35-Day Senior-Friendly Western Road Trip: Goodman, MS to Colorado Springs, CO with Cowboy History, Scenic Stops & Expanded Colorado Exploration

Day 1: Goodman to Magazine Mountain

Goodman, MS to Magazine Mountain, AR on September 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Goodman

Start your journey with a comforting Southern breakfast at this local favorite café.
USD15, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Magazine Mountain State Park

Approximately a 5-hour scenic drive north-west heading into Arkansas' highest point, known for gentle walking trails and beautiful vistas.
USD0, 5h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at The Blue Mountain Diner

Enjoy classic American diner fare with friendly service near Magazine Mountain.
USD20, 1h0m

3:00pm

Magazine Mountain Hiking & Viewpoints

Take easy strolls along paved paths to scenic overlooks suitable for seniors seeking nature with minimal strain.
USD5 parking, 2h0m

5:30pm

Check-in Fort Smith Military Lodging

Stay comfortably and securely on or near Fort Smith military installation for restful overnight accommodations.
USD70, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at Fort Smith Officers Club

Enjoy a senior-friendly menu in a peaceful dining atmosphere on base.
USD25, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Magazine Mountain to Pawhuska

Magazine Mountain, AR to Pawhuska, OK on September 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Begin the day with a filling breakfast included with your lodging.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Pawhuska, Oklahoma

4.5-hour scenic drive into the heart of Osage County, a region rich in Native American and cowboy heritage.
USD0, 4h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Bull Buffalo Steakhouse

Enjoy cowboy-inspired cuisine in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
USD25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Osage Nation Museum

Explore fascinating exhibits on Osage history and cowboy culture; museum hours 9am-5pm.
USD10, 1h30m

4:30pm

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Pawhuska Historic District

Leisurely stroll highlighting cowboy history and local architecture; easy pace for seniors.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Overnight at Local Military or Senior-Friendly Hotel

Rest well with accommodations chosen for comfort and senior-friendly amenities.
USD70, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at The Mercantile

Experience farm-to-table dining with seasonal menu options in a cozy setting.
USD30, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Pawhuska to Dodge City

Pawhuska, OK to Dodge City, KS on September 4, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Mercantile

Start the day with fresh pastries, coffee, and light breakfast fare.
USD15, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Dodge City, Kansas

5-hour drive northwest through iconic cowboy country toward historic Dodge City.
USD0, 5h0m

1:45pm

Lunch at Long Branch Saloon

Savor traditional western fare in a historic saloon environment where legends once gathered.
USD25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Boot Hill Museum

Dive into Wild West history with accessible exhibits and artifacts; open 9am-5pm daily.
USD12, 2h0m

5:30pm

Stroll Dodge City Historic District

Easy walk around the historic downtown with plenty of benches and attractions.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Check-in Military or Senior-Friendly Lodging

Rest comfortably near or on a military base with senior amenities.
USD70, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at Gunsmoke Grill

Classic American dining with senior-appropriate lighter options and relaxed atmosphere.
USD30, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Dodge City to Colorado Springs

Dodge City, KS to Colorado Springs, CO on September 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast including fruit and cereals to fuel the long day ahead.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive West to Colorado Springs, CO

About 5.5 hours of scenic driving with planned stops for comfort and stretching along the way.
USD0, 5h30m

2:15pm

Lunch Stop in Pueblo, CO

Take a break for lunch at The Wheelhouse Brewing Company offering easy-to-eat dishes in a calm setting.
USD20, 1h0m

3:30pm

Check-in at Peterson Air Force Base Military Lodging

Secure senior-friendly accommodations on a military base with good accessibility.
USD80, Overnight

5:00pm

Garden of the Gods Evening Visit

Easy trails and stunning red rock formations with benches and shaded areas; perfect for a relaxed sunset walk.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at The Broadmoor Seven Falls Restaurant

Dine in elegant surroundings with mountain and waterfall views offering senior-friendly menu choices.
USD40, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Colorado Springs Introduction

Colorado Springs, CO on September 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Nutritious breakfast included with lodging to jump start your day.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

U.S. Air Force Academy Tour

Explore accessible visitor centers, the iconic Cadet Chapel, and grounds on gentle walking routes; hours 7am-5pm.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Edelweiss German Restaurant

Authentic German cuisine offering mild and flavorful dishes ideal for seniors.
USD25, 1h15m

1:30pm

Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

Discover the history of early settlers and cowboy culture in an accessible building open 10am-5pm.
USD8, 1h30m

3:30pm

Broadmoor Seven Falls

Accessible views and gentle paths around the waterfall with options to avoid stairs; open until sunset.
USD14, 1h30m

5:30pm

Rest at Military Lodging

Time to relax and refresh after a full day.
USD0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mountain Shadows Restaurant

Enjoy flavorful meals with a mountain view in a senior-friendly, quiet environment.
USD35, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak

Colorado Springs, CO on September 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Lodge

Start the day with fresh fruit and light options included with lodging.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Garden of the Gods Visitor Center

