5-Day Adventure and Relaxation in Colorado's Scenic Cities and Mountains

Day 1: Denver Urban Exploration

Denver, Colorado, USA on May 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

Start your day with creative and delicious breakfast options like pancakes and eggs benedict at this popular Denver spot, open from 6:30am.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Denver Art Museum

Explore a world-class collection of Native American art and contemporary works. The museum opens at 10:00am, so you can arrive right at opening for a quieter experience.
USD13, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Denver Central Market

Enjoy diverse food options including artisan sandwiches, pizza, and seafood specialties in this lively food hall located in the RiNo district.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Walk through Larimer Square

Discover boutique shops and historic charm in Denver's oldest and most vibrant block.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Visit the Denver Botanic Gardens

Experience 23 acres of themed gardens showcasing diverse plant species, a peaceful urban escape open until 8:00pm during spring.
USD15, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Rioja

Enjoy Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in a cozy and upscale setting right in downtown Denver.
USD40, 1h30m

Day 2: Boulder Nature & Culture

Boulder, Colorado, USA on May 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Buff Restaurant

Enjoy hearty and fresh breakfast options favored by locals, perfect for energizing before an active day. Opens at 7:00am.
USD15, 1h

9:00am

Hike at Chautauqua Park

Take a scenic trail among the Flatirons, famous rock formations offering panoramic views of Boulder and the foothills.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery

Refuel with craft beer and delicious pub fare in Boulder's casual and lively brewery which opens at noon.
USD20, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art

Explore rotating exhibits of innovative contemporary art, open from noon to 5:00pm.
USD10, 1h

3:30pm

Stroll Pearl Street Mall

Enjoy shopping and street performances in this bustling pedestrian mall filled with boutiques and cafes.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Frasca Food and Wine

Savor upscale Italian cuisine inspired by the Friuli region, paired with extensive wines; reservations recommended.
USD60, 2h

Day 3: Rocky Mountain Adventure

Estes Park, Colorado, USA on May 10, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Kind Coffee

Grab artisan coffee and light breakfast in Estes Park’s cozy café before heading into nature.
USD10, 30m

8:00am

Rocky Mountain National Park Hike

Explore scenic hiking trails like Bear Lake or Alberta Falls. The park opens at 8:00am; spring conditions may vary, so check trail access ahead.
USD35 per vehicle for park entry, 5h

1:30pm

Lunch at Bird & Jim

Enjoy modern American cuisine with mountain views at this stylish restaurant open for lunch from noon.
USD30, 1h30m

3:30pm

Visit Estes Park Riverwalk

Stroll along the scenic Big Thompson River with shops and galleries along the way.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ & Tap House

Relax with hearty barbecue and local brews in a rustic atmosphere.
USD25, 1h30m

Day 4: Colorado Springs Sights

Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA on May 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Urban Steam

Start your day with artisanal coffee and breakfast in a modern setting.
USD15, 1h

9:00am

Garden of the Gods Park

Explore dramatic red sandstone formations on walking trails. The park is open 24/7 and offers free admission.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at The Rabbit Hole

Savor inventive American cuisine in a unique underground setting, open for lunch from 11:30am.
USD25, 1h30m

1:30pm

Pikes Peak Barr Trail or Scenic Drive

Take the scenic drive up Pikes Peak or, if adventurous, hike the Barr Trail to enjoy breathtaking mountain views. Check the summit road for spring opening times which vary, usually mid-May.
USD15 for auto toll if driving, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Four by Brother Luck

Enjoy creative southwestern dishes by Chef Brother Luck, open for dinner at 5:00pm.
USD50, 1h30m

Day 5: Denver Culture & History

Denver, Colorado, USA on May 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sassafras American Eatery

Indulge in Southern-inspired breakfast in a classic Denver neighborhood setting, opens at 8:00am.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

History Colorado Center

Discover exhibits on Colorado’s history and culture at this engaging and interactive museum open from 9:00am.
USD14, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Mercantile Dining & Provision

Savor farm-to-table flavors in Denver’s Union Station with locally sourced ingredients, open for lunch from 11:00am.
USD30, 1h30m

2:00pm

Explore Denver’s Historic Capitol Hill and Cheesman Park

Walk through historic neighborhoods and relax in the peaceful Cheesman Park to complete your Colorado visit.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at El Five

End your trip with stunning city views and innovative Mediterranean tapas at this rooftop restaurant, open until 10:00pm.
USD45, 2h