22 Things to Do in Estes Park, Colorado

I’ve made countless trips to Estes Park since moving to the Front Range a decade ago. It’s one of my favorite Colorado mountain towns, having fun festivals and tons of activities — plus access to Rocky Mountain National Park.

In this guide, I’ll point you to my favorite things to do in Estes Park. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly attractions, can’t-miss hiking trails, or unique hidden gems, I’ve got you covered. And don’t forget to bookmark my guide on where to stay in Estes Park.

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22 Best Things to Do in Estes Park

Rocky Mountain National Park

Explore mountains, forests, and alpine lakes in one of the country’s most visited national parks.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 586-1206 | Website | Entrance: $30 Vehicle Day Pass, $80 Annual America The Beautiful Pass | 👉 Browse RMNP Tours on Viator

Estes Park is largely famed as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. Enter the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center nearest town to discover abundant outdoor activities.

Winter activities include backcountry skiing and snowshoeing. Meanwhile, summer prompts camping, fishing, rock climbing, and plenty of hiking. Trails range from short, paved paths to expert summits like Longs Peak, one of the most iconic 14ers in Colorado. 

Be sure to book a timed entry permit if visiting the park in the summer. Also, don’t miss the scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road. This seasonal pass takes you through the national park, over the Continental Divide, and into Grand Lake. It’s home to the state’s largest and deepest natural body of water, which is great for boating and other water activities.

👉 Recommended Tour: Visiting from Denver or Boulder? Check out this guided day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, which includes transportation and your entrance fee!

The Stanley Hotel

Experience history and hauntings at the hotel that inspired The Shining.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 577-4000 | Website 

Though allegedly haunted, The Stanley Hotel is stunningly beautiful. It’s Victorian-era architecture and decor transport guests to the historic hotel’s opening in 1909. There’s an air of luxury with exterior gardens, exquisite dining, and Colorado’s largest selection of fine whiskeys (more on that below).

The hotel has been featured in several films and even inspired Stephen King’s The Shining. Movie memorabilia is on display and a complete horror film museum is in the works. Ghost tours and psychic readings from resident medium, Madame Vera, are also available. Tour the lobby and grounds, or book a night at one of the most unique places to stay in Colorado.

Lake Estes

Paddle, fish, or simply admire the views at this picturesque mountain lake.

📍 Google Maps 

You’ll drive across the beautiful Lake Estes if entering Estes Park from the east, as most do when taking one of Denver’s most popular day trips. It’s a prime destination during the summer months with plenty of water activities. Lake Estes Marina rents out everything from kayaks and paddle boards to pontoon boats and fishing gear. 

Those that prefer to stay on land can appreciate views from the Estes Lake Trail. It’s an easy 4-mile loop that accommodates both strollers and wheelchairs. The Estes Park Dog Park and Stanley Park Ball Field are another two locations from which to admire the picturesque mountain lake. 

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Estes Park Museum

Appreciate local history at this small museum that’s full of character.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 586-6256 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 4 pm Wednesday – Saturday, Closed Sunday – Tuesday | Entrance: free, donation suggested 

Though small, visitors will be surprised by the vast array of information available at the Estes Park Museum. It’s free to the public (though a small donation is suggested) and features exhibits that chronicle local history.

Learn about original homesteaders, Rocky Mountain National Park, and The Shining. Chat with a local volunteer or take a tour to further appreciate this special Colorado destination. 

Downtown Estes Park

Discover community celebrations and more than 200 establishments in the heart of town.

📍 Google Maps | Website

Visitors can explore more than 200 retailers along Moraine and Elkhorn Ave. in downtown Estes Park. These include boutiques, candy shops, art galleries, restaurants, and so much more. Many of these charming attractions are independently owned, meaning the treasures you find will be unique to your visit. 

Elk are often seen wandering in the heart of town, and it’s equally common to run into community events. Jazz festivals, street performers, and wine tastings add to the excitement. 

Peak To Peak Scenic Byway

Take a beautiful drive dotted with hiking trails, ski runs, and charming mountain towns.

📍 Google Maps 

The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway is one of the best road trips in the state. It runs from Estes Park to the southern Colorado mountain town of Black Hawk. The drive in itself is an adventure and there are plenty of worthwhile stops along the way.

Discover trails in Nederland and the Indian Peaks Wilderness. Consider fishing at Lily Lake or paddle boarding at Brainard Lake. In winter, ski or snowboard at Eldora Mountain, one of many ski resorts near Denver; or head to the indoor casinos in Central City and Black Hawk.   

