Looking for some fun day trips from Boulder, Colorado to drive your weekend plans?
Boulder is one of the largest cities in Colorado and home to the University of Colorado.
It is located just 35 mins outside of Denver in the foothills of the Rockies.
Boulder’s location puts it within easy driving distance of several historic attractions, sprawling urban cities, world class ski resorts, hiking trails, and natural landmarks.
Here is an ultimate guide to planning the best day trips from Boulder, CO.
Also Read: 27 Best things to do in Boulder, Colorado
Best Day Trips from Boulder, Colorado
The options for day trips from Boulder are vast and cover a variety of interests.
Culture lovers can see the museums in Denver or visit the place where Gold Rush began, Idaho Springs.
Road trippers can drive the Trail Ridge Road through the Rocky Mountains.
Love hiking? Hike to the see the waterfall near Estes Park or the troll of Breckenridge.
Tour the Coors Brewery in Golden, see the dinosaur fossils in Morrison, or tie a love lock in Loveland!
In the winter, go skiing or ice fishing in Frisco.
Here are the best Boulder day trips to plan on a perfect sunny day or in the thick of winter!
Denver
The #1 of day trips from Boulder!
Denver, the capital of Colorado, is a mere 30-minute drive from Boulder, making it an ideal destination for day trippers.
With an extensive array of attractions, Denver seamlessly blends urban sophistication with outdoor recreation.
The city is home to a number of acclaimed museums such as the Denver Art Museum, featuring over 60,000 works of art, and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, which has a planetarium and an IMAX theater.
The Colorado State Capitol building is a must-see, while the 16th Street pedestrian mall offers plenty of shopping and dining options.
For sports fans, the Mile High City houses several professional sports teams, and a visit to Coors Field for a baseball game or Mile High Stadium for a football match is a must.
For a taste of Denver’s vibrant food scene, stop by Larimer Square, the city’s oldest block, lined with gourmet restaurants and trendy boutiques.
Complete your day with a stroll through the Denver Botanic Gardens or a visit to the Denver Zoo, located in City Park.
Estes Park
Estes Park, a fun day trip for Boulder residents, is just over an hour’s drive away.
This Colorado town is famed for its proximity to the Rocky Mountain National Park.
However the town has its own attractions.
Elk Street in downtown Estes Park has pretty architecture and is a fun place for a stroll.
Here, you will find a variety of shops and restaurants, providing ample opportunity to refuel after a day of exploration.
For those interested in history, the Stanley Hotel provides an intriguing glance into the past.
This grand, historic hotel inspired Stephen King’s ‘The Shining’ and offers daily tours for visitors.
Lake Estes provides wonderful views of the Rocky Mountains, and is great for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
Wildlife sightings around the lake are common, with elk and deer being frequent visitors.
With towering peaks, dense forests, and crystalline lakes, Estes Park is a marvel of natural beauty.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park, situated just a short drive from Boulder, is a charming day trip that should sit high on your list.
The park is sprawling with majestic mountain views, serene alpine lakes, and seemingly never-ending wilderness.
The Beaver Meadows Visitor Center is a great start for your exploration of the park.
It provides valuable information, maps, and exhibits that can enhance your understanding of the area’s flora, fauna, and geology.
For the outdoor adventurers, the park offers more than 300 miles of hiking trails that cater to all fitness levels – from gentle lakeside strolls to challenging mountain peak climbs.
During the winter, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland, where activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing prevail.
All year round, wildlife watchers can find an array of animals, including elk, mule deer, and bighorn sheep.
A day at Rocky Mountain National Park promises a truly unique and memorable experience amidst nature’s splendor.
Winter Park
Winter Park is a well-loved destination within a manageable distance from Boulder and can be reached in less than two hours by car.
It is one of the best day trips from Boulder in the cold months.
The region is renowned for its ski resort, which is one of the finest in Colorado, with over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain.
This extensive ski area caters to a wide range of skill levels, with numerous runs for beginners, intermediate skiers, and expert skiers.
The Coca Cola Tubing Hill is one of the best snow tubing spots in Colorado and is great for families.
But Winter Park is not just about snow sports.
In the warmer months, it transforms into a mountain biking paradise, with miles of trails winding over the hills.
The town itself is charming, with small independent shops, cozy eateries, and welcoming locals.
Peak to Peak Scenic Byway
The Peak to Peak Scenic Byway is Colorado’s oldest, having been established in 1918.
