Weekend Trips from Denver: Discovering Colorado’s Hidden Gems

Weekend Trips from Denver: Discovering Colorado’s Hidden Gems

Weekend Trips from Denver offer an escape from the bustling urban center to some of the most stunning natural landscapes and cultural treasures in the United States. Denver, known as the Mile-High City, boasts a strategic location that makes it an ideal starting point for weekend getaways. Residents and visitors alike can explore many options to escape city life. Whether you’re seeking adventure in the mountains, exploring historical sites, or simply looking to relax and unwind, the surrounding areas of Denver have something to offer every traveler.

Geographical Advantage

Denver’s central location provides easy access to diverse landscapes, including towering mountains, expansive plains, winding rivers, and charming cultural sites. This geographical advantage means that within just a few hours’ drive, you can find yourself amidst breathtaking natural beauty or immersed in the region’s rich history and culture. Additionally, Denver’s well-connected transport network, including major highways, rail services, and an international airport, makes it convenient to plan spontaneous weekend trips without the hassle of extensive travel logistics.

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Mountain Escapes

Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 70 miles

   – Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car

   – Key Attractions: Trail Ridge Road, Bear Lake, Longs Peak, Estes Park town

   – Activities: Hiking, wildlife viewing, photography

   – Best Times to Visit: Summer and fall for hiking; winter for snowshoeing and scenic drives

Rocky Mountain National Park is a crown jewel of Colorado’s natural beauty, offering stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and endless opportunities for outdoor activities. The park’s Trail Ridge Road, which reaches elevations over 12,000 feet, provides breathtaking panoramic views and is one of the highest paved roads in North America. Visitors can explore numerous trails, ranging from easy walks around Bear Lake to challenging climbs up Longs Peak. The nearby town of Estes Park offers charming shops, restaurants, and accommodations, making it a perfect base for exploring the park.

Best Western Plus Silver Saddle Inn

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The Best Western Plus Silver Saddle Inn is a comfortable and convenient hotel located near Rocky Mountain National Park. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet, access to a gym, and free in-room WiFi. The hotel offers amenities like an indoor pool, an electric car charging station, and a business center, along with free self-parking. Room features include air conditioning, sound-insulated walls, pillowtop mattresses, and 48-inch LED TVs with streaming services. Guest reviews highlight the hotel’s cleanliness, helpful staff, and great location near The Stanley Hotel.

Mount Evans

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 60 miles

   – Travel Time: About 2 hours by car

   – Highlights: Mount Evans Scenic Byway, Summit Lake Park

   – Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, scenic drives

   – Seasonal Considerations: Best visited in late spring to early fall; road typically closed in winter due to snow

Mount Evans boasts the highest paved road in North America at 14130 feet, providing easy access to alpine environments and stunning vistas. The drive along the Mount Evans Scenic Byway offers spectacular views and opportunities to spot wildlife such as mountain goats and bighorn sheep. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys at the summit. For those looking to stretch their legs, there are several hiking trails, including the famous trek to Summit Lake Park.

Georgetown Mountain Inn

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Georgetown Mountain Inn offers a cozy and welcoming stay near Clear Creek, conveniently located close to attractions like the Hotel de Paris Museum and Georgetown Loop Railroad. Guests can start their day with a free continental breakfast and enjoy a daily manager’s reception. Adventurous travelers can take advantage of nearby cycling options, while those seeking relaxation can unwind in the spa tub. The hotel also provides free in-room WiFi with speeds of 25+ Mbps, an indoor pool with sun loungers, and a fireplace in the lobby. Free self-parking and bike rentals are available as well.

Room features include individually furnished accommodations with conveniences such as refrigerators, microwaves, and heating. Guest reviews often highlight the hotel’s clean rooms, helpful staff, and excellent location.

Breckenridge

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 80 miles

   – Travel Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours by car

   – Historical Significance: Founded during the Colorado Gold Rush

   – Seasonal Activities: Skiing in winter, mountain biking, hiking in summer

   – Local Attractions: Breckenridge Distillery, historic main street, arts district

Breckenridge is a historic mining town that has transformed into one of Colorado’s premier ski resorts. In winter, the city buzzes with skiers and snowboarders enjoying the world-class slopes. Breckenridge offers many outdoor activities during the summer, including mountain biking, hiking, and fly fishing. The town is rich in history, with beautifully preserved Victorian architecture and a vibrant arts district. Visitors can tour the Breckenridge Distillery, stroll along the charming main street, and explore the many galleries and boutiques.

