11 Amazing Colorado Day Trips That Are Worth The Drive

Over 77 million people traveled through the Denver, Colorado airport in 2023 alone. Needless to say, it is clear that Denver is a popular travel spot, whether visitors are just passing through or are staying to soak in all that the city and surrounding Rocky Mountains have to offer. Whether you live in Denver or you are planning a trip, check out these 11 amazing day trips that are worth the drive. From adventures in the beautiful outdoors to rich cultural experiences to some good old-fashioned family fun, you can find a day trip (or 11!) that fits your preferences, all under 2-3 hours away from Denver International Airport.

Boulder Mountain Park (40 min)

Boulder Mountain Park is the perfect day trip from Denver because it promises an escape from the city. Talk about a mountaintop experience--you will not believe your eyes when you soak in the panoramic views from the mountaintop. The park attracts both eager hikers and those who just want to drive up to the viewpoints, with dozens of trailheads throughout the 45,000 acres of rugged land. In the late spring and summer, the hillsides and meadows will be dotted with wildflowers, and in the winter and early spring, you just might get to throw a snowball while you're there with the stunning snow-covered vistas.

Denver Butterfly Pavilion (30 minutes)

Not only is the Butterfly Pavilion pretty unique, but according to their website, it is also one of a kind. The Butterfly Pavilion is the "first stand-alone Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited non-profit invertebrate zoo in the world." Over 1,600 butterflies live there, and you can meet over 5,000 animals and insects while you are there, from bees to octopuses to Rosie, the famous tarantula! Enjoy watching butterflies of all colors and sizes thrive in their environment--all from within the city of Denver.

Evergreen Lake (35 min)

Arguably, the most magical time to go to Evergreen Lake is when it's frozen over in the winter months for ice skating or playing hockey. In fact, Evergreen Park & Recreation District boasts the world's largest Zamboni-groomed outdoor ice rink. Over 8.5 acres of solid ice are divided into ten hockey rinks and an extremely large public skating rink. However, there are many other fun and amazing recreational activities to do in the other seasons. For instance, in the summer, you can bring or rent a boat to cruise around the lake or go paddleboarding. Whether you're looking for a peaceful, scenic experience at the lake surrounded by tall trees or a fun water- (or ice!) filled adventure, Evergreen Lake has it all.

Denver Botanical Gardens (30 min)

Denver's Botanical Gardens have been considered a family favorite by many families in the Denver area, and for good reason. The botanical garden is spread out over 24 acres and has a conservatory, multiple theme gardens, and a sunken amphitheater--perfect for summertime open-air concerts. In the fall, you can even get lost in their 7-acre corn maze. This day trip also offers cultural enrichment with the international gardens inspired by Japan, China, and the Tropics. If you want to stroll through the gardens and admire the abundant plant life and flowers as a means of relaxing and getting away from the hustle of the city, Denver's Botanical Gardens are the perfect getaway for you. If you want to have a little fun or learn a little while you're there, they provide that, too, with interactive, engaging exhibitions and original art displays.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (1 hr 20 min)

If you're looking to go "wild" on a fun-filled adventure day trip, check out the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Have you ever gone to a zoo that's located at an elevation of 6,714 feet above sea level? There's something... refreshing about that crisp mountain air--as well as watching creatures lounge in homes that mirror their natural habitat across all 146 acres. In fact, Cheyenne's Zoo is so loved that it was named #5 Best Zoo in North America by USA TODAY. Not only is it educational, teaching you about animals you may not have known existed, but it is a great activity for people of all ages. If you're looking to spice up your zoo experience, you can pay to feed all kinds of wild animals, from a giraffe to an elephant to a rhino! Watch the African Lions demonstration and then waddle over to hear the penguin keeper talk. Fun for the whole family! Afterward, head to nearby Colorado Springs for lunch before driving back to Denver.

Breckenridge (1 hr 55 min)

Breckenridge may be known for its ski resort, but it is loved for far more than the slopes. The small Colorado town has something to offer everyone and is certainly worth a day trip from Denver in any and every season. Early gold rush settlers found gold on August 10, 1859, but they certainly were not the last people to see the worth in exploring the beautiful area. It has a bustling downtown with a charming Main Street, all surrounded by five towering peaks. There is also a lake close by called Sawmill Reservoir. Visitors can incorporate a diversity of experiences during their day trip, from shopping in old-fashioned stores to hiking (or skiing) in the mountains to taking a stroll around the lake.

