Estes Park, often referred to as the Gateway to the Rockies, is a quaint, yet delightful mountain retreat in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. If you were to Google “Colorado Resorts Estes Park”, you might just discover that it is ranked by US News & Travel among the best mountain towns to visit in the USA.
Most days from Memorial Day until Labor Day, the streets are bustling with tourists. Weekends are especially popular in this mountain retreat.
The main street of Estes Park is lined with cute tourist shops if you are looking for the perfect Estes Park memento or dining experience. And if you have a sweet tooth for fudge, ice cream or salt water taffy, well, you won’t be disappointed. Discover all of the FUN things to do in Estes Park Colorado for an unforgettable mountain retreat.
17 Super Fun Things to Do In Estes Park Colorado
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Both the town of Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park are two of the top Colorado destinations for families, hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and photographers alike. They pretty much go hand in hand and both are fun places to visit in Colorado in the summer, winter, spring and fall.
The New York Times lists Estes Park as one of the 52 places around the world where you can be a part of the solution to climate change. As a winter destination with no ski lifts, it lowers the carbon footprint and encourages visitors to get out and enjoy the snow.
1. Take the Ghost Tour at the Stanley Hotel Mountain Retreat
The Stanley Hotel, built in 1909 by Freelan Stanley (of the Stanley Steemer fame), sits on a hill overlooking the town of Estes Park, nestled in the Rocky Mountains. It is a grand hotel with modern amenities while also emanating an old-world charm.
If you have ever watched the movie, “Somewhere in Time“, you might just see some similarities with the stately white-pillared architecture and red roof of the Stanley. It feels as though you could step back in time as you walk through the front door of this landmark hotel.
Whether you visit as a guest of the hotel, enjoy the grounds, dine with family and friends, or take the guided Ghost Tour through underground tunnels, you will quickly see why this hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
2. Ride the Rainbow Slide at Fun City Estes Park
Our girls have always loved stopping at Fun City Estes Park to ride the iconic rainbow slide. In fact, there might have been a little bribery related to the rainbow slide! “If you will hike with us without complaining, we will stop at the slides when we are done.” (Feel free to borrow that little bit of parenting wisdom.)
If you love a little adventure and aren’t afraid of heights, this could be your kind of fun. At only $2 per person per ride, it is a budget-friendly activity.
You can also ride the bumper boats and cars, strap into the bungee trampoline, try a little miniature golf, challenge your friends to go-kart racing, or try out the water walking balls.
If you choose the bumper boats at Fun City Estes Park, prepare to get wet. The boats have a central steering column that also sports a water gun. Let the fun begin.
3. Meander Along the Estes Park Riverwalk
The Big Thompson River and Fall River converge along the Estes Park Riverwalk. Enjoy the serenity of the river as you wind your way through downtown Estes Park.
4. Spot Wildlife
No doubt a trip to Estes Park isn’t complete without a few animal sightings. Elk are a common sight even within the town of Estes. You may also spot mule deer, bighorn sheep, bears, a variety of large cats, otters, squirrels, chipmunks, and over 250 species of birds around Estes Park and within Rocky Mountain National Park.
While they are awesome and often majestic to look at, it is illegal to feed the animals. Some people seem to forget that.
And don’t be like the crazy people we see who get out of their vehicles to get a closer look at the elk, bears, and moose!
5. Ride the Estes Park Aerial Tramway
The Estes Park Aerial Tramway, designed by Robert Heron, carries passengers to the summit of Prospect Mountain. The Tramway opened to the public in July of 1955. Since then, more than 3 million people have enjoyed the view from the summit.
…Mr. Heron traveled to Europe to study the tramways and became more fascinated with their design and capabilities. Because of the steep terrain, many trams in Europe do not require any towers to support the wire ropes. The entire length is a free span between the bottom and the top stations. The Estes Park Aerial Tramway utilizes this design. A free span is fairly uncommon in the United States and this type of design affords a very smooth ride. ~ Estes Park Aerial Tramway
Did the Tramway Shut Down Recently?
In 2023, the tram shut down after the passing of John Heron (son of Robert Heron). The Tram was purchased from the Heron family in early 2024 by Gondola Adventures and they have brought the tram back to life with everything you once loved!
When did the Tramway Reopen?
The grand re-opening for the tram took place on May 25, 2024 to usher in the beginning of the summer season in the Estes Park mountain retreat. The tram is open daily through September and will remain open for the season until weekends in October.
Are There Any New Improvements?
The red iconic gondola cars, the symbols of the nearly 70-year-old tramway, are still in use. You’ll find improvements at both the top and bottom stations to help improve your experience.
Can You Buy Tickets Online?
Definitely. Tickets are available at Estes Tram.
What Services Are At the Top of the Tramway?
Of course there are amazing vistas to see from the viewing platform as well as the Hungry Chipmunk Cafe, a gift shop, free pinball, bathrooms facilities, picnic areas, and some hiking trails. You are also welcome to bring your own snacks or picnic lunch.