Crystal Peak Lodge

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Crystal Peak Lodge, near Breckenridge Ski Resort, offers ski-in/ski-out access and is close to the Independence SuperChair Ski Lift. The lodge features a gym, sauna, steam room, and free in-room WiFi. Guests can enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant, Sevens, or relax by the lobby fireplace. Additional amenities include free self-parking, access to a nearby indoor pool, and a ski shuttle.

Rooms come with fireplaces, balconies, and separate sitting areas. Other conveniences include free infant beds, TVs with cable, and shower/tub combinations. Guests love the cozy atmosphere and great location.

Vail and the Ski Resorts

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 100 miles

   – Travel Time: About 2 hours by car

   – Overview of Vail: Luxury experience, skiing, and cultural activities

   – Nearby Ski Resorts: Beaver Creek, Copper Mountain, Keystone

Vail is synonymous with luxury and world-class skiing. The resort town offers an upscale experience with high-end shops, gourmet restaurants, and luxurious accommodations. Vail Mountain provides extensive ski terrain for all levels, making it a favorite among winter sports enthusiasts. In the summer, Vail transforms into a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers, with lush alpine meadows and scenic trails. Nearby ski resorts like Beaver Creek, Copper Mountain, and Keystone offer additional options for skiing and other outdoor activities. The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, the highest botanical garden in the U.S., is also a must-visit.

The Arrabelle at Vail Square

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The Arrabelle at Vail Square, A RockResort, offers ski-in/ski-out access near Vail Ski Resort. Guests enjoy a free breakfast buffet, outdoor pool, gym, sauna, and steam room. The on-site restaurant, Tavern on the Square, serves all meals. Free in-room WiFi, self-parking, and an area shuttle are included.

Rooms feature fireplaces, heated floors, premium bedding, and iPads. Guests love the helpful staff, clean rooms, and convenient location.

Aspen

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 160 miles

   – Travel Time: About 3.5 to 4 hours by car

   – Overview of Aspen: Cultural activities, luxury experience, skiing

   – Key Attractions: Maroon Bells, Aspen Mountain, cultural events

Aspen is known for being fancy and glamorous but has incredible natural beauty and many cultural activities. The town is famous for its ski slopes, upscale shops, and lively arts scene. Visitors can see the beautiful Maroon Bells, one of the most photographed places in North America, or ride up Aspen Mountain for great views. Aspen has many cultural events throughout the year, like music festivals, art shows, and movie screenings, making it a fun place to visit any time.

Aspen Meadows Resort

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Aspen Meadows Resort, refreshed in 2023, offers a peaceful riverside stay with ski access, a steam room, spa tub, and on-site dining at Plato’s Restaurant. Guests can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and a health club. Free in-room WiFi, an outdoor pool, free self-parking, and bike rentals are available.

Rooms feature premium bedding, wet bars, and separate sitting areas. Guests love the helpful staff and comfortable accommodations.

Leadville

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 100 miles

   – Travel Time: About 1.45 hours by car

   – Historical Significance: Rich mining history

   – Activities: Hiking, biking, exploring historic sites

Leadville, at 10,119 feet, is the highest incorporated city in North America. It offers a unique blend of history and outdoor adventure. Once a booming mining town, Leadville’s historic district features well-preserved buildings and museums that tell the story of its colorful past. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the surrounding mountains, hike trails like the Mineral Belt Trail, or bike along scenic routes. Leadville also offers stunning views of Colorado’s two highest peaks, Mount Elbert and Mount Massive.

Old Tale Inn

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Old Tale Inn offers a comfortable stay with amenities like a spa tub, free in-room WiFi, and free self-parking in a smoke-free environment. All rooms are equipped with heating and portable fans, and guests frequently praise the property for its clean and cozy accommodations.

