A city and ski adventure in the Rockies for first time, leisure skiers.
Colorado is one of my favorite domestic trips to take. I have been on two occasions and in two different seasons and it never disappoints. Here is my 4-day itinerary for a short winter trip to Denver and Breckenridge - skiing included!
Day 1: Arrive in Denver
Pickup Rental Car
When traveling to Colorado, I always suggest getting a rental car. Public transportation isn't great - even in Denver and ride-shares will add up quickly since most things are spread out.
I highly recommend SIXT as they are very well-priced compared to the competition and have great, luxury cars in their fleet.
Pro Tip: Make sure to get an SUV with 4WD. We ran into a snowstorm on our way to Breckenridge and saw SO many cars spun out on the side of the road. Make sure that you get the insurance - especially if you don't already have rental coverage!
Check-In to Hotel
During my last visit we stayed at Hyatt Regency, a 4-star luxury property in downtown Denver. It was the perfect cozy stay for our first two days. They have an indoor heated pool, luxury bath amenities and an AMAZING breakfast buffet in the morning - seriously one of the best hotel breakfasts I have ever had.
Perks We Got:
VIP Status - expedited service
Daily complimentary full breakfast for 2
$100 credit to use on property
Priority for room upgrade
Early check-in/late check-out
Grab Dinner
If you have a later flight, I would take it easy on the first day. Especially if you're arriving from the East Coast as you may be a little jet-lagged.
Postino Wine Bar is a great option for small plates, charcuterie and of course - wine!
However, if you're not in the mood for that (I always recommend having a list of options pre-vetted in case you change your mind - such a time saver!), Osaka Ramen, The Greenwich (upscale Italian), or Los Chingones are all great options.
Other Hotels I Love in Denver
Four Seasons Denver
When you're looking for a luxury stay you can never go wrong with Four Seasons. Known for their top-notch service and classic, posh rooms.
Perks When You Book With Us:
Daily breakfast for 2
$100 USD hotel credit for rooms or $200 USD for suites & private retreats
Room upgrade to next category
Early check-in, late check-out
Thompson Denver
Easily the best mid-range hotel in the city. Located in the LoDo district, Thompson Denver is perfectly situated near RiNo and Union Station. It feels very luxurious for the price point with modern furnishings and an onsite restaurant headed by a Michelin Star chef, Chef Brings.
Perks When You Book With Us:
VIP Status - expedited service
Daily complimentary full breakfast for 2
$100 USD credit to use on property
Priority for room upgrade
Early check-in/late check-out
But wait - what are these perks?
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Okay, now back to the itinerary!
Day 2: Explore Downtown Denver
Get Lost at Meow Wolf
One of my favorite experiences in Denver. I usually don't visit museums when I am on vacation unless it's a contemporary art museum or really immersive. Meow Wolf is EXCEPTIONALLY both of those things. It's less of a museum and more of an hypnotic, 3D sci-fi novel. Reserve your time spot online before you go.
RiNo Arts District Food Tour
I LOVED this tour. Colorado may be a place that you wouldn't think of as a foodie city, but it really does have an up and coming food scene. Our guide, Zach, was a true foodie with a vast knowledge a Denver's culinary scene. He even gave each guest a personalized list of Denver restaurant recs based on their favorite foods.
Go to a Nuggets Game
Such a fun way to end the night! And fun fact - the Nuggets mascot, Rocky, is the highest paid Mascot in the league. You'll have to go to a game to see why.
Day 3: Hot Springs & Tacos
Mount Princeton Hot Springs
Before you head to Breckenridge, make a pit stop at Mount Princeton Hot Springs. A beautiful, natural hot springs about an hour from Breckenridge. They have a few pools for guest access and a natural hot creek you can try out. It is initially freezing walking outside, but once you are in the spring you'll feel very comfortable.
Sancho Tacos & Tequillas
Stop by this so cozy taco shop in Breckenridge village. Honestly some of the best tacos I have had on all of my trips to Colorado. The margs were great too!
Day 4: Ski and Apres
Skiing at Peak 8
Before you arrive in Breckenridge, you'll want to purchase an Epic Pass. This membership card will give you a much better value than buying daily lIft tickets. If you are a first time skier I highly recommend getting ski lessons at least for your first day. You can get a discounted lessons with your Epic Pass.
Pro Tip: If you are a first time or casual skier, you'll save on outfits with renting. I was able to pick up my ski jacket, pants, gloves and goggles from Slope Threads on my way to Breckenridge. For my skis and helmet I rented at Breck Sports - they'll give you a discount if you have an Epic Pass.
Apres at Cabin Juice
After skiing grab some drinks and bites at this cute ski lodge inspired eatery with classic bar favorites like burgers and bruschetta. Also makes a great brunch spot as they have fresh juices and classics like french toast and breakfast burritos.
Day 5: Going Home
Breakfast at Blue Moose
Before you head back to Denver to take your flight back home, make a pit stop at Blue Moose for some breakfast. They have great fresh juices and pancakes. Perfect for fueling up for the drive back to Denver!
And that's a wrap! I hope this guide served as a great base for your trip to Colorado. While I enjoyed my experience, I am a big believer that your travel experience should be a personal journey for you, not a copy and paste of some random blogger's (not to roast myself!).
If you are thinking about a trip to Colorado and want a personalized itinerary and expert planning from someone who has - been there, done that - check out our itinerary planning services here,
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