6-Day Family Friendly Adventure Road Trip Itinerary in Denver

Day 1: Explore Denver

Denver, CO

8:00AM

Breakfast at Snooze

Start your adventure with a hearty breakfast at Snooze, where your family can enjoy creative takes on classic breakfast dishes like pineapple upside-down pancakes.
Located in downtown Denver.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Denver Zoo

The Denver Zoo is home to over 4,000 animals and offers fun and educational experiences for the entire family.
A quick 15-minute drive from Snooze.
USD 80, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cherry Cricket

After the zoo, head to The Cherry Cricket for burgers and hot dogs in a lively atmosphere.
Just a 10-minute drive from the zoo.
USD 40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Discover the Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Engage your family in hands-on exhibits, an IMAX theater, and a planetarium for an educational yet fun afternoon.
Approximately 15 minutes from The Cherry Cricket.
USD 65, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Casa Bonita

Enjoy a unique dining experience at Casa Bonita, famous for its entertainment and delicious Mexican food.
A 20-minute drive from the museum.
USD 60, 2 hours
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Day 2: Rocky Mountain Adventure

Rocky Mountain National Park, CO

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Forks

Fuel your day with breakfast at The Forks, serving delicious omelets and fresh coffee.
A 1.5-hour drive to Estes Park.
USD 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Rocky Mountain National Park

Spend an exciting day hiking trails like Bear Lake and seeing stunning landscapes of alpine lakes and wildlife.
10-minute drive from the restaurant to the park entrance.
USD 30 (Vehicle Pass), 5 hours

3:30PM

Picnic Lunch at Sprague Lake

Pack a delicious picnic lunch to enjoy at the lovely Sprague Lake, right in the heart of the park.
Walk to the lake from your hiking area.
USD 40 (food costs), 1 hour

5:00PM

Scenic Drive on Trail Ridge Road

Experience breathtaking views atop one of the highest paved roads in North America.
Follow the road within the national park, allowing for multiple stops.
Included in park pass, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern

Wind down your adventurous day with local dishes at this cozy tavern with stunning mountain views.
Drive 30 minutes to Estes Park.
USD 70, 2 hours
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Day 3: Journey to Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, CO

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mountain View Restaurant

Start the day right with breakfast at Mountain View Restaurant, enjoying a variety of American classics.
A scenic 30-minute drive from your accommodation.
USD 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Garden of the Gods

Witness stunning red rock formations and trails perfect for family hikes and photographs in this beautiful park.
A quick 15-minute drive from breakfast.
Free entrance, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Blue Star

Enjoy fresh salads and sandwiches at The Blue Star in the heart of Colorado Springs.
A 10-minute drive from the park.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Spend the afternoon encountering wildlife at America's only mountain zoo, where kids can interact with animals.
Just a 15-minute drive from lunch.
USD 60, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Margarita at Pine Creek

Savor a delicious dinner featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients at this family-friendly restaurant.
About a 15-minute drive from the zoo.
USD 80, 2 hours
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Day 4: Pikes Peak Excursion

Pikes Peak, CO

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pancake House

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Pancake House before heading out for an exciting day.
A quick 20-minute drive.
USD 60, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Pikes Peak via Cog Railway

Experience the world's highest cog railroad to the summit of Pikes Peak for breathtaking views that will awe the family.
A drive to the Pikes Peak Cog Railway station (approx. 30 mins).
USD 120, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Summit House

Feast on a unique dining experience at the summit with amazing views and hearty meals.
On-site at the summit.
USD 60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Descend Pikes Peak

After lunch, take the cog train back down and take in the stunning scenery once again.
On the return trip.
Included in earlier ticket, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at the hotel

Take the time to unwind with your family at the hotel after a thrilling day.
Head back to your accommodation in Colorado Springs.
N/A, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Texas Roadhouse

Wrap up your day with a hearty meal of steaks and sides at Texas Roadhouse, a family favorite.
A quick 15-minute drive from your hotel.
USD 70, 2 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Day in Golden

Golden, CO

8:00AM

Breakfast at Golden Diner

Start your day with comforting breakfast dishes in a friendly, local diner setting.
A scenic 30-minute drive from Colorado Springs.
USD 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Tour the Coors Brewery

Take a guided tour of the Coors Brewery where you’ll learn how beer is made, and kids can explore the visitor center.
A 15-minute drive from breakfast.
USD 15 (kids free), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Capital Grill

Taste gourmet lunch options with views of the scenic foothills at The Capital Grill.
A short 5-minute drive from the brewery.
USD 80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum

Explore fascinating geological exhibits and learn about the state's natural resources.
Just a 5-minute drive from lunch.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Walk around Downtown Golden

Stroll through downtown, exploring charming shops and local eateries before dinner.
Walking distance from the museum.
Free (shopping at your discretion), 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Old Capitol Grill

End your day with a charming dining experience at The Old Capitol Grill, offering delicious American cuisine.
A 10-minute walk from downtown.
USD 70, 2 hours
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Day 6: Relax and Recap

Denver, CO

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jelly Cafe

Indulge in creative breakfast options and a cozy atmosphere at Jelly Cafe before your last day.
A 30-minute drive back to Denver.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Denver Art Museum

Explore a diverse collection of art and engage the family in interactive exhibits and workshops.
A 10-minute drive from breakfast.
USD 35, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Light Lunch at Union Station

Grab a quick bite at one of the many eateries in Denver's historic Union Station.
A 10-minute drive from the art museum.
USD 50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Free Time at City Park

Let the kids run free and enjoy the vast green space at City Park, with paths for walks or bike rides.
Only a short 10-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Wrap-Up Dinner at The Capital Grille

Enjoy a final dinner at The Capital Grille with an upscale menu, perfect for a family celebration.
An accessible 10-minute drive.
USD 100, 2 hours
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