Estes Park Itineraries

3 Day Button

$ Affordable Adventurer Itinerary

3-Day Family Itinerary

Day 1 in a circle on the left. Picture of downtown Estes Park with the mountains in the background

DAY 1: Welcome to the Mountains
Check-in: 2–4 PM
Dinner Recommendation:
Treat the crew to a tasty meal at one of these local restaurants
Evening Activity:
Click here for a list of evening events happening around townlive music, movie nights, and more!
Stargazing at Sheep Lakes:
End the night under the stars with a short drive into RMNP. Bring blankets and hot cocoa. Map to Sheep Lakes Overlook  

Day 2 in a circle on the left. Picture of people on floaties in a pool.

DAY 2: Play Like a Local
Morning:
Breakfast Option 1: Enjoy a scenic sit-down breakfast at Ember on Lake Estes.
Budget Option: Grab cinnamon rolls from Cinnamon’s Bakery and enjoy them picnic-style by the lake. (Get there early—they sell out fast!)
Late Morning – Early Afternoon:
Mini Adventure Time! Let the kids loose at Ride-A-Kart, Fun City, or take on the thrilling Mustang Mountain Coaster. Whether it's mini-golf, go-karts, bumper boats, or a ride through the trees, there's excitement for every little adventurer.
Fun City | Ride-A-Kart | Mountain Coaster
Stroll Downtown: Shop, sip, and explore. Don’t miss Estes Park’s iconic sweet treat spots for fudge, taffy, or ice cream.
Afternoon:
Rest/Nap Time: Refuel with downtime (and snacks!) before your evening drive.
Post-2PM RMNP Drive: No timed entry needed after 2PM! Take a scenic drive into the park and catch golden-hour views or a sunset picnic.
Dinner:
Wrap the day with a cozy dinner at one of these kid-approved local gems. List of family-friendly restaurants

Day 3 in a circle on the left. Picture of the Ariel Tram in front of the mountains.

DAY 3: Choose Your Own Family Adventure
Morning:
Hotel Breakfast: Many local stays offer free breakfast—check with your front desk!
Or head out for a sit-down family breakfast. Check out some of our favorites:
Brunch & Co.
Eggs of Estes 
Notch Top 
Afternoon:
Adventure Options (choose based on your kiddos’ age & energy level):
Younger Kids:
• Pony rides at Sombrero Stables
• Go fishing at Trout Haven—easy casting, lots of laughs
All Ages: Ride the Aerial Tramway for incredible views (go early or bring snacks!)
Older/Adventurous Kids:
Early morning hike in RMNP (get a pass in advance) Details regarding timed entry here.
Or book a guided adventure like rock climbing, wildlife watching, or even a photography tour! Guided Experiences
Final Meal Before Departure:
Grab a bite at one last local favorite—because nobody wants to leave on an empty stomach.

 

Text reading Fishing in RMNP or Local Waters. Planning to cast a line? You'll need a valid Colorado fishing license. Get Your Permit. Colorado Parks Wildlife logo on the right.

Text of Road Trip Games at the top. Pictures of two children laughing.

Text reading Timed Entry Permits. RMNP requires timed entry permits. Plan your park days in advance. Learn more. Picture of Rocky Mountain National Park - Established in 1915 sign.

Text Road to Estes Park Playlists at top. Image of three women singing in the car.