Just a short drive from Boulder, this scenic route stretches for 55 miles from Estes Park in the north to Black Hawk and Central City in the south.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Continental Divide and Rocky Mountain National Park.
This scenic byway is more than just a driving route; it’s an adventure filled with attractions.
You’ll pass through charming small towns like Nederland, known for its rich mining history and Frozen Dead Guy Days festival.
Further along the route is the historic mining town of Central City, which now serves as a casino hub.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of hiking trails, such as the trails at Golden Gate Canyon State Park.
For those interested in wildlife, keep your eyes peeled for moose, elk, and bighorn sheep.
The route is one of the best day trips from Boulder for road trippers.
Eldorado Springs
Eldorado Springs, often referred to as ‘Eldo’ by locals, is a small community less than 10 miles south of Boulder, making it an excellent location for an easy day trip.
The area’s main attraction is the Eldorado Canyon State Park, a natural gem noted for its dramatic sandstone cliffs.
Rock climbers from around the world visit this park for its challenging climbs.
But don’t fret if climbing isn’t your thing; the park also features several hiking trails of varying difficulty.
The Rattlesnake Gulch and Fowler trails provide hikers with incredible views of the Continental Divide.
For a more relaxed activity, try a picnic by the South Boulder Creek.
Eldorado Springs also features a historic pool, fed by a constant stream of artesian spring water.
Littleton
Littleton, Colorado is a perfect day trip destination from Boulder, requiring a drive of just over an hour.
This Colorado town offers a mix of history, arts, shopping, dining, and recreation.
Take a stroll through Historic Downtown Littleton, filled with well-preserved buildings that reflect the charm of the past.
You can find unique shops and local eateries here.
The Littleton Museum gives a glimpse of the town’s past, with its 19th-century farm and homesteading site.
For art lovers, the Town Hall Arts Center provides a platform for local theatre and art exhibits.
Recreation options include exploring the South Platte River Bike Trail, a 28-mile long trail that offers stunning views of the Platte River and surrounding landscapes.
The Chatfield State Park provides opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and fishing.
Lafayette
Lafayette, located just east of Boulder, is a vibrant Colorado town with a strong sense of community.
Its roots are in coal mining, a history that is proudly displayed at the Miners Museum.
This is a fantastic place to delve into the town’s past and gain insights into the lives of its earliest inhabitants.
For a taste of the local art scene, the Art Night Out event is held on the second Friday of each month, showcasing Lafayette’s creative spirit with open galleries, live music, and street performers.
The WOW! Children’s Museum is a must-visit for families, with interactive exhibits that are both educational and fun.
Outdoor recreation opportunities abound in Lafayette, with several parks and open spaces, such as Waneka Lake Park and its scenic trail.
Meanwhile, the town’s thriving culinary scene features diverse eateries, from sushi to pizza to craft breweries.
Morrison
Morrison is a small town located just an hour’s drive from Boulder and is a fantastic destination for a day trip.
The town’s main attraction is the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, a unique concert venue set amidst towering red rock formations.
This geological marvel offers breathtaking views and excellent acoustics, making every event here a memorable experience.
When there are no concerts, visitors can explore the park’s hiking and biking trails or visit the visitor center, which features exhibits on the geology, ecology, and music history of Red Rocks.
Only a stone’s throw away from Red Rocks is Dinosaur Ridge, a designated National Natural Landmark.
Visitors can walk along the trail and see real dinosaur footprints and fossils embedded in the rocks, providing a fascinating glimpse into the prehistoric past.
The town of Morrison itself is worth exploring, with its charming main street lined with locally-owned shops and restaurants.
Loveland
Loveland is a thriving city in Northern Colorado.
Often referred to as the ‘Sweetheart City’, Loveland exudes charm and warmth.
Home to striking sculptures, it hosts an annual Loveland Sculpture Invitational, attracting artists and art admirers from all over.
Beyond the arts, Loveland offers a delightful outdoor experience with Boyd Lake State Park – a popular location for boating, fishing, and picnicking.
The Devil’s Backbone Nature Trail is a magnet for hikers, with its unique rock formations and panoramic views.
For history buffs, the Loveland Museum presents an intriguing collection from the city’s past.
The downtown area is filled with unique shops, local restaurants, and craft breweries, presenting a vibrant culinary scene.
