Estes Park—often called the Gateway to the Rockies—is a charming mountain town in the Colorado Rockies that consistently earns its reputation. US News & Travel ranks it among the best mountain towns to visit in the USA, and once you arrive it’s easy to see why.
From Memorial Day through Labor Day, the streets buzz with visitors. The main street is lined with shops, restaurants, and enough fudge, ice cream, and saltwater taffy to derail any diet—USA Today even named the Estes Park Taffy Shop the best candy store in the country. Whether you’re passing through on a Colorado road trip or making it a destination, there is no shortage of fun things to do in Estes Park.
19 Things to Do In Estes Park Colorado for Families
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Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park go hand in hand—and together they make one of the best Colorado destination combinations for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and photographers in any season. Whether you’re visiting in summer when the streets are buzzing or in winter when the town quiets down and the snow settles in, there is always something worth doing here.
The New York Times named Estes Park one of 52 places around the world where travelers can be part of the solution to climate change. As a winter destination without ski lifts, it encourages a lower carbon footprint and gets visitors outside to enjoy the snow in a more intentional way. Planning a bigger Colorado adventure? My complete Colorado Road Trip guide has all the best stops covered.
1. Take the Ghost Tour at the Stanley Hotel Mountain Retreat
The Stanley Hotel was built in 1909 by Freelan Stanley—yes, of Stanley Steemer fame—and sits on a hill overlooking Estes Park with a commanding presence that hasn’t faded in over a century. It’s a grand historic landmark with modern amenities and old-world charm that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time the moment you walk through the door.
Whether you visit as a hotel guest, explore the grounds, dine at one of the restaurants, or take the guided ghost tour through the underground tunnels, the Stanley earns its spot on the National Register of Historic Places—and on every Estes Park itinerary.
2. Ride the Rainbow Slide at Fun City Estes Park
My girls always loved stopping at Fun City Estes Park to ride the iconic rainbow slide—and there may have been a little parenting bribery involved. “If you hike without complaining, we’ll stop at the slides when we’re done.” Feel free to borrow that one.
At just $2 per person per ride the rainbow slide is one of the best free things to do in Estes Park on a budget. Beyond the slides, Fun City offers bumper boats and cars, spinning coaster, gel blaster arena, a bungee trampoline, miniature golf, go-kart racing, panning for gemstones, and water walking balls. One warning on the bumper boats—the steering column doubles as a water gun. Come prepared to get wet.
3. Meander Along the Estes Park Riverwalk
The Big Thompson River and Fall River converge along the Estes Park Riverwalk. Wind your way through downtown along the river, enjoy the scenery, and let the sound of the water do its thing. It’s the perfect way to decompress between stops—and it’s one of the most peaceful free things to do in Estes Park.
4. Spot Wildlife
A trip to Estes Park is not complete without a few animal sightings—and you don’t even have to leave town to find them. Elk are a common sight right on the streets of Estes, and mule deer, bighorn sheep, bears, otters, chipmunks, and over 250 species of birds round out the wildlife roster around town and inside Rocky Mountain National Park.
That said—do not feed the animals and do not get out of your car to get a closer look at the elk or moose. It happens more than you’d think and it never ends well for anyone involved.
5. Ride the Estes Park Aerial Tramway
The Estes Park Aerial Tramway has been carrying passengers to the summit of Prospect Mountain since July 1955—and more than 3 million people have enjoyed the views from the top. Designed by Robert Heron, the tramway went through a significant chapter in 2023 when it shut down after the passing of his son John Heron. Gondola Adventures purchased the tram from the Heron family in early 2024 and brought it back to life with a grand reopening on May 25, 2024. The iconic red gondola cars are still in use and the tram runs daily from May through September.
At the summit you’ll find panoramic views, the Hungry Chipmunk Cafe, a gift shop, free pinball, picnic areas, bathrooms, and some hiking trails. The hike to the very top of Prospect Mountain from the upper tram station takes about 15-20 minutes on fairly easy terrain. Tickets are available online.
