Estes Park, as the closest town to Rocky Mountain National Park, is an ideal place for setting up basecamp for an epic mountain adventure. The environment alone makes Estes Park a world-renowned holiday resort, surrounded by the peaks of these gorgeous mountains. With the awe-inspiring Rocky Mountains in the backdrop and abundant outdoor recreation activities, Estes Park offers a fantastic getaway for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and history enthusiasts alike. But, with so many accommodations to choose from, picking the best places to stay in Estes Park can be daunting.
There are dozens of varied choices of quality accommodation that will check all the boxes on your mountain trip checklist, ranging from rustic cabins to historic luxury hotels.
In this guide, we’ll help you explore the best places to stay in Estes Park in 2023 and make the most of your stay in this magnificent town. From luxurious resorts to cozy cabins and vacation rentals, let’s delve into the Estes Park neighborhood guide and find the perfect spot to rest your head after a long day of exploration.
Facts About Estes Park
Estes Park is a charming mountain town situated at an altitude of 7,522 feet in the heart of Colorado. This serene place has much to offer with its splendid landscapes and unparalleled scenery, which attracts millions of visitors each year. With its vast array of unique shops, excellent restaurants, outdoor adventures, and diverse activities, Estes Park is an ideal vacation spot for individuals, families, and friends.
It’s important to note that the town is nestled next to Rocky Mountain National Park, providing a gateway to some of the world’s most spectacular wilderness areas. Some interesting facts about Estes Park include that it is the only incorporated community in Larimer County, Colorado.
The population was estimated to be 6,434 as of 2019, but the numbers swelled significantly during peak tourism season. The town has a vast network of hiking and biking trails, fishing streams, and opportunities for wildlife watching, such as elk, deer, moose, and coyotes.
The charming town of Estes Park has many museums, galleries, and cultural events throughout the year. During the summers, you can enjoy the thrilling Stanley Park Amphitheater or catch a movie under the stars at the Drive-in theater.
You’ll find that it’s easy to unwind and get closer to nature while still enjoying all the creature comforts in Estes Park. Whether you’re here to camp, hike, relax, or get a unique cultural experience, this Rocky Mountain paradise will undoubtedly make a lasting impression on you.
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Why Stay in Estes Park?
Estes Park, Colorado offers breathtaking views, exciting outdoor activities, and a welcoming small-town charm. From hiking and skiing to shopping and dining, Estes Park truly has something for everyone. If you’re still unsure about why you should stay in Estes Park, here are a few reasons that will convince you.
Firstly, the town’s natural beauty is second to none. Imagine waking up every morning to panoramic views of the mountains, breathing in fresh, crisp mountain air, and watching wildlife roam free in their natural habitat. You’ll feel at peace in a place that boasts majestic landscapes like Estes Park.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Estes Park is the perfect place to be. Rocky Mountain National Park, located just a few miles from downtown, offers some of the most scenic hiking trails in the country. Visitors can explore thousands of miles of wilderness, spot elk, bears, and moose, or take a scenic drive on Trail Ridge Road.
Beyond outdoor activities, Estes Park also offers a unique cultural experience. Visit the Estes Park Museum and learn about the town’s history, explore local art galleries and craft breweries, or attend the annual Elk Fest in the fall.
One thing is certain – Estes Park’s hospitality and small-town charm will make you feel right at home. The locals are welcoming, friendly, and always ready to lend a helping hand. Whether you’re traveling alone, with family, or with friends, you’ll feel safe and comfortable in Estes Park.
Finally, the town’s location is ideal for those looking to explore more of Colorado. Estes Park is located just an hour and a half from Denver, making it easy to visit other parts of the state.
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Top 17 Best Places to Stay in Estes Park
1. Murphy’s River Lodge
Murphy’s River Lodge is a great spot to stay in Estes Park, Colorado. It’s a big lodge with a classic wood design. It was a former hotel that was transformed into one of the best places to stay in Estes Park.
Guests can stay in refurbished rooms with modern living amenities such as a mini fridge and a microwave. Suites that have been upgraded have a private deck and a fireplace. It also offers condos with river views, a kitchenette, and seats.
In the summer, you can grill out or spend an evening over the fire pit. It’s only a few blocks from downtown.
2. Timber Creek Chalets
The Timber Creek Chalets’ charming chalets immerse you in nature. Rent your cottage to immerse yourself in the gorgeous outdoors, about two miles from Rock Mountain National Park.
Timber Creek Chalets is ideal for large groups, with chalets that can accommodate up to 14 people. Each cabin has a rustic environment with log furnishings, a full kitchen, bedrooms, and other amenities. Some units have hot tubs.
From your window, you can take in the scenery. Mountains and pine forests surround you. It’s a fantastic location for outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.
