What To See In Estes Park Colorado – The crisp mountain air and beautiful scenery in Estes Park, Colorado make new and returning visitors never want to leave. That, and the wide variety of fun things to do in Estes Park, provide fun, learning and exploration for all types of travelers.
I am a Colorado native and can testify that Estes Park is one of the best mountain towns in the state. Its proximity to urban areas makes for a quick commute, but the hustle and bustle of the city can be heard far away.
What To See In Estes Park Colorado
From Rocky Mountain National Park to historic sites, local delicacies and hidden gems, you’re sure to fall in love with this mountain town.
Best Private Tours & Transportation In Estes Park, Colorado
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📍Google Maps | Phone: (970) 586-1206 | website | Admission: $30 Vehicle Day Pass, $80 America’s Best Annual Pass | 👉 Browse RMNP tours on Viator
Estes Park is best known as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the best places to visit in Colorado. As you enter the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center in the nearby town, you’ll see plenty of outdoor activities.
Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Meanwhile, summer encourages collecting permits for camping, fishing, rock climbing, and yes, hiking. Trails range from short, groomed singletrack to ultimate experts like Longs Peak, one of Colorado’s most famous 14s.
Estes Park Lodging, Hiking, Adventures & Around Town
When exploring during the summer, be sure to take a scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road, celebrated as one of Colorado’s best road trips. You will travel through the National Park, across the Continental Divide and end your trip at Grand Lake. It is the largest and deepest body of water in the world, popular for boating, swimming and other water activities.
👉 Pro Tip: A fixed permit is required to enter RMNP by October 1st. 11, 2022. Plan ahead and save time early!
, The Stanley Hotel is said to be terrifying and incredibly beautiful. The Victorian-era architecture and decor transport guests back to when the hotel first opened in 1909. It has an upscale atmosphere with outdoor gardens, fine dining and Colorado’s largest selection of fine whiskeys (more on that below). ).
Those looking for new things to do in Estes Park will appreciate the movie memorabilia on display. Spirit visits and psychic readings from core resident Madame Vera are also available. Stay overnight or just visit the resort and area. Either way, the Stanley Hotel is one of the best things to do in Estes Park, Colorado and one of the most unique places to stay in Colorado.
Reasons Estes Park Is The Best Mountain Town
If you enter Estes Park, Colorado from the east, as many do on one of the Denver day tours, you’ll pass by beautiful Lake Estes. It’s one of the best things to do in Estes Park in the summer months, as it’s the main downtown area for water activities. Lake Estes Marina rents everything from kayaks and paddleboards to pontoons and fishing gear.
Those who choose to stay on land can appreciate the view from the Lake Estes Trail. An easy 4 mile loop that accommodates both pedestrians and wheelchairs. Estes Park Dog Park and Stanley Park Ball Field are just two blocks away to admire the beautiful mountain lake.
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📍Google Maps | Phone: (970) 586-6256 | Website | Opening hours: 10:00 – 16:00 Wednesday – Saturday, Closed Sunday – Tuesday | Admission: Free, donation suggested
Fun Things To Do In Estes Park Colorado
Although small, visitors will be surprised by the wealth of information available at the Estes Park Museum. Free to the public (although a small donation is recommended), the museum’s exhibits reflect the history of the area. Includes native, Rocky Mountain National Park and
Along Moraine and Elkhorn streets, visitors can browse more than 200 vendors. These include boutiques, sweet shops, art galleries, restaurants and more. The most interesting thing about downtown Estes Park is that each of these buildings is their property. This means that the property you receive will differ from your visit.
Elk are often seen roaming the heart of Estes Park, Colorado and are common occurrences in the community. Jazz concerts, street performers and wine tasting add to the fun.
🛎️ Do you need a hotel? Check out the best hotels in Estes Park. On Booking.com you’ll find luxury apartments, budget stays and everything in between.
Rocky Mountain National Park In Early May: Snow And Seclusion
The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway runs from Estes Park, CO to the southern town of Black Hawk Mountain. While the journey itself is a journey, there are many important stops along the way. Consider fishing on Lily Lake or paddle boarding on Brainard Lake.