Can You Hike to the Top of Prospect Mountain?
Yessiree! The hike to the summit of Prospect Mountain should take about 15 to 20 minutes from the upper tram station. The terrain is fairly easy to navigate.
6. Shop Downtown Estes Park
With over 300 shops to choose from, shopping is always one of the fun things to do in Estes Park. Meander up and down Elkhorn Avenue looking for a new sweatshirt, exploring art shops, or discovering local artisans and crafters.
The tourist stores in Estes Park include:
- Homemade candy, ice cream and fudge
- Adventure gear rental
- Adventure gear outfitters
- Clothing
- Art
- Local arts and crafts
- Christmas decorations
7. Attend Estes Park Festivals
There are festival all year long that offer something for everyone. If you aren’t interested in the Stanley Hotel Ghost Tour, come and enjoy the festivals in downtown Estes Park.
Fall and 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 and 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 the restaurants in Estes Park:
- Mama Rose’s at 338 W Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517
- Poppy’s Pizza and Grill at 342 E Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517
- Penelope’s Old Time Burgers at 229 W Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517
- Antonio’s Real New York Pizza at 1560 Big Thompson Ave., Estes Park, CO 80517
- Casa Grande Mexican Restaurant at 220 E. Elkhorn Avenue, Estes Park, Co, 80538
- The Egg of Estes at 393 E Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517
If you plan to enter Rocky Mountain National Park, pack a picnic lunch or stop at the local Subway or Jimmy Johns for sandwiches.
These are only a sampling of cafes and restaurants available in Estes Park. There is sure to be something for everyone in this mountain retreat.
9. Book a Place to Stay in Estes Park
You won’t find a lot of big name hotels in Estes Park, but there are plenty of bed and breakfasts, lodges, cottages, cabins, vacation rentals or apartments to rent. Check Booking.com for your next trip to Estes Park.
10. Camp in Estes Park
Camping is definitely one of the things to do in Estes Park and is an adventure you should try if you have never camped before. Camping options include:
- 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
There are also camping available within Rocky Mountain National Park:
- Aspenglen Campground – reservation required
- Glacier Basin Campground – reservation required
- Moraine Park Campground – reservation required (available first-come first-served in winter)
- Timber Creek Campground – reservation required
- Longs Peak Campground – available first-come first-served
11. Try S’mores
If you plan to stay in Estes Park for a few days and are coming from out of town, you will be happy to know that there is a Safeway grocery store in Estes Park along with a few smaller local markets. You can find all of your s’mores ingredients, camping, cooking, and barbecuing food needs here. If you decide to go for a picnic at the last minute, you’ll definitely find what you need.
Be sure to check if open fires are allowed in Rocky Mountain National Park before you go.
12. Visit Estes Park in the Fall
Yes!
One of the distinctive features of the Colorado Rockies in the fall is the brilliant butter yellow color of the turning aspens. You’ll find milder temperatures, still lots of sunshine, and a crisp feel to the air.
Whether you are on horseback, hiking, riding a mountain bike, or driving the scenic byways, Colorado doesn’t disappoint when it comes to fall color!
Searching for things to do in Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park on a fall afternoon is the perfect way to spend the day in this mountain retreat.
13. Visit Estes Park, Colorado in Winter
Don’t just limit yourself to visiting Estes Park in the summertime, there are plenty of things to do in Estes Park in winter too!
As the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, you should come to Estes Park for a few days of winter fun with your family. You’ll find everything from winter hiking, snowshoeing, sledding and tubing at Hidden Valley, snowmobiling, and horseback riding.
When you’re finished for the day, return to Estes Park for some good food and maybe a soak in the hot tub at your cabin.
14. Bundle Up For the “Catch the Glow” Christmas Parade
Every year on the Friday after Thanksgiving Day, the Estes Park “Catch the Glow” Christmas Parade takes place. Find a spot along Elkhorn Avenue for the 5:30 pm start time. You’ll find all of your standard parade features with marching bands, hand-crafted floats, and fire trucks… ending with a surprise guest.
Be sure to bundle up with puffy jackets, snow pants, gloves and a hat. Hand warmers would be helpful too. Estes Park is in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and temperatures will be chilly in this mountain retreat.
If you plan to spend a few days in Estes Park, check Booking.com for a cozy cabin to rent.
15. Estes Park Scenic Drives
If you come to visit our family, chances are good that we will take you to visit Estes Park and spend a relaxing day driving in Rocky Mountain National Park and exploring this mountain retreat. We still find fun, new things to do in Estes Park Colorado each time we visit!
We visit the national park so often that we always purchase the annual America the Beautiful—The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass.
Estes Park offers scenic drives, so be sure to plan time to enjoy some awesome mountain scenery and get your reservations in advance!
