If you're looking for a Colorado getaway that combines beautiful mountain scenery, charming downtown streets, incredible food, and plenty of outdoor adventure, Estes Park needs to be on your list.
Located just outside Rocky Mountain National Park and about an hour and a half from Denver, Estes Park is one of those mountain towns that manages to offer a little bit of everything. Whether you're visiting for a long weekend, making a stop on a Colorado road trip, or planning a trip specifically around the national park, there is plenty to fill your days.
From local breakfast favorites and downtown shopping to scenic mountain drives, ghost stories, and some surprisingly good food, here's exactly how I would spend three days in Estes Park.
Day 1: Explore Downtown Estes Park
I would start your first morning in Estes Park with a good breakfast, and there is one place I wouldn't skip: The Egg of Estes.
Breakfast at The Egg of Estes
The Egg of Estes is a local favorite and, in my opinion, serves some of the best breakfast bites I've had. It's the kind of spot that makes you want to go back before your trip is over.
One important tip: get there early! This place gets busy, especially on weekends, and the wait can get long. Put your name on the list early so you aren't spending half your morning waiting for a table.
Walk Around Downtown Estes Park
Once you've had breakfast, spend some time exploring downtown. This is one of my favorite parts of Estes Park. The town has a charming mountain feel, with plenty of local shops, souvenirs, coffee stops, and places to browse.
A few stops I'd recommend adding to your walk:
Estes Perk: Stop in for a coffee while you explore downtown. Great mix of coffee drinks and alcoholic drinks, woman-owned, and right in the middle of everything.
Wear Me Out Ts: A fun stop for Estes Park merchandise and souvenirs.
Dakotah Jewelry: If you love turquoise, this is a must. They have beautiful turquoise pieces that make for a special souvenir. Buy something for yourself or a friend, they’re sure to have something you’ll want to take home.
If you're visiting when the farmers market is running, be sure to check it out as well. It's located near The Egg of Estes and is a fun way to browse local vendors, food, and other finds. Check the seasonal schedule before your trip so you don't miss it.
Lunch at Antlers Rooftop Tavern
After walking around downtown for a while, you'll probably be ready for lunch. Head over to Antlers Rooftop Tavernfor a meal with a view.
The rooftop setting gives you a great look at Estes Park and the surrounding scenery. I'd recommend grabbing one of their flatbreads and a beer while enjoying the mountain-town atmosphere. It's a great place to slow down for a bit before heading to your next stop.
Ice Cream at Hayley's
If you still have room after lunch, make a quick stop at Hayley's Ice Cream. It's a fun little treat before heading out for the afternoon.
Take the Estes Park Aerial Tramway
Next up is one of the best views in town: the Estes Park Aerial Tramway.
Take the tram to the top of the mountain for panoramic views of Estes Park and the surrounding Rocky Mountains. It's a great opportunity to take photos, enjoy the scenery, and pick up a souvenir from the gift shop at the top.
Even if you're not planning a big hiking day, this is an easy way to experience some incredible mountain views without having to put in the miles.
See the Historic Park Theatre
Once you're back downtown, take some time to check out one of Estes Park's recognizable landmarks: the Historic Park Theatre.
It's a fun stop while exploring town and a little piece of the area's history. Even if you don't catch a show, it's worth taking a look at the building.
Dinner at Claire's Restaurant and Bar
For dinner, head to Claire's Restaurant and Bar, located right in the heart of downtown.
This is a great spot for a relaxed dinner with a menu that has something for everyone. A few dishes I'd look out for include the smoked brisket grilled cheese, elk burgers, and fish tacos.
It's a nice way to end a full day of exploring without having to venture far from downtown.
Finish the Night With a Drink
If you're not ready to call it a night, grab a drink at Wheel Bar or The Barrel.
Both are good options for enjoying a nightcap and getting a feel for the local bar scene. Wheel Bar is especially worth checking out for its riverfront setting and outdoor area.
Day 2: Spend the Day Exploring Rocky Mountain National Park
Day two is all about getting outside. One of the biggest reasons people visit Estes Park is its proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park, and I would dedicate a good portion of your trip to exploring it.
Breakfast at Notchtop Breakfast & Lunch
If you're staying near downtown, start your morning at Notchtop Breakfast & Lunch. It's a great way to fuel up before a full day outdoors. They have an amazing menu with items such as cinnamon roll French toast, smoked salmon Benedict’s, and breakfast quesadillas. Plus - if you’re feeling a little boozy, they have bacon bloody Mary’s and mimosas. The views are great and the service is excellent.
I'd recommend getting an early start. Not only will you have more time to explore, but arriving early can make a difference when it comes to parking, crowds, and park entry requirements.
Explore Rocky Mountain National Park
Once you've finished breakfast, make your way to Rocky Mountain National Park.
