One of my favorite parts of visiting Estes Park, Colorado, is exploring all the little local spots throughout town. From cozy coffee shops and bakeries to casual restaurants and rooftop dining, there are plenty of places to grab a bite between exploring the mountains. Whether you're fueling up before a day in Rocky Mountain National Park or looking for somewhere to unwind after a full day of sightseeing, Estes Park has something for everyone.
Here are a few of my favorite places that I'd recommend adding to your itinerary!
If you're looking for a good breakfast, The Egg of Estes is a great place to start your morning. It's a popular spot, and for good reason! My biggest tip is to get there early because it gets busy quickly. If you have a full day of exploring planned, this is a great place to fuel up before heading out. Try their Mexican Skillet or Apple Cinnamon pancakes - you won’t regret it!
Visiting during college football season? Put Bogey's on your list! This is my recommendation for a casual game-day atmosphere where you can grab a bite, order a drink, and catch your favorite college football team. Sometimes you just need a laid-back afternoon watching football, and this is a fun place to do it.
A trip to a mountain town calls for an ice cream stop! Hayley's is my go-to recommendation when you're looking for a sweet treat while walking around downtown Estes Park. It's the perfect little afternoon pick-me-up, especially after a day spent exploring.
The Local Farmers Market
If your visit falls on a market day, I definitely recommend stopping by the local farmers market. It's a fun way to experience the community and browse local vendors while picking up a fresh coffee or pastry. I love finding little local markets when traveling, and this is a great way to spend part of your morning in Estes Park.
Coffee lovers, don't skip Kind Coffee! It's a popular local favorite, and you'll understand why once you visit. One important tip: get there early! By 8 AM, the line can be out the door, so plan accordingly if you're hoping to grab a coffee before starting your day. It's worth building into your morning itinerary.
For something a little different, stop by Mountain Berry Bakery. I especially recommend checking out their fun, funky drinks. It's a great place to switch up your usual coffee order, grab a bakery treat, and enjoy a slower morning in town. This shop backs up to the river so you can take your treats then sit outside to enjoy it while taking in the views!
If you're looking for somewhere with a view, Sole Rooftop Cantina is a must! Not only does it offer some amazing views overlooking Estes Park, but the authentic Mexican food makes it even better. It's a great option for lunch or dinner when you want good food paired with a beautiful setting. I would absolutely add this one to your list for a meal with a view!
With all of these options you are walking distance to the town center and the river, so you will be in the heart of everything.
Whether you're in the mood for a quick coffee, a leisurely breakfast, a college football game, or dinner overlooking the town, these are some of the spots I'd recommend checking out during your visit. One of my favorite things about Estes Park is that you don't have to look too hard to find somewhere charming to stop along the way. Make a little time between your adventures to explore the local food scene!