Natural Wonders

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 250 miles

   – Travel Time: About 5 hours by car

   – Unique Geological Features: Steep cliffs, narrow canyons

   – Activities: Hiking, scenic drives, stargazing

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a dramatic, awe-inspiring landscape characterized by its sheer, dark cliffs and narrow canyons. The park offers several hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of the canyon and opportunities for rock climbing and fishing. The South Rim Drive offers numerous viewpoints where visitors can marvel at the canyon’s depth and rugged beauty. At night, the park’s remote location makes it an excellent spot for stargazing, with some of the darkest skies in Colorado.

Stay Wise Inns Montrose

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Stay Wise Inns Montrose, set in a rural location, offers guests a comfortable stay with amenities such as a free full breakfast, an indoor pool, and free in-room WiFi. Additional perks include free self-parking, laundry facilities, a fireplace in the lobby, and a 24-hour business center. The hotel also provides express check-out, meeting rooms, and multilingual staff. Guest reviews highlight the great breakfast, value, and helpful service.

Rooms feature air conditioning, heating, fans, flat-screen TVs with cable, and conveniences like refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee/tea makers. Guests also appreciate the cleanliness of the accommodations.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 230 miles

   – Travel Time: About 4 hours by car

   – Unique Landscape: Tallest sand dunes in North America

   – Activities: Sandboarding, hiking, stargazing

Great Sand Dunes National Park is home to the tallest dunes in North America, rising to 750 feet from the floor of the San Luis Valley. Visitors can explore this otherworldly landscape by hiking to the top of the dunes, sandboarding down the slopes, or splashing in Medano Creek during the spring and early summer. The park’s remote location also makes it a prime spot for stargazing, offering unobstructed night sky views.

Rustic Rook Resort Great Sand Dunes

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Rustic Rook Resort Great Sand Dunes provides a unique camping experience with amenities like tour/ticket assistance, barbecue grills, and a picnic area. Guests enjoy free WiFi in public areas and free self-parking. Accommodations feature private yards and showers, offering a comfortable and rustic outdoor stay.

Moab, Utah

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 350 miles

   – Travel Time: About 6 hours by car

   – Key Attractions: Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park

   – Activities: Hiking, off-roading, mountain biking

Moab is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, known for its stunning red rock landscapes and proximity to two national parks. Arches National Park features over 2,000 natural stone arches and other unique geological formations. With its vast canyons and mesas, Canyonlands National Park offers endless hiking, off-roading, and mountain biking opportunities. Moab is a vibrant town with plenty of dining and shopping options, making it an excellent base for exploring the region.

My Place Hotel

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My Place Hotel-Moab, UT, near Arches National Park, offers convenient amenities like a grocery/convenience store, a free manager’s reception, and a terrace. Guests can relax in the spa tub and enjoy free in-room WiFi with speeds of 100+ Mbps. The hotel also features a seasonal outdoor pool, free self-parking, and a 24-hour business center. Additional perks include breakfast (surcharge), laundry facilities, and barbecue grills.

All 64 rooms come with premium bedding, kitchenettes, full-sized refrigerators/freezers, and 37-inch flat-screen TVs. Guests appreciate the hotel’s clean, comfortable rooms, helpful staff, and great location.

Ouray

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 300 miles

   – Travel Time: About 5.5 hours by car

   – Key Attractions: Hot springs, Box Canyon Falls

   – Activities: Hiking, climbing, exploring historic downtown

Ouray, often called the “Switzerland of America,” is a picturesque town in the San Juan Mountains. Known for its natural hot springs, Ouray offers several options for soaking and relaxation. Visitors can also explore the stunning Box Canyon Falls, hike the Perimeter Trail for panoramic town views, or try ice climbing in the winter. The historic downtown area’s Victorian-era architecture adds to Ouray’s charm and appeal.


Inn at Lost Creek

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Inn at Lost Creek, nestled in the mountains near Telluride Ski Resort, offers ski-in/ski-out access, ski passes, and a free breakfast buffet. Guests can relax at The Peaks Resort & Spa or enjoy the cozy lobby with a fireplace. Free in-room WiFi, a bar, and a business center are available. Additional amenities include valet parking (surcharge), bike rentals, and an electric car charging station.

