35-Day Senior-Friendly Western Road Trip: Goodman, MS to Colorado Springs, CO with Extended Colorado Exploration, Cowboy History, and Scenic Nature

Day 1: Goodman to Magazine Mountain

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

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Goodman

Enjoy a hearty southern breakfast at this friendly local café to start the trip energized.
USD15, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Magazine Mountain State Park

Travel scenic routes through Mississippi and Arkansas to Arkansas's highest point featuring gentle nature trails ideal for seniors.
USD0, 5h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Blue Mountain Diner

Enjoy classic American fare nearby to recharge before exploring the park.
USD20, 1h0m

3:00pm

Magazine Mountain State Park

Take in spectacular mountain views on accessible paths and relax in the peaceful environment.
USD5 parking, 2h0m

5:30pm

Check-in Fort Smith Military Installation Lodging

Rest well at military lodging providing comfort and security suitable for seniors.
USD70, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at Fort Smith Officers Club

Quiet dining with a senior-friendly menu in a comfortable setting to end your day.
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

Convenient base breakfast to start the day refreshed.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Pawhuska, OK

Travel through scenic countryside in a 4.5-hour journey west.
USD0, 4h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Bull Buffalo Steakhouse

Savor cowboy-inspired dishes with a relaxing atmosphere downtown.
USD25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Osage Nation Museum

Explore the rich Native American and cowboy history through accessible exhibits (9am-5pm).
USD10, 1h30m

4:30pm

Pawhuska Historic Walking Tour

Enjoy an easy self-guided stroll through charming streets with cowboy heritage sites.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Check-in Senior-Friendly Accommodation

Settle in for a restful night in senior-comfort lodging.
USD70, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at The Mercantile

Relax over farm-to-table cuisine in a calm environment perfect for seniors.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 3: Pawhuska to Dodge City

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

7:30am

Breakfast at The Mercantile

Enjoy a light breakfast with a western flair before departure.
USD15, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Dodge City, KS

About a 5-hour trip through historically significant cowboy regions.
USD0, 5h0m

1:45pm

Lunch at Long Branch Saloon

Dine in the authentic Wild West atmosphere with senior-comfortable seating.
USD25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Boot Hill Museum

Discover the cowboy wild west through exhibits designed for easy access (open 9am-5pm).
USD12, 2h0m

5:30pm

Downtown Dodge City Stroll

Relaxing walk exploring historic buildings and local charm at an easy pace.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Check-in Military Installation Lodging

Comfortable overnight stay with secure facilities for seniors.
USD70, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at Gunsmoke Grill

Enjoy a senior-friendly western menu in a brick-walled historic setting.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 4: Dodge City to Colorado Springs

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

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a nutritious breakfast close to lodging.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Colorado Springs

Scenic 5.5-hour drive west including stops for rest and light refreshments.
USD0, 5h30m

2:15pm

Lunch in Pueblo, CO at The Wheelhouse Brewing Company

Enjoy fresh, healthy dishes in a senior-friendly casual dining setting.
USD20, 1h0m

3:30pm

Check-in Peterson Air Force Base Military Lodging

Rest in senior-accessible accommodations on base with all essential amenities.
USD80, Overnight

5:00pm

Garden of the Gods Accessible Exploration

Walk paved, rolling paths in the park to view iconic red rock formations, perfect for seniors.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at The Broadmoor Seven Falls Restaurant

Dine elegantly with outstanding scenery and senior-friendly menu options.
USD40, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Colorado Springs Exploration

Colorado Springs, CO on September 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Start with a wholesome breakfast provided on base.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

U.S. Air Force Academy Visit

Tour the chapel and visitor center with easy access, opens 7am-5pm.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Edelweiss German Restaurant

Taste authentic German dishes in a senior-friendly dining space.
USD25, 1h15m

1:30pm

Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum

Explore western pioneer and cowboy history in an accessible environment (open 10am-5pm).
USD8, 1h30m

3:30pm

Broadmoor Seven Falls

Experience waterfalls via accessible elevators and easy trails benefiting seniors.
USD14, 1h30m

5:30pm

Rest at Military Lodging

Relax before dinner, enjoying peaceful surroundings.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mountain Shadows Restaurant

Savor mountain views with senior-appropriate dishes in a serene setting.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 6: Pikes Peak & Zoo

Colorado Springs, CO on September 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Enjoy a nourishing breakfast included at lodging.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Pikes Peak Cog Railway or Tram Ride