Estes Park Memorial Observatory

Marvel at the twinkling universe and learn from passionate locals.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 586-5668 | Website | Hours: 7 pm – 9:30 pm Friday – Monday, Closed Tuesday – Thursday | Entrance: free, donation suggested | 👉 Book a Night Photography Tour on Viator

Gaze at planets, galaxies, and exploding stars through the telescopes at the Estes Park Memorial Observatory. The observatory is run by passionate local volunteers, and set at a high elevation, allowing for optimal viewing on clear nights. 

Though free, a small donation is suggested to help fund science education scholarships. Be sure to reserve your tour prior to visiting. 

Macgregor Ranch Museum

Get a sense of Western hospitality at “Colorado’s finest homestead ranch”.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 586-3749 | Website | Hours: Seasonal, tour hours vary | Entrance: $10-$20 Adults, $1 Children 12 and under

Established in 1873, the Macgregor Ranch Museum overviews the lives of three generations of Macgregors. They’re a homesteader family that helped spur the growth of Estes Park, and the museum sprawls across the ranch. 

Visitors are allowed to tour the root cellar, milking shed, and other buildings that served these pioneers’ lives. Enjoy interactive experiences and engage with volunteers to learn more about the local history.  

Outdoor Activities

Horseback Riding

Trot through scenic valleys and forests in Rocky Mountain National Park.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 586-3341 ext. 1440 | Website | Hours: 7:30 am – 5:30 pm daily | Entrance: Pricing varies by tour length and location

Horseback riding in Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the best things to do in Colorado. Book with Jackson Stables for knowledgeable, friendly guides and tours that last 1-5 hours.

On my horseback ride to Beaver Meadows, we trotted across valleys and clopped through beautiful aspen forests. Vast mountain views were visible along the way. Children’s pony rides are also available, as are hay rides that include a marshmallow roast around the campfire.

Hiking Trails

Trek to gorgeous views both in and outside the national park.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Browse Hiking Tours on Viator

Hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park comes highly recommended. But Estes Park offers gorgeous trails outside of the national park, too.

Head to Hermit Park Open Space if you want to avoid the crowds. Or explore the backcountry trails in the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area, home to some of the best hiking trails in Colorado. 

Whitewater Rafting

Splash down rapids on beautiful mountain rivers.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 577-7238 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm daily June – September | Entrance: Pricing varies by tour date, length, and location | 👉 Browse Nearby Rafting Tours on Viator

Rapid Transit Rafting is a local outfitter that offers half and full-day rafting trips. The half-day whitewater excursion floats down the Cache la Poudre River, an experience that ranks among the best things to do in Fort Collins. Full-day trips include a scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road, followed by a splashy ride down the Colorado River.

Motor Sports

Kick up dirt on an ATV while taking in panoramic views.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 577-7400 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: Pricing varies by rental length and vehicle | 👉 Book a RMNP Jeep Tour on Viator

Estes Park ATV Rentals offers an exciting and fun way to experience the park. Renters can explore at their own pace without the aid of a guide, taking in mountain views along adventuresome 4×4 trails.

Don’t worry if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Its friendly staff will show you how to use the GPS map system and will provide route recommendations to ensure you have a safe, enjoyable time. 

If you prefer a guided experience, book this thrilling 4×4 excursion, which promises plenty of photo ops!

Golfing

Watch your golf ball soar at this high elevation course.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 586-8146 | Website | Hours: 6:30 am – 7:30 pm daily (summer), 9 am – 3 pm Monday – Friday (winter) | Entrance: Pricing varies by time, age, and residency 

Those who love golfing can’t miss the 18-hole Estes Park golf course. In the morning, it’s very likely that herds of elk will be bystanders as you swing. Puts break towards Fish Creek, so adjust your game accordingly. And when driving, note that golf balls fly farther at higher elevations.

Estes Park Riverwalk

Enjoy a lovely morning stroll along a babbling brook with a coffee in hand.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 577-9900 | Website | 👉 Browse Estes Park Tours on Viator

The Riverwalk begins at the Estes Park Visitors Center, then follows along the Fall River and Big Thompson River. It’s one of the best activities in the morning hours when the town is quiet. 

Conveniently, the path also comes across locals’ favorite coffee shop. Admire sculptures from the benches dotted along the path, and come afternoon, enjoy live music at the central plaza. 