All rooms feature premium bedding, air conditioning, free WiFi, and safes, along with decks/patios and LCD TVs. Guests praise the helpful staff and convenient location.

Durango

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 330 miles

   – Travel Time: About 6 hours by car

   – Key Attractions: Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, historic downtown

   – Activities: Hiking, biking, exploring historic sites

Durango is a vibrant town with a rich history and a gateway to numerous outdoor adventures. The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a scenic ride through the San Juan Mountains, providing a glimpse into the region’s mining past. Durango’s historic downtown features a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the surrounding mountains through hiking and biking trails or enjoy water activities on the Animas River.

Homewood Suites By Hilton 

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At Homewood Suites By Hilton Durango, CO, located in the business district, guests can enjoy a range of amenities including free to-go breakfast, a grocery shopping service, and free in-room WiFi. Active guests can take advantage of the basketball court and gym, while those seeking relaxation can unwind in the spa tub. Additional amenities include an indoor pool, free self-parking, and a 24-hour business center.

Rooms feature premium bedding, air conditioning, and kitchens equipped with full-sized refrigerators, freezers, and dishwashers. Guest reviews praise the hotel’s clean rooms, helpful staff, and convenient location.

Crested Butte

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 200 miles

   – Travel Time: About 4 hours by car

   – Overview of Crested Butte: Outdoor activities and scenic beauty

   – Seasonal Activities: Skiing, wildflower viewing, mountain biking

Crested Butte is a charming mountain town known for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities. In winter, it transforms into a ski paradise with excellent slopes and a relaxed atmosphere. Summer brings a burst of color with wildflowers blooming across the meadows, making it a popular destination for hiking and mountain biking. The town is quaint and welcoming, with colorful buildings, unique shops, and various dining options.

Elevation Hotel & Spa

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Elevation Hotel & Spa offers a mountain getaway with ski-in/ski-out access, downhill skiing, and rentals, along with a relaxing on-site spa. Guests can enjoy Mexican cuisine at José at Elevation, as well as a gym, indoor pool, and activities like snowboarding and mountain biking. The hotel provides free in-room WiFi, an arcade, and laundry facilities, along with extra perks like bike rentals, luggage storage, and self-parking. Rooms feature premium bedding, balconies, flat-screen TVs, and microwaves, with guest reviews praising the helpful staff, clean rooms, and prime location.

Steamboat Springs

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 160 miles

   – Travel Time: About 3 hours by car

   – Key Attractions: Hot springs, Fish Creek Falls, Steamboat Ski Resort

   – Wellness Activities: Spa treatments, hot springs bathing, yoga retreats

Steamboat Springs, or “Ski Town USA,” offers more than winter sports. The town is famous for its natural hot springs, perfect for relaxing after a day of outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the scenic Fish Creek Falls, go hiking or mountain biking, and enjoy the friendly, laid-back atmosphere of the town. Steamboat Springs also offers wellness retreats, spa treatments and yoga sessions to help visitors unwind and rejuvenate.

Residence Inn by Marriott Steamboat Springs

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Residence Inn by Marriott Steamboat Springs, near Steamboat Ski Resort, offers a comfortable stay with amenities like a free breakfast buffet, a grocery/convenience store, and a firepit. Guests can unwind in the spa tub and enjoy free in-room WiFi, along with access to an outdoor pool and a garden. Additional perks include self-parking (surcharge), bicycle parking, and dry cleaning services.

Rooms are spacious, featuring separate sitting and dining areas, air conditioning, and laptop-friendly workspaces. Guests appreciate the clean rooms, 40-inch LED TVs, and eco-friendly features like recycling and LED light bulbs. Reviews highlight the helpful staff and excellent location.

Glenwood Springs

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 160 miles

   – Travel Time: About 2.5 hours by car

   – Key Attractions: Hot springs, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

   – Activities: Hiking, biking, river rafting

Glenwood Springs is famous for its therapeutic hot springs and outdoor adventures. The Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, the largest hot springs pool in the world, is a major attraction, offering a relaxing soak with mountain views. Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park provides a unique combination of cave tours and amusement park rides. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike to Hanging Lake, bike along the Glenwood Canyon Trail, or go rafting on the Colorado River.