Accessible transportation to summit with spectacular views; prebooking advised.
USD38, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at The Rabbit Hole

Cozy spot offering creative dishes with a quiet, senior-friendly atmosphere.
USD25, 1h0m

2:45pm

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Hillside zoo featuring trams and shaded resting areas, suitable for seniors (open 9am-5pm).
USD22, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to Military Lodging

Rest and prepare for evening meal.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Shuga’s

A relaxed café with light meals perfect for seniors.
USD28, 1h30m
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Day 7: Relax & Local Culture

Colorado Springs, CO on September 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Comfortable base breakfast to start your day.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Ute Valley Park Trails

Paved, gentle walking trails offering natural beauty and birdwatching opportunities.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Urban Steam Coffee Bar & Bistro

Light meals and quality coffee served in a relaxing environment.
USD20, 1h0m

1:30pm

Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum - deeper visit

Explore exhibits you might have missed the previous day at a leisurely pace.
USD8, 1h30m

3:30pm

Senior Spa Afternoon

Enjoy gentle massages or treatments for relaxation and rejuvenation.
USD60, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Winery 25

Dine elegantly with fine wines and senior-friendly dishes in a soothing setting.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 8: Royal Gorge & Historic Towns

Colorado Springs, CO to Canon City, CO on September 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Fuel up with a base breakfast for the day's adventures.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Royal Gorge Bridge and Park

Short 1-hour drive to one of Colorado’s most stunning vistas with an accessible bridge and gentle trails (open 9am-5pm).
USD30, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at the Royal Gorge Bridge Café

Relax with light meals and refreshments in scenic surroundings.
USD20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Historic Canon City

Leisurely walk or drive through historic downtown with museums and shops.
Free, 2h0m

4:30pm

Return to Colorado Springs Military Lodging

Rest from afternoon activities in comfortable quarters.
USD80, Overnight

6:30pm

Dinner at Edelweiss Restaurant

Savor German specialties in a quiet, senior-friendly atmosphere.
USD30, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Manitou Springs and Cave

Colorado Springs, CO to Manitou Springs, CO on September 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Enjoy a peaceful breakfast before your morning exploration.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Manitou Springs

Short scenic 15-minute drive to the historic and artsy town.
Free, 15m

9:30am

Easy Stroll Along Manitou Springs Historic District

Enjoy quaint shops, galleries, and natural mineral springs on flat terrain.
Free, 2h0m

11:45am

Lunch at Adam’s Mountain Café

Healthy, fresh meals in a cozy and senior-friendly environment.
USD25, 1h0m

1:00pm

Cave of the Winds Mountain Park

Explore illuminated cave passages on accessible tours and gentle walks (open 9am-4pm).
USD23, 2h0m

3:30pm

Return to Base

Rest upon return from excursion.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Margarita at Pine Creek

Upscale southwestern cuisine with senior-friendly ambiance.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 10: Royal Gorge Railroad Relaxation

Canon City, CO on September 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Enjoy nourishing breakfast before a relaxing day.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Royal Gorge Route Railroad Day Trip

Relax on a fully accessible scenic train ride through the Royal Gorge offering inspiring views; book VIP or coach seating for seniors.
USD75, 4h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Royal Gorge Gift & Grill

Light meals in an accessible and tranquil setting.
USD20, 1h0m

3:30pm

Relaxation at Lodging

Unwind from the day's ride and enjoy quiet rest.
Free, Evening

7:00pm

Dinner at Mountain Shadows Restaurant

Enjoy fine cuisine with mountain views in a calm atmosphere.
USD35, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Colorado Springs to Leadville

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

7:30am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Start with base breakfast before heading into the Rockies.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Leadville, CO

Approximately 2-hour drive through beautiful mountain landscapes to historic Leadville.
USD0, 2h0m

10:45am

Visit National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum

Explore mining heritage and local history in an accessible museum open 9am-5pm.
USD10, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Tennessee Pass Coffee Company

Enjoy light, fresh food and coffee in a friendly café perfect for seniors.
USD20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore Leadville Historic District

Gentle walking or driving tour of 19th-century buildings and shops.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Stay overnight at local senior-friendly lodging

Comfortable accommodations providing rest in the mountain town.
USD80, Overnight

6:30pm

Dinner at High Mountain Pies

Relaxed dining with delicious pizzas and senior-friendly environment.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 12: Leadville to Aspen

