Denver, CO, USA 20-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Denver

Arrive at Denver International Airport (DIA), collect your luggage, and transfer to your hotel.

Allow time for settling in after your journey.

Consider pre-booking an airport shuttle or ride-share for convenience with family and luggage.

Explore Denver Union Station

Visit the beautifully restored historic Denver Union Station.

It's an urban transit hub with shops, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere.

Let children marvel at the architecture and train activity. Grab a coffee or snack.

Family Dinner in LoDo

Enjoy a relaxed family dinner in the Lower Downtown (LoDo) district, known for its historic buildings and diverse culinary scene.

Many family-friendly restaurant options are available in this area.

Private Rocky Mountain NP Tour

Embark on a fully customized private sightseeing tour of Rocky Mountain National Park.

This tour allows ample time at each stop for photography and exploration, perfect for families.

This private tour is ideal for families with children, allowing flexibility for breaks and specific interests. Don't forget layers of clothing as mountain weather can change quickly.

Relaxed Evening in Denver

After a full day of mountain exploration, enjoy a relaxed evening and dinner in Denver.

Options could include a quiet family meal or a casual stroll.

Rest up for more adventures!

Denver Botanic Gardens

Explore the diverse plant collections and themed gardens at Denver Botanic Gardens.

It's a beautiful and educational experience for all ages.

Check for family-friendly exhibits or programs. Pack water and wear comfortable shoes. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g33388-d144226-Reviews-Denver_Botanic_Gardens-Denver_Colorado.html?m=66827

Lunch & Play at City Park

Enjoy a picnic lunch or casual meal near City Park, Denver's largest urban park.

Afterward, let the children play at one of the playgrounds or enjoy a walk around the lake.

The park offers great views of the Denver skyline and the mountains.

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Discover a variety of exhibitions, programs, and activities at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, located within City Park.

Engaging for children and adults.

Highlights include dinosaur exhibits, space exhibits, and wildlife dioramas. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g33388-d128688-Reviews-Denver_Museum_Of_Nature_Science-Denver_Colorado.html?m=66827

Family Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed family dinner at a restaurant of your choice in Denver.

Explore Denver by E-bike Guided Tour

Experience Denver's sights with ease on an e-bike tour, covering historical landmarks and city highlights.

The pedal-assist bikes make it fun for all skill levels.

Helmets are provided. Ensure children meet age/height requirements for e-bikes, or consider alternatives for younger kids.

Guided Hiking Tour in the Rocky Mountains

Join a half-day guided hiking adventure in the beautiful Rocky Mountains near Denver.

This tour is suitable for beginners and offers stunning scenery.

Wear appropriate hiking shoes and bring water. The tour provides transportation from a meeting point near downtown Denver.

Dinner & Relaxation

After an active day, enjoy a hearty dinner and relax at your hotel or explore a local dessert spot.

Visit Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Explore the stunning Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, a naturally formed, world-renowned outdoor concert venue and park.

Enjoy short trails and geological marvels.

Check the schedule, as access may be limited on concert days. It's an excellent spot for family photos and easy walks.

Lookout Mountain & Buffalo Bill Museum

Drive up Lookout Mountain for panoramic views of Denver and the surrounding plains.

Visit the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave for a glimpse into Wild West history.

The drive itself is scenic. The museum is small but offers interesting insights into a historical figure.

Explore Golden & Dinner

Spend the afternoon exploring the charming town of Golden, nestled in the foothills.

Enjoy a leisurely family dinner before returning to Denver.

Golden offers a walkable downtown area with shops and cafes. You can visit Clear Creek for some relaxation by the water.

Drive to Estes Park & RMNP

Start your day early with a scenic drive from Denver to Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Enjoy the changing landscapes as you approach the mountains.

Sprague Lake Loop

Enjoy an easy, flat loop around Sprague Lake in the Bear Lake Road corridor, offering beautiful mountain reflections.

Perfect for families with young children or strollers.

Access via Bear Lake Road. Parking can be challenging; consider using the free park shuttle from the Park & Ride lot.

Bear Lake Loop

A very accessible and scenic loop around Bear Lake.

