Rocky Mountain National Park sits just minutes outside Estes Park, and no trip to Colorado is complete without a visit. Covering over 250,000 acres, this park is an outdoor lover's dream. Here, you can camp, fish, take a scenic drive, or go on a picnic. The meadows, rivers, and panoramic mountain views are a draw for photographers year-round, as are the over 300 miles of various trails. Whether you want to go cross-country skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing in the winter or hiking, biking, and horseback riding in the summer, there's a trail suitable for you.

Check the parks website before visiting to get a pass and sign up for a timed entry reservation!

To get a feel for the history of Estes Park, check out MacGregor Ranch. This preserved, authentic ranch dates back to the 1870s, when settlers first moved into the area. Horses and cattle still graze the meadows here, and guided tours take you through a milk house, smokehouse, blacksmith shop, and the main museum building, which holds antiques and other belongings of the MacGregor family.

If you've seen The Shining, you're probably already familiar with the red-roofed Stanley Hotel. It opened in 1909 and is rumored to be haunted. If you're up for it, book a stay at the historic hotel and choose one of the "spirited rooms" that has high levels of paranormal activity, like Suite 217, where Stephen King stayed. If you aren't quite ready to spend the night, check out one of the spirited tours the hotel offers to get in on the spooky fun.

Fun City has been an Estes Park destination since 1969. This family-friendly amusement park has a stunning view of the surrounding mountains, beautifully landscaped grounds, and plenty of fun activities. Take a ride down the giant rainbow slide, jump on the bungee trampoline, go panning for gemstones, or give the bumper cars or bumper boats a go. There's also a miniature golf course, water walking balls, and arcade and carnival games to keep you busy.

Tee off at the Estes Park Golf Course. This beautiful 18-hole golf course offers stunning mountain views, making it one of the most scenic golf courses in Colorado. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a beginner, the Estes Park Golf Course offers a challenging and enjoyable golfing experience.

Sample local brews at the Estes Park Brewery. This local brewery offers a variety of craft beers, all brewed onsite. With stunning mountain views and a cozy atmosphere, it's the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring Estes Park. Whether you're a beer connoisseur or a casual drinker, the Estes Park Brewery offers a unique taste of Colorado.

Experience the mountain trails in a whole new way! The Mustang Mountain Coaster is Estes Park's newest, and most exhilarating thrill! Buckle up and ride down 2000 linear feet of one of Estes Park's most iconic horse ranches. All the fun of a trail ride, on a different kind of horse! Fun for families with the ability to accommodate kiddos as young as 3 years old! Come visit our little taste of history and experience your horseless trail ride today! Open year round!