- Lyons to Estes Park
- Trail Ridge Road
- Fall River Road
- Bear Lake Corridor
- Grand Lake
16. Plan Hikes Near Estes Park
There are hundreds of trails and hikes in Colorado near Denver and Estes Park to choose from; it might be hard to know where to start or which hike to choose.
Your best bet is to plan to visit Rocky Mountain National Park while exploring Estes Park where you’ll find dozens of hikes at differing skill levels. Refer to my post on the 25 Best Hikes in Colorado Near Denver to determine location and skill levels.
- Alberta Falls
- Bear Lake Nature Trail
- Bierstadt Lake
- Black Lake
- Deer Mountain Trail
- East Inlet Trailhead to Lone Pine Lake
- Lake Haiyaha
- Lake Isabelle
- Lily Pad Lake Trail
- Lily Lake Loop
- Lumpy Ridge to Gem Lake
- Mills Lake and Loch Vale
- Mitchell Lake
- Mount Margaret Trail
- Odessa Lake
- Ouzel Lake
- Ypsilon Lake
17. Explore Rocky Mountain National Park
Over the past twenty years that my family has lived in Colorado, we have spent many weekends discovering all of the best things to do in Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park.
It is no wonder as the US News-Travel suggests that Rocky Mountain National Park is in the top 5 places to visit in Colorado.
Spring, summer, winter, or fall, we have hiked numerous trails, camped (though I do not love camping!), found things to do in Estes Park, and challenged each other to see who could spot the first elk or moose.
If you want to elevate your experience while in the park, try a GuideAlong Self-Guided Audio Tour. The GuideAlong Audio Tour of Rocky Mountain National Park is fantastic.
How Do You Get to Estes Park?
Estes Park is approximately a 90-minute drive from Denver, Colorado.
Travel by Car
If you have access to a car or are planning to rent a car for your visit, the above map shows the most direct route from Denver (and surrounding areas) to Estes Park. You will need to have a National Park Pass to enter Rocky Mountain National Park as well as a timed-entry reservation if you are visiting between May and October. (See below).
Check out my 30 Best Tips for Driving in the Mountains.
Travel by Bus
Ride the Bustang bus from Union Station in the heart of downtown Denver all the way to Estes Park (or on to Rocky Mountain National Park) on weekends and holidays from the end of May until the first of October.
Tickets to ride the Bustang bus to the Estes Park mountain retreat are only $5.00 each way from Denver (also from Westminster and Boulder, and $3.00 each way from Lyons) and are about 2 1/2 hours each way.
PLEASE NOTE: Tickets must be reserved in advance to save your seat. Plan to pay with cash? Select the “Pay Cash on Board” option as your ticket type when you begin the reservation process.
If you choose, you can get off the bus and find things to do in Estes Park, (located near the park’s east entrance) or ride the bus all the way to the park n’ ride in Rocky Mountain National Park in the Bear Lake Corridor. Here you will transfer to the free Bear Lake or Moraine Park shuttles to explore more of the park.
If you choose to get off in Estes Park first but still want to enter the park later, you can make a reservation on the park’s Hiker Shuttle.
Bonus! If you ride the bus, you will not need to purchase an additional Rocky Mountain National Park timed entry reservation.
What is the Weather Like in Estes Park, Colorado?
While Colorado boasts 300 days of sunshine every year, if you are visiting Estes Park, those sunshine days total approximately 238 days. On the other 118 days of the year, Estes receives some measurable precipitation in the form of rain, snow, sleet or hail.
Be sure to check Weather.com before you arrive to know how to best pack and plan for your stay in Estes Park.
Summers in Estes Park are beautiful with comfortable temperatures that average approximately 77°F. Winters are much colder with an average temperature of 12°F.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most scenic drive in Estes Park?
One of the most popular AND scenic drives near Estes Park is Trail Ridge Road in the national park.
Are there grizzly bears in Estes Park?
No. While the Rocky Mountains of Colorado used to be home to grizzly bears, the bears became extinct in Colorado in 1953.
How much does it cost to visit Estes Park?
There is no entrance fee to visit Estes Park. It is a small tourist town and mountain retreat. However, Estes Park borders Rocky Mountain National Park, and there is a fee to enter the national park.
When looking for things to do in Estes Park Colorado, can it get crowded?
Yes. Over the past twenty plus years that our family has been visiting Estes Park, the tourist traffic has grown steadily. The biggest jump has occurred since Covid. People visit Estes Park all year long, but the biggest crowds will be in the peak season from July to September.
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Final Thoughts on 17 Super Fun Things to Do in Estes Park Colorado
Whether you are a first-timer to Estes Park or you live close by and like to visit on the weekends, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Estes Park that will be fun for adventurers, couples, families, and friends.
Plan your next vacation to Colorado and don’t forget to include these Top Five Things to do In Estes Park:
- Take the Stanley Hotel “Spooky” Ghost Tour
- Ride the Rainbow Slide at Fun City
- Browse the Tourist Shops
- Enjoy homemade ice cream, fudge and toffee
- Attend a festival
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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.