21-Day Scenic Driving Vacation Across Colorado in May

Day 1: Arrival and Denver Highlights

Denver, Colorado

9:00AM

Breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

Begin your Colorado adventure with a vibrant breakfast known for creative pancakes and fresh juices.
Located in downtown Denver, accessible by taxi or driveshare from airport (30 mins).
$15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Denver Botanic Gardens

Stroll through 23 acres of themed gardens showcasing native and international plants.
Drive 15 minutes from Snooze to Denver Botanic Gardens.
$15, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sam’s No. 3

Enjoy hearty American diner fare popular for colorful portions and generous toppings.
Drive 10 minutes from the Gardens to Sam’s No. 3.
$15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Denver Art Museum

Admire extensive collections ranging from Native American to contemporary art in a distinctive building.
Walk 10 minutes from Sam’s No. 3 to the museum.
$13, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Capital Grille

Relax with upscale American dining featuring excellent steaks and seafood.
Drive or taxi 5 minutes to restaurant.
$40, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Denver Museums and Historic Landmarks

Denver, Colorado

8:30AM

Breakfast at Denver Central Market

Browse gourmet food stalls and enjoy fresh bakery treats in an urban market.
Drive or taxi 15 minutes from downtown hotel.
$12, 1 hour

10:00AM

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Discover comprehensive exhibits on natural history, space, and wildlife.
Drive 10 minutes from breakfast to museum.
$20, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Fort

Dine at this historic-style eatery offering pioneer-inspired Western dishes.
Drive 40 minutes outside downtown Denver to The Fort in Morrison.
$30, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

Explore the famous open-air amphitheater carved into red pillared rocks and hike scenic trails.
Drive 10 minutes from The Fort to Red Rocks.
Free to hike, Amphitheatre concert costs vary, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Root Down

Enjoy creative farm-to-table cuisine in a trendy atmosphere back in Denver.
Drive 25 minutes back to Denver restaurant.
$35, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Relaxation and Local Brews

Denver, Colorado

9:00AM

Breakfast at Jelly Cafe

Savor hearty breakfast classics with a Southern flair.
Drive 10 minutes from hotel.
$15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Denver Union Station

Explore shops, cafes, and bars in Denver’s renovated historic railway station.
Drive or taxi 5 minutes.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Mercantile Dining & Provision

Enjoy elevated farm-to-market cuisine inside Union Station.
Located within the station.
$25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Tour local craft breweries

Sample local brews at Great Divide Brewing and Wynkoop Brewing Co.
Walk or short drive between locations.
Tasting fees approx. $10-15 each, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Guard and Grace

Delight in modern steakhouse fare with extensive wine selection.
Drive or taxi 10 minutes.
$40, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Boulder Exploration & Rocky Mountain National Park

Boulder and Estes Park, Colorado

7:30AM

Drive from Denver to Boulder

A scenic 40-minute drive northwest along US-36.
Depart hotel and drive approximately 25 miles to Boulder.
Fuel costs approx. $5, 40 minutes

8:30AM

Breakfast at The Buff Restaurant

Enjoy hearty breakfast favorites at this cozy Boulder spot favored by locals.
Located in Boulder’s city center.
$15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Stroll Pearl Street Mall

Walk the vibrant pedestrian mall lined with shops, galleries, and street performers.
Walkable from breakfast spot.
Free to enjoy, expenses vary if shopping., 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery

Savor pub fare and handcrafted beers at this popular Boulder brewery.
Walk 10 minutes from Pearl Street Mall.
$20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Drive to Estes Park & check-in

A scenic 1-hour drive into the gateway town to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Leave Boulder and drive approx 40 miles via US-36 and CO-66.
Fuel approx $7, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Estes Park Visitor Center & Riverwalk

Explore local shops and enjoy the picturesque Riverwalk area.
Walk from hotel into town.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern

Cozy mountain tavern offering hearty American food and a rustic atmosphere.
Short walk or drive from town center.
$25, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Rocky Mountain National Park Adventure

Estes Park, Colorado

7:30AM

Breakfast at Notchtop Bakery & Cafe

Light and healthy breakfast before a day of exploration.
Walk from hotel to the cafe.
$12, 1 hour