3. Discovery Lodge
The Discovery Lodge’s relaxed atmosphere makes it one of the greatest locations to stay in Estes Park, CO. It offers pleasant rooms as well as easy access to neighboring hiking trails.
Discovery Lodge has something for everyone. It features a variety of options to accommodate all gathering sizes. You can book regular accommodations or a cabin, apartment, or mansion. Many of the rooms include mountain views and full kitchens, as well as a deck.
Wake up to a complimentary breakfast before beginning your day’s hike just outside your front door. There is also a private fishing pond on the property.
4. Coyote Mountain Lodge
Coyote Mountain Lodge is a low-cost motel located at the foot of the mountains. The traditional lodge cabin features modernized rooms that are fully furnished with everything you’ll need for a relaxing stay.
Upgrade to a family suite or one of the regular rooms. With comfortable beds, nice linens, and air conditioning to chill off after a long climb, the rooms are designed to let you relax. You’ll also get stunning views of the mountains from your window.
On-site parking is available to all visitors. It’s in an amazing location, close to the Rocky Mountain National Park and the Lake Estes Marina.
5. Hotel Estes
Hotel Estes, a family-owned hotel, offers genuine local friendliness. This highly-rated lodge will provide you with one of the greatest stays in town.
It is situated halfway between downtown Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. Most local attractions are only a few minutes away. Staying here will make traveling about the area and seeing whatever you want to see extremely convenient!
Hotel Estes is one of the greatest places to stay in Estes Park, CO, because of its pleasant rooms and amenities like cable TV, free WiFi, and microwaves. It’s a family-friendly location with numerous attractions such as an outdoor pool, a playground, and picnic tables.
The hotel will keep you energized for your next journey. It offers free breakfast every morning and free snacks at the front desk at any time.
6. Appenzell Inn
Appenzell Inn is a one-of-a-kind Estes Park hotel. It’s a family-owned lodge that brings their Swiss ancestry to Estes Park in the form of an alpine-inspired lodge.
The inn’s cozy, welcoming atmosphere will delight you. It is well-known for its fashionable accommodations. Flat-screen TVs and rooms with living areas and fireplaces are available in the modern-rustic atmosphere. Some accommodations include patios or decks with mountain views.
Swim in the pool or walk around the pond and garden. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning. There is also free parking on-site.
7. Columbine Inn
The Columbine Inn is an excellent choice for a stopover while touring Estes Park. Because of its handy location, it is one of the greatest locations to stay in Estes Park, CO.
Simple rooms and suites with comfy mattresses and plenty of chairs are available as accommodations. Larger rooms have kitchenettes, decks, and a hot tub. Every day, the hotel provides free breakfast and free parking. Take a minute to rest in the gazebo and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
If you want to be in the nicest location in town, stay at the Columbine Inn. You can walk to the Lake Estes Marina or participate in neighboring activities such as golfing and horseback riding. You can also go downtown in a matter of minutes.
8. The Ridgeline Hotel
The Ridgeline Hotel is one of the greatest places to stay near Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s a newly renovated property with a modern style – an ideal location to unwind after a day in the park.
The Ridgeline Hotel’s rooms have all been refurbished with modern facilities. Suites with fireplaces and living rooms are offered as a more spacious alternative.
There are various guest amenities, including an indoor pool, game room, gym, and onsite restaurant–perfect if you require Estes Park hotels for your family. After exploring the national park, visit some of the neighboring stores and eateries.
9. The Estes Park Resort
Stay at the Estes Park Resort and spend time in Lakes Estes Park. For an expensive, luxury experience, the lakefront hotel provides the best lodging in Estes Park.
The Estes Park Resort is set on five acres of lakefront property. It’s a lodge setting with stunning views of the lake and mountains in the background. The regular rooms and suites are very comfortable. The pillow-top mattresses provide a comfortable night’s sleep, and some rooms have balconies.
Guests can walk to the beach and rent boats from the private marina. For dining, the hotel has an on-site restaurant with a lake-view patio.
10. Rocky Mountain Hotel & Conference Center
Rocky Mountain Hotel is a huge Estes Park hotel option suitable for hosting your next corporate conference or event. It’s one of the greatest places to stay in Estes Park, CO for both business and pleasure.
The rooms have been thoughtfully built for both relaxation and productivity. You may get a lot done at the in-room workstation with high-speed WiFi while relaxing by watching TV. Multi-room suites with a living room and kitchen are offered.
A conference center is available at the Rocky Mountain Hotel for large groups. A business center is also available. Every morning, there is a full breakfast buffet and free parking.
11. The Inn on Fall River
The Inn on Fall River is one of the nicest hotels in Estes Park, with stunning views from every angle. It’s ideal for all types of travelers, whether they’re looking for adventure or a romantic break.