6. Shop Downtown Estes Park
With over 300 shops to choose from, shopping downtown is one of the most fun things to do in Estes Park—and Elkhorn Avenue is where most of the action happens. Browse sweatshirts, local art, handmade crafts, and adventure gear as you wander up and down the main drag. Here’s a taste of what you’ll find:
- Homemade candy, ice cream and fudge
- Adventure gear rental and outfitters
- Clothing
- Art galleries
- Local arts and crafts
- Christmas decorations
7. Attend Estes Park Festivals
Estes Park has a festival for practically every weekend of the year—and they’re one of the best free things to do in Estes Park regardless of when you visit. From Highland games and elk watching to holiday wine fests and a duck race that has to be seen to be believed, there is always something going on downtown.
Fall & Winter Festivals
- Autumn Gold Festival
- Pumpkins and Pilsners Festival
- Longs Peak Scottish Irish Highland Festival
- Elk Fest
- Estes Epic
- Rails in the Rockies
- Catch the Glow Parade and Celebration
- Estes Park Holiday Wine Fest
- Winter Festival
- Wine and Chocolate Festival
Spring & Summer Festivals
- Whiskey Warm Up
- Duck Race Festival
- Memorial Day
- Bigfoot Days
- Jazz & Blues Festival
- Scandinavian Midsummer Festival
- Free Summer Concert Series
- 4th of July
- Estes Park Races
- Wool Market
- Rooftop Rodeo
- Labor Day
- Estes Park Wine Festival
8. Find a Cool Restaurant in Estes Park, Colorado
Chris and I have enjoyed dining at a number of Estes Park restaurants over the years—here are some worth adding to your list:
- Mama Rose’s — 338 W Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517
- Poppy’s Pizza and Grill — 342 E Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517
- Penelope’s Old Time Burgers — 229 W Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517
- Antonio’s Real New York Pizza — 1560 Big Thompson Ave., Estes Park, CO 80517
- Casa Grande Mexican Restaurant — 220 E. Elkhorn Avenue, Estes Park, Co, 80538
- The Egg of Estes — 393 E Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517
If you’re heading into Rocky Mountain National Park, pack a picnic lunch or grab sandwiches at the local Subway or Jimmy John’s on your way in. These are just a sampling of what Estes Park has to offer—the dining scene here goes well beyond tourist fare.
9. Book a Place to Stay in Estes Park
Tip #9: Book a Place to Stay in Estes Park
Estes Park isn’t a big chain hotel kind of town—and that’s part of the charm. You’ll find a great selection of bed and breakfasts, lodges, cottages, cabins, vacation rentals, and apartments that make the stay feel more personal than a standard hotel experience. Book early for summer and holiday weekends—availability goes fast.
10. Camp in Estes Park
Full disclosure—camping is not really my thing. But if it’s yours, Estes Park is a fantastic place to do it. Options range from full-service RV parks to more rustic settings both in town and inside Rocky Mountain National Park, and if you’ve never camped before this is genuinely a great place to start.
- Paradise on the River
- Elk Meadow Lodge/RV Park
- Hermit Park Open Space
- Spruce Lake RV Park
- Estes Park KOA
- Estes Park Campground at Mary’s Inn
- River Forks Inn
- Manor RV Park at Trout Haven Resorts
- Estes Park Campground at East Portal
- Estes Valley Recreation and Parks District
Camping within Rocky Mountain National Park:
- Aspenglen Campground — reservation required
- Glacier Basin Campground — reservation required
- Moraine Park Campground — reservation required (first-come first-served in winter)
- Timber Creek Campground — reservation required
- Longs Peak Campground — first-come first-served
11. Try S’mores
If you’re staying in Estes Park for a few days, you’ll be glad to know there is a Safeway grocery store in town along with a few smaller local markets. Everything you need for s’mores, camp cooking, or a last-minute picnic is easy to find. Just be sure to check whether open fires are allowed in Rocky Mountain National Park before you go—fire restrictions change seasonally and are strictly enforced.
12. Estes Park Adventures are Epic in the Fall
Fall in Estes Park is something special—the aspens turn a brilliant butter yellow against the Rocky Mountain backdrop and the crowds thin out just enough to make everything feel more relaxed. Temperatures are mild, the sunshine is plentiful, and there is a crispness to the air that makes every outdoor activity feel better.