You have a couple of ways to experience the park. You can drive yourself and follow a self-guided route, stopping at scenic overlooks and viewpoints along the way, a sunrise tour, or book a guided 4x4 tour if you'd rather have someone else handle the driving and share more about the area.
Either way, give yourself several hours. There is so much to see, and you'll want to leave time to stop, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.
A few places I'd make a priority:
Trail Ridge Road
Trail Ridge Road is one of the park's most famous scenic drives, with incredible mountain views and high-elevation scenery. It's an experience in itself, and I would absolutely make time for it if the road is open during your visit.
Sheep Lakes
Sheep Lakes is a beautiful area to stop and take in the scenery. Keep your eyes open for wildlife, especially elk, which are often spotted throughout the Estes Park area.
Alpine Visitor Center
Make a stop at the Alpine Visitor Center for incredible views, souvenirs, and a chance to learn more about the park's high-alpine environment. Just remember that it sits at a very high elevation, so take your time and give yourself a chance to adjust.
One important thing to know before you go: Rocky Mountain National Park has seasonal road closures and may require timed-entry reservations during certain periods. Check the official National Park Service website before your visit for current road conditions, entrance requirements, and reservation information.
Dinner at Ed's Cantina & Grill
After a few hours exploring the park, you'll probably be ready for a good meal.
Head back into town and grab dinner at Ed's Cantina & Grill. I'll admit, I wasn't expecting to find Mexican food this good in Colorado, but this place pleasantly surprised me.
Coming from Texas, I have pretty high expectations when it comes to Mexican food, and I would say Ed's gives some of our Texas favorites a run for their money.
It's a great place to unwind after a full day outdoors, enjoy a margarita, and refuel before your final day in Estes Park.
Day 3: Visit the Stanley Hotel Before Heading Home
For your final day, I'd save one of Estes Park's most recognizable attractions for last: the Stanley Hotel.
Explore the Historic Stanley Hotel
Even if you've never seen The Shining, the Stanley Hotel is worth a visit.
The historic property is famous for its architecture, mountain setting, and ghost stories. Take a walk around the grounds, admire the building, and see if you believe some of the stories the staff and guides share about the hotel's supernatural history.
The Stanley has a fascinating history, and it's easy to see why it has become such an iconic part of Estes Park.
If you want to learn more, there is also a museum and education center nearby where you can explore more of the hotel's history.
If you have extra time, look into booking one of the hotel's guided tours. It's a fun way to hear more of the stories behind the property.
Lunch at Poppy's Pizza & Grill
Before heading out of town, make one final stop for food at Poppy's Pizza & Grill.
This is a great casual spot for a final meal before getting back on the road. Their pizza is worth trying, and I'd also recommend checking out the Frito pie.
It's a fun, laid-back way to end your Estes Park trip.
From here, make your drive back toward Denver for your flight or head home if you're continuing your Colorado road trip.
And just like that, you've experienced some of the best things Estes Park has to offer!
Getting Around Estes Park: What You Should Know
One thing I would plan ahead for is transportation.
If you're driving into Estes Park, I would ideally bring your own car. It makes getting to Rocky Mountain National Park, restaurants, and attractions much easier.
Uber and other rideshare services are very limited in the area, so I wouldn't count on being able to request a ride whenever you need one.
If you don't want to drive around town, Estes Park has a seasonal trolley system that can help you get between popular areas. Check the Estes Park Visitor Center website for the latest routes and schedules before your trip.
The visitor center is also a useful place to park and get information about navigating town.
My recommendation is to have a car for the trip, but take advantage of the trolley when it's convenient.
A Few Final Tips Before Visiting Estes Park
Get breakfast early: Popular restaurants like The Egg of Estes can have long waits, especially on weekends.
Check Rocky Mountain National Park reservations: Timed-entry requirements, road closures, and access rules can change seasonally.
Dress in layers: Mountain weather can change quickly, even during warmer months.
Bring comfortable walking shoes: Downtown is great for exploring on foot, and you'll likely spend plenty of time outdoors.
Don't rely on rideshare: Having your own transportation makes the trip much easier.
Leave time to explore downtown: It's easy to focus on the national park, but the shops, restaurants, and local atmosphere are part of what makes Estes Park special.
Final Thoughts: Is Estes Park Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Estes Park is one of those destinations that manages to combine everything I love about a mountain getaway. You have beautiful scenery, a charming downtown, great local restaurants, unique attractions, and easy access to one of the most beautiful national parks in the country.
Whether you're spending a weekend exploring downtown, driving through Rocky Mountain National Park, or visiting the historic Stanley Hotel, there is plenty to keep you busy without feeling like you have to rush through your trip. Check out our other post on Estes Park for a more detailed breakdown of where to stay, where to eat, and what to do.
Three days is a great amount of time to experience the highlights, but I could easily see myself coming back for more.
If you're planning a Colorado vacation, I'd put Estes Park on your list. Just be prepared to leave already thinking about when you can come back!