Castle Rock
Castle Rock is located just over an hour’s drive from Boulder and is known for its unique rock formation that it’s named after.
The town provides a mix of cultural, historical, and recreational activities for day-trippers.
One of the key attractions is Castlewood Canyon State Park, a state-protected nature area that preserves the verdant canyon carved by Cherry Creek.
The park is a prime location for hiking, with marked trails that wind through the canyon, revealing the raw beauty of Colorado’s landscape.
History buffs will appreciate the remnants of the Castlewood Dam, which burst in 1933, causing a massive flood.
The visitor center shares more information about this historic event.
Castle Rock also features a variety of shops, charming local eateries, and a vibrant arts scene, making it an excellent destination for a day trip from Boulder.
Fort Collins
At just over an hour’s distance from Boulder, Fort Collins is an attractive destination for day trippers.
The city is known for its robust beer culture, being home to more than 20 craft breweries including the nationally recognized New Belgium Brewing Company.
The Old Town of Fort Collins, which served as an inspiration for Disneyland’s Main Street, USA, has an eclectic mix of stores, restaurants, and art galleries that reflect the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
For nature lovers, Horsetooth Reservoir offers outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking.
Fort Collins has the perfect mix of urban charm with outdoor activities, making it a great day trip destination from Boulder.
Golden
Golden, located about 30 minutes from Boulder, is a destination of rich history and cultural experience.
They city maintains a strong tie to its past, which is evident in the well-preserved 19th-century buildings lining the city’s streets.
A must-visit is the Colorado Railroad Museum, a fascinating place where you can explore the state’s railroad history through vintage trains and detailed exhibits.
The Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum, better known as Mines Museum of Earth Science, is another great spot for science enthusiasts.
The Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave is another historic attraction in Golden, tracing the life of the famous mountain man and showman.
Also, don’t miss out on the Coors Brewery, where you can learn about the beer’s brewing process.
The brewery makes Golden one of the best day trips from Boulder for celebrating birthdays and special occasions.
For outdoor activities, Golden Gate Canyon State Park provides excellent hiking trails with stunning views.
Overall, Golden’s proximity to Boulder and its diverse attractions make it an excellent choice for a day trip.
Idaho Springs
Idaho Springs makes for an unforgettable day trip from Boulder.
The drive in itself is a treat, taking you through some of Colorado’s most scenic landscapes.
This small mountain town is steeped in mining history, evident in the Argo Gold Mine and Mill, where visitors can learn about the state’s gold rush era and try their hand at gold panning.
For foodies, a visit to the original Beau Jo’s Mountain Pies is a must.
Here, they serve up their famous Colorado-style pizza that has been a hit with locals and tourists for decades.
The Indian Hot Springs, a geothermal spring with a variety of pools and tubs, provides a relaxing end to a day full of exploration and discovery.
Mount Evans Scenic Byway
Mount Evans Scenic Byway, recognized as the highest paved road in North America, is a must-experience day trip from Boulder.
This 28-mile route offers entrancing vistas as it winds its way to an impressive elevation of over 14,000 feet.
Along the journey, visitors will encounter diverse wildlife such as mountain goats and bighorn sheep, and remarkable landscapes teeming with alpine wildflowers.
At the summit, the Mount Evans Observatory offers a unique perspective of the stars, far removed from the light pollution of the city.
Pack a jacket even in summer, as the high altitude can make for chilly temperatures.
The byway is only open during the warmer months, typically from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and offers a truly unforgettable Colorado high-altitude experience.
Nederland
Nederland, Colorado is a small town that sits to the west of Boulder and is a great choice for a day trip.
Known for its vibrant music scene, the town hosts numerous music festivals throughout the year.
The annual Frozen Dead Guy Days is a distinctly unique event celebrating a local legend, and includes a variety of quirky activities like coffin racing and a parade.
The town has a mining heritage, with the Mining Museum serving as a testament to this past, presenting fascinating exhibits and artifacts.
Nederland’s location near the Indian Peaks Wilderness affords visitors the opportunity to explore beautiful landscapes through hiking trails and nature walks.
The town also has a charming selection of shops, restaurants, and other attractions that add a welcoming, cozy ambiance.
Train Cars Coffee and Kava is a popular spot, offering delicious coffee and kava drinks along with vegan elixirs, pastries, and smoothies.
Carousel of Happiness is home to 30 whimsical hand-carved animals and two chariots, all set to the tune of vintage music.