Whether you’re driving the scenic byways, exploring on horseback, or simply wandering downtown, Estes Park in fall is one of those experiences that makes you want to come back every year.
13. Visit Estes Park with Kids in Winter
Estes Park is not just a summer destination—winter here has its own kind of magic. As the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, the town makes a perfect base for a few days of cold weather fun. Winter hiking, snowshoeing, sledding and tubing at Hidden Valley, snowmobiling in the Rockies, and horseback riding are all on the table.
When you’re done for the day, head back into town for a good meal and maybe a soak in the hot tub at your cabin. Not a bad way to end a winter day in the Rockies.
14. Bundle Up For the “Catch the Glow” Christmas Parade
Every year on the Friday after Thanksgiving, Estes Park hosts the “Catch the Glow” Christmas Parade along Elkhorn Avenue starting at 5:30pm. Expect marching bands, hand-crafted floats, fire trucks—and a surprise guest at the end. It’s one of those small town holiday traditions that sticks with you.
Come prepared for the cold—puffy jackets,snow pants, gloves, a hat, and hand warmers are not optional when you’re standing outside in the Rocky Mountains in late November. If you’re making a weekend of it, check check Booking.com for a cozy cabin rental in town.
15. Estes Park Scenic Drives
Scenic drives are some of the best free things to do in Estes Park—and the options are genuinely spectacular. Chris and I still find new things to appreciate on these routes every single time we visit, and we visit often enough that the America the Beautiful Pass pays for itself every year.
Add the GuideAlong Audio Tour of Rocky Mountain National Park to your drive for stories, history, and hidden gems delivered automatically as you go. Here are the scenic drives worth adding to your Estes Park itinerary:
- Lyons to Estes Park
- Trail Ridge Road
- Old Fall River Road
- Bear Lake Corridor
- Grand Lake
16. Plan Hikes Near Estes Park
With hundreds of trails to choose from in and around Rocky Mountain National Park, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. Your best bet is to head into RMNP where you’ll find dozens of hikes at every skill level—from easy lakeside strolls to challenging summit climbs. Here are eight worth putting on your list:
- Alberta Falls — popular, accessible, stunning waterfall
- Bear Lake Nature Trail — fully accessible, iconic RMNP loop
- Bierstadt Lake — moderate climb with panoramic views
- Deer Mountain Trail — rewarding summit with sweeping Rocky Mountain views
- Lake Haiyaha — stunning turquoise lake, worth every step
- Lily Lake Loop — easy, family friendly, beautiful reflections
- Lumpy Ridge to Gem Lake — unique granite formations, less crowded
- Mills Lake — classic RMNP hike through Glacier Gorge
17. Explore Rocky Mountain National Park
Over the past 25 years my family has lived in Colorado, we have spent countless weekends exploring Rocky Mountain National Park—and it never gets old. US News & Travel ranks it in the top 5 places to visit in Colorado, and honestly that feels like an understatement. Spring, summer, winter, or fall, we have hiked the trails, spotted elk and moose, and yes—camped, though I will freely admit camping is not my favorite activity.
Want to elevate your RMNP experience? The GuideAlong Audio Tour of Rocky Mountain National Park is a location-based audio tour that triggers automatically as you drive—stories, history, and hidden gems delivered right when you need them. If you’re planning to visit multiple national parks, the GuideAlong US Rockies and Plains Bundle is worth checking out.
18. Ride the Mustang Mountain Coaster
The Mustang Mountain Coaster is one of the most thrilling Estes Park adventures you can add to your itinerary—soaring through ponderosa pines on a mountain coaster with stunning Rocky Mountain views. It’s a recent addition to the Estes Park adventure lineup and a perfect option for families and thrill seekers looking for something beyond the usual tourist activities.
19. Rent a Boat on Lake Estes
Lake Estes is one of the most relaxing free things to do in Estes Park—and renting a watercraft makes it even better. Choose from pontoon boats, fishing boats, kayaks, stand up paddleboards, and canoes for a lazy afternoon on the water with Rocky Mountain views in every direction. Just familiarize yourself with the lake’s boating rules before you head out to keep it enjoyable for everyone.
