Coney Island Boardwalk
With a 35-foot-long stucco bun for its walls, you really can’t miss the Coney Island Boardwalk off Highway 285 in Bailey. The distinctive stand represents one of Colorado’s best examples of roadside architecture. But it’s what’s inside the bun that counts. The joint’s owners source natural and local ingredients, including brats, sausages, and franks from Denver-based Continental Sausage. There’s a 6-inch dog for kids and a family meal deal, too, including four hot dogs, a basket of fries, and four drinks for $25.50. For the true Coney experience, try a foot-long frankfurter with chili sauce and onions. Enjoy it on the courtyard overlooking the South Platte River. 10 Old Stagecoach Rd., Bailey. 303-838-9999
Rocket Ice Cream
Just steps away from Lowry Beer Garden, you can grab a scoop of Little Man Ice Cream from a kiosk situated under a 50-foot-tall Raygun Gothic Rocketship. The shiny spacecraft fits right in next to the historic B-52 bomber in front of the neighboring Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum. Hungry kiddos can snack on a rotating lineup of unique flavors—such as chocolate peanut butter, salted Oreo, and banana chip—in cones, cups, shakes, floats, sundaes, or splits. They also serve up a handful of sorbets and vegan ice creams, and offer pints to go. 7591 E. Academy Blvd., Denver. 303-366-0114
The Train Cars Coffee and Yogurt
No visit to Nederland would be complete without a stop at The Train Cars for a bite to eat. Built out of three old train cars in a quaint shopping district, it isn’t your average coffee shop. Aboard this charming café you”ll find a full menu of espresso drinks for mom and dad plus light breakfast and lunch fare, soft serve frozen yogurt, and fresh-baked mini-donuts. Bring a board game and sink into a comfortable couch in the rear car, or walk next door to the Carousel of Happiness, where rides are only a buck. 101 Highway 119, Nederland. 303-258-2455
The Airplane Restaurant
Packed with airliner memorabilia and artifacts, this quirky airplane-themed restaurant serves lunch and dinner with a side of aviation history. Did we mention there’s also a Boeing KC-97 tanker wing dissecting the main dining hall? Arrive early, and ask your “pilot” to seat you inside the fully intact 42-seat tanker. Or, eat in the (less stuffy) terminal, and explore the main cabin after you’ve ordered—your kids will love playing in the cockpit. The menu includes a variety of standard fare from salads to steaks, with aviation info printed on the menu. 1665 N. Newport Rd., Colorado Springs. 719-570-7656
