5 Denver Day Trips

One of the beautiful benefits of living in the Denver area is the plethora of outdoor activities.  Here are five diverse day trips either in Denver or close to Denver sure to appeal to visitors and locals alike.

Rockies Game at Coors Field

As you can see from the Coors Field photo, even the “bad” seats afford a nice look at the diamond.  The surrounding, Ball Park neighborhood, serve up some fun sports bars for before or after a game.  Of course, the stadium fare isn’t bad either.  Learn more about the Rockies at: Colorado Rockies Baseball.

Manitou Springs, located South of Denver outside of Colorado Springs

Andy Newman, penned a wonderful article on Manitou Springs entitled, in Colorado, a “Hippy Mayberry” that can be read here:  New York Times Travel.  This perfectly apt description speaks to the fact that Manitou Springs is probably the sole town in Colorado where the scent (odor?) of patchouli oil mingles in the air with the scent of ice creams and chocolates.

Manitou is nestled above Colorado Springs and close to Garden of the Gods and Cave of the Winds.  It’s proximity to Denver makes it the perfect day trip for families, couples and singles alike.

Additional information can be found here: Manitou Springs Chamber of Commerce. 

Denver Botanical Gardens

The gardens at the urban location on York Street are beyond breathtaking.  The addition of the Henry Moore sculptures exhibit, intermingled amongst the gardens, enhances the experience.  The Deer Creek Canyon location in Littleton looks inviting although I have not yet had the pleasure of a visit.

Learn more about Denver Botanical Gardens (both locations) at:  Denver Botanical Gardens.

Chatfield State Park

A short drive from downtown Denver, Chatfield State Park, offers: boating, a place for the dogs to romp, swimming, hiking and camping.

Visit: Chatfield State Park for details.

Elitch Gardens Theme Park

The urban setting makes Elitch Gardens a unique place to visit an amusement park.  Light Rail makes entering and exiting the park a breeze.

For hours and additional information click here: Elitch Gardens Amusement Park.