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Summer Colorado Adventure Road Trip for Families with Young Kids

Viewed by 150 travelers

Day 1: Discovering Denver

Denver, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at Denver Biscuit Company

Kick-off your adventure with delightful, oversized biscuits topped with your favorite fillings.
Conveniently located in Denver, easy access from most hotels.
USD25, 1.0 hours

9:30AM

Denver Zoo

Spend a fun morning exploring over 4,000 animals at this world-class zoo, perfect for young adventurers.
Head northeast for about 15 minutes.
USD32, 3.0 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cherry Cricket

Enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere and dig into classic burgers and kid-friendly bites.
A quick 10-minute drive from the zoo.
USD45, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Museum of Nature & Science

Explore interactive exhibits that engage children and spark their curiosity about the world around them.
Just a 15-minute drive away.
USD32, 3.0 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Casa Bonita

Wrap up your day with a unique dining experience featuring entertainment like cliff divers!
Only 20 minutes from the museum.
USD60, 2.0 hours
Find Hotels in Denver

Day 2: Adventures in Boulder

Boulder, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Buff Restaurant

Start the day with a hearty breakfast buffet focusing on fresh, local ingredients.
Drive about 30 minutes to Boulder.
USD30, 1.0 hours

9:30AM

Chautauqua Park

Explore scenic trails and beautiful picnic spots in this iconic park with stunning views of the Flatirons.
Just 5 minutes from breakfast.
Free, 2.0 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery

Enjoy a family-friendly pub atmosphere with a wide-ranging menu, including delectable sandwiches.
Only 10 minutes from Chautauqua Park.
USD50, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art

Introduce your kids to creativity through interactive exhibits and family events offered in summer.
Drive a quick 5 minutes from the restaurant.
USD10, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Pearl Street Mall

Stroll this vibrant outdoor mall filled with shops, entertainers, and plenty of space for kids to explore.
Walk to the mall, just a few blocks away.
Free, 2.0 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Post Brewing Co.

Finish the day with comfort food and locally-brewed beers paired with kid-friendly meals.
Just a short drive from Pearl Street.
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Boulder

Day 3: Journey to Estes Park

Estes Park, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Egg of Estes

Fuel up with superb breakfast classics, known for their delicious omelets and pancakes.
Drive about 45 minutes to Estes Park.
USD30, 1.0 hours

9:30AM

Estes Park Aerial Tramway

Soar above the landscape and enjoy panoramic views of the Rockies, an adventure the kids will love!
The tramway is located right in Estes Park.
USD24, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Estes Park History Center

Participate in engaging activities that teach about local history and culture as a family.
A quick 5-minute drive from the tramway.
USD10, 1.0 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Poppy’s Pizza & Grill

Indulge in family-favorite pizzas and sandwiches making sure everyone is satisfied.
Just a short drive from the history center.
USD45, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Lake Estes Walk & Play

Stroll or bike around Lake Estes, while enjoying the serene environment and playground for kids.
Only about 5 minutes from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at The Waterfront Grill

Enjoy riverside dining with a menu that offers local and fresh options suitable for all appetites.
Just a 5-minute drive from Lake Estes.
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Estes Park

Day 4: Explore Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at Donut Haus

Treat your family to delicious breakfast pastries and coffee for a sweet start to the day.
Drive about 30 minutes to the park.
USD20, 1.0 hours

9:30AM

Bear Lake Hike

Take an easy and scenic hike around Bear Lake, suitable for families with young explorers.
The trailhead is in the same area.
Free, 2.0 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Bear Lake

Pack a picnic before the hike and dine in the backdrop of breathtaking mountain views.
Accessible at Bear Lake.
USD25, 1.0 hours

1:00PM

Wildlife Watching at Sprague Lake

Your family can enjoy some incredible scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities while wandering the area.
A short 10-minute drive from Bear Lake.
Free, 2.0 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Rocky Mountain Conservancy

Explore hands-on conservation projects and educational activities available for kids while visiting.
Drive about 20 minutes from Sprague Lake.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Trail Ridge Store

Conclude your fun-filled day with a casual meal at this store featuring delicious sandwiches.
Approximately 30 minutes from the conservancy.
USD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Rocky Mountain National Park

Day 5: Relaxation in Glenwood Springs

Glenwood Springs, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sweet Coloradough

Start your morning with sweet gourmet donuts that are sure to delight both kids and adults.
Drive 1.5 hours to Glenwood Springs.
USD20, 1.0 hours

9:00AM

Glenwood Hot Springs Pool

Relax in the world's largest mineral hot springs pool, where kids can splash and play to their hearts' content.
Just a short drive (5 minutes) from breakfast.
USD25, 3.0 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Pullman

Enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere with a great menu that caters to kids and parents alike.
Just a 5-minute drive from the pools.
USD60, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

Head underground to explore fascinating caverns and enjoy thrilling rides suited for the whole family.
A 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD60, 3.0 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Glenwood Canyon Brewing Company

Savor a delicious meal and local brews, with a kids’ menu to satisfy all tastes.
Just a short drive from the adventure park.
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Glenwood Springs

Day 6: Scenic Beauty in Aspen

Aspen, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at Victoria’s Espresso Wine Bar

Enjoy a delicious breakfast experience with healthy options in a cozy setting.
Drive 1 hour to Aspen.
USD35, 1.0 hours

9:30AM

Aspen Nature Discovery Center

Kids can engage in nature-themed programs designed to educate and entertain budding explorers.
Just a 15-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2.0 hours

11:30AM

Maroon Bells Scenic Loop

Marvel at the stunning views and wildflower hikes around the iconic Maroon Bells – definitely a family favorite.
Clip an easy 30-minute drive to this picturesque location.
Free, 2.0 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Ajax Tavern

Dig into delicious burgers and salads in the heart of Aspen for a pleasant midday meal.
Head back 30 minutes to the town.
USD60, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Aspen Recreation Center

Spend a fun-filled afternoon swimming and playing at the family-friendly recreation center.
A quick 5-minute drive from lunch.
USD25, 2.0 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Snowmass Kitchen

Conclude your day with family-friendly dining options surrounded by stunning mountain views.
Only 15 minutes from the recreation center.
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Aspen

Day 7: Finale in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pancake Kitchen

Enjoy fluffy pancakes and classic breakfast dishes to culminate your amazing trip.
Drive about 2 hours to Colorado Springs.
USD35, 1.0 hours

9:30AM

Garden of the Gods

Explore stunning red rock formations and kid-friendly hiking trails at this extraordinary park.
Only 15 minutes from breakfast.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Old School BBQ

Refuel with delicious barbecue options suited for everyone’s tastes in a relaxed setting.
A short 10-minute drive from the park.
USD45, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Pikes Peak Railway

Take a scenic train ride to witness spectacular views that will captivate both you and your child.
About a 30-minute drive to the station.
USD56, 3.0 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Margarita at PineCreek

Finish your adventure with a fantastic meal featuring diverse options for every palate.
Return to your hotel in Colorado Springs, around 20 minutes away.
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Colorado Springs
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