8:30AM

Rocky Mountain National Park - Bear Lake Trail

Short, easy hike to stunning alpine lake with spectacular mountain views.
Drive 10 minutes from Estes Park to Bear Lake Trailhead.
$25 park entrance per vehicle, 2 hours

11:00AM

Trail Ridge Road Scenic Drive

Drive along one of the highest paved roads in North America with vistas and wildlife viewing.
Start at Estes Park side of park; continue scenic drive south.
Included in park entrance fee, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch picnic amidst park views

Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the park’s rest areas or picnic grounds.
Stop at designated picnic areas on Trail Ridge Road.
Cost of groceries approx. $15, 1 hour

3:30PM

Alpine Visitor Center

Stop at the highest visitor center in the National Park system for exhibits and views.
Along Trail Ridge Road.
Included, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return to Estes Park

Drive back and relax at accommodation.
Drive 1 hour back to Estes Park.
Fuel approx $7, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Smokin’ Dave's BBQ & Taphouse

Hearty barbecue dinner in a lively setting.
Walk or short drive in Estes Park.
$25, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Fort Collins Exploration

Fort Collins, Colorado

8:00AM

Drive to Fort Collins

Approximately 1 hour 10-minute drive northwest along US-287.
Depart Estes Park, drive approx. 50 miles.
Fuel approx $8, 1h10m

9:30AM

Breakfast at The Silver Grill Cafe

Grab a classic breakfast with old-west charm.
Located in downtown Fort Collins.
$15, 1 hour

11:00AM

Tour New Belgium Brewing Company

Take a behind-the-scenes tour and sample craft beers from one of Colorado’s most famous breweries.
Short drive from downtown restaurant.
$10 for tour & tasting, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Mayor of Old Town

Enjoy pub-style fare in a lively historic bar in Fort Collins’ Old Town Square.
Walkable from brewery.
$20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at Horsetooth Reservoir

Enjoy scenic views and optional kayaking or hiking surrounding the reservoir.
Drive 15 minutes from Old Town to Horsetooth Reservoir.
$10 parking fee, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Kitchen

Farm-to-table cuisine focusing on local organic ingredients in an intimate setting.
Drive back or walk to downtown location.
$35, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Glenwood Springs Hot Springs

Glenwood Springs, Colorado

7:00AM

Drive to Glenwood Springs

Approximate 3-hour scenic drive southwest along I-70.
Depart Fort Collins, drive about 160 miles.
Fuel approx $25, 3 hours

10:00AM

Breakfast at Glenwood Canyon Brewpub

Relax with breakfast and craft brews in this mountain town setting.
Located downtown Glenwood Springs.
$15, 1 hour

11:30AM

Glenwood Hot Springs Pool

Spend the day soaking in the world’s largest hot springs pool with therapeutic waters.
Walk 10 minutes from downtown restaurant.
$23 day pass, 3 hours

3:00PM

Explore Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

Tour stunning caves and enjoy thrill rides on the mountain.
10-minute drive or shuttle from pool.
$39, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Juicy Lucy’s Steakhouse

Classic American steakhouse renowned for prime cuts and cozy atmosphere.
Drive or taxi back to downtown Glenwood Springs.
$35, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Aspen & Maroon Bells

Aspen, Colorado

7:30AM

Drive to Aspen

2-hour scenic drive south from Glenwood Springs on CO-82.
Depart Glenwood Springs, approx 40 miles to Aspen.
Fuel approx $10, 2 hours

9:30AM

Breakfast at Paradise Bakery

Enjoy fresh baked goods and coffee in quaint Aspen downtown setting.
Located centrally in Aspen.
$10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Travel to Maroon Bells Scenic Area

Shuttle or drive to iconic peaks with hiking trailheads and stunning lake reflections.
Drive or shuttle 10-20 minutes from Aspen center.
Shuttle approx. $10 round-trip, parking limited, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Meat & Cheese Restaurant and Farm Shop

Elevated casual dining with local charcuterie and cheese selections.
Return to Aspen downtown.
$25, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Aspen's Galleries and Shops