Best Western Antlers at Glenwood Springs

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Best Western Antlers at Glenwood Springs, located near Glenwood Hot Springs and Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, offers a relaxing stay with amenities like a free breakfast buffet, a garden, and a playground. Active guests can enjoy volleyball, an outdoor pool, and free bicycle rentals, while those seeking relaxation can unwind in the spa tub. The hotel also provides free self-parking, an outdoor tennis court, and free WiFi in public areas.

Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs with premium channels, and conveniences like coffee/tea makers and desks. Guest reviews highlight the clean rooms, great breakfast, helpful staff, and enjoyable pool.

Grand Junction

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 240 miles

   – Travel Time: About 4 hours by car

   – Key Attractions: Colorado National Monument, local vineyards

   – Activities: Hiking, wine tasting, biking

Grand Junction is known for its stunning red rock landscapes and thriving wine industry. The Colorado National Monument offers dramatic views, with towering monoliths and deep canyons. Visitors can explore the area through hiking and biking trails or take a scenic drive along Rim Rock Drive. The Grand Valley is home to several vineyards and wineries, making it an excellent wine-tasting and tour destination. Grand Junction has a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and cultural events.

Hotel Maverick

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Hotel Maverick, an upscale hotel in the mountains, offers a comfortable and modern stay with amenities like a coffee shop, bar, gym, and free in-room WiFi. Guests can enjoy on-site dining and take advantage of the business center, electric car charging station, and self-parking (surcharge). Additional perks include luggage storage, a front-desk safe, and a banquet hall.

All 60 rooms feature premium bedding, air conditioning, and conveniences like mini fridges and coffee/tea makers. Guests appreciate the clean rooms, flat-screen TVs with streaming services, and the excellent property condition, along with the helpful staff and great dining options.

Rifle

    – Distance from Denver: Approximately 180 miles

    – Travel Time: About 3 hours by car

    – Key Attractions: Rifle Falls State Park, Rifle Gap State Park

    – Activities: Hiking, fishing, camping

Rifle offers a range of outdoor activities and natural beauty. Rifle Falls State Park is known for its picturesque triple waterfall and lush greenery, providing excellent opportunities for hiking and photography. Nearby Rifle Gap State Park offers a large reservoir for fishing, boating, and swimming. The area is also famous for camping, with several campgrounds allowing you to immerse yourself in nature.

Hampton Inn & Suites Rifle

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Hampton Inn & Suites Rifle, located near the airport, offers a comfortable stay with amenities like a free breakfast buffet, an indoor pool, and free in-room WiFi. Guests can enjoy a 24-hour gym, a 24-hour business center, and relax by the lobby fireplace. Additional perks include free self-parking, extended parking, and express check-out.

All 92 rooms feature air conditioning, Select Comfort beds, and conveniences like refrigerators and coffee/tea makers. Guests appreciate the flat-screen TVs with premium channels, daily housekeeping, and helpful staff.

Cultural and Historical Trips

Colorado Springs

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 70 miles

   – Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car

   – Key Attractions: Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, U.S. Air Force Academy

   – Activities: Hiking, climbing, historical tours

Colorado Springs is a city rich in natural beauty and cultural attractions. Garden of the Gods, a public park with striking red rock formations, offers numerous trails for hiking and climbing. Pikes Peak, known as “America’s Mountain,” provides breathtaking views from its summit, accessible by car, bike, or foot. The U.S. Air Force Academy is also located here, with a visitor center and chapel open to the public. Colorado Springs offers a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural exploration.

Cheyenne Mountain Resort

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Cheyenne Mountain Resort, A Dolce by Wyndham, is a family-friendly resort near Broadmoor World Arena and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, offering a golf course, private beach with kayaking, beach yoga, and two on-site restaurants. Guests can enjoy multiple pools, including an indoor pool with a waterslide, plus activities like beach volleyball, basketball, and racquetball. Relax at the Alluvia Spa and Wellness Retreat, or stay active with fitness and yoga classes. The resort provides free WiFi, a poolside bar, a firepit, and 5 indoor tennis courts. Rooms feature premium bedding, balconies, 60-inch TVs, and mini fridges, with guest reviews praising the clean rooms, great pool, and helpful staff.