You will notice the hotel’s excellent service from the time you arrive. It offers luxury cabin-style accommodations with a kitchenette, refrigerator, TV, fireplace, and other amenities. One of the finest features, of course, is waking up to the vistas of Fall River. There are numerous amenities, including a public hot tub, picnic tables, and a playground for children.
12. WorldMark Estes Park
Even though there are several adjacent cabin lodges, WorldMark Estes Park is one of the greatest locations to stay in Estes Park, CO. It’s a large resort with a variety of hotel types and gorgeous mountain views.
WorldMark’s natural setting at Estes Park hotels makes it a popular choice for an outdoor retreat. It is located directly on Fall River and is only a short drive from Rocky Mountain National Park.
Guests can choose from studios to three-bedroom apartments. It offers a mix of modern and rustic décor, making it the ideal place to unwind. A business center, an outdoor pool, and a fitness facility are available to guests.
13. Della Terra Mountain Chateau
Della Terra Mountain Chateau is the ideal venue for a wedding or family reunion in Estes Park. This huge, romantic resort provides a particular taste of traditional grandeur. Della Terra Mountain Chateau can accommodate groups of all sizes. Each stay is unique with the option of cabins, condos, or townhouses.
Aside from the magnificent décor, the chateau has stunning amenities. Each apartment offers a fireplace, soaking baths, jetted showers, and a private terrace with a hot tub. The chateau also has a spa, a dry heat sauna, an espresso bar, a theater, and a library.
The spectacular reception hall is the centerpiece of the Della Terra Mountain Chateau. The rustic woodsy hall is lighted with a beautiful and pleasant ambience. The room’s tall, arched windows provide spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains while you enjoy your cherished event.
14. YMCA of the Rockies
After seeing so many grandiose and historic hotels, a visit to the YMCA of the Rockies may seem out of place. But, let’s face it, not everyone can or wants to stay in opulent resorts. The YMCA of the Rockies offers an economical stay with a variety of family-friendly activities.
There is lots of natural-based entertainment for all ages, whether you are traveling with children or young people. Sign up for a variety of group outings, such as archery, sports, fishing, snowshoeing, and camping.
The YMCA lodge provides excellent yet economical lodging. Spend the day exploring the park’s hidden gems before returning to rest. Share stories and dinner with other adventurous families at the lodge for a one-of-a-kind experience. If done correctly, a visit to the YMCA of the Rockies will leave your family and friends with memories to last a lifetime.
15. The Stanley Hotel
If you’re looking for a luxurious, historic, and breathtaking stay in Estes Park, then The Stanley Hotel is your go-to. The hotel boasts over 100 years of history and has hosted countless celebrities and even inspired Stephen King’s famous novel “The Shining.”
Located just a stone’s throw away from Rocky Mountain National Park, the Stanley offers unparalleled views of the majestic Colorado landscape. You can unwind in the hot tub while enjoying panoramic vistas, dine in one of their top-notch restaurants, or indulge in a massage at the hotel spa.
But what truly makes The Stanley stand out is its unparalleled service. The staff will make sure that you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. And with over 140 rooms to choose from, there’s something for every kind of traveler, whether you’re on a romantic getaway or a family vacation.
16. Seven-Keys Lodge
The Seven Keys Lodge (previously The Baldpate Inn) is a stunningly rustic yet elegant mountain getaway with a rich history and a modern twist. This early-twentieth-century resort merges Estes Park’s past and current. It is open seasonally from Memorial Day to mid-October.
The Seven Keys Lodge earned its name from the famed Key Museum’s rare collection of keys. This museum houses an ever-expanding collection of over 30,000 keys from throughout the world. Some of these keys are exceptionally rare and one-of-a-kind, such as the key to Mozart’s wine cellar and the former Westminster Abbey keys in London.
Depending on your preferences, there are a range of hotel possibilities. You can stay in one of Seven Keys Lodge’s numerous elegant hotel rooms or one of the lodge’s wonderfully rustic wood cabins.
17. Woodlands on Fall River
Woodlands on Fall River is a fantastic family-friendly mountain lodge that caters to all budgets. Woodlands, located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, offers a unique blend of luxury hotels and rustic cabins. The woodlands of Fall River’s splendor are only matched by its luxury, with beautiful views of Fall River.
The hotel is decorated with woodsy accents, creating a pleasant atmosphere with a serene ambiance. There are numerous lodging alternatives for your vacation to Estes Park, including one-bedroom suites and two-bedroom suites.
Woodlands on Fall River provides fast access to Rocky Mountain National Park and its 350 hiking trails. After a long day of exploring, unwind at the hotel with one of the many excellent services. There are few finer cold-weather activities than relaxing in a hot tub after sightseeing, followed by an evening by the fireplace.
