11+ Best Weekend Trips From Denver For Nature, Culture, and Fun

Alright, sit back and relax. I’m about to give you the best weekend trips from Denver to take this year. And I’m not playing around when I say, I know where to go and what to do in Colorado. 

I’m a Colorado native, born and raised, and so are my parents. There are a lot of new people coming into Denver from out of state who love hiking and exploring, but don’t always know the best places to go. 

It’s okay, everyone. I’m here to guide you.

Not only does Colorado run through my veins, but I also took a solo van trip all around the state and the West Coast, where I passed some incredible spots just a short drive or plane ride from the city. 

I know the best of the best places to go that aren’t tourist traps, have plenty of nature, and will have you wishing you moved to Colorado sooner! Whether you’re just looking to get away from the city for a while or you want to plan a little trip soon, there are so many places for you to explore only a few hours from Denver!

Here are some must-see places to visit in Colorado (and elsewhere) for a quick weekend getaway. 

When to Visit Colorado 

Before I tell you all my juicy spots to stay and where to go on a road trip, it’s important to note when you should be planning a weekend trip because Colorado is in full force every season. 

Personally, I love to do a weekend getaway into the woods during spring and summer, but if you are a powder hound, then you should start packing now. 

If you’re not someone who’s grown up with the Colorado winter, it’s important to think about these things before heading out of town, where you might get stuck in a snowstorm, lose electricity, or not pack warm enough clothes. 

Here’s what you should be asking yourself before you leave Denver and venture into the woods or mountains. 

Do you prefer a lot of adventure with little to no prep? 

If yes, plan your weekend trip during warmer weather. You won’t need to pack a coat, skis, snow shoes, etc. 

Do you like to ski/snowboard? 

If yes, then taking your trips during the winter is a no-brainer. If not, then I would save your energy. Skiing and snowboarding are like the main things to do in Colorado during the winter.

Pro-tip: search for the ski spots that are below the radar so they are more affordable and less crowded! 

Do you consider yourself a little bit of a dare-devil?

If yes, then take your weekend trips any season you like. If not, wait for the summer when easy hiking trails are open and little towns are easy to walk around. 

Do you like to be outside a lot?

If yes, I would wait for summer to roll around. You can be outside for the winter too, but eventually, you’ll want to come in and warm up. 

If you couldn’t tell by my questionnaire, I much prefer Colorado during the warmer months!

The Best Places For Weekend Trips From Denver

Weekend getaways are the best in Colorado. This diverse state has so much going for it. One minute, you can be in a beautiful little mountain town; the next, you can be camped out next to a river or enjoying one of your romantic weekend trips from Denver in some hot springs. 

You can also pick your price on where you want to go. There are cheap weekend getaways from Denver that are just as good as the pricier picks. Let’s start with my tried and true options for Denver weekend getaways only a few hours from the city. 

1. Rocky Mountain National Park 

Alright, I’m about to give you the biggest scoop EVER on one of the best places to visit for a weekend getaway (seriously, I went a little crazy on this one).

If you want a quick escape in Colorado, away from the city, then the Rocky Mountain National Park is the perfect place to get away and do a little hiking, see some wildlife, and get back out into nature (plus explore an insanely cute mountain town or two).

My mom and I LOVE coming to this park in the late fall to hear the elk bugle in the evening. It’s unlike anything you’ve ever heard and you can pick one of their many picnic spots to set up a little dinner and listen to the wildlife. 

Or, simply drive through the park and you’re bound to see wildlife sitting in the fields or right up by the road. In the park, there’s a road called Trail Ridge Road that winds all the way to the top of a mountain.

At the top, there’s an amazing visitors center with spectacular views and a lot of cute keepsakes. I’ve collected many stuffed animals growing up going to this park. 

This spot is best in the summer, but it’s also an amazing place for wildlife in the fall. 

Not only is the park stunning, but one of the entrances is right next to one of my favorite FAVORITE places in all of Colorado: Grand Lake. 

Pro tip: you MUST reserve timed entry slots ahead of visiting in order to enter the park! Even if you enter before the time tickets start, there will be rangers who will turn you away from top trails. 

