Colorado is Calling: How to Plan the Perfect Weekend Getaway
Escape to the mountains for 48 hours. You’ll thank me later. But where should you go? What is a MUST see? Here’s a few tips and tricks on how to make the most out of 48 hours in Denver, Colorado.
Your flight is booked to Denver Airport. Now what? Well, an Airbnb of course. Here is a glimpse of the Cowboy Cottage located just outside Denver (about 30 minutes from the airport… everything in Colorado is 30 minutes away, so don’t let this scare you). Located in a town called Northglenn, you’re in the perfect location. Comfortable, safe, and easy to get to and from.
Next is renting a car - which I highly recommend. To be honest, I could have drove thru the mountains the entire trip and been happy as a clam. You just never know what you’ll stumble on!
JUST JAC TIP: Rental cars were expensive. We used an app called Turo, which being from New York, I was unfamiliar with. It’s essentially an Airbnb for cars. Super seamless and easy with contactless pick-up. RENT THE JEEP. TAKE THE TOP OFF. CRUISE. Let’s just say, I was ready to buy a red jeep when I got home.
So the best part about Colorado, is you really don’t need to “plan” anything. Map out the sites you want to see and go for it. Here are my top 3 spots you should add to your itinerary …
Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs
Take the ride. About 1.5hr from Denver, be sure to check out the Garden of the Gods. A picturesque spot with easy trails… Look at Shan taking a selfie in the rocks! If you’re lucky, you may even run into Dennis the pet Emu, or curious bighorn sheep peeping out from the rocks (we got to see 3!).
Once you’ve gotten your hiking fill, drive over to Manitou Springs, just down the road. Grab a beer or some ice cream, in this cute little Colorado town filled with shops. It actually looked right out of a movie set. We stumbled upon D’Vine Winery and of course had to do a tasting of their Blueberry Moscato and Banana Coconut Pinot Grigio. Sample (4) wines for $6 - a steal. Warning, may cause you to buy the wine and check your bag on the way home.
2. Boulder, Colorado
A staple if you’re in Colorado. Head over to Pearl Street for a ton of restaurants and shopping. If you rented the Jeep, and want to drive around… Take the ride through the mountains. Be sure to stop at Boulder Creek and check out the waterfall. We drove as far as the town Nederland, where we found this beautiful lake. Pull over to take it all in. Keep your eyes peels on the rocks - You will see those adventurous climbers!
JUST JAC TIP: Looking for a Brunch spot? Check out The Buff. You can’t go wrong with the potato/egg skillets or the bacon pancakes… Oh and need I say more… quart size Bloody Mary’s!
3. Red Rocks Amphitheater
One word. Iconic. With concerts almost every weekend, this venue is a must see. Nestled into the mountains, this music venue is truly one of kind. To be honest, we didn’t care who was playing - We had to go. Big Gigantic played Saturday night - The picture below pretty much says it all.
At the top, you’ll find food and drink stands and even a museum where you can see all the hall of famers who have played at Red Rocks.
Red Rocks Amphitheater
JUST JAC TIP: Wear comfortable shoes. Red Rocks sits ~6000 ft high, and yes, you have to walk to get there.
If you weren’t ready to book the trip before, I hope you are now! If you’re interested in my 2-day itinerary to have your trip at your fingertips, you can download by clicking below.