35-Day Senior-Friendly Western USA Road Trip: Historic Cowboys, Scenic Nature, and Colorado Exploration from Goodman, MS to Colorado Springs, CO

Day 1: Goodman to Magazine Mountain

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

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Goodman

Start the day with a traditional Southern breakfast to fuel your trip.
USD15, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Magazine Mountain State Park

Scenic 5-hour drive with gentle rolling hills leading to Arkansas’s highest peak known for beautiful views and gentle walking trails.
USD0, 5h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at The Blue Mountain Diner

Enjoy comforting American classics near the park entrance.
USD20, 1h0m

3:00pm

Magazine Mountain State Park Exploration

Leisurely stroll and sightseeing with scenic overlooks and easy-access trails perfect for seniors.
USD5 parking, 2h0m

5:30pm

Overnight at Fort Smith Military Installation Lodging

Secure and comfortable lodging suitable for seniors near the military base.
USD70, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at Fort Smith Officers Club

Relax in a welcoming club environment with a senior-friendly menu.
USD25, 1h30m
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Day 2: Magazine Mountain to Pawhuska

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

7:30am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Enjoy a nutritious start with convenient on-base dining options.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Pawhuska, OK

Approximately 4.5-hour drive heading into Osage County, cowboy country rich with culture and history.
USD0, 4h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Bull Buffalo Steakhouse

Experience a western culinary atmosphere with classic Oklahoma dishes.
USD25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Osage Nation Museum

Explore the intertwining history of Native Americans and cowboys in a comfortable, accessible setting. Open 9am-5pm.
USD10, 1h30m

4:30pm

Pawhuska Historic Walking Tour

Gentle, self-guided tour highlighting important historic cowboy landmarks and Osage heritage.
USD0, 1h0m

6:00pm

Overnight near Military Installation or Senior-Friendly Hotel

Comfortable accommodations ensuring a restful night.
USD70, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at The Mercantile

Farm-to-table dining with fresh, light, senior-friendly meal options.
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

Begin the day with fresh pastries and coffee in a relaxing atmosphere.
USD15, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Dodge City, KS

5-hour scenic drive northwest deep into the heart of cowboy country, offering some beautiful view stops on request.
USD0, 5h0m

1:45pm

Lunch at Long Branch Saloon

Historic western saloon serving traditional Western American cuisine in an authentic setting.
USD25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Boot Hill Museum

Step back into the Wild West with well-preserved artifacts and exhibits detailing cowboy and frontier history. Open 9am-5pm.
USD12, 2h0m

5:30pm

Stroll Downtown Dodge City

Gentle walk exploring restored western architecture and sights with benches available to rest along the way.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Overnight at Military Lodging or Senior-Friendly Hotel

Quiet and secure lodging ensuring a good night’s rest.
USD70, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at Gunsmoke Grill

Casual dining spot offering senior-friendly menu items and a calm environment.
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

Simple and nutritious breakfast available on-site.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive from Dodge City to Colorado Springs

A scenic 5.5-hour drive with planned rest stops to ease the journey.
USD0, 5h30m

2:15pm

Lunch in Pueblo, CO at The Wheelhouse Brewing Company

Comfortable and senior-friendly spot to relax and enjoy an afternoon meal.
USD20, 1h0m

3:30pm

Check-in at Peterson Air Force Base Military Lodging

Military lodging providing senior-friendly facilities and a restful environment.
USD80, Overnight

5:00pm

Garden of the Gods Scenic Walk

Visit iconic rock formations on easy flat trails with ample resting areas; open until sunset.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at The Broadmoor Seven Falls Restaurant

Fine dining in a tranquil setting overlooking water features, perfect for seniors after a scenic day.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 5: Colorado Springs Classic Sites

Colorado Springs, CO on September 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Begin with a wholesome breakfast included with your stay.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

U.S. Air Force Academy Tour

Guided accessible visit to the campus grounds and iconic Cadet Chapel; open 7am-5pm.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Edelweiss German Restaurant

Enjoy a senior-friendly German cuisine meal in a cozy ambiance.
USD25, 1h15m

1:30pm

Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

Explore local history including Western and cowboy heritage, with accessible exhibits. Open 10am-5pm.
USD8, 1h30m

3:30pm

Return Visit to Seven Falls

Optional gentle revisiting with elevator access to waterfall views, open until sunset.
USD14, 1h30m

5:30pm

Rest at Lodging

Relax and refresh for the evening.
USD0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mountain Shadows Restaurant

Dinner with mountain vistas and a quiet dining atmosphere featuring senior-friendly menu choices.
USD35, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Garden of the Gods & Pikes Peak

Colorado Springs, CO on September 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Healthy, senior-friendly breakfast to start the day.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Garden of the Gods Visitor Center

Engage with interactive exhibits and a short orientation film about the park's geology on accessible trails.
Free, 1h0m

10:15am

Pikes Peak Cog Railway or Tram Ride

Relax and enjoy awe-inspiring mountain views aboard the easy-access railway; book tickets in advance.
USD38, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at The Rabbit Hole