It's a short, paved trail with stunning views of Hallett Peak and other mountain vistas.

Continues from Sprague Lake area, same parking/shuttle considerations apply.

Lakeside Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the beautiful scenery of Rocky Mountain National Park.

There are many picnic areas along Bear Lake Road.

Pack your lunch and snacks. Remember to pack out everything you pack in.

Guided Llama Hike

Embark on a unique and fun guided llama hike in the Rocky Mountains.

Your family will learn about llamas and enjoy stunning scenery with these gentle companions.

A memorable experience for children. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water.

Return to Denver & Dinner

Drive back to Denver after a full day of mountain adventures.

Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Denver.

Drive to Estes Park & RMNP

Another early start for a full day exploring the higher elevations of Rocky Mountain National Park.

Trail Ridge Road Scenic Drive

Drive along Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in North America, offering breathtaking panoramic views, alpine tundra, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Stop at various overlooks.

The road climbs above the tree line. Dress in layers, as temperatures can be significantly colder. Check road status as it can close due to weather even in summer. Timed entry permit may be required for RMNP access.

Alpine Visitor Center & Tundra Walk

Visit the highest visitor center in the National Park System.

Take a short, easy walk on the Tundra Communities Trail to experience the fragile alpine tundra ecosystem.

Enjoy the views and learn about the unique environment. Facilities include restrooms and a gift shop/cafe.

Grand Lake Views or Forest Canyon

Depending on your pace, either continue driving west towards Grand Lake for views of the largest natural lake in Colorado, or stop at Forest Canyon Overlook on the return journey for more stunning vistas.

Return to Denver & Dinner

Drive back to Denver and enjoy a well-deserved dinner after a day of high-altitude exploration.

Drive to Golden Gate Canyon SP

Enjoy a scenic morning drive from Denver to Golden Gate Canyon State Park, known for its beautiful mountain landscapes and hiking trails.

Golden Gate Canyon State Park Exploration

Explore the park with a family-friendly hike.

Consider the Panorama Point for stunning views, or a portion of the challenging Mountain Lion Trail for an adventure.

State park pass or daily entrance fee required. Check the park website for trail maps and current conditions. Restrooms and picnic areas are available.

Lunch in Golden

Head into the charming city of Golden for lunch at a local eatery, enjoying the small-town atmosphere.

Clear Creek & Downtown Golden

Spend the afternoon exploring downtown Golden.

Walk along Clear Creek, visit shops, or let the children play near the water (depending on water levels and safety).

Golden has a relaxed atmosphere. The Clear Creek Whitewater Park is popular for tubing and kayaking; check conditions if interested.

Dinner in Golden

Enjoy dinner at one of Golden's diverse restaurants, from casual to more upscale.

Colorado Railroad Museum

Visit the Colorado Railroad Museum, a fantastic outdoor museum with over 100 narrow and standard gauge steam and diesel locomotives, passenger cars, and cabooses.

Great for train-loving kids!

Lunch in Golden

Enjoy lunch in Golden, perhaps trying a different local spot or returning to a favorite.

Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave

Drive up Lookout Mountain to visit the grave of William F.

'Buffalo Bill' Cody, alongside a museum detailing his life and the Wild West. Offers fantastic views.

Lookout Mountain Scenic Views

After visiting Buffalo Bill's grave, take some time to enjoy the panoramic views of the Great Plains to the east and the Continental Divide to the west from Lookout Mountain.

Great spot for family photos.

Dinner & Relaxation

Head back towards Denver for dinner or enjoy a final evening meal in Golden.

Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

Visit the iconic Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre.

Explore the natural geological formations, walk some of the short trails, and admire the famous outdoor concert venue.

Check the schedule before visiting, as access to the amphitheatre may be limited on event days. Admission to the park and amphitheatre (non-event days) is free.

Dinosaur Ridge

Take a self-guided tour along Dinosaur Ridge, where you can see real dinosaur footprints and fossils embedded in the rocks.

An educational and fun experience for kids.

Free to visit. Guided tours are also available for a fee. The paved trail is about 1 mile long (one way).

Lunch in Morrison/Lakewood

Enjoy a casual lunch in the charming town of Morrison or nearby Lakewood.

