For anyone looking for an incredible getaway, Colorado is the place. The state is full of amazing destinations that don’t require a lot of travel time, so it’s easy to enjoy a weekend away and be ready for the next week without feeling rushed.
From a quiet, romantic evening to an afternoon of ziplines and exploration, the state really does have it all. Here are eight of the best Colorado summer getaways.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Located around 90 minutes from Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park is an excellent choice for a weekend getaway that has plenty to offer to nearly everyone who comes to visit. Hiking is plentiful, with easy trails and more complicated ones for every experience level, and there are quaint hotels and other lodging options close by for a restful night in a beautiful location.
Dunton Hot Springs
A long weekend of pampering is easy at Dunton Hot Springs, where the secluded location makes it easy to unplug from everything and just enjoy nature and spending time with loved ones. Soaking in the natural hot springs is relaxing, and for those who feel more adventurous, the nearby mountains offer many wonderful places to hike and explore.
Estes Park and Historic Stanley Hotel
Estes Park is right next to Rocky Mountain National Park, but it also offers plenty to enjoy on its own. There is fishing and kayaking on Lake Estes, a beautiful downtown area with restaurants and shops for dining and finding great souvenirs from the trip, and the Stanley Hotel, which inspired author Stephen King to write The Shining.
Fort Collins
Fort Collins is a short 90-minute trip from Denver, and it’s a smaller location that doesn’t see as much tourist activity, making it less crowded and easier to access. Hiking, fly fishing, rafting, and other outdoor activities are all available here, along with beautiful views of the Rocky Mountains from a different perspective than what’s seen in Denver.
Great Sand Dunes National Park
Located four hours from Denver, Great Sand Dunes National Park is a unique spot that looks very different from most of the rest of the state. Giant sand dunes rise in front of the green ridges of mountains, and camping with views of the dunes creates an unforgettable night beneath the stars.
There are also hotels and other amenities in Alamosa, for those who want to see the dunes during the day, but don’t want to camp out.
Downtown Denver
For singles, couples, and families that want to check out museums, shows, and great food, downtown Denver is the place to be. The area is lively and fun, and there’s always something to do during the day.
Nightlife is also plentiful, with bars and restaurants that are open late, and the opportunity to walk, explore shops, and enjoy the evening and later hours with other visitors and some of the friendly Denver locals, as well.
Jellystone Park Larkspur Camping
Camping out is always an adventure, and Jellystone Park at Larkspur offers a full-hookup, pet-friendly space to camp and enjoy the attractions. There are also cabins for those who don’t have RVs but still want to experience the park and location.
Open all year round, there are 100 acres of amazing scenery here, along with proximity to Denver and Rocky Mountain National Park. An arcade, water park, yoga, mini bowling, and a restaurant and bar are all part of the experience.
Strawberry Park Hot Springs
Just three hours from Denver, Strawberry Park Hot Springs is one of the most popular hot springs in the state for both locals and visitors to explore and enjoy during a weekend getaway. Soaking in the hot springs is a great way to relax and get rid of aches and pains, and with Steamboat Resort so close by, it’s easy to ski during the day and soak in the hot springs at night.
With so much to do in Colorado, it’s easy to plan getaways for every weekend, all summer long and beyond.