Visit upscale art galleries, boutiques, and local shops.
Walkable in Aspen downtown.
Varies, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Element 47

Fine dining featuring gourmet regional cuisine inside The Little Nell hotel.
Walk or taxi to restaurant within Aspen.
$60, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Crested Butte Exploration

Crested Butte, Colorado

8:00AM

Drive to Crested Butte

Approximate 2-hour drive southeast via CO-82 and CO-135.
Depart Aspen, traveling approx 60 miles.
Fuel approx $15, 2 hours

10:00AM

Breakfast at The Last Steep

Enjoy fresh and local breakfast dishes in a cozy café.
Located in Crested Butte town center.
$12, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore Crested Butte Wildflower Festival (seasonal in May)

Experience guided hikes and admire the array of mountain wildflowers.
Walk or drive to trailheads outside town.
Free or festival fee $20, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Secret Stash

Casual pizza restaurant beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Walkable downtown location.
$20, 1 hour

4:30PM

Relax and stroll Crested Butte historic town

Explore charming streets, galleries, and shops with mountain backdrops.
Walkable around town center.
Free to explore, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Brick Oven Pizzeria

Enjoy artisan thin-crust pizzas and local brews.
Walk or short drive in town.
$25, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Great Sand Dunes National Park

Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

7:00AM

Drive to Great Sand Dunes National Park

Approximate 3-hour drive southeast via US-50 and CO-69.
Depart Crested Butte, travel approx 150 miles.
Fuel approx $25, 3 hours

10:00AM

Breakfast stop in Alamosa (near park)

Grab a casual breakfast at Rumble’s Grill & Bar.
Located in Alamosa just outside park.
$12, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Great Sand Dunes National Park

Hike the impressive dunes, splash in Medano Creek, and visit the visitor center.
Short drive from Alamosa to park entrance.
$25 park entrance per vehicle, 4 hours

3:00PM

Picnic lunch in the park

Enjoy a scenic picnic surrounded by the unique sand dune landscape.
Designated picnic areas available.
Cost of groceries approx. $15, 1 hour

4:00PM

Drive to Colorado Springs

Longer drive today: approx 3.5-hour drive north on US-285 and US-24.
Depart park and drive approx 180 miles.
Fuel approx $30, 3.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Rabbit Hole

Upscale and imaginative American dining hidden inside a historic building in Colorado Springs.
Check into hotel and take taxi to restaurant.
$35, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Garden of the Gods & Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at Urban Steam

Popular café offering breakfast classics and house-roasted coffee.
Located downtown, walkable from most hotels.
$12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Garden of the Gods

Explore stunning red rock formations with hiking and photography opportunities.
Drive 15 minutes from downtown hotel.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Goat & Clover

Comfortable gastropub with classic sandwiches and an extensive beer selection.
Drive back to downtown Colorado Springs.
$20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit U.S. Air Force Academy Visitors Center

Tour the iconic chapel and learn about cadet life at this famous military academy.
Drive 15 minutes north of town center.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dine at Four by Brother Luck

Contemporary Southwestern cuisine by award-winning chef in an elegant setting.
Drive or taxi back downtown.
$40, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Pikes Peak & History

Colorado Springs, Colorado

7:30AM

Breakfast at Urban Egg

Known for excellent breakfast and innovative brunch options.
Downtown location.
$15, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive or Cog Railway to Pikes Peak

Ascend the famous 14,115-foot peak for breathtaking views, either by car or historic train.
Drive 30-45 minutes to Pikes Peak area, or take cog railway (seasonal).
$15 entry fee by car; train ticket approx $60, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Broadmoor Resort

Enjoy fine dining in an elegant historic resort nearby.
Drive 20 minutes from base of Pikes Peak to The Broadmoor.
$35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Tour The Broadmoor History

Explore the architecture and history of this famous resort and its art collection.
On-site at resort.
Free self-guided or small fee for guided tours, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return to hotel and relax

Take time to rest before dinner.
Drive back to hotel within Colorado Springs.
N/A, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Broad Axe Tavern

Casual tavern with great pub food and beers.
Short drive or taxi in Colorado Springs.
$25, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Travel to Durango

Durango, Colorado

7:00AM

Drive to Durango

Approximate 5.5 to 6-hour drive west via US-50 and US-160 with scenic mountain and canyon views.
Depart Colorado Springs early; approx 350 miles.
Fuel approx $50, 6 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Carver Brewing Co.

