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When I planned our Colorado vacation, Rocky Mountain National Park was at the top of my list. What I didn’t expect was just how many things to do in Estes Park beyond the national park itself. We spent three full days exploring Estes Park, and I honestly could have stayed longer.
Nestled at the eastern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is located about 70 miles northwest of Denver (roughly a 1½ to 2-hour drive). It is much more than a place to sleep before heading into the park. Estes Park is a mountain town filled with scenic views, wildlife, local restaurants, family friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, and plenty of ways to slow down and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
In this guide, I’ll share our exact three-day itinerary, my favorite things to do in Estes Park, practical tips for visiting Rocky Mountain National Park, where we stayed, where we ate, and a few hidden gems we discovered along the way.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or your first visit to the Colorado Rockies, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Estes Park.
Estes Park at a Glance
Location: About 70 miles northwest of Denver (1.5–2-hour drive)
Best Time to Visit: June-Sept for hiking, September for elk bugling
Recommended Stay: 3 days
Elevation: 7,522 feet
Don’t Miss: Rocky Mountain National Park, Mustang Mountain Coaster, Estes Park Aerial Tramway, and downtown Estes Park, YMCA
Best Places To Stay: Quality Inn or Stanley Hotel
Why Visit Estes Park?
While Rocky Mountain National Park may be the main reason many people visit, Estes Park is a destination worth exploring on its own. You can spend your days hiking, enjoying outdoor adventures, watching for wildlife, or simply strolling through the charming downtown filled with local shops, restaurants, and coffee houses.
However, Estes Park does have a reputation for being expensive, especially during the busy summer and fall seasons. While prices are generally higher than in nearby towns, we found several ways to keep our trip budget friendly without sacrificing the experience.
If you’re trying to save money, consider stopping in Loveland, about 30 miles (40–45 minutes) away, before arriving. It’s a convenient place to pick up groceries, snacks, or other supplies, which can help keep your vacation costs down.
Ready to start planning your trip? Here’s the exact three-day itinerary we followed.
Our 3 Day Estes Park Itinerary
For a quick overview, here’s exactly how we spent three full days in Estes Park. Keep reading for detailed information on each attraction, along with additional activities to help you customize your own itinerary.
Day 1
- Rocky Mountain National Park/Bear Lake Hike
- Big breakfast after hiking
- Rest at hotel
- Explore Downtown Estes Park
- Dinner
- Beaver Meadows and Sheep Lakes
- Ice cream
Day 2
- Rocky Mountain National Park/Alberta Falls
- Lunch
- Mustang Mountain Coaster
- Estes Park Aerial Tramway
- Coffee at the summit and feed the chipmunks
- Dinner
Day 3
- Mustang Mountain Coaster – Yes we went a 2nd time, we love it so much!
- Explore more of Downtown Estes Park
- Return to Rocky Mountain National Park, drive through and look for wildlife
- Spot wildlife (I finally saw a moose!)
- Relax at the hotel
- Explore more of Estes Park
Three days gave us enough time to experience both Rocky Mountain National Park and the best of Estes Park without feeling rushed.
First Timer’s Guide to Rocky Mountain National Park
Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park was the main reason for our trip to Estes Park, and if it’s on your itinerary too, there are a few things you’ll want to know before you go. These tips will help you plan ahead, avoid common mistakes, and make the most of your visit.
Know Before You Go
- Timed Entry Reservations: If you’re visiting during the busy season, you’ll likely need a timed entry reservation in addition to your park entrance pass.
- Entrance Fees: A park entrance fee is required to enter Rocky Mountain National Park. This is in addition to the timed entry.
- Best Entrance: The Beaver Meadows Entrance Station is the closest and most convenient entrance if you’re staying in Estes Park.
- Arrive Early: Popular areas like Bear Lake fill up quickly, especially during the summer months. Arriving early gives you easier parking, fewer crowds, and a better chance of spotting wildlife.
- Pack Layers: Even on warm summer days, temperatures can change quickly as you gain elevation. Bring a light jacket and dress in layers.
- Download Offline Maps: Cell service is limited throughout much of the park, so download maps before you arrive.
- Prepare for the Altitude: Estes Park sits at over 7,500 feet above sea level, and many areas inside the park are much higher. Drink plenty of water, take your time, and listen to your body as you adjust to the elevation.
- Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from all wildlife and never feed the animals. Watching elk, bighorn sheep, moose, and other wildlife in their natural habitat is one of the highlights of visiting Rocky Mountain National Park.
👉Prefer to have all the logistics handled for you? This popular Rocky Mountain National Park tour travels in a unique glass-top vehicle, making it easy to enjoy panoramic mountain views while learning from a knowledgeable guide.
Best Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is filled with scenic drives, alpine lakes, waterfalls, and incredible wildlife viewing. Since we stayed in Estes Park, we visited the park all three days of our trip and found something new to see each time. These are some of the Must Visit spots to add to your itinerary.
- Bear Lake: Bear Lake is one of the best places to start. The easy, mostly flat trail circles the lake and offers beautiful mountain views, making it a great option for families and hikers of all skill levels.
- Bear Lake is also the starting point for several of the park’s most popular hikes, including Alberta Falls, Dream Lake, and Emerald Lake.
- Alberta Falls: One of the most popular hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, Alberta Falls is an easy to moderate trail that rewards visitors with a beautiful 30 foot waterfall surrounded by granite boulders and towering pine trees.
- Beaver Meadows and Sheep Lakes: If you’re hoping to spot wildlife, don’t skip the Fall River Entrance or nearby Sheep Lakes. This area is known for frequent elk sightings and big horn sheep.
- Sprague Lake – This easy, mostly flat 0.8-mile loop is one of the most accessible walks in Rocky Mountain National Park. Visit early in the morning for your best chance of spotting moose feeding along the shoreline.
- Drive Trail Ridge Road: Even if hiking isn’t your thing, don’t miss driving Trail Ridge Road, one of the highest paved roads in North America. Just keep in mind that the full route typically doesn’t open until late May or June.
Once you’ve explored the park, let’s explore the town. Here are some of the best places to visit in Estes Park.
22 Fun Things to Do in Estes Park
Estes Park offers something for every type of traveler. You’ll find scenic outdoor adventures, historic attractions, family-friendly activities, and seasonal events that make this mountain town worth visiting year-round. Here are the best things to do in Estes Park during your visit.
Classic Estes Park Experiences
These iconic attractions are some of the best places to start your visit. Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, they’re what make Estes Park such a memorable mountain destination.
1. Ride the Mustang Mountain Coaster
One attraction you shouldn’t miss, make it the Mustang Mountain Coaster. We enjoyed it so much that we rode it twice during our trip.
The alpine coaster winds down the mountainside, and you control your own speed, so you can take it slow or enjoy a faster ride. It was surprisingly affordable and we never waited long in line.
2. Take the Estes Park Aerial Tramway
For some of the best views in town, ride the Estes Park Aerial Tramway to the top of Prospect Mountain. At the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views, grab a coffee from the café, browse the gift shop, and feed the friendly chipmunks that have become a favorite part of the experience.
💡Travel Tip: Purchase the peanuts to feed the chipmunks from the cafe inside. Watching those chipmunks eat the peanuts shows exactly how they get their reputation for stuffing their cheeks. We loved it!
3. Explore Downtown Estes Park
Downtown Estes Park is the heart of the town and one of my favorite places to spend an afternoon. Wander through locally owned shops, browse art galleries, stop for coffee or ice cream, and simply enjoy the relaxed mountain town atmosphere.
4. Stroll Along the Riverwalk
Running alongside the Big Thompson River, the Riverwalk connects many of downtown’s shops and restaurants. The paved path features bridges, benches, public art, and beautiful river views.
5. Visit YMCA of the Rockies
Located just outside Rocky Mountain National Park, YMCA of the Rockies is much more than a place to stay. Day visitors can enjoy many of the property’s activities, including hiking trails, mini golf, archery, playgrounds, craft programs, and seasonal events. Be sure to check the activity schedule before your visit, as offerings vary throughout the year.
Outdoor & Adventure Activities
If you’re looking for even more excitement, Estes Park offers plenty of outdoor and adventure activities. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or a relaxing day surrounded by mountain scenery, here are a few more activities worth adding to your itinerary.
6. Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is one of the most scenic ways to experience the mountains. Several local outfitters offer guided rides through forests, meadows, and mountain trails for riders of all experience levels.
