5-Day Family Friendly Adventure Road Trip in the Heart of the Rockies

Day 1: Arrive in Denver

Denver, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

Kickstart your adventure with a hearty breakfast of delicious pancakes and eggs benedict at this popular local chain.
Located in downtown, it's easily accessible from your hotel.
USD 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Denver Zoo

Explore the vibrant exhibits and diverse wildlife, ensuring the kids have an educational yet thrilling experience.
Head southeast through city streets; about 15 minutes from the restaurant.
USD 70, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cherry Cricket

Indulge in a family meal with some of the best burgers in town on their garden patio.
It's a 10-minute drive from the zoo.
USD 60, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Denver Art Museum

Let creativity blossom in your kids as you wander through the stunning art collections.
A scenic 10-minute drive north from the restaurant.
USD 30, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Casa Bonita

Enjoy a unique dining experience with cliff divers and gorillas while savoring Mexican cuisine.
A quick 10-minute drive from the museum.
USD 80, 2 hours

7:30PM

Check into your hotel

Rest up for an exciting journey ahead. Enjoy family time at the hotel pool.
Choose a family-friendly hotel near downtown.
USD 200, 2 hours
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Day 2: Into the Mountains

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

7:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with a complimentary breakfast in a family-friendly environment.
Enjoy at the hotel restaurant.
USD 0, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Rocky Mountain National Park

Enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive filled with breathtaking views of the majestic Rockies.
Take the US-36 W route to reach your destination.
USD 50 (fuel), 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Hiking at Bear Lake

Embark on a family-friendly trail that offers stunning views and is manageable for kids.
Follow signposts from the park entrance; free parking available.
USD 35 (park entrance), 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Park Visitor Center

Grab a quick picnic lunch from local shops or visitor center cafes, with stunning views all around.
Onsite dining options available.
USD 40, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Trail Ridge Road

Drive along the highest continuously paved road in North America for unmatched panoramas.
Follow signs for Trail Ridge Road within the park.
Included in park entrance, 2 hours

4:00PM

Return to Estes Park for Dinner

Relax and enjoy a family meal at The Grubsteak Restaurant with a variety of options for all tastes.
A short drive back to Estes Park.
USD 70, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Check into your lodge in Estes Park

Get cozy in a charming lodge with scenic views of the mountains to unwind after the day's adventures.
Several options available close to the park.
USD 150, 1 hour
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Day 3: Relax & Play at Glenwood Springs

Glenwood Springs, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at your lodge

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast, enjoying the mountain vibes.
Enjoy the breakfast provided at the lodge.
USD 0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Glenwood Springs

Set out early for a scenic 1.5-hour drive through Beautiful mountain paths to Glenwood Springs.
Follow the CO-7 W route.
USD 30 (fuel), 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Glenwood Hot Springs

Take a dip in the largest hot springs pool in the world, perfect for both relaxation and fun.
Right outside the town center.
USD 90 (family pass), 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Pullman

Enjoy a delicious meal featuring locally sourced ingredients to refuel after the morning swim.
Just a quick 5-minute drive from the springs.
USD 75, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Ride the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

Go on a family adventure with roller coasters and cave tours, offering something thrilling for everyone.
Located on a mountain within Glenwood Springs.
USD 120 (family pass), 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Glenwood Canyon Brewing Company

Savor hearty brews and delicious pizza in a family-friendly atmosphere, rounding off the day perfectly.
A short drive from the Adventure Park.
USD 65, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Check into your hotel

Rest up at a cozy hotel, allowing the kids to unwind from the day's excitement.
Choose a hotel located in downtown Glenwood Springs.
USD 180, 2 hours
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Day 4: Adventure Day in Aspen

Aspen, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast before setting off for Aspen.
At the hotel or nearby cafe.
USD 30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Aspen

Enjoy the scenic 1-hour drive as you go through mesmerizing mountain landscapes.
Take N. 6th St and CO-82.
USD 20 (fuel), 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Maroon Bells

Hike around one of the most photographed locations in the U.S. with stunning views for the whole family.
Follow signs to Maroon Lake.
USD 10 (parking fee), 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Little Nell

Enjoy a family-friendly dining experience with a view of the mountain while satisfying your appetite.
A 20-minute drive back from Maroon Bells.
USD 90, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Gondola Ride at Aspen Mountain

Take a gondola ride offering breathtaking views and maybe even some wildlife spotting.
Short drive to the gondola station.
USD 100 (family pass), 2 hours

4:30PM

Shopping and Exploring Aspen

Stroll through the charming streets of Aspen and enjoy some window shopping and local art galleries.
Located within walking distance from the gondola.
USD 0 (browsing), 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Aspen Brewery

Wrap up your perfect day with family in this laid-back brewery that offers a varied menu.
A quick walk from the main street.
USD 75, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Check into your hotel in Aspen

Settle into your hotel, soaking in the charm of this mountain town in preparation for the next day's adventure.
Several family-friendly options available.
USD 200, 1 hour
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Day 5: Nature Exploration in Pike National Forest

Pike National Forest, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy one last hearty breakfast before your final day of adventures.
At the hotel or nearby cafe.
USD 30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Pike National Forest

Take a scenic 1.5-hour drive, winding through the mountains en route to your final nature getaway.
Via CO-82 and US-24.
USD 30 (fuel), 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Hiking in Pike National Forest

Choose a family-friendly trail and get lost in the natural beauty of this lesser-known gem.
Head toward the main visitor entry.
USD 0 (free entry), 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the forest.
Find a scenic spot off the hiking trail.
USD 30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Nature Photography

Encourage the kids to capture the enchanting scenery through photography, making lasting memories.
Find different viewpoints nearby.
USD 0 (free activity), 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore local wildlife spotting

Search for wildlife including deer and various birds, teaching children about local fauna.
Take a gentle walk through open areas.
USD 0 (free activity), 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Return to Denver

Make your way back to Denver to conclude the family road trip, filled with memories of adventure.
Follow the route back via US-24.
USD 30 (fuel), 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Maggiano's Little Italy

Celebrate your journey with a wonderful dinner, enjoying Italian favorites in a warm atmosphere.
Located near your hotel in Denver.
USD 100, 2 hours
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