Are you looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Boulder, CO for a day of adventure and exploration? Look no further than the incredible day trips from Boulder CO that offer a perfect getaway from the city. From scenic drives through the Rocky Mountains to charming small towns and outdoor activities, there are plenty of options to choose from for a memorable day trip. Join us as we explore the best destinations to visit just a short drive away from Boulder CO.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Travel tips
- Distance from Boulder CO: Approximately 45 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1.5 hours by car
- How to get there: Take US-36 W from Boulder and continue on US-36 W to Estes Park. Follow signs to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Exploring Rocky Mountain National Park: Things to do
Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With its stunning mountain landscapes, diverse wildlife, and plethora of outdoor activities, this national park offers a truly unforgettable experience.
One of the top things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park is hiking. With over 350 miles of trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks, there is a hike for every skill level. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore iconic trails like the Bear Lake Loop or the Emerald Lake Trail, where you can witness breathtaking views of alpine lakes and towering peaks.
For those seeking a more leisurely experience, scenic drives through the park provide an excellent way to take in the beauty of the Rocky Mountains without breaking a sweat. Trail Ridge Road, known as the highest continuous paved road in the United States, offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a must-do activity for visitors.
Wildlife viewing is another highlight of Rocky Mountain National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and marmots as you explore the park. Birdwatchers will also be delighted by the diverse avian species that call the park home, including golden eagles and peregrine falcons.
Whether you’re into hiking, wildlife watching, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Rocky Mountain National Park has something for everyone. Plan your visit today and discover the wonders of this spectacular national park.
Denver
Travel tips
- Distance from Boulder CO to Denver: 29 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 45 minutes by car
- How to get there from Boulder CO: You can take the RTD bus service from Boulder to Denver Union Station. From there, you can explore the city using the light rail or bus services.
- Click for Google maps directions: Denver
Exploring Denver: Things to do
Denver, the capital of Colorado, is a vibrant city that offers a mix of urban attractions and outdoor adventures. One of the top reasons why Denver is a must-see place is its stunning natural surroundings, with the Rocky Mountains providing a picturesque backdrop to the city.
When visiting Denver, be sure to explore the historic Larimer Square, known for its charming shops and restaurants. Take a stroll through the Denver Botanic Gardens to admire the diverse plant species and beautiful landscapes. For art enthusiasts, the Denver Art Museum is a must-visit, showcasing a wide range of art collections from around the world.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring the nearby Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, where you can hike among the stunning red rock formations and catch a concert under the open sky. If you’re a beer lover, don’t miss the chance to visit one of Denver’s many craft breweries and sample some of the finest local brews.
For a taste of the local culture, head to the bustling neighborhoods of LoDo (Lower Downtown) and RiNo (River North Art District), where you can find trendy boutiques, art galleries, and hip eateries. And no visit to Denver would be complete without experiencing the city’s thriving food scene, with a wide range of culinary options to satisfy every palate.
Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of a bustling city, Denver has something for everyone. Plan your day trip from Boulder to Denver and discover all that this dynamic city has to offer.
Estes Park
Travel tips
- Distance from Boulder CO to Estes Park: 42 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
- How to get there from Boulder CO: Take US-36 W and CO-7 N to reach Estes Park. The nearest bus station is the Boulder Transit Center, and the nearest train station is in Denver.
- Click for Google maps directions: Estes Park
Exploring Estes Park: Things to do
Estes Park is a charming mountain town that offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Surrounded by the stunning Rocky Mountains, Estes Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
One of the top attractions in Estes Park is the Rocky Mountain National Park, which offers breathtaking views, scenic drives, and a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, spot wildlife such as elk and bighorn sheep, and marvel at the beauty of the alpine lakes and towering peaks.
For those interested in history and culture, a visit to the Estes Park Museum is highly recommended. The museum showcases the rich heritage of the area, including exhibits on Native American history, early settlers, and the development of the town.
Outdoor activities abound in Estes Park, with opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and horseback riding. The town also offers a range of shops, galleries, and restaurants for visitors to enjoy.
Whether you’re seeking adventure in the great outdoors or simply looking to relax and unwind in a picturesque setting, Estes Park has something for everyone. Plan your day trip to this charming mountain town and experience the beauty of Colorado’s natural landscapes.
Golden
Travel tips
- Distance of Golden from Boulder CO: 20 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 30 minutes by car
- How to get there from Boulder CO: You can take the RTD bus route 16 from Boulder to Union Station in Denver, then transfer to the W-Line light rail to Golden. Alternatively, driving is also a convenient option.
- Click for Google maps directions: Golden
Exploring Golden: Things to do
Golden, Colorado, is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of history, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. One of the top attractions in Golden is the Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum, where visitors can explore fascinating exhibits showcasing minerals, fossils, and mining history.
