Choose your park adventure
Head to Bear Lake or Sprague Lake for a classic Rocky Mountain National Park morning, or choose Lily Lake for an easier walk without the same timed-entry logistics.
Classic Family Day
Pack the Snacks,
Chase the Views
A simple, family-friendly day in Estes Park with easy outdoor adventure, kid-approved stops, patio meals and plenty of snack breaks.
Before You Go
Stock up before entering the park
Stop at Safeway, Country Market or the dollar store for snacks, water and picnic basics. Once you enter Rocky Mountain National Park during timed-entry season, leaving and coming back can be tricky.
Local tip: Cinnamon’s Bakery is a sweet stop for a breakfast picnic, but they sell out fast. Go early.
Keep snacks with you while picnicking, and never leave food, wrappers, coolers or scented items visible in your vehicle. Bears are smart, curious and very uninterested in your vacation schedule.
Add a family activity
Walk or bike around Lake Estes, stroll the Downtown Riverwalk, play mini golf or ride the Estes Park Aerial Tramway when open.
Lunch, patios and picnic-style options
Try Solé, Claire’s, The Hive or Ed’s Cantina for a sit-down meal, or grab pizza from Poppy’s or burgers from Penelope’s and picnic at George Hix Riverside Plaza near the sensory garden.
Easy dinner with a fun finish
Choose Ember on Lake Estes for a sit-down dinner, Antonio’s for award-winning pizza and robot delivery, or a local brewery like Avant Garde, Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co. or The Barrel.
Snack breaks count as planning.
Lunch Patios
Sit down and reset
Great for families who want a real meal after a morning outside.
Pickup Picnic
Grab and go
Pick up lunch and take it to George Hix Riverside Plaza near the sensory garden.
- Poppy’s Pizza
- Penelope’s Burgers
- Pizza, burgers and river time
- Pines and Cones
Dinner
Sit-down options
End the day with a little more breathing room and mountain views.
- Ember on Lake Estes
- Antonio’s Real New York Pizza
Brewery Stop
Casual evening bites
Breweries often have food trucks or easy nearby options.
Family Reminder
Whether breakfast is cinnamon rolls in the park or a full meal in town, snacks are always a good idea with kiddos. Pack more than you think you need. The mountains have a way of making everyone hungry.
FAQ
Do families need timed entry for Bear Lake or Sprague Lake?
During timed-entry season, families visiting Bear Lake or Sprague Lake should reserve the Timed Entry + Bear Lake Road option.
FAQ
Is Lily Lake a good family alternative?
Yes. Lily Lake is a scenic, family-friendly walk and can be a simpler option for families who want mountain views without the same Bear Lake Road logistics.
FAQ
Should families bring food into Rocky Mountain National Park?
Yes. Snacks, water and picnic basics are helpful, especially with kids. Keep food with you while picnicking and never leave food or scented items visible in your vehicle.