2. Grand Lake

This little town has so much to offer. I actually went to an acting camp every summer growing up at their local (and amazing) theater. They also have boat rentals, two parks for kids to play in, restaurants, unique shops, lots of candy stores, and a refreshing lake perfect for a hot summer’s day. 

The drive from Denver will probably land you about 3.5 hours and there are so many spots to stay. Plus, on your way up, you might be driving on the Million Dollar Highway which is a windy road up a mountain that offers incredible views. 

Grand Lake has recently done a lot of renovations and rebuilding on new hotels so you’re getting the best this little town has to offer. 

Here’s What to Do in Grand Lake: 

Here’s Where to Stay in Grand Lake:

Now, if you’re coming from Denver and you’re not from around here, then it’s likely that you’ll be driving up to the Rocky Mountain National Park through the entrance of Estes Park. 

Side note: On your way up from Denver, you’ll pass the cutest little coffee shop called Jamoka Joes. It’s run by my aunt! Give it a try and get some coffee to keep you awake on the winding roads.

2. Estes Park

Estes Park is a town that sits on the other side of the Rocky Mountain National Park, opposite Grand Lake. It’s another amazing little place and a great pick for weekend trips from Denver for families. 

If you’re looking for weekend trips from Denver by car, then I highly recommend heading up to the Rocky Mountain National Park and staying the night in either Estes Park or Grand Lake.

Here’s What to Do in Estes: 

Here’s Where to Stay in Estes:

Before you go, I’m going to let you know this. Estes Park can be VERY crowded. Grand Lake…not so much. Take that information and do with it what you will!

3. Sand Dunes National Park

The Colorado Sand Dunes National Park is another place that is near and dear to my heart. It’s definitely one of my top weekend road trips from Denver.

I first visited this park when I had JUST bought my Chevy Astro van that I was going to renovate and take around the country. 

Before there were even proper tires on my van, I took myself to the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.  

The sand dunes themselves were super fun and also a lot of work. If you’ve ever tried to climb a mountain full of sand, it’s nearly impossible.

We didn’t venture very far into the park because it was a major workout, but you don’t need to go hike super long before your basically surrounded by sand. Bring along a sled and have the time of your life riding down a sand mountain! 

Okay, but here’s the tea. 

The real fun came when I found the hot springs location nearby. The Sand Dunes Recreation is a hot spring spot unlike any other. Out in the middle of nowhere, this amazing little oasis is the perfect place to stop by on cold days and camp out. 

They have camping spots right on the property, several pools to pick from, and even an adults-only section with drinks, different temperature pools, and plants everywhere. 

If you’re looking for a weekend away from the kids and the noise, this is the place to be. I recommend coming in the spring or summer!

Here’s What to Do: 

Here’s Where to Stay: Sand Dune Recreation (Cabins, RV & Tent Sites)

There’s not a lot happening out near the Great Sand Dunes besides nature, so finding a place to stay can be a little tricky, but there are still a ton of cute Airbnb cabins close enough to the park with amazing views!

4. Colorado Springs (+ Garden of the Gods)

I know I’m going to be repeating myself here, but the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs is another spot close to my heart. 

I have a lot of family out in Colorado Springs and I’ve been to the Garden of the Gods several times on family outings after Thanksgiving! The red rock formations in this part of the state are second to none. 

It’s a truly stunning place with so much to do and see. Plus, it’s only about an hour drive from the city. 

This National Natural Landmark is also completely free, with a state-of-the-art Visitor’s center, great hiking trails, and rock climbing. 

They also have jeep and e-bike tours, so there are plenty of ways to spend all day here. In my opinion, the best time to visit is in the summer when you can get a full view of the amazing rock structures and see people scaling them on your hikes (or scale them yourself!) 

The one thing to watch out for here is the rattlesnakes. Be careful where you step!

If you’re looking for some super quick getaways from Denver, this is your best bet. It’s close enough that it’s not a huge hassle driving home, but it’s also far enough away that you feel like you’re in a whole new place. 

There are some great things to do in town too (I personally LOVE hitting up the Colorado Springs thrift stores.)

Here’s What to Do: 

If you’re up for a little more of a drive, you can also do these things: 

  • Soar above the Royal Gorge on a zipline (or just go on the bridge and take in the sights)
  • Go on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad

Here’s Where to Stay: The Broadmoor

5. Vail

Vail is where you want to be to do some celebrity spotting and have the bougiest time of your life. 