Casual dining with craft beers and creative pub meals in Durango downtown.
Downtown Durango location.
$20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Historic Downtown Durango

Walk charming streets lined with shops, galleries, and cafes.
Walkable area.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check-in to accommodation

Relax and freshen up for dinner.
Varies by accommodation location.
N/A, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Oak Street Tavern

Popular spot offering bistro-style American cuisine and cocktails.
Short walk in downtown.
$30, 1.5 hours
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Day 14: Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

7:30AM

Breakfast at Jean's Restaurant

Classic breakfast spot in Durango with generous portions.
Downtown Durango location.
$15, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Mesa Verde National Park

Approx 45-minute scenic drive southwest towards the park.
Depart Durango on US-160 W, approx 35 miles.
Fuel approx $5, 45 minutes

9:30AM

Mesa Verde Cliff Dwellings Tour

Explore ancient Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings with ranger-guided tours and museum exhibits.
Park entrance and visitor center on-site.
$30 park entrance, tour fees vary ($12-15), 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Spruce Tree Terrace Café

Casual cafe inside Mesa Verde Visitor Center.
Onpark location.
$15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Additional hiking or scenic drives in park

Visit overlooks and hiking trails like Petroglyph Point.
Short drives on park roads.
Included in park entrance fee, 2 hours

5:30PM

Return to Durango

Drive back approximately 45 minutes to Durango.
Same route back to town.
Fuel approx $5, 45 minutes

7:30PM

Dinner at Steamworks Brewing Company

Enjoy dinner in this lively brewery with great craft beers and pub fare.
Downtown Durango location.
$25, 1.5 hours
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Day 15: Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Durango, Colorado

7:00AM

Breakfast at Mahogany Grille

Upscale American breakfast and brunch in a stylish setting.
Downtown Durango.
$20, 1 hour

8:00AM

Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Excursion

All-day scenic steam train ride through the San Juan Mountains to historic Silverton.
Board train at Durango depot.
$150 (round trip), 8 hours

5:00PM

Return to Durango and relax

Rest from the long train trip.
Arrive back at Durango depot.
N/A, 1 hour

7:00PM

Casual dinner at Ed’s Cantina & Grill

Finish the day with flavorful Mexican dishes and lively atmosphere downtown.
Short walk from hotel.
$25, 1.5 hours
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Day 16: Drive to Telluride

Telluride, Colorado

7:00AM

Drive to Telluride

About a 2.5-hour drive northwest on US-160 and CO-145 featuring beautiful mountain passes.
Depart Durango, approx 75 miles.
Fuel approx $15, 2.5 hours

9:30AM

Breakfast at Rustico

Rustic bakery and café known for freshly baked goods and hearty breakfasts.
Downtown Telluride location.
$12, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Telluride Historic District

Walk charming streets with Victorian-era architecture, shops, and galleries.
Walkable town center.
Free to explore, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Butcher & The Brewer

Enjoy craft beers and house-made charcuterie in a modern setting.
Walkable downtown.
$25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Ride Telluride Gondola

Take the free gondola ride up the mountain for scenic views and photo opportunities.
Board at town gondola station.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Hiking Blue Lake Trail

Moderate hike through alpine terrain to a pristine mountain lake.
Drive 10 minutes to trailhead or take local shuttle depending on season.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at 221 South Oak

Upscale dining offering modern American cuisine focusing on local ingredients.
Walkable downtown.
$40, 1.5 hours
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Day 17: Telluride to Ouray via Million Dollar Highway

Ouray, Colorado

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Cowboy

Casual breakfast with excellent coffee and pastries.
Downtown Telluride location.
$10, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Ouray via Million Dollar Highway

Approximate 1.5-hour drive (50 miles) on one of the most scenic routes in Colorado, featuring steep cliffs and stunning vistas.
Florissant to Ouray via US-550.
Fuel approx $8, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Stop at scenic viewpoints along the highway