Visit exhibits and watch an informative film about the geology and history of the park; open 8am-5pm.
Free, 1h0m

10:15am

Pikes Peak Scenic Drive or Cog Railway

Experience breathtaking views without hiking via car or railway; senior accessible with advance booking.
USD38, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at The Rabbit Hole

Quirky setting offering senior-friendly dishes and a pleasant ambiance.
USD25, 1h0m

2:45pm

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Explore easy-to-navigate paths, tram rides, and shade to relax while seeing animals; open 9am-5pm.
USD22, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to Lodging

Rest and prepare for dinner.
USD0, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Shuga’s

Casual dining with light meals and a cozy atmosphere suitable for seniors.
USD28, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Colorado Springs Nature & Culture

Colorado Springs, CO on September 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Lodge

Enjoy a filling breakfast included with your accommodations.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Ute Valley Park

Gentle walks on paved, level paths with birdwatching and peaceful nature scenery.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Urban Steam Coffee Bar & Bistro

Light lunch and excellent coffee in a relaxed setting perfect for seniors.
USD20, 1h0m

1:30pm

Second Visit or Extended Time at Pioneers Museum

Additional time to explore exhibits of local history and cowboy culture at leisure.
USD8, 1h30m

3:30pm

Senior-Friendly Spa Appointment

Relax with gentle massage or therapeutic treatments designed for seniors’ comfort.
USD60, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Winery 25

Savor dinner with local wines in a peaceful and elegant setting.
USD40, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Historic Manitou Springs & Old Colorado City

Colorado Springs, CO on September 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Lodge

Enjoy your included breakfast to fuel the day’s activities.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Manitou Springs

Explore this charming historic town known for mineral water springs, art galleries, and gentle strolls.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Lunch at Savelli’s Pizza & Pasta

Family-friendly dining with comfortable seating and senior-friendly Italian cuisine.
USD25, 1h0m

1:00pm

Old Colorado City Visit

Historic shopping district with easy paved paths, quaint stores, and afternoon tea options.
Free, 2h0m

3:30pm

Downtown Colorado Springs

Relax in shady parks or browse craft shops with benches and easy access.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Return to Military Lodge

Prepare to unwind after a leisurely day out.
USD0, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Rabbit Hole

Enjoy tender meals and a quiet ambiance perfect for seniors.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 9: Royal Gorge & Cañon City Day Trip

Colorado Springs, CO to Cañon City, CO on September 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Eat a hearty breakfast before a full day excursion.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Royal Gorge Bridge & Park

Approximately 1-hour drive; explore one of the world’s highest suspension bridges with accessible pathways and scenic viewpoints.
USD30, 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Royal Gorge Bridge Park Cafe

Enjoy a casual lunch with views of the gorge, offering senior-friendly meals.
USD20, 1h0m

1:30pm

Drive around Cañon City historic areas

Gentle drive with stops at viewpoints and historic sites; minimal walking required.
USD0, 2h0m

3:30pm

Return to Colorado Springs

Drive back and rest at your lodging.
USD0, 1h0m

5:00pm

Free Evening

Relax and enjoy time at your lodging or local park nearby.
Free, Flexible

7:00pm

Dinner at Mountain Shadows Restaurant

Finish the day with relaxing dining and mountain views.
USD35, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Colorado Springs Leisure Day

Colorado Springs, CO on September 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Energy-rich breakfast to start a restful day.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

SculptureWalk Colorado Springs

Easy stroll around downtown viewing public sculptures with plenty of seating for rest.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

Relax at Acacia Park

Enjoy shaded benches and a quiet environment to rest.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Urban Steam Coffee Bar & Bistro

Light fare with strong coffee and relaxing ambiance.
USD20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center

Explore senior-accessible art exhibits and galleries; open 10am-5pm.
USD12, 2h0m

4:30pm

Return to Lodging & Rest

Time to relax before dinner.
USD0, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Rabbit Hole

Nourishing dinner with ambient dining, easy for seniors to enjoy.
USD30, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Historic Golden, CO Day Trip

Colorado Springs, CO to Golden, CO on September 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Lodge

Start the day with a good breakfast included with your stay.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Golden, CO

Approximate 1.5-hour drive northwest to this quaint historic town near Denver.
USD0, 1h30m

10:00am

Colorado Railroad Museum

Explore train history and cowboy era transportation with gentle walking paths and benches; open 9am-5pm.
USD15, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Table Mountain Inn Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxed lunch in a historic building with senior-friendly options.
USD25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Historic Downtown Golden

Leisurely stroll with plenty of benches and historic sites; browse shops or enjoy a coffee.
Free, 2h0m

4:30pm

Drive back to Colorado Springs

Return to lodging for rest.
USD0, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Mountain Shadows Restaurant

Comfortable dinner with peaceful mountain ambiance.
USD35, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Historic Trinidad, CO Visit

Colorado Springs, CO to Trinidad, CO on September 13, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Lodge

Have a wholesome breakfast before the day trip.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive to Trinidad, CO

About 2.5-hour scenic drive south near Rocky Mountains and old west mining towns.
USD0, 2h30m