Pearl Street Mall (40 min)

Looking to do a bit of shopping with the brightly colored tulips and Rocky Mountains as your backdrop? From an adorable old bookshop to quirky thrift stores to local boutiques and hole-in-the-wall restaurants, the Pearl Street Mall is at the heart of Boulder. This historic four-block mall is a cultural attraction in and of itself. It offers something for everyone--readers, shoppers, history buffs, and those who appreciate a good view outdoors. And if none of that entices you, surely the promise of scrumptious food and delicious ice cream for dessert will. You'll feel like you are a world away from Denver, but you are really less than an hour's drive away.

Georgetown Loop Railroad (1 hr 11 min)

There is something utterly captivating and magical about riding in a steam engine from the 1880s through the Colorado Rockies. Your ride will transport you in time and immerse you in what life was like over a century ago. Learn about the history of gold panning and silver mining--and then try panning for gold yourself! It is one of Colorado’s most authentic living museums. Once you’re finished with the ride, visit Georgetown, which has well-kept Victorian homes and engaging museums, or take a self-guided walking tour of the historic town. The area is so chock-full of quaint, historic buildings that it was named a National Historic Landmark District in 1966. If you prefer to spend your day trip outdoors, there are plenty of hiking trails for all abilities and mountain fishing holes in the area, too.

Garden of the Gods (1 hr 15 min)

Located just outside of Colorado Springs, the majestic sandstone formations found within the Garden of the Gods public and recreational park will blow you away. You won't believe you are barely an hour outside of the city. The wild and rugged landscape will leave you gaping at the beauty of nature no matter the season. Not to mention, it is free--talk about a cheap day trip! Do not forget to load up your mountain bike (or road bike) so you can ride through the terrain on one of the many trails. If you prefer a guided tour, you can sign up and pay for a Jeep, segway, or a bike tour. The park also offers technical rock climbing. There is definitely a reason over 4 million people visited the National Natural Landmark in 2022. This is a one-day trip you do not want to miss.

Fort Collins (1 hr 15 min)

Fort Collins offers a variety of entertainment options for your day trip out of Denver. The historic downtown is a must, particularly for shoppers and history buffs. If you like beer, the town’s craft beer selections alone will likely compel a visit. Fort Collins produces 70% of the craft beer made in the state of Colorado. You can tour a brewery or enjoy a drink at one of the delicious local restaurants. Hoping to exercise while you are there? The city’s terrain is also reasonably flat, so bring your bike just in case you get the urge to bike around town, following the trails to the Cache la Poudre River and Spring Creek. Fort Collins has over 285 trails and bike lanes in the area, making it one of only five cities in the United States to be a platinum-level, bike-friendly city. There are dozens of other outdoor activities you (and your family) can partake in, from golfing to riding horses to canoeing.

Rocky Mountain National Park

The Rocky Mountain National Park is an iconic day trip from Denver, and there is no question as to why. The park has over 4.5 million visitors each year, making it one of the most popular national parks in the United States. Adventure in the park your way, whether that be just driving through with the windows down to see the elk, bighorn sheep, moose, and more wildlife out your window, pulling out your hiking boots to traverse one of the 350 trails up mountain peaks or alongside the lake, casting a reel in one of over 50 lakes and streams, or horseback riding in the park. Regardless of what you do, you cannot go wrong. Make sure to pack a snack or a picnic lunch so you will have something to munch on while you play in the great outdoors! The park is open all day, every day of the year, so you can take your magical day trip whenever you want.

While the city of Denver has many activities and attractions you can enjoy, one of its greatest perks lies in the city's proximity to so many amazing day-trip-worthy sites. Whether you decide to escape within the city or venture outside the city limits, there are dozens of unbelievably stunning and memorable family-friendly destinations that you must visit. No matter the time of year, you can pack your day bag and hit the road to go on a thrilling adventure--but without having to travel far. Whether your interest is primarily in exploring nature, learning more about Colorado's history or rich culture, or simply some special family time, these day trips have you covered.