Escape the city with these unforgettable Colorado weekend trips, all just a few hours from Denver.
Need a break from the Mile High City? Whether you're craving mountain scenery, relaxing hot springs, charming downtowns, or incredible local food, these weekend getaways from Denver make it easy to recharge without booking a flight.
From luxury resorts and outdoor adventures to craft breweries and foodie experiences, these six Colorado destinations offer something for every type of traveler.
1. Colorado Springs & Manitou Springs (About 1.5 Hours)
If you're looking for one of the best weekend getaways from Denver, it's hard to beat Colorado Springs and neighboring Manitou Springs. Nestled beneath Pikes Peak, these two communities offer a perfect mix of outdoor adventure, history, shopping, and incredible local dining.
Spend your mornings hiking through Garden of the Gods, driving to the summit of Pikes Peak, or strolling the scenic trails of North Cheyenne Cañon Park. In the afternoon, explore the boutiques and galleries of Downtown Colorado Springs, Old Colorado City, and eclectic Manitou Springs before relaxing at a local brewery or rooftop patio.
Don't Miss
Our top recommendation in Colorado Springs? Experience the city through its food.
Rocky Mountain Food Tours offers several guided culinary experiences that combine award-winning local restaurants with fascinating stories. Whether you're interested in craft beer, cocktails, tacos, or globally inspired cuisine, there's a tour for every appetite.
Insider Tip: Check out these two award-winning experiences provided by Rocky Mountain Food Tours: The Original Colorado Springs Food Tour and Manitou Market & Mineral Spring Tasting Tour.
Where to Stay
Looking for an urban stay in downtown Colorado Springs? Or maybe you’re more of an adventure traveler? There are many options when it comes to accommodations in Colorado Springs. For a few hotels we recommend, head to our Explore More page.
2. Breckenridge (About 2 Hours)
No matter the season, Breckenridge is one of Colorado's most beloved mountain towns. Just two hours from Denver, this former mining town blends colorful Victorian charm with world-class outdoor recreation, making it an ideal weekend escape.
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Ride the free gondola for incredible mountain views, stroll historic Main Street, and browse its locally owned boutiques, art galleries, and candy shops. In winter, enjoy skiing and snowboarding at one of Colorado's most popular resorts. During the warmer months, hike scenic alpine trails, paddle on Maggie Pond, or take in panoramic views on a scenic chairlift ride.
Breckenridge also boasts an outstanding dining scene, with everything from cozy cafés and breweries to upscale mountain cuisine. Be sure to sample a local craft beer or enjoy dinner on one of the town's inviting patios after a day of exploring.
3. Estes Park (About 2 Hours)
Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is one of Colorado's classic mountain escapes.
Spend your days hiking alpine trails, spotting elk, driving Trail Ridge Road (seasonally), or enjoying breathtaking mountain views. Back in town, browse local shops, indulge in fresh saltwater taffy, and enjoy dinner at one of the area's acclaimed restaurants.
Literary fans won't want to miss touring the historic Stanley Hotel, famous for inspiring Stephen King's The Shining.
4. Aspen (About 3.5 Hours)
Aspen blends rugged mountain beauty with upscale luxury, making it one of Colorado's most iconic destinations.
Winter brings world-class skiing and snowboarding, while summer and fall offer spectacular hiking, mountain biking, and scenic drives. Downtown Aspen features designer boutiques, outstanding restaurants, art galleries, and the acclaimed Aspen Art Museum.
5. Glenwood Springs (About 3 Hours)
If your perfect weekend includes equal parts adventure and relaxation, Glenwood Springs belongs on your list.
Soak in the famous Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, ride the gondola to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, or hike to the turquoise waters of Hanging Lake (permit required). After a day outdoors, enjoy dinner at local favorites like The Pullman or Slope & Hatch.
6. Fort Collins (About 1.5 Hours)
Known as Colorado's craft beer capital, Fort Collins is an excellent destination for brewery lovers, cyclists, and anyone who enjoys a vibrant downtown.
Sample award-winning beers at New Belgium and Odell Brewing, browse the shops and restaurants of Old Town (which inspired Disneyland's Main Street, U.S.A.), or spend the day paddleboarding and kayaking at Horsetooth Reservoir. Outdoor enthusiasts can also raft the Cache la Poudre River or explore nearby hiking trails.
Don't Miss
One of the best ways to experience Fort Collins is with the Old Town Food Tour. This guided walking tour takes you behind the scenes at locally owned restaurants, where you'll enjoy generous tastings while learning about the city's history, architecture, and thriving culinary scene. With rotating restaurant partners and opportunities to meet local chefs, it's a fun way to discover hidden gems and experience Old Town like a local.
Ready for Your Colorado Weekend Adventure?
No matter what kind of getaway you're planning, you'll find an unforgettable destination just a short drive from Denver. Whether you're soaking in hot springs, hiking alpine trails, sipping local craft beer, or discovering Colorado's vibrant food scene, these weekend trips offer the perfect excuse to hit the road.
If Colorado Springs is on your itinerary, be sure to make a Rocky Mountain Food Tour part of your visit. It's one of the most delicious ways to experience the city while supporting locally owned restaurants.
Cheers, Samantha
