Ultimate 7 Day Colorado Summer Itinerary

Written By Emily Buchtel

Colorado is pure magic in the summertime. I’m always getting messages from visitors asking which spots I recommend, where to stay, and the best places to eat—so I’ve put together a curated list to help you plan the perfect trip.

You can customize your itinerary based on what you love, whether that’s hiking, canoeing, museums, guided tours, or just soaking up the scenery. There’s something for every vibe.

Click the Google List to explore all my favorite places! And be sure to follow along—I’ll be sharing more itineraries from all across the state. These ideas are perfect for locals looking to explore Colorado, too! If you are flying in make sure to rent a SUV car you will definitely need it!

Day 1: Denver

Stay: The Slate - fun school themed hotel in the heart of Denver. Located inside the historic Emily Griffith School.

Activities to Check Out:

  • Explore Union Station — grab a bite, browse the shops, or simply take in the historic charm.

  • Take in the city views with the Daniels and Fisher Tower Clocktower Tour.

  • Wander through world-class exhibits at the Denver Art Museum.

  • Step back in time at the Molly Brown House Museum.

  • Visit the animals at the Denver Zoo.

  • Explore underwater exhibits at the Downtown Aquarium.

  • Tour the United States Mint.

  • Make a custom cowboy hat at American Lore or GEM Hats for a true Western touch.

A perfect mix of history, culture, and unique Denver experiences.

Food/Drink: Little Man Ice Cream, Buckhorn Exchange, Domo, La Foret, Linger, Jovanina’s Italian, The Delorean Speakeasy, Lincolns, Ghost Saloon, Retrograde Speakeasy

Day 2: Golden

Stay: Take a day trip to Golden and stay a second night at The Slate

Activities to Check Out:

  • Spend time at Red Rocks Amphitheatre — catch Yoga on the Rocks, Film on the Rocks, or experience a concert under the stars.

  • Go tubing down the river for a fun, laid-back afternoon.

  • Hike North Table Mountain or South Table Mountain for incredible views.

  • Explore the trails at Mount Galbraith Park.

  • Bike or walk along the scenic Peaks to Plains Trail.

  • Take a tour of the Coors Brewery.

  • Visit the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave and soak in the panoramic views from Lookout Mountain.

Perfect mix of adventure, history, and iconic Colorado scenery!

Food/Drink: The Golden Mill, New Terrain Brewery, Babe’s Tea House, Woody’s Wood Fired Pizza

Day 3: Boulder

Stay: Historic Hotel Boulderado

Activities to Check Out (Boulder Area):

  • Hike Eldorado Canyon State Park — don’t miss the scenic Rattlesnake Gulch Trail.

  • See the iconic Flatirons at Chautauqua Park.

  • Cool off at the historic Eldorado Springs Pool.

  • Stroll Pearl Street Mall for street performers, local shops, and great dining.

  • Browse the shelves at Boulder Book Store.

  • Take a behind-the-scenes tour at Celestial Seasonings.

  • Visit the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) for interactive exhibits and incredible views.

  • Check out a colorfully curated collection at Juniper Books.

  • Pick up a handcrafted wooden puzzle from Liberty Puzzles.

A fun mix of outdoor adventure, local charm, and uniquely Boulder experiences.

Food/Drink: Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse, Bohemian Biergarten, Rio Grande, Corrida, Black Cat Farm Boulder, License No 1 Speakeasy Bar

Day 4: Estes Park

Stay: Haunted Stanley Hotel or YMCA of the Rockies

Activities to Check Out (Estes Park & RMNP):

  • Take a historic tour of the The Stanley Hotel.

  • Experience magic and illusion at Aiden Sinclair's Underground.

  • Stop by the The Stanley Chocolate Factory for a sweet treat.

  • Browse for a good read at Macdonald Book Shop.

  • Ride the alpine coaster at Mustang Mountain Coaster for a thrill with a view.

Rocky Mountain National Park hikes:

  • Visit Dream Lake and Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park.

  • Hike to Lake Haiyaha for stunning turquoise waters.

  • Trek to Gem Lake for panoramic views.

  • Challenge yourself with the hike to Black Lake.

  • Adventure up to Sky Pond for dramatic alpine scenery.

  • Explore the beautiful Ouzel Falls trail.

  • Hike to Chasm Lake for stunning views of Long’s Peak

The perfect mix of mountain adventure, small-town charm, and unforgettable alpine views.

Food/Drink: The Hive, Claire’s, Bob and Tony’s Pizza

Day 5: Grand Lake

Stay: Grand Lake Lodge

Activities to Check Out (Grand Lake Area):

  • Drive the iconic Trail Ridge Road all the way to Grand Lake — one of the most scenic drives in the country.

  • Explore the charming boardwalk shops and laid-back mountain vibe around town.

  • Grab a scoop of ice cream and stroll along the lake.

  • Take in the stunning views from Grand Lake Lodge.

  • And keep your eyes open for moose — they’re often spotted in this area!

A perfect mix of scenic driving, small-town charm, and classic Colorado mountain views.

Food/Drink: Sagebrush BBQ, Huntington Tavern, Ice Cream at Grand Lake Chocolates

Day 6: Vail

Stay: Piney River Ranch

Activities to Check Out (Vail Area):

  • Soak and relax at Hot Sulphur Springs Resort & Spa on your drive through the mountains.

  • Visit the Vail Farmers' Market & Art Show on Sunday mornings for local goods, art, and fresh bites.

  • Shop and stroll through the charming streets of Vail.

  • Take a scenic drive to Piney River Ranch, where you can canoe, stand-up paddleboard, and hike to Piney River Upper Falls.

A perfect blend of relaxation, mountain-town charm, and outdoor adventure.

Food/Drink: Alpenrose, The Rabbit Hole at Chasing Rabbits and Tavernetta

Day 7: Enjoy Vail and Drive back to Denver :)

Emily Buchtel