7. Jeep Tours
Want to explore the backcountry without doing the driving? Guided jeep tours take visitors along rugged mountain roads while sharing the area’s history, geology, and wildlife. It’s a great option if you’re hoping to reach places that aren’t accessible by most vehicles.
8. Open Air Adventure Park
Open Air Adventure Park is one of the best things to do with kids. It features aerial obstacle courses, rope bridges, balance challenges, and zip lines set among the trees. It’s a fun way to spend a few hours and challenge yourself while enjoying the outdoors.
9. Take a Whitewater Rafting Trip
A guided whitewater rafting trip is a fun way to experience Colorado’s rivers. Several outfitters near Estes Park offer guided whitewater rafting trips ranging from beginner friendly floats to more adventurous rapids.
10. Explore Estes Park by E Bike
If you’d rather skip the steep hills, renting an e bike is a great way to explore Estes Park. Several local outfitters offer rentals, making it easy to ride through town or along scenic roads at your own pace.
Prefer a guided experience? Join a local guide and explore Estes Park by e-bike while learning about the area’s history, wildlife, and scenic viewpoints.
11. Rent a Paddle Boat or Kayak at Lake Estes
The Lake Estes Marina is the perfect starting point for a day on the water. During the warmer months, you can rent paddle boats, kayaks, canoes, and other watercraft to explore the lake at your own pace.
12. Walk or Bike the Lake Estes Trail
A scenic paved trail circles Lake Estes, making it a popular spot for walking, running, and biking. Along the way, you’ll enjoy beautiful mountain views and may even spot elk or other wildlife.
13. Go Fishing
Lake Estes is also a popular fishing destination, with opportunities to catch trout and other species throughout the season. Be sure to have a valid Colorado fishing license before casting a line.
14. Watch for Wildlife
Estes Park is one of the best places in Colorado to see wildlife. Keep an eye out for elk, moose, bighorn sheep, mule deer, and even black bears as you explore town and nearby areas. Just remember to keep a safe distance and never feed the animals. On my visit, spotting a moose was one of the highlights of the trip!
History & Haunted Attractions
Estes Park isn’t just known for its scenery. Its fascinating history, legendary hotel, and local museums offer a different perspective on this mountain town.
15. Tour the Stanley Hotel
Perched on a hill overlooking Estes Park, the Stanley Hotel is one of the town’s most recognizable landmarks. Best known for inspiring Stephen King’s The Shining, the historic hotel is worth visiting even if you’re not staying overnight.
The Historic Tour shares the hotel’s architecture, famous guests, and colorful past, or you can simply explore the grounds, enjoy the mountain views, or stop by one of the restaurants or bars.
16. Take a Stanley Hotel Ghost Tour
If you enjoy paranormal stories, the Stanley Hotel’s Night Spirit Tour is one of the most popular experiences in Estes Park. Guides share the hotel’s haunted history, unexplained events, and the stories that have earned it a reputation as one of Colorado’s most haunted hotels.
Even if you’re a skeptic, it’s a fun and unique way to experience one of Estes Park’s most famous attractions.
17. Visit the Estes Park Museum
For a deeper appreciation of the area, stop by the Estes Park Museum. Exhibits highlight the town’s early settlers, ranching history, tourism, and the people who helped shape Estes Park into the destination it is today. Admission is free. It’s an easy stop if you’re looking for an indoor activity.
Relax & Unwind
Not every day in Estes Park has to be packed with adventure. These relaxing activities are a great way to enjoy the mountain scenery while recharging before your next adventure.
18. Relax or Picnic at Lake Estes
Surrounded by beautiful mountain views, Lake Estes is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the outdoors. Pack a picnic, relax along the shoreline, or simply sit on a bench and watch for wildlife while taking in the scenery.
19. Play a Round of Golf
The Estes Park Golf Course offers 18 holes with spectacular mountain views and frequent wildlife sightings. Don’t be surprised if elk wander across the fairways during your round!
20. Treat Yourself to a Spa Day
After a day of hiking or exploring Rocky Mountain National Park, a relaxing massage can be the perfect way to unwind. Two popular options in Estes Park are Elements of Touch Wellness Spa and Estes Park Massage, both offering massages and spa treatments designed to help you relax and recharge.
Seasonal Events in Estes Park
Many of Estes Park’s annual festivals take place in or around Bond Park in the heart of downtown. If your trip lines up with one of these events, it’s well worth adding to your itinerary. There’s always something happening throughout the year.