Take breaks to photograph and admire spectacular mountain views at strategic stops.
Many turnouts on US-550.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Ouray Historic District

Visit quaint shops, art galleries, and hot springs in this charming mountain town.
Walk town center.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Outlaw Restaurant

Taste southwestern and mountain-inspired dishes in a rustic atmosphere.
Downtown Ouray.
$25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Relax at Ouray Hot Springs Pool

Enjoy rejuvenating mineral waters with mountain views.
Walk 5 minutes from downtown.
$15, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Box Canyon Waterfall Park

Short walk and climb the cantilever bridge to see powerful waterfalls up close.
Drive 5 minutes from town center.
$8, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Nugget Restaurant

Local diner known for hearty meals and mountain hospitality.
Back in Ouray downtown.
$20, 1.5 hours
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Day 18: Ouray to Durango via Silverton

Durango, Colorado

7:00AM

Breakfast at Main Street Grill

Comfortable breakfast spot in Ouray with mountain views.
Downtown location.
$15, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Silverton

Drive approximately 1.5 hours over the scenic and rugged US-550 northbound to Silverton.
Ouray to Silverton, approx 25 miles.
Fuel approx $8, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Explore Silverton Historic District

Walk historic streets featuring mining history, museums, and local shops.
Walkable downtown Silverton.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Gold Bear Coffee Co.

Café with sandwiches and excellent coffee in Silverton.
Downtown seating.
$15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Drive to Durango

Approximate 1.5-hour drive south to Durango.
Silverton to Durango, approx 48 miles.
Fuel approx $8, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Relax and check into hotel

Rest up before dinner or optional evening stroll.
N/A
N/A, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Steamworks Brewing Company

Return for a favorite brewery dining experience in downtown Durango.
Walkable downtown location.
$25, 1.5 hours
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Day 19: Durango to Colorado National Monument

Grand Junction, Colorado

7:00AM

Drive to Grand Junction

Approx 3.5-hour drive northwest via US-160 and I-70 with mountain and desert views.
Depart Durango, approx 140 miles.
Fuel approx $30, 3.5 hours

10:30AM

Breakfast in Grand Junction at Main Street Bagels

Fresh bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and coffee in a casual spot.
Downtown Grand Junction location.
$12, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Colorado National Monument

Explore dramatic red rock canyons, scenic overlooks, and hiking trails.
Drive 15 minutes to monument entrance.
$25 per vehicle entrance fee, 4 hours

4:00PM

Return to Grand Junction and relax

Rest and freshen up before dinner.
Drive 15 minutes back to town.
N/A, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Bin 707 Foodbar

Upscale dining featuring locally-sourced ingredients and excellent wine pairings.
Downtown Grand Junction walkable location.
$40, 1.5 hours
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Day 20: Grand Junction to Denver

Denver, Colorado

7:00AM

Drive from Grand Junction back to Denver

Approximately 4-hour drive east along I-70, with mountain and plains views.
Depart early from Grand Junction, approx 250 miles.
Fuel approx $45, 4 hours

11:00AM

Brunch at Lucile’s Creole Cafe in Denver

Enjoy hearty Southern-style brunch with rich flavors.
Downtown Denver location.
$20, 1 hour

12:30PM

Relax or visit attractions as time permits

Optional visits include Denver Zoo or Denver Museum of Nature & Science.
Drive or taxi within Denver city limits.
$20-25, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Rioja

Fine Mediterranean dining in Denver's Larimer Square.
Walkable from downtown hotel.
$45, 1.5 hours
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Day 21: Departure day

Denver, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at Denver Biscuit Company

Enjoy large, tasty biscuit sandwiches for your final meal in Colorado.
Near downtown hotel.
$15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Denver International Airport

Allow approx 45 minutes for airport arrival and rental return.
Drive 25 miles east from downtown Denver.
Taxi or fuel $10-15, 45 minutes

11:00AM

Flight home

Board your flight and conclude your memorable 21-day Colorado driving vacation.
N/A
N/A, N/A
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