As summer in Estes Park continues, so do the thunderstorms and rain showers. While good for keeping the forests stay hydrated and healthy, these wet days can leave guests wondering what to do indoors until the sun comes back out. Estes Park is known for its outdoor adventures, but there are plenty of family friendly activities when it's sprinkling outside. We have compiled a few recommendations to make the rainy days as fun filled as the rest:
Bowling - Try your luck at Chipper's Lanes. Open every day at 2 pm. Let your hiking boots dry out, while bowling a strike or two. The on-site restaurant provides pizza snacks and drinks for every hungry bowler.
Arcade - Start a family tournament at the Ride-A-Kart Family Amusement Park arcade. Is Dad the best at skee ball? Maybe your family has a hidden talent for air hockey or pinball. If the clouds part, you might be able to get in a round of mini golf.
Swimming - Swimming? But it's raining! Don't let that stop you from splashing around at the Estes Park Aquatic Center. The indoor pool is a great place to show off your cannon ball skills.
Climbing - Estes Park is home to many international rock climbing stars. Test your skills at the Estes Park Mountain Shop's indoor climbing wall. Kids from 2 to 72 are encouraged to try the climbing and bouldering walls.
YMCA - Stop by the YMCA of the Rockies Administration or Program Building and get your Day Pass wristband to enjoy an all-access pass to YMCA activities. Is Ping-Pong your jam? Check out the game room filled with old and new games for the whole family. The indoor pool and Basketball/ Volleyball gym are a great way to release energy on a rainy day. Boogie down at the roller skating rink during fall, winter and spring; or get in touch with your creative side at the Craft & Design center.
Reading - Nothing beats a good book on a rainy day, and the Estes Valley Library is chock full of em'! Check out their website for daily events for young and old. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in the Children's section, kids can enjoy story time featuring puppets, props, music and movement activities.
Exploring History- After a successful climb at the indoor climbing wall, why not check out the Climb On! Exhibit at the Estes Park Museum, featuring testimonials from our local climbing heroes. You may even learn a thing or two about the rich history of our town! Exhibit continues through 10/04/2015
Ghost Hunting - Get up-close and personal with Stephen King's muse for "The Shining." The historic Stanley Hotel hosts normal and paranormal tours daily. Did someone say REDRUM?
Taste Testing - Have you noticed the plethora of sweet shops we have here in Estes Park? Ever wonder who has the best taffy, chocolate chip cookie or caramel corn? Why not try them all and find out for yourselves! Purchase sample sizes from each and discover your favorite!
Wine Tasting - After a long day of indoor activities, parents may be ready to relax. Stop by Snowy Peaks Winery for a tasting of Colorado wines. This place even offers a kid zone with free juice tastings!
Storm Chasing - As the evening draws near the rain storms will likely move east. After the skies clear in Rocky Mountain National Park, drive up Trail Ridge Road to a look out and enjoy watching the clouds roll to the distant eastern planes from the safety of your car.
Summer in the Rockies can be unpredictable, but that shouldn't stop you from enjoying your vacation to Estes Park. Rain or shine, there is always something fun for the whole family. View more about the fun Things to Do in Estes Park here!
