Every couple needs to get away from time to time. It’s easy to get caught up in the frenzy of work, family, and daily responsibilities, and that’s why spending time together, away from home, exploring, reconnecting or just relaxing is the key to a happy, healthy relationship. However, if you’re concerned that you don’t have either the time or budget to go jet-setting for the weekend, you needn’t worry. The beauty of living in Colorado is that there are plenty of memory-making destinations just a short drive away.
Here are four Northern Colorado destinations to consider for a weekend away that’s still close to home.
Estes Park
This Northern Colorado mountain town is known as the gateway to the Rockies. If you’ve never visited, or if it’s been a while, the scenery alone is worth the trip. It’s situated at 7500 feet, at the Easternmost entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. For couples who love the outdoors, Estes Park is a perfect place to explore and spot wildlife. There are miles of trails where you can hike, snowshoe, and even back-country ski. Don’t feel like being quite so active during your relaxing, romantic weekend? If you visit during the summer months, consider taking a drive over Trail Ridge Road. It’s a national scenic byway and the highest continuous paved highway in America, topping out at 12,183 feet!
Looking for more things to do in town? Don’t miss a visit to the Stanley Hotel. It was built in 1909 as a grand summer resort and today it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Stanley became famous in the later part of the 20th century because of its role in being the inspiration behind Stephen King’s novel The Shining. This, plus the fact that it has a reputation for being haunted, might be the reason why you and your significant other decide to stay (or not stay) the night.
If browsing through shops and trying out a few local restaurants is more your thing, Estes Park has plenty of that as well. Check out the scenic riverwalk that meanders through town behind the stores and then visit Ed’s Cantina and Grill for dinner and drinks.
Greeley
Planning a romantic weekend is about making memories, enjoying each other’s company and just getting away. Although Greeley is not usually thought of as the staycation hotspot of Colorado, there are some hidden gems here that will definitely make planning a trip here worth your while.
If you and your partner prefer rustic charm and genuine hospitality over swanky, stuffy hotels, then Platte River Fort Resort and Event Center is the perfect weekend getaway spot for you. It was built in 2001 and is a replica of the historic Bent’s Fort in La Junta, Colorado. It features several luxurious guest suites and courtyard bedrooms plus you’ll have full access to the main living room, lounge areas, and outdoor firepits. For those who appreciate learning about history and experiencing all of the natural beauty that Colorado has to offer, Platte River Fort is truly an unforgettable experience.
Prefer to get as close to nature as possible? The resort also offers seasonal camping and glamping (camping in fully-furnished yurts). During the summer months, they provide river tubes so you can enjoy floating down the South Platte River.
If you can’t get enough of the outdoors, then you definitely need to check out the 21-mile Poudre River Trail. It starts in Greeley and wanders its way along the river to the nearby town of Windsor. This paved recreation trail is ideal for a morning bike ride or an afternoon stroll.
When you’re ready to venture into town, Downtown Greeley has plenty to do without making you feel like you’re “in the city”. This laid-back burb has restaurants to suit every taste – from African to Italian, and some of the best Mexican food around. If you’re looking for something to do, check out the Union Colony Civic Center. Chances are, they have something going on, whether it be a concert, comedy show, or Broadway musical. Prefer something a little more low-key? Check out the Kress Cinema & Lounge. It’s located in a historically renovated building where patrons can enjoy indie and mainstream movies as well as dinner in the upstairs space and specialty cocktails in the downstairs speakeasy.
Fort Collins
Fort Collins, home to Colorado State University, is consistently rated as one of the best places to live in the United States – which means it’s also a great place to visit if you’re planning a weekend getaway. It’s easy to see why people love it so much with its charming downtown filled with cute boutiques and unique restaurants. Exploring downtown is easy to do on foot, and don’t miss out on some of the more “hidden” treasures that can be found in any of the historic alleyways that have been loving updated with quaint brick paths, string lights, and beautiful murals.
To take advantage of all that Fort Collins has to offer, you might want to consider staying right downtown at the new Elizabeth Hotel, or the newly renovated, almost 100-year-old, Armstrong Hotel. Either one is the perfect home base for exploring the city. Looking to venture out and see some sights? Head over to Horsetooth Reservoir. It’s less than 10 miles away from downtown and a must-visit place where you can enjoy a scenic hike or plan a picnic.
Wondering where to spend the evening? Although it’s nicknamed the “Napa Valley of Craft Beer”, besides its 20+ breweries, Fort Collins also has plenty of intimate bars and nightclubs There, you and your date can partake in craft cocktails, elegant snacks, and oftentimes, live music. Ace Gillettes, Social, and the Sunset Lounge are some local favorites.
Loveland
Loveland is another Northern Colorado community that is somewhat off the grid when it comes to romantic getaways, but one visit there and you’ll see that it has much to offer. First, it’s home to one of the largest bronze sculpture parks in the world. Benson Sculpture Garden is a lovely 10-acre park with almost 200 sculptures. Bring a picnic lunch and then take a leisurely stroll through the park (admission is free).
Although it has a reputation for being somewhat of a sleepy town, Loveland is experiencing a rebirth – particularly in the downtown area. There, you’ll find a delightful mix of boutique shops, art galleries, and – since it is Colorado – breweries. For dinner, go to Door 222 for upscale American comfort food and a variety of tapas. After dinner, head over to The Flipside, Loveland’s favorite arcade complete with pinball machines, classic games, and a huge selection of craft cocktails.
For more ideas on things to do and places to stay in Northern Colorado, check out our blog!
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