21. Attend an Estes Park Festival
Some the most popular events include:
- Rooftop Rodeo – Held each July, this award-winning PRCA rodeo features bull riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling, and other classic rodeo events, making it one of Estes Park’s biggest summer traditions.
- Elk Fest – Every fall, Elk Fest celebrates the annual elk rut with educational programs, bugling demonstrations, Native American performances, live music, and family-friendly activities.
- Autumn Gold Festival – This popular September festival combines live entertainment, local vendors, food, and one of Colorado’s largest classic car shows with beautiful fall mountain scenery.
- Scandinavian Midsummer Festival – Celebrate Nordic heritage with traditional music, dancing, crafts, food, and cultural demonstrations during this unique annual festival held each June.
22. Experience Christmas in Estes Park
Estes Park is a wonderful place to add to your itinerary during the holiday season. Downtown is decorated with thousands of twinkling Christmas lights, local shops are filled with unique holiday gifts, and the town’s cozy mountain setting makes it feel especially festive.
Throughout the season, you can also enjoy holiday events, festive displays, and the annual Catch the Glow Parade. Whether you’re planning a winter getaway or simply passing through the Rockies, Christmas in Estes Park is a memorable experience.
🎄Travel Tip: If you love traveling during the holidays, be sure to explore more Christmas destinations here on Travel and Tinsel, where I share guides to some of my favorite Christmas markets and festive destinations around the world.
Where to Eat in Estes Park
Wondering where to eat after exploring Estes Park or hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park? These were our favorite places to eat during our trip, along with a few popular local recommendations.
Our Favorite Places
We sought out several budget friendly places and these are the restaurants we personally recommend.
Notchtop Breakfast
Notchtop Breakfast was one of our favorite meals of the trip and a local favorite. The food was delicious, the portions were generous, and it was the perfect way to re-fuel after a morning a day of hiking.
Boss Burgers
Boss Burgers is one of those hidden gems that doesn’t look fancy but serves excellent burgers at affordable prices. If you’re craving a casual meal after a day of exploring, this is an easy recommendation.
Claire’s
We enjoyed Claire’s so much that we ate here twice during our visit. It’s a great choice for breakfast or lunch, with a large menu and outdoor seating.
Rocky Mountain Deli
Rocky Mountain Deli quickly became another favorite. It offers fresh sandwiches at reasonable prices.
Hayley’s Ice
No visit to Estes Park is complete without stopping at Hayley’s Ice. It’s the perfect treat after spending the day exploring downtown.
Other Restaurants Worth Checking Out
These restaurants are also popular with both locals and visitors. Although we didn’t try these, there were options we considered.
- Bird & Jim – One of the top upscale restaurants in Estes Park.
- Twin Owls Steakhouse – Beautiful setting, great for a nice dinner.
- Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ – Probably the most recommended casual restaurant.
- Ed’s Cantina – Popular Mexican food and margaritas.
- Antonio’s Pizza – is another popular local favorite.
- Penelope’s Old Time Burgers – A longtime local favorite for burgers.
Beyond restaurants, Estes Park also has a growing craft beer scene, along with a local distillery for those looking to sample something different.
Breweries and Distillery
Estes Park has several great breweries and a local distillery worth checking out. Since we were traveling with kids, we didn’t check these out but heard good things.
- Rock Cut Brewing Company
- Avant Garde Aleworks
- Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.
- Full Throttle Distillery & Grill
- Elkins Distilling Co.
Coffee Shops
There is no shortage of coffee shops in Estes Park. One stop I wish we had made was Coffee on the Rocks. We didn’t realize how popular it was until after our trip, but its beautiful lakeside setting and mountain views have earned it a spot on our list for next time.
Kind Coffee, The Bird’s Nest, and Inkwell and Brew are three other popular local favorites. And of course, there is a Starbucks.
Where to Stay in Estes Park
Choosing the right place to stay can make your trip even more enjoyable. Estes Park offers everything from budget friendly hotels and cozy cabins to mountain resorts and family friendly lodges. We stayed at the Quality Inn Near Rocky Mountain National Park and thought it was a great value.