It’s a great spot to really go all out on your ski vacations and it’s one of the best weekend trips from Denver for families or young couples. 

That being said, Vail is best in the wintertime with its premiere ski resort and cozy town full of shops and restaurants. However, it also does pretty well in the fall too with Oktoberfest, gondola rides, and horseback riding. 

Speaking of winter, check out Kara’s list of must-have clothes to keep you warm in Colorado!

Can I just be blunt here as a native Coloradan? It’s the rich people’s part of town. This means there are a lot of high-end, unforgettable things to do here (but it also means things might run you a little high on price.)

Head into the Four Seasons hotel to experience one of the most luxurious hot chocolate experiences of your life or wait until April and experience the Taste of Vail, a spring food & wine festival rated among the best in the nation. 

Check out Kara’s full itinerary on Vail, Colorado!

Here’s What to Do: 

Here’s Where to Stay: 

6. Glenwood Springs

One of the best weekend getaways from Denver I ever experienced was when my mom took me and my friend to Glenwood Springs. 

I recommend going here during the summer because the town seems to have a lot more activities and things to do once the weather warms up. 

This family-friendly destination is super relaxing, SO fun, and is the perfect place to spend your long weekend. One thing I recommend for this trip is to leave your car at home. Instead, take the Amtrak train from Denver. The views go for miles and you spend no time stressing on the road!

Along with obviously hitting up the Glenwood Hot Springs, there are a ton of fun spots to walk to and explore, including the amazing Adventure Park!

Take a gondola ride up to the top of Iron Mountain and go on amusement rides, take cave tours, and enjoy the views from the top. You can easily spend more than a weekend in this little town!

Here’s What to Do:

Here’s Where to Stay:

P.S. If you make it to Glenwood Springs, check out Kara’s guide on all things hot springs in Colorado.

7. Breckenridge

Another hot spot in Colorado, Breckenridge is a great place to adventure for your short trips from Denver. 

My mom actually bought her first house in Breckenridge and she goes back every year to do an annual ski trip called “Chicks on Sticks.” 

A lot of the Colorado mountain towns share similar activities like strolling through a historic main street and hiking, but with every new little town comes new people, new food, and new adventures.

Check out Kara’s guide to Breckenridge!

One super special thing about this spot of Colorado is the Breckenridge Troll, which is a 15-tall wooden sculpture located on the Trollstigen Trail!

Here’s What to Do: 

Here’s Where to Stay: The Lodge at Breckenridge

8. Idaho Springs  (+ Georgetown Railroad)

Idaho Springs is another place I have been to numerous times, although it was mainly just a little town I drove by on my way up to Winter Park, Colorado. 

Btw, check out Kara’s post on the best places to glamp in Colorado. There’s one in there that’s the perfect stay a little ways from the Winter Park Ski Resort!

This old Gold Mining town has some incredible little attractions and it’s one of my top recommended short weekend trips from Denver winter edition. 

Take a dip in the Indian Hotsprings right in town, eat at Beaujoe’s pizza, and take a stroll through the historic downtown area! This whole town has been heavily restored and is a great little getaway for families as it’s just a short distance from Denver.

20 minutes up the road, you’ll find yourself in Georgetown where you can take a ride on the Georgetown Railroad and explore yet another historic town in the summer months! 

A lot of people like to stop into these little towns on their way up to ski resorts like Winter Park and Loveland, which is a super great way to see the state and enjoy all it has to offer!

Here’s What to Do:

Here’s Where to Stay: Indian Hot Springs Resort

9. Dinosaur Colorado

Many people haven’t heard of Dinosaur, Colorado, but it’s an amazing adventure destination sitting right at the border of Utah and Colorado. 

Although not exactly a *short* trip, it’s definitely worth the drive if you want to change it up a little and go somewhere entirely new that your friends probably haven’t heard about. 

This quaint town holds one of the most insane rafting trips I have ever taken, super cool dinosaur artifacts, and stunning views. I visited this spot with my parents back in 2021 when I was roaming around in my little Chevy Astro Van and I’m so glad I did. 

This place is the best for 3-day weekend trips from Denver in the summertime when you can take a rafting trip through the Green River, visit the Dinosaur National Monument, and camp out!