Sunset Hiking Tour

Embark on a guided sunset hiking tour in the Rocky Mountains near Denver.

Enjoy beautiful trails and capture stunning evening views as the sun sets.

A wonderful way to experience the beauty of the mountains. Bring warm layers, water, and headlamps/flashlights. Specific meeting point will be provided upon booking.

Dinner & Preparation for Next Segment

Enjoy dinner back in Denver and relax, preparing for your next segment of the trip to Colorado Springs.

Travel to Colorado Springs

Enjoy a scenic drive south from the Golden/Rocky Mountain region to Colorado Springs, a journey offering beautiful views as you head towards the Pikes Peak area.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Check into your family-friendly accommodation in Colorado Springs and settle in before heading out for an afternoon of exploration.

Grab a quick bite for lunch.

Explore Garden of the Gods

Discover the breathtaking red rock formations at Garden of the Gods Park.

Enjoy easy walking trails suitable for all family members, and capture stunning photos of the unique landscapes.

Start at the Visitor & Nature Center for maps, interactive exhibits, and park information. There are various trails ranging from paved, accessible paths to more challenging hikes.

Family Dinner

Enjoy a delicious dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Colorado Springs.

Pikes Peak Exploration

Ascend 'America's Mountain,' Pikes Peak.

You can choose to drive the scenic Pikes Peak Highway or experience the historic Pikes Peak Cog Railway (seasonal operation, check in advance) for breathtaking panoramic views from the summit.

Dress in layers as temperatures at the summit are significantly cooler. Bring water and take it easy at high altitudes. If driving, there's a toll. For the Cog Railway, booking tickets well in advance is highly recommended as it's a very popular attraction.

Lunch in Manitou Springs

Enjoy lunch in the quirky and charming town of Manitou Springs, nestled at the base of Pikes Peak.

Wander Manitou Springs

Explore the unique shops, art galleries, and historic architecture of Manitou Springs.

Don't forget to sample the natural mineral spring waters from the various public fountains.

Many of the springs have different mineral compositions and flavors. Pick up a souvenir or enjoy an ice cream.

Family Dinner

Relax and enjoy another evening meal in Colorado Springs.

Cave of the Winds Mountain Park

Embark on a guided tour through the fascinating limestone caverns of Cave of the Winds.

For the more adventurous, there are also thrill rides and an outdoor ropes course.

The Discovery Tour is a good option for families. Wear comfortable shoes and a light jacket, as cave temperatures are cool. Consider booking tickets online, especially for weekend visits.

Lunch Break

Enjoy a casual lunch before your afternoon adventure.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Visit America's only mountain zoo, set into the side of Cheyenne Mountain.

Enjoy unique animal exhibits, feed the giraffes, and take in incredible views of Colorado Springs from its elevated location.

Wear comfortable walking shoes as the zoo is built on a mountain slope. There is a shuttle service to help navigate. Purchase tickets online in advance to save time.

Evening Dinner & Family Time

Relax with dinner and enjoy some quality family time after an adventurous day.

Red Rock Canyon Open Space

Spend the morning hiking and exploring the beautiful Red Rock Canyon Open Space.

It offers similar stunning red rock formations to Garden of the Gods but is often less crowded, providing a more serene outdoor experience.

Choose from a variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels. Good for hiking, biking, and dog walking.

Picnic Lunch or Cafe

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst nature or find a local cafe for a relaxing break.

North Cheyenne Cañon Park

Drive through or hike in the scenic North Cheyenne Cañon Park.

This beautiful mountain canyon features stunning rock walls, lush forests, and the picturesque Helen Hunt Falls. Take short walks to enjoy the waterfalls and overlooks.

The park offers a winding scenic drive with several pull-offs. Helen Hunt Falls has an accessible viewing area and a short trail to the top.

Farewell Dinner in Colorado Springs

Enjoy a final dinner in Colorado Springs, reflecting on your adventurous time in the region.

Broadmoor Seven Falls

Visit the spectacular Broadmoor Seven Falls, a series of seven cascading waterfalls in a magnificent box canyon.