Quality Inn Near Rocky Mountain National Park
We had a great stay at the Quality Inn Near Rocky Mountain National Park. Our room was spacious, the complimentary breakfast was a nice way to start each day, and the staff was friendly and helpful. Even before we arrived, the hotel emailed helpful information about visiting Rocky Mountain National Park, which we really appreciated.
The location was just a short drive to both Rocky Mountain National Park and downtown Estes Park, making it a convenient and comfortable home base for exploring the area.
YMCA of the Rockies
One of the most popular places to stay near Estes Park, YMCA of the Rockies is ideal for families and larger groups. With cabins, lodge rooms, and plenty of onsite activities, it’s a destination in itself.
Stanley Hotel
The historic Stanley Hotel is one of the most iconic hotels in Colorado. Known for its elegant architecture, rich history, and famous ghost stories, it’s a memorable choice for travelers wanting a one of a kind experience.
Cabins and Vacation Rentals
If you prefer a quieter getaway, more room, or a kitchen you’ll also find cozy cabins and vacation rentals throughout the Estes Park area. These are excellent options for couples, families, and anyone planning a longer stay.
Things to Do in Estes Park with Kids
Estes Park is a fantastic destination for families, with plenty of activities that kids of all ages will enjoy. Here are a few of my top recommendations:
- Ride the Mustang Mountain Coaster
- Take the Estes Park Aerial Tramway
- Explore Rocky Mountain National Park
- Visit Open Air Adventure Park
- Spend Time at Lake Estes
- Visit YMCA of the Rockies
Wondering when the best to visit? Here’s what to expect during each season.
Best Time to Visit Estes Park
Estes Park is a year-round destination, and the best time to visit depends on what you’d like to experience.
Spring (April–May)
Spring brings melting snow, rushing waterfalls, active wildlife, and smaller crowds. It’s a great time for scenic drives, hiking lower-elevation trails, and exploring downtown.
Summer (June–August)
Summer is the busiest season, with warm weather and nearly every attraction open. It’s the perfect time for hiking, rafting, horseback riding, and spending time on Lake Estes. If you’re visiting Rocky Mountain National Park, be sure to reserve your timed entry permit in advance.
Fall (September–October)
Many visitors consider fall the best time to visit Estes Park. The golden aspens, cooler temperatures, and annual elk rut make it one of the most scenic and popular times of year.
Winter (November–March)
Winter offers a quieter side of Estes Park with snow-covered mountains, festive holiday decorations, cozy cafés, and fewer crowds. It’s an excellent time for a peaceful mountain getaway.
No matter when you visit, Estes Park offers plenty to see and do throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Estes Park.
Is Estes Park worth visiting?
Absolutely! While Rocky Mountain National Park is the biggest draw, Estes Park has enough attractions, restaurants, scenic views, and outdoor activities to easily fill several days.
How many days do you need in Estes Park?
I recommend spending at least three full days in Estes Park. That gives you enough time to explore Rocky Mountain National Park, visit downtown, enjoy a few local attractions, and relax.
What is the best month to visit Estes Park?
September is one of the best months to visit Estes Park thanks to pleasant temperatures, beautiful fall colors, and the annual elk rut. Summer is ideal if you want every attraction to be open, while late spring offers fewer crowds.
Are there grizzly bears in Estes Park?
No. Rocky Mountain National Park is home to black bears, but there are no grizzly bears in the park or the Estes Park area. If you’re lucky, you may also spot elk, bighorn sheep, moose, mule deer, and other wildlife during your visit.
Is Estes Park walkable?
Yes. Downtown Estes Park is very walkable, with shops, restaurants, the Riverwalk, and several attractions located within a few blocks of each other. You’ll still need a car to reach Rocky Mountain National Park and attractions outside downtown.
Final Thoughts
Estes Park quickly became one of my favorite mountain towns in Colorado. I originally planned the trip around Rocky Mountain National Park, but I left just as impressed by everything Estes Park had to offer. Between the incredible scenery, abundant wildlife, delicious local restaurants, and fun attractions, it’s a destination that’s easy to fall in love with.
I look forward to returning to Estes Park to revisit some of my favorite places and experience a few attractions we didn’t have time for on our first trip.
I hope you found this guide to the best things to do in Estes Park helpful for planning your trip! Drop me an email if you have any questions at julie@travelandtinsel.com. I love to hear from readers and am always happy to help with your travel planning.
