7 Day Trips From Denver, CO

Living in Denver puts you in the heart of Colorado’s most incredible scenery and culture, and you don’t have to go far to experience it. Whether you’re craving mountain air, scenic drives, or a dose of Colorado history, a great getaway is never more than a couple of hours away. If you’re looking to explore, these seven day trips from Denver offer something for every pace, from quiet towns to dramatic landscapes.

Just 40 minutes northwest of Denver, Boulder is an ideal first stop when exploring day trips from Denver. This college town balances a laid-back vibe with world-class dining, shopping, and outdoor access. Spend your morning hiking the Flatirons, followed by lunch on Pearl Street, where you’ll find everything from farm-to-table restaurants to cozy local boutiques.

For those interested in art and culture, the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art or a stroll through the University of Colorado campus offers a refreshing change of pace. It's a quick trip, but Boulder feels like a completely different world in all the best ways.

Only about 25 minutes west of the city, Golden blends small-town charm with a rich mining history and easy trail access. Start with a walk along Clear Creek, which runs right through the heart of downtown, or tour the famous Coors Brewery.

If you're into museums, the Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum or the Buffalo Bill Museum & Grave on Lookout Mountain give this destination added depth. To end the day, stop by Golden Mill for a food court vibe with a wide drink selection. Golden also makes a great jumping-off point for scenic drives into the foothills. It’s the perfect mix of culture, nature, and a little Colorado history all in one stop.

For a full immersion into Colorado’s alpine beauty, Estes Park is hard to beat. Just under two hours from Denver, this mountain town is the eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. The drive alone, especially via the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway, is worth the trip.

Once there, you can hike, spot wildlife, or simply take in the stunning views from Trail Ridge Road, one of the highest paved roads in North America. Don’t forget to stop in the town itself for a bite or a stroll. Estes Park has a surprising number of local shops, coffee spots, and a historic hotel or two to explore.

Colorado Springs, about 70 miles south of Denver, offers a little bit of everything: iconic red rock formations, historic neighborhoods, and military history. Garden of the Gods is the standout here, with massive sandstone formations that create a striking contrast against the mountain backdrop.

Afterward, take a drive or cog railway up Pikes Peak, or wander through Old Colorado City for antiques, art galleries, and lunch. Whether you want to hike, shop, or explore museums, Colorado Springs makes one of the most well-rounded day trips from Denver.

An hour west of Denver, Georgetown is a charming Victorian town nestled in the mountains. Originally a mining settlement, it now draws visitors with its preserved 19th-century architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

One of the best parts of this trip is Guanella Pass. The drive from Georgetown to Grant winds through forests, open meadows, and high-altitude lakes with panoramic views of Mt. Bierstadt and other peaks. If you're traveling in the fall, the aspens here put on an unforgettable show of golden color.

North of Denver, about an hour and a half drive, Fort Collins is known for its lively downtown, college-town feel, and impressive craft beer scene. This is where many of Colorado’s most famous breweries got their start, and you can sample your way through local favorites like Odell and New Belgium.

But beer isn’t all Fort Collins has to offer. Its Old Town district, which is said to have inspired Disneyland’s Main Street USA, is full of character and walkable charm. With bike trails, river walks, and plenty of patios, it’s easy to make a full day of exploring here.

Less than an hour from Denver, Idaho Springs is a historic town with access to one of the most unforgettable drives in the region: Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway (formerly Mt. Evans). If you’re feeling adventurous, this route takes you to over 14,000 feet, making it one of the highest paved roads in North America.

Back in town, grab lunch at Westbound & Down Brewing Company or stop by the Argo Gold Mine and Mill for a look into Colorado’s gold rush past. This is one of the best day trips if you want both adrenaline and authenticity wrapped into one.

There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the region beyond city limits. Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, these day trips are a reminder of just how much there is to explore right in your own backyard.

Denver’s central location makes it uniquely positioned to access everything from high alpine passes to artsy small towns, all within a day’s drive. And the best part? You get to return home to the comfort of Denver living when the day winds down.

If you’re ready to look for a home base that offers a prime city location with easy access to adventure, The Denver Group can help you find a home that keeps Colorado’s best destinations within reach. Whether you’re looking for a place nestled in the foothills or close to I-70 for mountain access, their local expertise ensures you’ll find the right fit. Reach out to The Denver Group today to start exploring homes in communities that put you at the center of it all.

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