Family Friendly Activities

Kent Mountain Adventure Center

Rock climb with a knowledgeable guide that specializes in youth education.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 586-5990 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 4 pm Monday – Friday, 8 am – 12 pm Saturday, Closed Sunday

The Kent Mountain Adventure Center has been operating in Estes Park for more than 32 years. You can trust that your family is in good hands given their experience and 5-star ratings.

Their guides support athletes from beginners to experts. However, their Youth Climbing Programs are especially ideal for children interested in mountain sports. Backpacking, canyoneering, and ice climbing are other expeditions you can look to schedule. 

Open Air Adventure Park

Traverse over obstacles on aerial courses for all skill levels.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 586-3066 | Website | Hours: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm Friday – Saturday, Closed Sunday & Monday (summer) | Entrance: $41 Adults and youth ages 10+, $35 Child ages 6-9  | 👉 Get Open Air Adventure Park Tickets

Open Air Adventure Park offers an exciting and challenging experience — plus a friendly staff and lots of attention to safety. The aerial course includes various obstacles. These include tightrope walking, suspension bridges, and other wobbly platforms to traverse. It’s a great activity for children, helping them conquer a fear of heights in a highly positive environment. 

📚 Related Reading: Curious about other kid-friendly attractions nearby? Check out Laura’s comprehensive guide on things to do in Denver with kids. 

Fun City

Take the kids on classic amusement park rides and attractions.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 586-2828 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 7 pm Friday-Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm Sunday-Thursday (summer) | Entrance: Pricing varies by attraction

Fun City has entertained children since 1969. Kids can soar high on the bungee trampoline and fly down the giant rainbow slide at this popular amusement park. They can also enjoy bumper cars bumper boats, and so much more. 

Estes Park Ride-A-Kart

Leave other families in the dust on this speedy race track. 

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 586-6495 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 7 pm daily (summer) | Entrance: Pricing varies by attraction 

Estes Park Ride-A-Kart and its original dirt track were established in 1959, and today, the wheels keep turning. Only now, the track is paved and the go-kart engines roar louder and stronger, taking families on a thrilling ride. Classic and modern games can be found at the Cascade Arcade, and mini-golf and a miniature train are sure to keep the kids entertained.

Food & Drink

Snowy Peaks Winery

Sip wine in the sunshine — and keep the kids busy, too.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 586-2099 | Website | Hours: 11:30 am – 7:30 pm daily

Delicious wine flights, charcuterie boards, and outdoor seating — what more could you want from a tasting room? Snowy Peaks Winery is perfect for the foodie crowd, and parents who need a break, too. The “No Whining Room” is full of toys and books, and kids get a juice tasting to be part of the fun! With affordable prices, you’ll likely be tempted to take a bottle (or two) home. 

Purple Mountain Taffy Company

Build a box of assorted taffy and caramel treats at this can’t-miss candy shoppe.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 586-3407 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 7 pm daily

You can’t help but stop into Purple Mountain Taffy Company, which puts its production on full display. Peer into its downtown window to see the candy being pulled and stretched. Then, enter to sample its confections.

Salt water taffy and caramels are this candy shop’s specialty. Flavors like bing cherry vanilla, huckleberry, salted caramel, and caramel apple are sure to delight.

👉 Love Sweet Treats? Check out their other local shops including Laura’s Fine Candies, Caramel Crisp, and the Danish Cone Factory!

Bird & Jim

Savor locally-sourced produce and meats at this rustic restaurant.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 586-9832 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 9 pm Monday – Wednesday, 11 am – 9:30 pm Thursday – Saturday, 10:30 am – 9 pm Sunday

Bird & Jim is one of the best local restaurants, known for its locally-sourced produce and meats. Frontier trout, buffalo burgers, and Colorado lamb t-bones are some of the hearty dishes on its menu.

Vegetarians will be thrilled by the selection, too, with meals like stuffed eggplant and vegetable paella. Pair your dish with wine or a cocktail, but be sure to save room for dessert — the bread pudding is a must.

The Whiskey Bar at the Cascades Restaurant

Choose from a massive whiskey selection in the ambiance of The Stanley Hotel.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 577-4001 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 11 pm Sun-Thu, 11 am – 12 am Fri-Sun

The Cascades Restaurant at The Stanley Hotel offers delicious meals, but the real draw for most visitors is The Whiskey Bar. Here, you’ll find the most expansive selection of whiskeys and single malt scotches in all of Colorado. Drinks may be pricier than at other bars in the area, but the ambiance and incredible service make the ticket well worth it. 

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It’s easy to fill an itinerary in Estes Park with so many cool activities and spots to explore. For more local insights, see our guide to the absolute best places to visit in Colorado next!