Whimsical décor and comfort food provide a gentle, restful break.
USD25, 1h0m

2:45pm

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Visit

Accessible terrain with tram ride options to view varied animal exhibits; open 9am-5pm.
USD22, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to Lodging

Prepare for dinner and rest.
USD0, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Shuga’s

Cozy cafe with diverse offerings including lighter options suitable for seniors.
USD28, 1h30m
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Day 7: Relaxation & Local Culture

Colorado Springs, CO on September 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Enjoy the comfort of an included breakfast.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Ute Valley Park

Gentle paved walking trails through tranquil nature, perfect for light exercise and bird watching.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Urban Steam Coffee Bar & Bistro

Relax with light fare and excellent coffee in a quiet setting.
USD20, 1h0m

1:30pm

Additional time at Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

Further explore western heritage exhibits at your own pace.
USD8, 1h30m

3:30pm

Senior-friendly Spa Treatment

Pamper yourself with gentle massages or relaxation therapies catered to seniors.
USD60, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Winery 25

Enjoy upscale dining with local wine pairings in a quiet environment perfect for winding down.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 8: Historic Colorado Towns Tour

Colorado Springs, CO and Surroundings on September 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Start the day with energizing breakfast included with your accommodation.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Manitou Springs

Short 20-minute drive to this charming historic town famous for mineral springs and art galleries.
USD0, 0h20m

9:00am

Stroll Historic Manitou Springs

Enjoy an easy-paced walk downtown visiting shops, galleries, and tasting mineral water fountains.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit Miramont Castle Museum

Explore this beautifully preserved turn-of-the-century mansion with guided tours accessible to seniors.
USD10, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Manitou Brewing Company

Relax in comfortable and senior-friendly surroundings with traditional pub fare.
USD25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Drive to Colorado Springs Old Colorado City

Scenic short drive to a historic area featuring boutique shops and easy walking paths.
USD0, 0h15m

2:30pm

Explore Old Colorado City

Gentle stroll through the historic district with benches and quiet cafes for breaks.
Free, 2h0m

4:30pm

Return to Military Lodging

Rest and freshen up for dinner.
USD0, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Famous Steakhouse

Enjoy western-style steaks and seasonal dishes tailored for senior tastes in a calm setting.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 9: Scenic Day at Royal Gorge

Colorado Springs to Royal Gorge, CO on September 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Healthy start with a senior-friendly breakfast included on site.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Royal Gorge

An hour’s scenic drive west to the Royal Gorge, famous for its stunning canyon views.
USD0, 1h0m

9:45am

Royal Gorge Bridge and Park

Walk the accessible suspension bridge and enjoy panoramic canyon views; benches and shuttle available. Park open 8am-6pm.
USD30, 2h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Royal Gorge Bridge & Park Café

Relaxed dining with light meals and drinks overlooking the gorge.
USD25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Scenic Drive along Arkansas River

Gentle driving tour with pull-offs to enjoy nature and river views, suitable for seniors seeking rest with sightseeing.
Free, 2h0m

4:30pm

Return to Colorado Springs

Drive back and rest at lodging.
USD0, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Bon Ton Restaurant

Quiet, upscale French-American cuisine offering senior-friendly dishes and ambiance.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 10: Day Trip to Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Colorado Springs to Black Canyon National Park, CO on September 11, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast

Start early with a light, energizing breakfast to prepare for the day trip.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Approximately 4.5-hour drive west to see one of Colorado's most dramatic natural sites, with senior-accessible viewpoints.
USD0, 4h30m

12:30pm

Picnic Lunch at Park Overlook

Enjoy a peaceful, self-prepared picnic with spectacular views at a park overlook ideal for seniors.
USD0, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Visitor Center and Easy Lookouts

Learn about the canyon’s geology and history in an accessible visitor center followed by gentle walks to viewpoints.
Free, 2h0m

3:30pm

Begin return drive

Head back to Colorado Springs with planned stops as needed for rest.
USD0, 4h30m

8:00pm

Late Dinner at Military Lodging Café

Convenient dining option for a relaxing end to a long day.
USD25, 1h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Denver Day Trip

Colorado Springs to Denver, CO on September 12, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Energizing start with included breakfast.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive to Denver

Approximate 1.5-hour drive north to Colorado’s capital city.
USD0, 1h30m

9:45am

Denver Botanic Gardens

Stroll accessible gardens featuring diverse plant collections and peaceful ponds; garden open 9am-5pm.
USD15, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at City O’ City

Vegetarian and vegan-friendly menu with senior-friendly options downtown.
USD20, 1h0m

1:15pm

Denver Art Museum

Explore extensive collections with senior accessibility; open 10am-5pm.
USD15, 2h0m

3:30pm

Brief Exploration of Larimer Square

Historic block with shops and benches for a gentle stroll to enjoy the ambiance.
Free, 1h0m

4:30pm

Drive back to Colorado Springs

Return trip to lodging for rest.
USD0, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Military Lodging Restaurant

