2026 November Weekend Itinerary | November 20–22, 2026
A weekend away with good food, mountain views, a little holiday shopping, and absolutely no reason to rush home? You in?
November 20–22 is shaping up to be a particularly good weekend in Estes Park. It's the final weekend of the inaugural Estes Park Restaurant Week, the holiday lights are making their debut, and downtown shops are ready to help you get a head start on your gift list.
Planning a girls' shopping weekend, a festive family getaway, or a holiday date night? There's a little something for everyone. Even better, several local lodging properties are offering Restaurant Week specials, with some deals available during the week only. Check the offer details to find the stay that works for you.
Here's how we'd spend it.
Friday: Check In, Then Dig In
First things first. Find your home away from home, whether it's a cozy cabin with a fireplace, a lodge with mountain views, or a little retreat with a hot tub under the stars. Drop your bags, settle in, and let the weekend begin.
Now, about dinner.
Estes Park Restaurant Week, November 13–22, brings special menus and offerings to over 40 participating restaurants. It's the perfect excuse to try somewhere new, revisit an old favorite, and let someone else handle dinner for a change.
And there are some pretty impressive kitchens in this little mountain town. Antonio's Real New York Pizza has earned national recognition for its New York-style pies, while Hunter's Chophouse and Bird & Jim serve up memorable dishes alongside wine programs that have earned Wine Spectator Awards of Excellence.
Whatever sounds good, browse the Restaurant Week menus, pick your spot, and come hungry.
Saturday: Shop, Stroll & Stay for the Lights
Fuel up with breakfast at Egg of Estes (explore more breakfast spots here), then park near the Estes Valley Library and Town Hall. With seasonal paid parking behind us, you can take your time exploring downtown without watching the meter.
Start on the east end of Elkhorn Avenue with a warm coffee from Kind Coffee, or choose whichever local coffee shop catches your eye, before wandering through downtown Estes Park's locally owned boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops.
For a little inspiration, pop into Aspen and Evergreen Gallery for Colorado-made artwork, handmade jewelry, and pottery. Stop by Rocket Fizz for nostalgic candies and stocking stuffers, or browse clothing, jewelry, and gifts at Mary Jane's.
Looking for a keepsake? Explore the ornaments and holiday treasures at Simply Christmas, The Christmas Shoppe, or Nana's Christmas Cottage.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. With so many shops lining downtown Estes Park, half the fun is discovering something you didn't know you were looking for.
Find more inspiration in our Estes Park Holiday Shopping Guide.
As the afternoon rolls around, head to Bond Park for Lighting of the Trees on November 21. Enjoy festive activities, Santa, and a new illuminated wildlife display in the heart of downtown.
Bundle up, grab something warm to drink, and watch Estes Park light up for the holidays.
Explore more holiday events in Estes Park.
Then follow the glow to dinner. It's still Restaurant Week, after all.
Sunday: One More Morning in the Mountains
Sleep in. Get that second cup of coffee. Then, before heading home, take the scenic route through Rocky Mountain National Park, one of our favorite things to do in Estes Park in November.
And here's something worth knowing: timed entry reservations are no longer required for the season. That means you can explore without planning your morning around a reservation window. A regular park entrance pass or fee still applies.
Take a leisurely drive toward Moraine Park, watch for elk from a safe distance, or stop at a scenic overlook to enjoy the views. No big hike required, although a short walk is always a good idea if the weather cooperates. Be sure to check current road conditions before heading out.
If you haven't had your fill of Estes Park's dining scene, November 22 is also the final day of Restaurant Week. One last memorable meal before heading home? Sounds like a good plan.
Make a Weekend of It
Good food, locally owned shops, holiday lights, and a scenic drive through Rocky Mountain National Park. All in one November weekend, at your own pace.
Whether it's a getaway with your favorite person, a weekend with friends, or a family tradition in the making, there's room to make it your own.
Come hungry. Stay a little longer. Make a weekend of it.
Explore Restaurant Week Menus | Find Restaurant Week Lodging Specials