You can take an elevator ride or climb 224 steps to the top for stunning views.

Often referred to as the 'Grandest Mile of Scenery in Colorado.' There are gift shops and dining options available at the base. Consider booking tickets online.

Lunch Before Departure

Grab a quick lunch in Colorado Springs before starting your journey north towards the Denver area.

Travel Towards Denver

Begin your drive north from Colorado Springs, making your way back towards the Denver metropolitan area, ready for the next part of your Colorado adventure.

This transition sets you up for exploring Denver city culture.

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Explore interactive exhibits, IMAX films, and planetarium shows, perfect for all ages.

Discover natural history, space, and wildlife.

Book tickets online in advance to secure your preferred entry time, especially during peak season. There's a cafe for lunch options inside.

Relax at City Park

Enjoy the expansive greenspace, playgrounds, and scenic views of the Denver skyline and mountains.

Ideal for a family stroll or playtime.

Bring a frisbee or ball for extra fun. The park is home to the Denver Zoo and the Museum of Nature & Science, making it a convenient stop.

Dinner in Uptown

Dine at a family-friendly restaurant in Denver's vibrant Uptown neighborhood, offering diverse culinary options.

Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, perfect for a pleasant evening.

History Colorado Center

Discover Colorado's rich history through interactive and engaging exhibits, perfect for families to learn and explore.

Check their schedule for any special family programs or events running during your visit. The cafe offers light lunch options.

Molly Brown House Museum

Tour the historic home of the 'Unsinkable' Molly Brown, a prominent Titanic survivor and activist, learning about Denver's past.

Guided tours are offered regularly; check the schedule upon arrival or book in advance if possible. Suitable for older children.

Explore Denver Union Station

Visit this beautifully restored historic landmark, an urban transit hub with shops, restaurants, and a bustling atmosphere.

Enjoy an ice cream or snack.

It's a great spot for people-watching and soaking in the architectural grandeur.

Dinner in LoHi

Enjoy dinner in the Lower Highland (LoHi) neighborhood, known for its scenic views of the city skyline and diverse eateries.

Denver Botanic Gardens

Wander through diverse themed gardens, including a children's garden, showcasing plants from various corners of the world.

The Children's Garden is a highlight for families. Check their website for current exhibitions or activities. Bring water and hats.

Strike it Rich! Puzzle Room Experience

Work together as a family to solve puzzles and uncover clues in an immersive escape room adventure at Gambit Gold Mine.

Booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred time slot. This is a great team-building activity for families.

Stroll through Cheesman Park

Enjoy a leisurely walk in this beautiful park, known for its neoclassical pavilion and rose garden.

A peaceful urban escape.

Dinner in Capitol Hill

Explore the diverse culinary scene in the historic Capitol Hill neighborhood for your evening meal.

Explore Denver by E-bike Guided Tour

Cover significant ground with ease on an e-bike, exploring Denver's history and highlights.

Suitable for families with older children.

Ensure children are comfortable riding bicycles and meet any age/height requirements for e-bikes. This is a fantastic way to see the city.

Lunch & Explore Larimer Square

Enjoy lunch in the historic and charming Larimer Square, followed by some souvenir shopping at unique boutiques.

Larimer Square is Denver's oldest block, known for its Victorian buildings and string lights. Many dining options are available.

Mile High Hauntings: Guided Ghost Tour

Embark on a walking tour through Denver's LoDo district, uncovering chilling tales of the city's haunted past. (Suitable for older children)

Check content warnings for younger children; this tour might be spooky! Dress warmly as evenings can get cool.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Grab any last-minute gifts or souvenirs from local shops in downtown Denver or near your hotel.

The 16th Street Mall or shops around Union Station offer various options.

Farewell Brunch

Enjoy a final delicious brunch or lunch in Denver before heading to the airport.

Many cafes and restaurants offer great brunch menus on Saturdays.

Hotel Checkout

Complete hotel checkout procedures and gather all your belongings.

Travel to Denver International Airport (DIA)

Head to Denver International Airport for your return flight.

Allow ample time for traffic and airport procedures.

Options include taxi, ride-share, or the A Line commuter train from Union Station for convenient access to DIA.