Although technically in Utah, the Green River rafting trip is unbeatable. There are few times I am so spellbound by the world around me that I feel like I’m on a different planet, but this raft trip was one of them. 

If you’re an adventurous family or looking for weekend trips from Denver for couples that don’t break the bank, but are super fun, then Dinasour, Colorado, is an amazing little place to stop in. 

Here’s What to Do: 

Here’s Where to Stay: Green River Campground

Out-of-State Destinations

Sometimes Colorado isn’t where it’s at and you want to venture out of the state. There are plenty of amazing destinations just a short plane ride away that I highly recommend. 

San Francisco, California

If you want a whole new vibe, a whole new city, and a whole new set of adventures, then San Francisco is the place for you. From Chinatown to the Painted Ladies and the Golden Gate Bridge, this city has plenty of things to do for a long weekend. 

I recommend going during the summer or spring!

If you’re from out of state, you’ll likely want to hit up the big tourist spots like Alcatraz, Pier 39, Golden Gate Park, and more. 

Kara has an endless array of ideas of what to do as she’s from this amazing city! Check out her guide on Fisherman’s Warf or her recommendations for watching the San Francisco sunset and more.

Here’s What to Do: 

Here’s Where to Stay: 18 of the best places to stay in San Francisco!

Scottsdale, Arizona

Looking for a Palm Springs escape without having to go all the way to Palm Springs? Scottsdale, Arizona is the perfect escape close to Colorado! It’s also a stellar spot to host a bachelorette party. 

I recommend going during early winter or fall! I’ll make this short, but Kara has a great piece on why Scottsdale should be your next retreat away.

Here’s What to Do: 

Here’s Where to Stay: CIVANA Wellness Resort and Spa

Salt Lake City, Utah

Again, I’ll keep these out-of-state places short, but Salt Lake City, Utah is another great place to stop into for a little getaway weekend (but you need to fly)! Actually, scratch that, Utah in general is a great place to go to. And it’s best during the fall!

Utah is known for being the “Mormon state,” but in actuality, it should be known for its insane natural landscape.

If you’ve never been, Utah has some of the most stunning rock formations and colors I have ever seen. 

Here’s What to Do: 

Here’s Where to Stay: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City, an IHG Hotel

Austin, Texas

Find time in the winter to pop down to Austin, Texas for a warm refresh! Only a 2-hour flight from Denver, Austin has some incredible weekend activities to partake in with your friends. 

I’ve never been, but Kara has! And she put together this AMAZING weekend travel itinerary that lays out all the must-do things in the city. 

Here’s What to Do: 

Here’s Where to Stay: South Congress Hotel

Sante Fe, NM

Okay, while it’s not in Colorado, Sante Fe, New Mexico, is a short plane ride or half a day’s drive and it’s one of my favorite places to go for the best weekend getaways from Denver. 

Not only is the food stellar, but the shops have beautiful jewelry, and walking around the town is super fun, quaint, and easily accessible. Sante Fe also houses one of my FAVORITE places in the whole world, MeowWolf. This interactive art experience is unmatched and should be on your bucket list.

I recommend going during the spring or summer as you’ll want to explore the town for as long as you can. 

There are also some amazing little spots with petroglyphs and short hikes for those who want a dose of nature. PLUS, Santa Fe houses this super cool little chapel with an incredible spiral staircase. Let me just give you the rundown on what to do. 

Here’s What to Do: 

Where to Stay: 

If you’re planning on a staycation in Denver or can’t swing going to one of these spots this year, check out Kara’s weekend itinerary for Denver for a fun few days in the city! (Don’t forget to hit up the Rhino District and check out some breweries.)

Those are some of my all-time favorite places to go to for a weekend getaway from Denver, but there are still plenty of places to take a look and explore like Steamboat Springs, Fort Collins, Routt National Forest, Buena Vista, the Royal Gorge Bridge, Black Canyon, and so much more!

Which Colorado spot is your favorite? Where are you planning to adventure next? Let me know in the comments below!

Jafei Pollitt

I’m an avid pathos plant grower, hamster enthusiast, and a sucker for a good spell! When I’m not writing, you can find me outside attempting to do some yoga or trying out a new boba shop. Check me out at jafeipollitt.com!

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