How Do You Get to Estes Park?
Estes Park is about a 90-minute drive from Denver—making it one of the most accessible mountain destinations in Colorado.
Travel by Car
The map above shows the most direct route from Denver and surrounding areas to Estes Park. Come prepared with a National Park Pass and a timed-entry reservation if you’re visiting between May and October. New to mountain driving? My 30 Essential Tips for Driving Through Mountains has you covered.
Travel by Bus
The Bustang bus runs from Union Station in downtown Denver to Estes Park on weekends and holidays from late May through early October—with the option to ride all the way to the Rocky Mountain National Park Park & Ride. Check ridebustang.com for current pricing and availability. Reserve your ticket in advance and select “Pay Cash on Board” if you prefer not to pay online.
Once in the park, free shuttles serve the Bear Lake and Moraine Park areas. And here’s a bonus—Bustang riders do not need a separate RMNP timed-entry reservation.
What is the Weather in Estes Park, Colorado?
While Colorado boasts around 300 days of sunshine annually, Estes Park averages about 238 sunny days per year—with the remaining days bringing some form of precipitation, whether rain, snow, sleet, or hail. Summers are beautiful with comfortable temperatures averaging around 77°F, while winters are considerably colder averaging around 12°F.
Check Weather.com before you arrive so you can pack and plan accordingly—mountain weather can change fast regardless of what the forecast says.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most scenic drive in Estes Park?
Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park is the most popular and scenic drive near Estes Park—crossing the Continental Divide at over 12,000 feet with views that are hard to beat anywhere in Colorado.
Are there grizzly bears in Estes Park?
No—grizzly bears became extinct in Colorado in 1953. You may encounter black bears in and around Estes Park and RMNP, but grizzlies are not among them..
How much does it cost to visit Estes Park?
There is no entrance fee to visit Estes Park itself—it’s a free town to explore. However, entering Rocky Mountain National Park requires a fee, and a timed-entry reservation is required from May through October.
When looking for things to do in Estes Park Colorado, can it get crowded?
Yes—and it has gotten noticeably more crowded since Covid. My family has been visiting Estes Park for 25 years and the tourist traffic has grown steadily every year. Peak crowds run from July through September so plan accordingly if you prefer a quieter visit.
Is Estes Park worth visiting?
Absolutely—Estes Park is one of the most charming small mountain towns in Colorado and the perfect gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or a long weekend, the combination of scenic drives, wildlife, festivals, shops, and outdoor adventures makes it well worth the drive.
What is the best time of year to visit Estes Park?
Summer is the most popular season with warm temperatures and all activities in full swing—but also the biggest crowds. Fall is a favorite for stunning aspen foliage and quieter streets. Winter offers a peaceful, magical experience with snow-covered scenery and the Catch the Glow Christmas parade. Spring is the least visited but equally beautiful as the park comes back to life.
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Your Estes Park Adventure Starts Here
Whether you are visiting Estes Park for the first time or you live nearby and make regular weekend trips, there is always something new to discover. From the iconic Stanley Hotel ghost tour and the rainbow slide at Fun City to scenic drives, wildlife sightings, and the best taffy shop in the country, Estes Park delivers fun things to do for adventurers, couples, families, and friends alike.
Don’t leave without checking off at least these five:
- Take the Stanley Hotel Ghost Tour
- Ride the Rainbow Slide at Fun City
- Browse the shops on Elkhorn Avenue
- Enjoy homemade ice cream, fudge and saltwater taffy
- Ride the Mustang Mountain Coaster
Before you head out, grab my free Colorado Road Trip Packing List so you show up prepared for every stop along the way—including Estes Park.
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This looks amazing! I’ll add the park to my wishlist for when I visit Colorado!
Pretty sure you’ll be glad you did.
I would LOVE to visit Colorado one day! If I do I will definitely add Estes Park to my itinerary – looks like you had an amazing time!
We live close and love to visit throughout the year.
