Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Denver, CO
Denver's mile-high location makes it a gateway to the Rocky Mountains, with world-class ski resorts, hot springs, and alpine scenery within a couple hours of the city.
Rocky Mountain National Park and the hot springs towns are Denver's signature mountain escapes.
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or browse all12 destinations near Denver
Lantern Tour
Manitou Springs, CO 80829
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (5.0 by 0.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 18 min from Denver · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Garden of the Gods
CO 80904, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.9 by 57.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 10 min from Denver · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Rocky Mountain National Park
USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.9 by 27.2k+ visitors) · 1 hr 25 min from Denver · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
High Point Overlook
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.9 by 1.4k+ visitors) · 1 hr 16 min from Denver · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.6k+ visitors) · 1 hr 29 min from Denver · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Balanced Rock
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 3.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 19 min from Denver · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Red Rock Canyon
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 7.0k+ visitors) · 1 hr 13 min from Denver · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Twin Silo Park
Fort Collins, CO 80528
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 2.5k+ visitors) · 58 min from Denver · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Kissing Camels
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 14 min from Denver · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Berthoud Falls Cascades
CO 80438, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 59 min from Denver · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Cave of the Winds Mountain Park
Manitou Springs, CO 80829
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Family destination · highly rated (4.7 by 17.9k+ visitors) · 1 hr 18 min from Denver · fits $20 - $60 budget
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Reservoir Ridge Natural Area
Fort Collins, CO 80521
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 16 min from Denver · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Denver, CO?
The best day trips from Denver include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Denver?
Most great day trips from Denver are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Denver?
Many of the best day trips near Denver are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Denver?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Denver, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Denver?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Denver make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
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