10:30am

Trinidad History Museum

Discover the rich local history tied to early settlers, cowboys and mining; accessible and senior-friendly.
USD10, 1h30m

12:15pm

Lunch at Sunrise Bar & Grill

Comfort food in a quiet setting for a relaxing afternoon meal.
USD25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Historic Walking Tour (Easy Pace)

Easy guided stroll along accessible routes through Trinidad’s historic district.
USD0, 1h30m

3:00pm

Return to Colorado Springs

Drive back and take time to rest.
USD0, 2h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Shuga’s

Light and flavorful dining ideal for seniors after a long day.
USD28, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Great Sand Dunes National Park

Colorado Springs, CO to Great Sand Dunes National Park, CO on September 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Lodge

Eat well before a longer day excursion.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Great Sand Dunes National Park

Approx 3-hour drive south-west to magnificent sand dunes and park facilities with flat trails.
USD30 entrance, 3h0m

11:30am

Picnic Lunch at Park

Enjoy a prepared picnic lunch in shaded picnic areas within the park grounds.
USD0, 1h0m

12:30pm

View Sand Dunes & Medano Creek

Experience easy, flat viewing platforms and short trails to the dunes; minimal climbing required with benches available.
Free, 2h0m

2:30pm

Return to Colorado Springs

Drive back and rest after a beautiful day immersed in nature.
USD0, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Winery 25

Relax with fine dining and local wines in serene surroundings.
USD40, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Local Art & Shopping Day

Colorado Springs, CO on September 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Enjoy the included breakfast at a leisurely pace.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center

Visit exhibits with accessible paths, enjoying local and Native American art; open 10am-5pm.
USD12, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Urban Steam Coffee Bar & Bistro

Favorite spot for senior-friendly, light lunch options and good coffee.
USD20, 1h0m

1:30pm

Downtown Shopping & Galleries

Gentle walking with benches and shaded areas through craft shops and galleries on Tejon Street.
Free, 2h0m

3:30pm

Relax at Acacia Park

Enjoy a peaceful park break with benches and water features.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Return to Military Lodge

Unwind before dinner.
USD0, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Mountain Shadows Restaurant

Dine with mountain views in a senior-friendly ambiance.
USD35, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 15: Begin Return Trip - Colorado Springs to Dodge City

Colorado Springs, CO to Dodge City, KS on September 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Fuel up with included breakfast for the journey ahead.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive Back to Dodge City

5-hour comfortable drive with senior-friendly rest breaks along scenic stops.
USD0, 5h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Stone Garden

Light lunch in a tranquil garden setting within Dodge City ideal for relaxation.
USD25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Check-in Military or Senior Lodging

Rest and relax at accommodations close to military installations for security and comfort.
USD70, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at Peaceful Bend Winery

Relaxed dinner with light bites and excellent wines perfect for a quiet evening.
USD30, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 16: Dodge City to Pawhuska

Dodge City, KS to Pawhuska, OK on September 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Light breakfast served before departure.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Pawhuska

Approximate 5-hour drive south to the Osage Nation with rest and meal stops.
USD0, 5h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at The Mercantile

Comfortable dining featuring local flavors and senior-friendly options.
USD25, 1h0m

3:30pm

Osage Hills State Park Leisure

Gentle nature walks and shaded benches perfect for senior relaxation.
USD5, 2h0m

6:00pm

Overnight Stay Near Military Installation or Hotel

Secure and comfortable accommodations selected for senior convenience.
USD70, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at Bull Buffalo Steakhouse

Enjoy a quiet, hearty dinner in historic cowboy ambiance.
USD30, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 17: Pawhuska to Magazine Mountain

Pawhuska, OK to Magazine Mountain, AR on September 18, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Mercantile

Enjoy a delicious breakfast to start the day.
USD15, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Magazine Mountain

Scenic and relaxing 4.5-hour drive back toward Arkansas with breaks along the way.
USD0, 4h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at The Blue Mountain Diner

Familiar diner with comfortable food choices near the park.
USD20, 1h0m

3:00pm

Magazine Mountain Exploration

Leisurely access to scenic viewpoints and leisurely trails with good benches and low effort paths.
USD5 parking, 2h0m

5:30pm

Overnight at Fort Smith Military Lodging

Restful and secure accommodations for seniors on base.
USD70, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at Fort Smith Officers Club

Relaxed dining in a senior-friendly environment to end the day.
USD25, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 18: Magazine Mountain to Goodman

Magazine Mountain, AR to Goodman, MS on September 19, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Lodge

Hearty breakfast included with lodging to prepare for final drive.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Goodman, MS

Approximately 5-hour return drive with suitable rest stops to ensure comfort.
USD0, 5h0m

1:30pm

Lunch Stop in Jackson, MS

Quiet café stop with senior-friendly options for a relaxing midday break.
USD20, 1h0m

3:00pm

Arrival and Rest in Goodman

Complete the rewarding road trip with time to unwind at home or a local comfortable lodging.
USD0, Rest
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