For outdoor enthusiasts, a visit to Clear Creek is a must. You can enjoy a leisurely walk along the creek, go tubing in the summer, or even try your hand at gold panning. The nearby Lookout Mountain offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area and is home to the iconic Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave.
History buffs will appreciate a visit to the Golden History Museum, which provides insights into the town’s rich past through interactive exhibits and artifacts. The Coors Brewery tour is another popular activity, where you can learn about the brewing process and enjoy some refreshing beer samples.
Golden also boasts a vibrant downtown area with unique shops, art galleries, and delicious dining options. Be sure to stroll along Washington Avenue to soak in the small-town charm and maybe pick up some souvenirs to remember your visit.
Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or simply enjoying a relaxing day trip, Golden has something for everyone. Plan your visit to this picturesque town and discover the hidden gems waiting to be explored.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Travel tips
- Distance from Boulder CO: 25 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 45 minutes by car
- How to get there: Take US-36 W from Boulder and continue on I-70 W to Morrison. Take exit 259 from I-70 W. Follow signs to Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre.
- Click for Google maps directions: Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Exploring Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre: Things to do
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is a must-see destination for nature lovers and music enthusiasts alike. The iconic red sandstone formations provide a stunning backdrop for the world-famous amphitheater, attracting visitors from near and far.
One of the top things to do at Red Rocks is to attend a concert at the amphitheater. Known for its acoustics and natural beauty, seeing a live performance here is a truly unforgettable experience. Be sure to check the schedule in advance and book your tickets early as shows often sell out.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the park offers a variety of hiking and biking trails that wind through the unique rock formations. The Trading Post Trail is a popular choice, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the Colorado sun can be intense.
If you’re looking for a more leisurely experience, pack a picnic and enjoy lunch with a view at one of the park’s many scenic overlooks. The amphitheater itself is also open to the public during non-event hours, so take some time to explore this historic venue and imagine the performances that have taken place on its stage.
Whether you’re a music lover, outdoor enthusiast, or simply appreciate natural beauty, Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is a destination that should not be missed. Plan your visit today and experience the magic of this iconic Colorado landmark.
Colorado Springs
Travel tips
- Distance from Boulder CO to Colorado Springs: 100 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 2 hours
- How to get there from Boulder CO: You can take a direct bus from Boulder to Colorado Springs. The Greyhound bus station in Boulder is located at 4499 Broadway. Alternatively, you can drive or take a train to Colorado Springs. The closest Amtrak station to Boulder is in Denver.
- Click for Google maps directions: Colorado Springs
Exploring Colorado Springs: Things to do
Colorado Springs is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With its stunning natural landscapes and abundance of outdoor activities, this city offers something for everyone.
One of the top attractions in Colorado Springs is the Garden of the Gods, a unique red rock formation that provides a picturesque backdrop for hiking, rock climbing, and photography. Visitors can also explore the Manitou Incline, a challenging hiking trail with breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
For those interested in history, a visit to the United States Air Force Academy is a must. This iconic institution offers guided tours and exhibits that showcase the history of the Air Force.
If you’re looking for a more leisurely experience, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a great place to spend a day. As one of the highest zoos in the country, it offers stunning views of the city and a chance to see a variety of exotic animals up close.
Overall, Colorado Springs is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends outdoor adventure with cultural attractions, making it a must-visit destination in Colorado.
Breckenridge
Travel tips
- Distance from Boulder CO to Breckenridge: 98 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 2 hours
- To get to Breckenridge from Boulder CO, take US-36 W to I-70 W. Continue on I-70 W to Summit County, then take exit 203 for CO-9 S toward Frisco/Breckenridge. Follow CO-9 S to reach Breckenridge.
- Click for Google maps directions: Breckenridge
Exploring Breckenridge: Things to do
Breckenridge is a charming mountain town in Colorado that offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. One of the top attractions in Breckenridge is its world-class ski resort, which draws visitors from all over the globe. Whether you are a seasoned skier or a beginner, Breckenridge has slopes for every skill level.
Apart from skiing, Breckenridge is also known for its vibrant arts scene. Take a stroll down Main Street and explore the numerous art galleries and boutiques that showcase local talent. The town is also home to the Breckenridge Arts District, where you can participate in workshops and events to immerse yourself in the creative culture of the area.
For nature enthusiasts, Breckenridge offers a plethora of hiking and biking trails that allow you to explore the stunning Rocky Mountains. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike to the top of Peak 8 for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
After a day of outdoor adventures, unwind at one of Breckenridge’s cozy restaurants and breweries. Indulge in hearty mountain cuisine and sample locally brewed beers while taking in the laid-back atmosphere of this mountain town.
In conclusion, Breckenridge is a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the Colorado Rockies and immerse themselves in a vibrant mountain community. Whether you are seeking adventure on the slopes or relaxation in a picturesque setting, Breckenridge has something for everyone.
