From world-class ski resorts, scenic drives, and idyllic mountain trails to celebrated national parks and one of the most storied venues in rock ‘n roll history, downtown Denver puts you within easy reach of some of Colorado’s top attractions. So why not make the most of your stay at The Crawford Hotel with an epic day trip? Whether you’re a history buff, cultural connoisseur, craft beer enthusiast, or outdoor adventurer, the Centennial State offers a little something for every type of traveler. Read on to explore six of our favorite day trips from downtown Denver.
Planning an out-of-town excursion for the music-lover in your life? Treat them to a truly one-of-a-kind concert experience at world-renowned Red Rocks. A naturally occurring amphitheater flanked by two towering sandstone monoliths, the venue is located just ten miles outside of Denver near neighboring Morrison and is ideal for a day trip. With a capacity of just under 10,000, Red Rocks offers an epic-yet-intimate concert experience; the storied stage has played host to some of the most celebrated names in music, including Bruce Springsteen, Bonnie Raitt, U2, Diana Ross, Bob Dylan, and The Beatles — to name just a few.
Explore the venue’s incredible, ever-changing lineup of indie legends, up-and-coming artists, and big-name performers to see what’s playing during your stay. Then hop aboard the Red Rocks Shuttle and enjoy convenient, round-trip transportation direct from Denver Union Station!
Nestled in a picturesque valley where the mountains meet the plains, the city of Boulder is ideal for a day trip from Denver thanks to its gorgeous scenery, inviting attractions, and convenient proximity at just thirty minutes away. Outdoor adventurers will delight in exploring the Flatirons, towering red-brown sandstone rock formations located on the city’s western edge — part of its more than 46,000 acres of protected green space.
For lovers of historic architecture, the University of Colorado campus is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll in a picturesque mountain-view setting. Be sure to check out Old Main, the school’s original building which dates back to 1876 and is a stunning example of the popular Gothic Revival style.
And if you’re looking for that perfect memento from your Boulder excursion, the Pearl Street Mall is a must-visit destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The four-block pedestrian mall stretches from 11th Street to 15th Street in the heart of the city’s downtown, and is home to more than 200+ shops and restaurants, including a wide array of one-of-a-kind independent boutiques.
If you’re looking for a day trip from Denver worthy of raising a glass to, then head to the city known as the Craft Beer Capital of Colorado: Fort Collins. Colorado’s fourth-largest city by population and the home of Colorado State University, Fort Collins is known for its thriving brewery scene that accounts for more than 70% of the state’s craft beer production.
Embark on a self-guided tour through the city’s 20+ craft breweries. Sip on barrel-aged brews in a 133-year-old restored barn at Jessup Farm Barrel House; visit historic Coopersmith’s Pub & Brewing, Fort Collins’ oldest and longest-operating brewpub; or sample a selection of celebrated sour beers at the acclaimed New Belgium Brewing Company.
Afterward, enjoy a stroll along the scenic Cache La Poudre River, which runs through the heart of the city, and explore Fort Collins’ historic downtown, home to more than twenty restored heritage buildings that offer a window into Colorado’s settler past.
Immerse yourself in Colorado’s breathtaking natural beauty on a day trip to Garden of the Gods. Located just an hour and twenty minutes from downtown Denver in nearby Colorado Springs, this 1,341-acre public park and National Natural Landmark is sometimes referred to as the Gateway to the Rockies.
Marvel at the park’s millenia-old sandstone rock formations as you explore the more than 20 miles of trails that crisscross this unforgettable landscape. For novice hikers, families with young children, or those with limited mobility, the paved and wheelchair-accessible Perkins Central Garden Trail is a popular option that takes you through the heart of Garden of the Gods’ largest and most scenic red rocks.
Open from 5:00am to 10:00pm during the warmer months, the park boasts a Visitor and Nature Center where you can explore educational exhibits, dine at the on-site Gateway Cafe, or pick up a free, full-color trail map to guide your adventures. Guided tours are also available by car, bicycle, segway, or even on horseback! You can also take advantage of Explorer Tours’ Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods motorcoach adventure, departing just outside of Denver Union Station.
Just ninety minutes from downtown Denver is a destination National Geographic named as one of its best trips in the world: Rocky Mountain National Park! One of Colorado’s most popular attractions, the vast, 265,807-acre expanse of mountain wilderness draws 4.5 million visitors each year, who come to marvel at its towering peaks, sparkling lakes, alpine meadows, and abundance of wildlife.
Lace up your hiking boots and embark on an epic mountain adventure along the park’s 355 miles of scenic trails. Popular hikes include the novice-friendly Emerald Lake, moderate East Inlet Trail, or ultra-challenging Mt. Ida trek, which peaks at a dizzying 12,889 ft. of elevation and is not for the faint of heart. The park operates on a timed entry system from late May through mid-October, so be sure to reserve your permit in advance and arrive within your specified time window, and get ready to be wowed by views unlike anywhere else on earth!
With the mountain towns of Vail and Breckenridge both located within a ninety-minute drive, you’re never too far from your next alpine adventure when you visit the Mile High City. Known for world-class skiing, charming mountainside resorts, and a buzzy aprés scene, Vail and Breckenridge are perennially popular winter destinations — but there’s plenty to see and do in the warmer months as well!
Explore the Rockies on two wheels on a mountain biking adventure. Hit the rapids and enjoy a whitewater rafting experience worthy of your bucket list. Channel your inner angler on a fly-fishing excursion. Or immerse yourself in the soothing solitude of nature on a hike through the breathtaking Colorado wilderness.
Of course, outdoor adventure isn’t the only thing on offer in beautiful Breckenridge; the unassuming mountain town is also filled with compelling glimpses of Colorado’s Gold Rush past. Take a stroll through the town’s Historic District — one of the largest in the state — where you’ll find an incredible collection of heritage structures ranging from early settlement to late Victorian.
From iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre to the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains, there’s a world of adventure waiting for you just outside of Denver — and The Crawford Hotel is your perfect home base for exploration! Discover special offers and exclusive amenity add-ons to elevate your stay, and start planning the trip of a lifetime here in one-of-a-kind Colorado.
They say there’s no place like home for the holidays — but when it comes to finding the perfect gift for everyone on your list this year, there’s no place quite like LoDo, either. Filled with breathtaking historic architecture, locally owned boutiques, and joyous festive charm, our iconic Denver neighborhood is a dream destination for holiday shopping.
A true four-season destination, Denver knows how to do winter right — from hitting the ice at an outdoor rink to marveling at snow-capped gardens illuminated in more than a million twinkling lights!
From the golden era of train travel to a visionary transformation through urban renewal and adaptive reuse, embark on a journey through the captivating legacy of one of the Mile High City’s most beloved landmarks.
On a stroll through the vibrant streets of downtown Denver, it can be hard to imagine that the city’s many historic buildings were once at risk of demolition.
From the vibrant streetscapes of our heritage districts to the ballet, symphony, and touring Broadway shows, Denver is a city that takes pride in its unique arts and culture scene.