Fort Collins

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 65 miles

   – Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car

   – Cultural Highlights: University of Colorado Boulder, Pearl Street Mall, local breweries

   – Outdoor Activities: Hiking at Chautauqua Park, cycling, rock climbing

Fort Collins is a vibrant college town known for its historic downtown, craft breweries, and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the charming Old Town, visit the University of Colorado Boulder campus, or shop and dine at Pearl Street Mall. The area around Fort Collins offers excellent hiking and cycling opportunities, with trails like Horsetooth Mountain and Poudre Canyon providing scenic views and challenging terrain. The town’s numerous breweries offer tours and tastings, making it an excellent destination for beer enthusiasts.

The Elizabeth Hotel

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The Elizabeth Hotel, Autograph Collection, located in Old Town Fort Collins, offers a modern and creative stay with amenities such as a rooftop terrace, a coffee shop, and The Emporium restaurant, which serves American cuisine. Guests can enjoy free in-room WiFi with speeds of 100+ Mbps, a garden, and a library. The hotel also provides self-parking (surcharge), coworking spaces, and 7 meeting rooms, making it a great choice for both business and leisure.

Rooms are individually furnished and feature premium bedding, free WiFi, LCD TVs with premium channels, and unique touches like musical instruments and art supplies. Additional conveniences include mini fridges, coffee/tea makers, and eco-friendly features like recycling and LED light bulbs. Guest reviews highlight the helpful staff, proximity to shopping, and excellent property condition.

Boulder

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 30 miles

   – Travel Time: About 45 minutes by car

   – Cultural Highlights: University of Colorado Boulder, Pearl Street Mall, local breweries

   – Outdoor Activities: Hiking at Chautauqua Park, cycling, rock climbing

Boulder is known for its progressive vibe, outdoor recreation, and vibrant cultural scene. The University of Colorado Boulder adds youthful energy to the city through various cultural and sporting events. Pearl Street Mall is a bustling pedestrian area with shops, restaurants, and street performers. Chautauqua Park offers excellent hiking trails with stunning views of the Flatirons. Boulder also has a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering tours and tastings.

Residence Inn by Marriott Boulder

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Residence Inn by Marriott Boulder Broomfield/Interlocken, located in the business district, offers a comfortable stay with amenities like a free breakfast buffet, a grocery shopping service, and a terrace. Guests can enjoy a seasonal outdoor pool, free self-parking, and complimentary area shuttles and bicycle rentals. The hotel also features a firepit, library, and free in-room WiFi.

All 122 rooms are equipped with laptop-friendly workspaces, air conditioning, and 49-inch LED TVs with streaming services like Netflix. Additional conveniences include kitchens, wardrobes, and eco-friendly features like recycling. Bathrooms offer tubs or showers with free toiletries.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 15 miles

   – Travel Time: About 30 minutes by car

   – Historical Significance: Renowned concert venue and natural amphitheater

   – Activities: Concerts, hiking, exploring geological formations

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is one of the most iconic music venues in the world, known for its stunning natural acoustics and dramatic red rock formations. In addition to hosting concerts, the park offers several hiking trails that provide spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the Visitor Center and the Colorado Music Hall of Fame, highlighting the state’s musical history. Red Rocks is a must-visit destination for music lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Origin Red Rocks

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Origin Red Rocks, a Wyndham Hotel, near Red Rocks Amphitheater, offers guests a comfortable stay with amenities like a garden, a fireplace in the lobby, and an on-site restaurant, Nomad Taqueria and Beer. The hotel provides free in-room WiFi, a gym, free self-parking, and complimentary bicycle rentals. Additional perks include an electric car charging station, express check-out, and three meeting rooms.

All 124 rooms feature air conditioning, free WiFi, safes, and eco-friendly touches like recycling and LED light bulbs. Rooms also include flat-screen TVs with Netflix, refrigerators, coffee/tea makers, and bathrooms with free toiletries and hair dryers. Guest reviews praise the dining options, helpful staff, and excellent location.

