting on the memories of the diverse landscapes and experiences from your road trip.
Your road trip comes to an end as you arrive back in Denver.
None, End of trip
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