Blue Owl Books & Boutique offers a fine selection of books, toys, and gifts.
Eldora Ski Resort
Eldora Ski Resort in Nederland is an excellent destination for day trips from Boulder, especially for those who covet outdoor adventures.
With its extensive network of ski and snowboard runs, Eldora provides thrilling experiences for both beginners and advanced skiers.
The resort’s well-maintained trails are ideal for downhill skiing, while its terrain park sends a challenge to freestyle snowboarders.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails add to the diversity of outdoor activities at the resort, providing alternatives to the fast-paced downhill action.
The resort’s Nordic Center provides essential equipment rentals and lessons for those looking to improve their skills.
Beyond its winter sports activities, Eldora is also home to a welcoming lodge where visitors can grab a hot meal or beverage, relax, and soak in the mountain views.
Frisco
Frisco, just over an hour’s drive from Boulder, is a delightful destination for day trips.
This Colorado town is highly regarded for its winter sports opportunities, with numerous ski resorts in close proximity.
With groomed slopes for skiing and snowboarding, it’s an ideal place for winter sports fans.
In the warmer months, Frisco Bay Marina on the Dillon Reservoir becomes a focal point for activities such as sailing and fishing.
The town’s Main Street is filled with unique shops and inviting restaurants, making it a pleasant place to unwind after a day of outdoor pursuits.
The Frisco Historic Park and Museum provides insight into the town’s past, while the Frisco Adventure Park has year-round recreational activities.
Breckenridge
Breckenridge, just under two hours’ drive from Boulder, is a Colorado mountain town known for its ski resort and year-round recreational activities.
During winter, the Breckenridge Ski Resort becomes a focal point for activities, with its challenging slopes attracting skiers and snowboarders from around the globe.
In the summer months, the area transforms into a playground for hikers, mountain bikers, and nature lovers.
The town itself is steeped in history, with its roots in the Colorado Gold Rush era.
A visit to the Edwin Carter Discovery Center will provide insights into the life of a 19th century prospector.
The charming Main Street, lined with carefully preserved Victorian-era buildings, hosts a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
It is great to explore and relax after a day spent skiing or hiking outside.
Colorado Springs
Located less than two hours away from Boulder, Colorado Springs is another destination that makes the list of most fun day trips.
The city is renowned for its natural beauty and interesting landmarks.
Old Colorado City, a restored 19th-century district, is an excellent place to explore the city’s past.
Those interested in military history can tour the United States Air Force Academy, with its striking architecture and informative exhibits.
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, America’s only mountain zoo, is home to over 750 animals.
With its vibrant arts scene, Colorado Springs is also a great place for culture lovers, with the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center and The Broadmoor Seven Falls being key attractions.
In addition, the city has a range of food and drink options, from cozy coffee shops to upscale restaurants.
Also Read: 7 Best Stops on Boulder to Colorado Springs Day Trip
Garden of the Gods
Just beyond Colorado Springs lies the stunning Garden of the Gods, a public park known for its monumental rock formations.
This geological marvel is a beautiful destination for day trips from Boulder.
Known for its intricate network of trails, the park is renowned for activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and horse riding.
Rock climbing is also popular here.
Regardless of the season, the park exudes a unique charm.
Even in the heart of winter, the snow-dusted formations against the backdrop of clear blue skies create an enchanting spectacle.
Photograph the dramatic landscape, hike through the rugged terrain, or admire the unique structures.
A visit to Garden of the Gods adds an unforgettable chapter to your Colorado adventure.
Also Read: How to visit Garden of the Gods in Winter
Pikes Peak
Pikes Peak, often referred to as America’s Mountain, is a must-visit landmark on a day trip from Boulder.
The famous Colorado peak is a prominent part of the Rocky Mountains and stands tall at an elevation of over 14,000 feet.
Ascending its heights can be achieved via the Pikes Peak Highway, a scenic route that gradually reveals the majestic beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Alternatively, the Broadmoor Pikes Peak Cog Railway, which is the world’s highest cog train, provides a memorable journey to the summit.
At the top, visitors can relish breathtaking panoramic views, which inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write “America the Beautiful”.
Pikes Peak has a visitor center at its summit, with food, gifts, and educational exhibits about the mountain’s history and geography.
If you’re planning a trip from the charming college town of Boulder, then these Colorado destinations are the perfect getaways.
What are your favorite day trip spots from Boulder, Colorado? Let us know below.