From warm night excursions to outdoor adventures, here are the Top 10 Must-Do activities that will make for an unforgettable summer.
Nights Out
1. Pearl Street
In Boulder, Pearl Street is a hot spot for families and a date night destination for couples because of the endless possibilities the outdoor mall offers. With delicious restaurants on every corner, like Asian cuisine, breweries, late-night eats, and fine dining, no matter the occasion, a warm plate
awaits everyone.
2. 16th Street
For somewhere closer to home to explore, head to the 16th Street Mall in downtown Denver which offers an exciting atmosphere and historic buildings. Denver is a small city compared to others like Los Angeles and New York, but on 16th Street, surrounded by skyscrapers, you feel like you’re in a big city.
As you’re walking along 16th Street, you’ll run into a variety of stores (local and name-brand), unique eats, savory sips from coffee shops, and cold beers from cute bars. A free shuttle takes you from one end of the street to another, but walking along the outdoor mall is an exciting experience for everyone in the family.
3. Elway’s Steakhouse
Take romance and fine dining to a new level at Elway’s Steakhouse. Dining at the former Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway’s restaurant definitely makes the bucket list of things to do in Colorado.
The ever-changing menu offers fresh ingredients daily and is paired with the finest of wines. There are four locations to choose from: Cherry Creek, downtown Denver, Vail, and even one in the Denver International Airport. Elway’s is exclusive to Colorado, so let’s celebrate life with a Lamb Chop Fondue and Filet at Elway’s restaurant.
Entertainment
4. Elitch Gardens
Elitch Gardens is a must-do activity over the summer where kiddos can run wild and jump on roller coasters all day long. From the Tower of Doom, which will scare everyone in the family, to the kiddie park with rides for the youngsters, everyone will have fun in the sun.
Besides the theme park, games, carnival food, and other fun activities will easily fill every minute you’re there. Check online to view the schedule of Dive-In movies like Luca on July 7 and Shrek on July 14.
5. Water World
Similarly to Elitch Gardens, Water World has so many things to do that one day just won’t be enough! For the little ones in the family, there are fantastic water slides, ponds, and themed rides like The Storm and the Voyage to the Center of the Earth.
For the older kids who love the adrenaline rush, the park offers several thrilling rides like Pirate’s Plunge, which drops the rider quickly into the water, or the Thunder Bay Pool, where swimmers can test their abilities. When the family needs a break from all the fun, grab lunch at one of the many restaurants and shop around the Island Breeze Surf Shop.
6. Hot Springs
Take a break from the day-to-day grind and head to one of the many hot springs in Colorado. Piedra River Hot Springs is a beautiful and secluded natural spring. There are several pools in the area, so even if people are there, you’ll likely have a hot spring to yourself. To get to the hot springs, guests must hike a 2.8 mile round trip starting at the Sheep Creek Trail. Follow the cairns and sticks strategically placed on the ground to guide you in the right direction.
Penny Hot Springs is a natural hot spring in Carbondale and is the perfect place to relax while being surrounded by snowy mountains and beautiful Colorado wildlife. Some boulders surround the hot springs to make the experience more natural.
7. Estes Park
If you want a state-cation but can’t decide what to do, head to Estes Park because there are so many activities to choose from. Estes Park is the base camp for amazing adventures in Rocky Mountain National Park, where hikers will encounter wildlife, explore the Rockies, and escape from the daily stresses of work.
Also in Estes is the famous Stanley Hotel from the classic Stephen King book and film The Shining. If you’re looking for a spooky adventure, sign up for a tour to explore the paranormal activity and stay in the famous room, Suite 217.
Outdoor Adventures
8. Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods is a beautiful and unique place in Colorado Springs with awe-inspiring rock formations. From tours, day hikes, and rock climbing to souvenir and gift shopping, there is an activity for people wanting to be active and others wishing to sightsee. On the Garden of the Gods webpage, try the trip planner guide to help you make the most of your time there.
9. Red Rocks
See a fantastic show at Red Rocks or plan a day hike with the family and admire the naturally formed, world-famous music venue. The red rocks surrounding the venue make for a near-perfect acoustic area and a beautiful view of the stars. The iconic concert venue offers activities other than rockin’ music festivals like Yoga on the Rocks.
10. Hanging Lake
Hanging Lake is one of Colorado’s most popular hiking destinations, and it’s hidden pristinely in the middle of the Glenwood Canyon. To see the waterfall, guests have to hike the 1.2-mile steep, rigorous, and rocky trail, but the view is rewarding. A permit is required to hike the trail, so make sure to reserve a spot ahead of time.
