Ultimate Colorado Adventure: Family-Friendly Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Denver Exploration

Denver, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

Start your day with a delightful breakfast featuring pancakes and omelets made with locally sourced ingredients at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, highly favored by locals.
Located downtown, a short drive from most hotels.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Denver Zoo

After breakfast, explore the Denver Zoo, home to over 3,000 animals and beautifully landscaped grounds, perfect for a family outing.
Drive or take public transit, approximately 15 minutes from the café.
USD22 per adult, USD15 per child, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Avanti Food & Beverage

Enjoy lunch at Avanti, a unique food hall offering various cuisines perfect for picky eaters and those with adventurous palates.
A quick 10-minute drive from the zoo.
USD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Engage with interactive exhibits and a dinosaur skeleton at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, an educational and fun way to spend the afternoon.
15-minute drive from Avanti.
USD20 per adult, USD15 per child, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax in City Park

Take a leisurely stroll or have a picnic at City Park, where the kids can play and you can unwind by the lakes.
Located adjacent to the museum.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Capital Grille

Indulge in a luxurious dining experience at The Capital Grille, known for its dry-aged steaks and extensive wine selection.
A 10-minute drive from City Park.
USD150, 2 hours

8:00PM

Return to Hotel

Conclude the evening by returning to your hotel, resting well for tomorrow’s adventures.
Drive back to your hotel, which is conveniently located within the city.
Free, 30 minutes
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Day 2: Colorado Springs Excursion

Colorado Springs, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Red Finch

Start your day with wholesome breakfast options at The Red Finch, a cozy spot known for its delicious avocado toast and local coffee.
Driving from Denver to Colorado Springs takes about 90 minutes.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Garden of the Gods

Visit the stunning Garden of the Gods, where you can hike, rock climb, and admire the majestic red rock formations; an ideal spot for family photos.
About a 20-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Margarita at Pine Creek

Savor authentic Mexican cuisine for lunch at The Margarita, featuring delicious enchiladas and homemade margaritas.
15-minute drive from the park.
USD60, 1 hour

1:30PM

Pikes Peak Railway

Take a scenic train ride on the Pikes Peak Railway, where you'll ascend to the summit of one of Colorado's tallest peaks, offering stunning views.
Dine and then drive 30 minutes to the train station.
USD38 per adult, USD18 per child, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at your hotel

Check-in and unwind at your hotel in Colorado Springs where you can enjoy their amenities and relax after a busy day.
Return to your hotel located nearby the station.
USD200 (hotel stay), 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Broadmoor

Experience a fine dining dinner at The Broadmoor, a stunning resort offering exquisite dishes ranging from steaks to fresh seafood.
Less than a 10-minute driving distance.
USD200, 2 hours
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Day 3: Estes Park Adventure

Estes Park, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kind Coffee

Start your day with a warm cup of coffee and fresh pastries at Kind Coffee in Estes Park, a local gem that emphasizes sustainability.
Drive from Colorado Springs to Estes Park, about 2 hours.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Rocky Mountain National Park

Spend the day exploring the breathtaking Rocky Mountain National Park, where you can hike, sightsee, and enjoy nature's beauty with the family.
Just a 15-minute drive from Kind Coffee.
USD30 for a vehicle pass, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch Picnic in the Park

Pack a picnic lunch from a local deli and enjoy it surrounded by nature; it's a perfect way to recharge amid the mountains.
Purchase lunch at the deli before entering the park.
USD50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Bear Lake Trail

Hike the Bear Lake Trail, a family-friendly trail offering stunning views of the mountains and lakes, and a chance to see wildlife.
Short drive or a local shuttle from the picnic area.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Estes Park Aerial Tramway

Take a ride on the Estes Park Aerial Tramway for breathtaking views of the valley and mountains, providing a fantastic end to your outdoor adventures.
Drive or take local transportation back to town.
USD25 per adult, USD15 per child, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Stanley Hotel's Cascades Restaurant

Finish your trip with an elegant dinner at Cascades, known for its stunning views and locally sourced cuisine, located inside the historical Stanley Hotel.
A short 5-minute drive from the tram.
USD150, 2 hours

8:00PM

Return to Hotel or Begin Journey Home

Conclude your Colorado adventure either by returning to your accommodations or starting your journey home, reflecting on a trip filled with memories.
Drive back to your hotel or head towards your home city.
Free, 30 minutes
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