Find wilderness trails in Holland and Indian Peaks, home to some of the tallest mountains near Boulder. In the winter, ski or snowboard at Mount Eldora, one of the many resorts near Denver; or go to indoor casinos in Central City and Black Hawk.
📍Google Maps | Phone: (970) 586-5668 | Website | Opening hours: 19:00 – 21:30 Friday – Monday, closed Tuesday – Thursday | Admission: Free, Suggested Donation | 👉 Book a night photo tour on Viator
See the planets, constellations and shooting stars through a telescope at the Estes Park Memorial Observatory. Run by passionate local volunteers, the observatory sits on a high ground, allowing for excellent viewing on a clear night.
Best Things To Do In Estes Park, Co
Although free, a small donation is recommended to help fund science education. Be sure to book your plan ahead of your visit, because you won’t want to miss out on one of the unique things to do in Estes Park, CO.
📍Google Maps | Phone: (970) 586-3749 | Website | Opening hours: 09:00 – 15:00 Monday – Saturday, closed Sunday | Admission: $10 per person
Founded in 1873, the McGregor Ranch Museum traces the lives of three generations of McGregors. They are a local family that helped inspire the growth of Estes Park, and the museum covers the entire farm.
Visitors can see the root house, the milking shed and other buildings used in the lives of these pioneers. Along with interactive activities, volunteers help explain the history of the area.
An Insider’s Guide To Wildlife Watching In Estes Park
📍Google Maps | Phone: (970) 586-3341 ext. 1440 | Website | Opening hours: 7:15 – 18:00 daily | Admission: Prices vary depending on length of visit and location
Horseback riding in Rocky Mountain National Park is a Colorado experience. For knowledgeable and friendly guides, check out those at Jackson Stables, where tours last from 1 to 5 hours. On my drive to Beaver Meadows, we traveled through valleys and through beautiful aspen forests. Beautiful views of the mountains were visible on the way. Pony rides for kids are also available, as are hayrides that include roasting marshmallows around the campfire.
Hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the best things to do in Colorado. But Estes Park also offers great trails outside of the National Park. If you want to avoid the crowds, go to the open space of Hermit Park. Or, explore the backcountry trails of the Indian Peaks Wilderness, home to some of Colorado’s best hiking.
📍Google Maps | Phone: (970) 577-7238 | Website | Opening hours: 9am to 5pm daily until September. 5 | Entrance: Prices vary depending on the day of visit, duration and location. 👉 Browse nearby rafting tours on Viator
How To Plan The Perfect One Day In Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary — Harbors & Havens
Estes Park Rapid Transit Rafting operators will transport you and guide you on a half or full day trip. A half-day whitewater tour floats down the Cache la Poudre River, an experience that ranks as one of the best things to do in Fort Collins. Typical day trips include a scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road, followed by a drive along the Colorado River.
📍Google Maps | Phone: (970) 577-7400 | website | Opening hours: 08:00 – 19:00 daily | Access: Prices vary depending on length of rental and vehicle | 👉 Book RMNP Jeep Tour on Viator
Estes Park ATV Rentals offers a fun and exciting way to experience Estes Park, Colorado. Without a guide, renters can explore at their own pace, taking in the mountain views on exciting 4×4 trails. Don’t worry if you don’t know the place. Your friendly staff will show you how to use the GPS mapping system and give you tips to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip.
📍Google Maps | Phone: (970) 586-8146 | Website | Hours of Operation: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday | Admission: Prices vary by season, age and accommodation.
Historical Society In Estes Park
Golf enthusiasts can’t miss the 18-hole Estes Park Golf Course. In the morning, there will likely be herds of elk waiting as you walk. Be sure to improve your game, because the break towards Fish Creek, and surprisingly, golf balls fly very far.
Starting at the Estes Park Visitor Center, the Riverwalk continues along the Fall River and the Big Thompson River. It’s one of the best things to do in Estes Park right now.
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