Comfortable and convenient dining to unwind.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 12: Visit Historic Cripple Creek

Colorado Springs to Cripple Creek, CO on September 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Enjoy a senior-friendly, relaxed breakfast.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Cripple Creek

Short drive of about 45 minutes west to this historic gold mining town known for casinos and museums.
USD0, 0h45m

9:15am

Cripple Creek Heritage Center

Small accessible museum exploring the gold rush and cowboy culture with friendly staff.
USD8, 1h0m

10:30am

Easy Exploration of Historic Downtown

Flat, paved walk through shops, art galleries, and historic landmarks with plenty of seating.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Butte Theater Restaurant

Enjoy hearty and homestyle meals in a quiet and charming atmosphere.
USD25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine Tour

Gentle tour guided by an elevator ride into the historic mine shaft, suitable for seniors. Open 8am-5pm.
USD25, 1h0m

3:30pm

Drive back to Colorado Springs

Return to lodging for relaxation.
USD0, 0h45m

5:00pm

Rest

Take time to relax after the day's tour.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Urban Egg

Casual spot featuring American breakfast-style dishes served all day, good for light senior dinners.
USD25, 1h30m
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Day 13: Day Trip to Great Sand Dunes National Park

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

7:00am

Early Breakfast

Light breakfast included before an early day trip.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive to Great Sand Dunes National Park

Around 3-hour drive south to Colorado’s unique sand dunes with easy walk routes and visitor center.
USD0 (park entrance fee later), 3h0m

11:00am

Visitor Center and Easy Nature Walks

Learn about the dune ecology and enjoy accessible strolls near the parking area; Visitor Center open 9am-5pm.
USD25 park fee, 2h0m

1:00pm

Picnic Lunch in Designated Area

Enjoy a peaceful lunch in shaded picnic spots with great views of the dunes.
USD0, 1h0m

2:15pm

Gentle Exploration or Rest

Feel free to explore more with short walks or relax under shade with yoga mats or folding chairs.
Free, 1h0m

3:30pm

Drive back to Colorado Springs

Return drive to lodge with stops for comfort breaks.
USD0, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Military Lodge

Comfortable dining with familiar options to end a nature-filled day.
USD30, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Rest Day and Shopping

Colorado Springs, CO on September 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast without hurry.
Included, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit The Citadel Mall

Shop or browse with ease in senior-friendly mall environment with benches and accessible amenities.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Mall Bistro

Casual dining in a controlled environment with senior-appropriate menu options.
USD20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Rest Time at Lodge

Afternoon rest to recharge energy.
Free, 3h0m

5:30pm

Evening Scenic Drive

Short scenic drive around Monument Valley Park to enjoy sunset views in comfort.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Colorado Mountain Brewery

Enjoy a calm brewery atmosphere with varied, senior-friendly dining offerings.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 15: Begin Return Journey to Dodge City

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

7:30am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Start early with included breakfast.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Dodge City, KS

Comfortable drive of about 5 hours with planned rest stops for seniors’ comfort.
USD0, 5h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at The Stone Garden

Relaxed lunch amidst beautiful botanical garden surroundings.
USD25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Check-in and rest at Military Lodging

Rest from the day’s drive in comfortable, secure accommodations.
USD70, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at Peaceful Bend Winery

Casual and refined dining with senior-flexible menu selections.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 16: Dodge City to Pawhuska

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

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Light and easy breakfast before departure.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Pawhuska, OK

Approximate 5-hour drive with opportunities for scenic rest stops.
USD0, 5h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at The Mercantile

Familiar flavors in a welcoming environment.
USD25, 1h0m

3:30pm

Relaxation at Osage Hills State Park

Easy walking paths and shaded picnic areas for gentle outdoor enjoyment.
USD5, 2h0m

6:00pm

Overnight Accommodation

Comfortable lodging near military installation or senior-friendly hotel.
USD70, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at The Bull Buffalo Steakhouse

Relaxed cowboy-era dining to close the day.
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 relaxed breakfast before travel.
USD15, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Magazine Mountain

About 4.5-hour drive with comfort stops, arriving for a relaxing afternoon.
USD0, 4h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at The Blue Mountain Diner

Comfort food in a familiar, pleasant setting.
USD20, 1h0m

3:00pm

Enjoy Magazine Mountain State Park

Gentle hiking and scenic outlooks with plenty of resting spots suitable for seniors.
USD5 parking, 2h0m

5:30pm

Check-in at Fort Smith Military Installation

Secure lodging for overnight stay.
USD70, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at Fort Smith Officers Club

Relaxed dinner with senior menu options to end the day comfortably.
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

Nourishing start before final drive.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Goodman, MS

Return trip with comfortable stops across Mississippi, completing the enriching journey.
USD0, 5h0m

1:30pm

Lunch Stop in Jackson, MS

Light lunch at a quiet senior-friendly café with peaceful ambiance.
USD20, 1h0m

3:00pm

Arrive at Goodman

Rest and homecoming after a memorable 35-day road trip full of history, nature, and relaxation.
USD0, Rest
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