Tips on How to Choose the Best Places to Stay in Estes Park
1. Prepare ahead of time: Estes Park is a famous tourist site that can get busy, especially during the high season. Book your accommodations as soon as possible to assure availability and avoid disappointment.
2. Consider your location: Estes Park is a vast town, and your experience will be determined by where you stay. Consider proximity to the attractions you want to see, the greatest hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, and peace if you’re looking for a peaceful weekend.
3. Look into several types of accommodations: Estes Park has a variety of lodging options, from luxurious hotels to quaint cabins. Determine the type of experience you seek and look into possibilities that meet your requirements.
4. Look for promotions and deals: Look for promotions and deals given by hotels and other lodgings, such as early purchase discounts or package deals that include activities.
5. Read the reviews: Read reviews from previous guests before making a reservation to get an idea of the property’s strengths and faults and to ensure that it fits your expectations. This will allow you to make an informed selection and have a good visit to Estes Park.
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How to Get Around Estes Park
If you’re planning a trip to Estes Park, then you’ll want to know the best ways to get around the town and explore its stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re traveling alone or with friends and family, there are a variety of transportation options that will suit your needs and help you make the most of your time in this beautiful mountain town.
Here’s a list of some of the best ways to get around Estes Park.
1. Car
Renting a car is the easiest and most convenient way to get around Estes Park and its surrounding areas. You can rent a car from a variety of companies at the Denver International Airport and drive the scenic route through Rocky Mountain National Park. The roads in Estes Park are well-maintained and there are plenty of parking spots, so driving is a great option.
2. Shuttle
If you’re not comfortable driving or prefer to let someone else do the navigating, then a shuttle is a great option. There are several shuttle services available in Estes Park, which will take you to all of the major attractions in town, including Rocky Mountain National Park. Many hotels also offer shuttle services for their guests, so be sure to check with your accommodation before booking.
3. Bike
Estes Park is a great town to explore on two wheels, and there are several bike rental shops in town where you can rent a bike for the day or the week. The town has several bike lanes and dedicated bike paths, making it a safe and easy way to get around and enjoy the scenic views.
4. Trolley
For a fun and unique way to get around Estes Park, hop on the Estes Park Trolley. The trolley runs every 30 minutes and takes you through the downtown area, stopping at several attractions along the way. The trolley is a great option for families with children who will love the novelty of riding a trolley.
5. Walk
Estes Park is a small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance of each other. If you’re staying in the downtown area, then walking is a great option. You’ll be able to enjoy the fresh mountain air and take in the stunning scenery while getting some exercise at the same time.
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Challenges Involved With Staying in Estes Park
Staying in Estes Park can be a challenging yet exciting experience. The biggest challenge one faces here is the weather. Due to its high altitude, the weather can change dramatically and unexpectedly, making it important to be prepared with the right clothing and gear.
Another challenge is the steep and winding roads leading up to the town, making the drive an adventure in itself.
Finding accommodations can also be a challenge, as the area is a popular tourist destination. But with the challenges come unique experiences, such as hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park or stargazing at night. Overall, the challenges of staying in Estes Park are worth the reward.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where should you stay in Estes Park?
The downtown area of Estes Park is undoubtedly the best area to stay in. With its quaint shops, restaurants, and galleries, it offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and modern amenities.
Are there any unique lodging options in Estes Park?
Yes, Estes Park is known for its unique lodging options. You can choose to stay in a cabin, cottage, or even a treehouse. The River Spruce Cottages and Treehouses, McGregor Mountain Lodge, and the Romantic RiverSong Inn are some of the unique lodging options you can explore.
Is it better to stay inside or outside of Rocky Mountain National Park?
If you want to experience the park to its fullest, it’s better to stay inside the park. There are many lodging options available, from campsites to cabins. Some popular options include the YMCA of the Rockies, Moraine Park Campground, and Aspenglen Campground.
Conclusion
Estes Park offers a plethora of lodging options that cater to different preferences and budgets. From luxury resorts to rustic cabins and campsites, there’s a place for everyone in this picturesque mountain town.
For a truly immersive experience, try one of the many lodges that provide stunning views of the surrounding Rockies, or opt for a cozy bed and breakfast with local charm.
No matter where you choose to stay, you’ll be treated to the warmth and hospitality of the local community, as well as easy access to Estes Park’s myriad attractions and natural wonders. Book your trip today and start exploring the best places to stay in Estes Park!
Reference
- www.visitestespark.com – 10 UNIQUE PLACES TO STAY IN ESTES PARK
- travellemming.com – Where to Stay in Estes Park (Best Places & Areas in 2023)