This looks an amazing place to visit with and without the kids
Such great timing! I am planning a trip to Estes Park for September! Thanks for all the great tips!
Perfect. I hope you love it.
Looks like an amazing destination to explore when I make the trip to the U.S. I’ve saved this page, thanks for this detailed guide
Agreed. We love Estes Park.
The more and more I see about the gorgeous nature in the US, the more I think I need to plan a road trip there!
Well, pretty much you DO need to plan a trip here.
Love this area of Colorado. You’ve laid out plenty of things to do for visitors, too. 🙂
It is blessing to be explore so much in Colorado!
Living in Colorado looks like a dream! It’s also great that Estes Park is free to visit, really enjoyed reading about all the incredible things you can see and do especially all the beautiful nature and wildlife!
The whole time I was reading through, I was thinking I hadn’t heard of Estes Park, then I got to the part about the Stanley Hotel – I’ve been there! I visited about 7 years ago; thanks for reminding me about that fun trip ?. I would love to go back in the fall and experience some of those festivals, though! Xx Sara
Ahh, the Stanley Hotel is a draw for so many people.
I’ve got Estes Park on my list! So much to do! Especially want to tour the Stanley Hotel and go hiking here.
My husband and I have spent hours hiking in the Rocky Mountains.
I’m really hoping I’m able to visit this part of the US one day. I love being outdoors in the winter and I’m happy to hear that Estes Park is doing its part in combatting climate change.
I am certain you would love it.
Looks like there is a lot to do in estes park! I think I would most enjoy the river walk and spotting some wildlife 🙂
There is plenty of elk and such that wander into the townsite too.
Estes is one of the best mountain towns around! Thanks for sharing all the great stuff to do here!
Yep. It is a favorite of ours.
We really do need to plan a visit to Colorado. And as the “best mountain town” we would certainly want to visit Estes Park. Love the variety of festivals. Great to plan around one of them.
They have lots too. Seems like you could always find something awesome to enjoy
I’ll be heading to the Denver area hopefully in a couple months so I will definitely put Estes Park on my list. Would love to explore the Stanley Hotel, and of course all the fun outdoor activities
You’ll love it.
It is a treasure.
My brother has a cabin in Grand Lake, on the other side of Rocky Mountain National Park, so that’s the side I have always visited. I know that Estes Park is bigger though and clearly there is a lot to do. I’ll have to check out that side sometime
It isn’t too far and the drive up and over Trail Ridge Road is pretty cool. Have you ever hiked East Inlet? If not, it is amazing.
I didn’t realize Estes Park was so close to Rocky Mountain NP and the home of the Stanley Hotel. Being a fan of The Shining, I’d definitely have to do the tour of the hotel.
The Shining is a big draw for sure.
I love Estes Park and just realized that I haven’t been at all this year – my favorite time of year is the fall so I will be sure to get up there soon! Great post!
Leaves should start changing soon.
I really enjoyed reading this article. It’s so family-friendly and the photos look like everyone is having a blast!
Thanks. We definitely enjoy our mountain time.
Fun City looks like a blast! But as desert dwellers, my family would love to visit in the winter and play in the snow! The sledding sounds like so much fun!
Well this is crazy because my husband and I were just talking about planning a summer trip to Boulder and this would be perfect too. Thanks for the great suggestions.
That rainbow slide looks so fun! Some great tips here and sounds like the perfect place to go with the family.
What an informative post! Looks like an amazing place to visit, definitely one for my list!
Forget being a kid who wants to go on the slides. I want to ride the rainbow slides. What a deal at $2!
This looks so fun! I’ve only ever been to Estes Pain in the winter, but I’ll have to plan a trip back.
Colorado is so beautiful! I would love to go on the spooky tour and enjoy the scenic drives.
Colorado is gorgeous! We visited Estes Park about 25 years ago. It looks like it has really taken off since then. I remember it being so charming. No wonder it’s getting so much recognition.
Great suggestions! I haven’t been to Colorado in years. I think I want to go back!
We’ve never done the Stanley Hotel ghost tour–sounds like fun, and a great way to see this historic hotel.