Leadville, CO to Aspen, CO on September 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a quality breakfast to enjoy the next scenic drive.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Aspen, CO via Independence Pass

Scenic 2.5-hour drive over Independence Pass (check weather) through spectacular mountain views.
USD0, 2h30m

11:30am

Lunch at Paradise Bakery & Café

Cozy café offering fresh salads, soups, and pastries in a comfortable setting.
USD20, 1h0m

12:30pm

Aspen Art Museum

Explore contemporary art in an accessible venue open 10am-6pm with benches for rest.
Free, 1h30m

2:15pm

Aspen Scenic Drive and Downtown Exploration

Drive and stroll easy flat areas to view historic buildings, local shops, and galleries.
Free, 2h0m

4:30pm

Check-in Senior-Friendly Accommodation

Relax and refresh at a well-rated hotel suited for seniors.
USD90, Overnight

6:30pm

Dinner at Meat & Cheese Restaurant and Farm Shop

Enjoy casual dining with farm-to-table offerings and quiet ambiance.
USD35, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Aspen to Glenwood Springs

Aspen, CO to Glenwood Springs, CO on September 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start the day with a tasty and healthy breakfast.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Glenwood Springs, CO

Scenic 1-hour pleasant drive along the Colorado River.
USD0, 1h0m

9:45am

Glenwood Hot Springs Pool

Relax in mineral-rich warm waters in fully accessible pools ideal for seniors (open 8am-8pm).
USD30, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Pullman

Comfortable restaurant offering seasonal American cuisine in a calm setting.
USD25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park (accessible tram & tours)

Explore caves and enjoy gentle rides with senior accessibility (open 10am-5pm).
USD39, 2h0m

4:00pm

Return to Aspen

Drive back and rest at accommodation.
USD0, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Poppycock’s Tea & Café

Relax with light meals, tea, and desserts in a peaceful environment.
USD25, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Aspen to Colorado Springs

Aspen, CO to Colorado Springs, CO on September 15, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start with breakfast before the journey homeward.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive back to Colorado Springs

Approximately 4-hour scenic relaxing drive through mountains and valleys.
USD0, 4h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Urban Steam Coffee Bar & Bistro

Enjoy a casual meal before settling back into familiar lodging.
USD20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Check-in Peterson Air Force Base Military Lodging

Rest and refresh for your last days in Colorado Springs.
USD80, Overnight

4:00pm

Garden of the Gods Evening Walk

Gentle stroll peaceful at this iconic natural landmark.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mountain Shadows Restaurant

Final Colorado dinner with scenic views and senior-friendly options.
USD35, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 15: Begin Return Journey

Colorado Springs, CO to Amarillo, TX on September 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Military Lodge

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting off south.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Amarillo, TX

6-hour drive south with scheduled rest and scenic stops.
USD0, 6h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at The Big Texan Steak Ranch

Experience authentic cowboy cuisine and relaxed atmosphere.
USD25, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit Cadillac Ranch

Iconic art installation perfect for a brief stop and photo opportunity with minimal walking.
Free, 1h0m

5:30pm

Check-in Military Accommodation or Senior-Friendly Hotel

Comfortable overnight stay after a long drive.
USD75, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at San Jacinto Restaurant

Enjoy Mexican-American cuisine in a senior-friendly setting.
USD28, 1h30m
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Day 16: Amarillo to Shreveport

Amarillo, TX to Shreveport, LA on September 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start with a relaxed breakfast.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Shreveport, LA

Approximately 7-hour drive with rest stops for comfort.
USD0, 7h0m

3:30pm

Check-in Barksdale Air Force Base Lodging

Secure lodging offering peace and senior-friendly amenities.
USD70, Overnight

5:00pm

Evening stroll at Betty Virginia Park

Gentle lakeside walk ideal for unwinding after the drive.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Herby-K's

Casual dining featuring Creole and Cajun specialties suitable for seniors.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 17: Shreveport to Goodman

Shreveport, LA to Goodman, MS on September 18, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Barksdale AFB

Relaxed on-base breakfast before final drive home.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Goodman, MS

Comfortable 4.5-hour drive back to Goodman with breaks as needed.
USD0, 4h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Shed Cafe, Natchez, MS

Enjoy a final taste of southern comfort food in a quiet setting.
USD20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Arrive at Goodman, MS

Complete your memorable 35-day journey filled with cowboy history, nature, and scenic wonders.
Free, Rest
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