Spring break is the perfect time for a family road trip! If you’re looking for an easy getaway without a long drive, here are some fantastic destinations within 100 miles of Arvada, Wheat Ridge, or Golden. These kid-friendly spots offer outdoor fun, history, and adventure, making them perfect for a memorable spring break!
 |
1. Rocky Mountain National Park (Approx. 60 miles - 1.5-hour drive)
- Enjoy breathtaking mountain views and easy family-friendly hikes like Bear Lake or Sprague Lake.
- Look for elk, deer, and other wildlife on Trail Ridge Road (open seasonally).
- Visit Estes Park for saltwater taffy, the historic Stanley Hotel, and the Estes Park Aerial Tramway (seasonal).
2. Garden of the Gods & Colorado Springs (Approx. 75 miles - 1.5-hour drive)
- Walk or bike among the stunning red rock formations at Garden of the Gods.
- Visit the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, home to over 750 animals and an interactive giraffe-feeding area.
- Explore Cave of the Winds for a family-friendly cave tour and adventure ropes course.
- Stop by the Manitou Cliff Dwellings to see ancient Ancestral Puebloan homes.
3. Nederland & Eldora Mountain Resort (Approx. 45 miles - 1-hour drive)
- Ride the historic Carousel of Happiness, a hand-carved indoor carousel.
- Visit the Wild Bear Nature Center for fun nature exhibits and trails.
- If you’re up for a snowy adventure, go skiing at Eldora Mountain Resort.
4. St. Mary's Glacier (Approx. 50 miles - 1-hour drive)
- A short 1.5-mile round-trip hike leads to a beautiful glacier and alpine lake.
- Kids can play in the snow year-round, so bring a sled for extra fun!
- Pack a picnic and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
5. Idaho Springs & Mount Evans Scenic Byway (Approx. 35 miles - 45-minute drive)
- Relax in the warm waters of Indian Hot Springs, which has a family-friendly indoor pool.
- Ride the Argo Mill & Tunnel Tour to learn about Colorado’s gold mining history.
- Enjoy some famous Colorado-style mountain pizza at Beau Jo’s.
- In warmer months, drive up Mount Evans for spectacular views and possible mountain goat sightings.
6. Fort Collins & Horsetooth Reservoir (Approx. 75 miles - 1.5-hour drive)
- Take a kid-friendly hike at Horsetooth Reservoir with scenic water views.
- Visit The Farm at Lee Martinez Park, a hands-on petting farm with pony rides.
- Stroll through Old Town Fort Collins for toy stores, an old-fashioned candy shop, and live entertainment.
7. Georgetown & Guanella Pass (Approx. 45 miles - 1-hour drive)
- Ride the Georgetown Loop Railroad, a historic steam train with fun mining tours.
- Visit the Georgetown Energy Museum for interactive exhibits on hydroelectric power.
- Stop at the Georgetown Valley Candy Company for handmade chocolates and taffy.
8. Boulder & Chautauqua Park (Approx. 25 miles - 45-minute drive)
- Take a family-friendly hike at Chautauqua Park with scenic Flatirons views.
- Visit Pearl Street Mall, where kids can watch street performers and explore toy shops.
- Check out Fiske Planetarium for space-themed shows and hands-on science exhibits.
9. Golden Gate Canyon State Park (Approx. 20 miles - 30-minute drive)
- Hike kid-friendly trails like Blue Grouse Trail, which is stroller-friendly.
- Look for wildlife, including deer and foxes, while enjoying a scenic picnic.
- Bring fishing gear and try catching trout in Kriley Pond.
10. Lair o’ the Bear Park (Approx. 25 miles - 45-minute drive)
- A great spot for a short, easy hike along Bear Creek with plenty of spots to splash in the water.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy the shaded tables by the creek.
- Kids can look for birds, squirrels, and other wildlife along the trail.
These quick and easy spring break road trips are perfect for making the most of your time off with the kids. Pack some snacks, bring a camera, and enjoy the beauty of Colorado!
