Why You Should Visit Denver, Colorado (and surrounding areas)
We have taken many trips to Denver, Colorado and have never been disappointed! Try some of the stops we’ve taken or create a new adventure of your own!
We stayed at Hampton Inn & Suites Denver Littleton as we stopped at Red Rocks Amphitheatre for a night out! This hotel and many others nearby are only a short 10-minute drive away from the venue.
Red Rocks Amphitheatrer is more than just a concert venue; it's a natural wonder and cultural treasure that continues to captivate visitors from around the globe. Whether you're attending a concert, hiking the trails, or simply taking in the majestic views, a visit to Red Rocks promises an unforgettable experience that combines nature's beauty with the magic of live music.
Red Rocks Amphitheater
One of the activities we’ve planned was a ghost tour and it was so much fun! We booked through Best Tours of Denver with Sheila being our tour guide and what fun we had! The kids had such a good time trying to take pictures and capture a ghost while my husband and I took in the rich history of the area. It’s also a great way to find places to visit during the day! One stop we wanted to take but didn’t get a chance to was the Molly Brown house. Unfortunately, they close at 5:00 p.m. Wednesday - Sunday and we didn’t make it but if you are lucky enough they are open Tuesdays from 10 am until 7 pm and then Wednesday - Sunday 10 am until 5 pm.
Denver, Colorado
A trip to the area would not be complete without visiting Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). RMNP is about an hour away from Denver depending on where you are but is so worth it. There are plenty of hikes and events for families. If you have younger children (or anyone interested in learning more about RMNP) consider visiting Junior Ranger Headquarters in the park. They have activities and plenty of learning materials for kids, and it was an enjoyable experience for the entire family. Make sure when visiting RMNP to download the National Park Service (NPS) app, which gives you information on which trails to take, visitor center hours, and events going on each evening.
Rocky Mountain National Park
If you do decide to go to RMNP, consider visiting The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado. They offer multiple tours each day (Historic Tour, The Shining Tour, Stanley Night Tour, and Ice House Tour). We chose The Shining Tour for a little bit of The Shining, a little bit of history, and a few ghosts. The Shining Tour was available for kids 8 and older. The cost of the tour is a little pricy, at $30.00 per person. It is best to book the tour in advance, as they do sell out and the tour is limited to 14 people.
The Stanley Hotel
Another great stop is Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. The Garden of the Gods is open year-round and admission is free. Parking can be limited during peak times, so arriving early or visiting during weekdays is recommended for the best experience. The park is family-friendly and accessible, with facilities including picnic areas, restrooms, and wheelchair-accessible trails.
Garden of the Gods
The Garden of the Gods is not just a park; it's a natural wonder that captivates visitors with its stunning rock formations, rich history, and opportunities for outdoor adventure. Whether you're hiking among the towering spires, learning about the area's cultural heritage, or simply enjoying the panoramic views, a visit to this iconic Colorado destination promises a memorable experience immersed in nature's beauty.
Whether you have just a few days or a week, there is something in Denver for everyone!