4-Day Scenic and Cultural Adventure in Colorado

Day 1: Denver Exploration

Denver, Colorado on May 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

Enjoy a delicious and hearty breakfast specializing in creative pancakes and eggs Benedict to start your day in downtown Denver. Open 6:30am–2:30pm.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Denver Art Museum

Explore an impressive collection of Native American art and contemporary exhibits in a striking architecturally renowned building. Open 10am–5pm.
USD15, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Mercantile Dining & Provision

Savor locally sourced dishes and artisanal sandwiches in a stylish market setting within Denver Union Station. Open 11:30am–2:30pm.
USD30, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Larimer Square

Stroll through Denver’s historic district with charming boutiques, cafes, and vibrant street scenes.
Free, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit the Colorado State Capitol

Take a free guided or self-guided tour to admire the stunning architecture and stand on the 13th step, one mile high. Open 8:00am–5:00pm.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Rioja

Dine at a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in Larimer Square, known for creative seafood and seasonal dishes. Open 5:00pm–9:00pm.
USD50, 1h30m
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Day 2: Boulder and Mountains

Boulder and Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado on May 6, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Buff Restaurant

Enjoy a popular local spot with hearty breakfast classics in Boulder. Open 7:00am–2:00pm.
USD15, 1h0m

9:00am

Walk Pearl Street Mall

Experience this pedestrian mall lined with shops, street performers, and cafes in Boulder’s lively center.
Free, 1h0m

10:30am

Drive to Rocky Mountain National Park

Travel approximately 1.5 hours northwest to the park entrance to enjoy stunning mountain scenery and wildlife.
USD30 (park entrance fee), 1h30m

12:00pm

Hiking at Bear Lake Trail

Take an accessible 1.5-mile loop hike around Bear Lake to view majestic peaks and alpine lakes. Open daily from dawn to dusk.
Included with park entry, 1h30m

1:30pm

Picnic Lunch at Bear Lake

Enjoy a packed picnic with beautiful mountain views, bring snacks from Boulder or Denver. No on-site food services.
Varies, 1h0m

3:00pm

Drive back to Boulder

Return to Boulder for the evening.
USD0, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Flagstaff House

Dine at this elegant restaurant perched above Boulder offering panoramic views and a refined Colorado-inspired menu. Open 5:30pm–9:00pm.
USD60, 1h30m
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Day 3: Colorado Springs Culture and Nature

Colorado Springs, Colorado on May 7, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Urban Steam

Start your day with great coffee and breakfast sandwiches in downtown Colorado Springs. Open 7:00am–3:00pm.
USD15, 1h0m

8:30am

Visit Garden of the Gods

Explore the dramatic red sandstone formations and scenic trails with free park access from 5:00am–10:00pm.
Free, 2h0m

11:00am

Tour the U.S. Air Force Academy Visitor Center

Discover the Cadet Chapel and the history of the Academy. Open 9:00am–6:00pm, closed Sundays.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Shuga’s

Enjoy eclectic small-plate cuisine and fresh sandwiches at this cozy spot near downtown. Open 11:30am–9:00pm.
USD25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

Learn about local heritage and culture in this beautifully preserved historic building. Open 10:00am–5:00pm.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Rabbit Hole

Experience avant-garde American dishes in a unique underground setting. Open 5:00pm–9:00pm.
USD50, 1h30m
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Day 4: Nature and Return

Garden of the Gods and Denver, Colorado on May 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Over Easy, Colorado Springs

Relish hearty breakfast options with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Open 7:00am–2:00pm.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Return to Garden of the Gods for Sunrise Photography

Capture stunning morning light on the rock formations if you missed or want to revisit. Park open early.
Free, 1h0m

10:30am

Drive Back to Denver

Head back to Denver, a 1.5-hour drive to conclude your Colorado adventure.
USD0, 1h30m

12:00pm

Late Lunch at Biker Jim’s Gourmet Dogs, Denver

Try unique gourmet hot dogs with wild game meats for a fun and casual meal. Open 11:00am–9:00pm.
USD15, 1h0m

2:00pm

Relax or Explore Denver’s RiNo District

Visit colorful street art, breweries, and galleries in Denver's River North Art District. Open daily.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Linger Denver

Enjoy a rooftop setting with eclectic global plates, perfect to toast your final night in Colorado. Open 5:00pm–9:00pm.
USD40, 1h30m
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