Great Weekend Getaways From Denver
Denver is a great starting point for a weekend getaway, with a variety of destinations just a short drive away. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, scenic drives, or cultural experiences, there's something for everyone within a reasonable distance from the Mile High City. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to charming mountain towns, the options are endless. The city is a hub for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and camping, and also offers urban pleasures like good food, nightlife, and cultural events. In this guide, we will explore some of the best weekend getaways from Denver, that are perfect for a quick escape from the city and enjoying a different perspective of the state of Colorado.
Denver is a great starting point for a weekend getaway, as there are many destinations within a short drive of the city. These are just a few of the many destinations that make great weekend getaways from Denver, each offering its own unique experiences and attractions. Here are some recommendations for weekend getaways from Denver:
Rocky Mountain National Park: Just an hour and a half drive from Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park offers breathtaking views of several mountain ranges, as well as hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities.
Boulder: Known for its outdoor recreation and vibrant downtown area, Boulder is just a short drive from Denver and offers a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, and rock climbing.
Breckenridge: A great weekend getaway from Denver, Colorado. Located about 90 minutes from Denver, this charming mountain town is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter and hiking and fishing in the summer. The town is home to the Breckenridge Ski Resort, which offers a variety of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. The town also offers a variety of hiking trails that showcase the natural beauty of the surrounding area, such as the Mohawk Lakes trail. The town has a vibrant downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars to explore, as well as a rich mining history. Visitors can take a tour of the Country Boy Mine and learn about the town's mining history, or visit the Edwin Carter Museum, which showcases the natural history of the area.
Estes Park: This picturesque mountain town is the eastern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, and offers hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities, as well as the chance to see elk and other wildlife.
Colorado Springs: This city is situated at the base of Pikes Peak and offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and rock climbing, as well as cultural attractions such as the Garden of the Gods and the U.S. Olympic Training Center.
Palisade: About 4 hours from Denver, the small town is known for its fruit orchards and wineries. Visitors can taste local fruits and wines and enjoy scenic drives through the surrounding countryside. Visit local vineyards for tastings.
Glenwood Springs: A great weekend getaway from Denver, Colorado. Located around 3 hours from Denver, the town offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. The most popular attraction is the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, which is the largest mineral hot springs pool in the world, visitors can relax and unwind in the hot springs. In addition, Glenwood Springs is also known for its vibrant downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars to explore. It's a great destination for those who are looking for a mix of outdoor activities, culture, and relaxation.
Fort Collins: Located around an hour and a half drive from Denver, the city offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. The city is known for its outdoor recreation, with many hiking and biking trails in the nearby foothills, such as Horsetooth Mountain Park, and Lory State Park. The Poudre River Trail is also a great spot for a bike ride or a walk along the river. It is also home to a vibrant craft beer scene, with several microbreweries and taprooms to visit, such as New Belgium Brewing Company, Odell Brewing Company, and Fort Collins Brewery. Visitors can also take a tour of the Anheuser-Busch brewery, which is the largest in the state.
Vail: Vail is a premier ski resort town with a variety of outdoor activities, shopping, and dining options. It’s a short drive from Denver and offers a picturesque setting for a weekend getaway.
Mesa Verde National Park: This national park is a great weekend getaway from Denver, Colorado. Located just over 4 hours from Denver, the park offers a unique opportunity to explore ancient cliff dwellings and ruins of the Ancestral Pueblo people. Visitors can take guided tours of the cliff dwellings, including the famous Cliff Palace and Balcony House, and learn about the culture and history of the park's inhabitants.
These are just a few of the many options for a weekend getaway from Denver. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or a relaxing retreat, you’ll find plenty of options beyond the Denver area.
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