Creede

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 250 miles

   – Travel Time: About 5 hours by car

   – Historical Significance: Mining history and heritage

   – Activities: Hiking, biking, exploring historic sites

Creede is a small town with a rich mining history in a beautiful mountain setting. Visitors can explore the town’s historic buildings, visit the Creede Underground Mining Museum, and take a guided tour of the old mining sites. The surrounding area offers excellent hiking and biking opportunities, with trails that provide stunning views of the mountains and valleys. Creede also has a vibrant arts scene, with local galleries and theaters showcasing the work of regional artists.

Quality Inn & Suites

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Located near the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad, Quality Inn & Suites offers a comfortable stay with convenient access to Rio Grande Club and Wolf Creek Anglers. Guests can enjoy a free full breakfast, a golf course with a clubhouse and pro shop, and amenities like a firepit and laundry facilities. The hotel also offers free in-room WiFi, a business center, and free self-parking.

Additional perks include express check-out, gas grills, and meeting rooms. Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, LED TVs with cable channels, coffee/tea makers, and daily housekeeping. Guest reviews highlight the helpful staff and overall comfort.


Taos, NM

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 300 miles

   – Travel Time: About 5.5 hours by car

   – Key Attractions: Taos Pueblo, art galleries, historic sites

   – Activities: Hiking, skiing, exploring cultural sites

Taos, New Mexico, is a unique blend of Native American, Spanish, and Anglo cultures, making it a fascinating destination for history and art lovers. The Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of North America’s oldest continuously inhabited communities. The town is also known for its vibrant art scene, with numerous galleries and studios. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby mountains for hiking and skiing or visit the Rio Grande Gorge for stunning views and wildlife watching.

The Historic Taos Inn

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The Historic Taos Inn, located near Kit Carson Park, offers a cozy and convenient stay in Taos. Close to Taos Plaza and the Taos Art Museum, this hotel features free in-room WiFi, a lively nightclub, a garden, and a fireplace in the lobby. Guests appreciate amenities like free self-parking, a 24-hour front desk, and multilingual staff. Rooms are individually furnished with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and daily housekeeping, while bathrooms include free toiletries. The friendly staff and central location make it a highly rated choice for visitors.

Family-Friendly Trips

Alamosa

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 230 miles

   – Travel Time: About 4 hours by car

   – Family-Friendly Attractions: Great Sand Dunes, local parks, museums

   – Activities: Hiking, biking, educational tours

Alamosa is an excellent destination for families, offering a range of fun and educational activities. The nearby Great Sand Dunes National Park provides a unique playground for kids and adults alike, with opportunities for sandboarding and hiking. The town has several parks, playgrounds, and the San Luis Valley Museum, which offers insights into the area’s history and culture. Alamosa also hosts various family-friendly events and festivals throughout the year.

Windsor Hotel

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The **Windsor Hotel** offers a comfortable stay with perks like a garden, bar, and on-site restaurant, The Dining Room, serving lunch and dinner. Guests enjoy free in-room WiFi, free self-parking, and services like concierge, luggage storage, and wedding services. Rooms feature air conditioning, bathrobes, showers, flat-screen TVs with cable, and daily housekeeping. Reviews highlight the helpful staff and well-kept property.

Keystone, SD

   – Distance from Denver: Approximately 370 miles

   – Travel Time: About 6 hours by car

   – Key Attractions: Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park

   – Family Activities: Hiking, wildlife viewing, exploring historic sites

Keystone, South Dakota, is the gateway to Mount Rushmore, one of America’s most iconic landmarks. The monument offers educational programs and ranger-led tours, making it a great family destination. Nearby Custer State Park provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, with bison, elk, and other animals roaming freely. The park also offers hiking trails, fishing, and scenic drives. Keystone has various attractions, including museums, shops, and restaurants.

Roosevelt Inn Mount Rushmore

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The Roosevelt Inn Mount Rushmore offers a convenient stay near Mount Rushmore with perks like free continental breakfast, an indoor pool, and an arcade/game room. Guests enjoy free WiFi, self-parking, and laundry facilities. Rooms feature air conditioning, 32-inch LCD TVs, refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers. Reviews highlight the great value, helpful staff, and clean, comfortable rooms.

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