If you’ve found yourself looking longingly into a snow globe, wishing you could transport yourself to such a blissfully tranquil scene…well, you’re in luck. It’s well within your reach to escape the hustle and bustle of the Mile High City during the winter months for a peaceful getaway. These 7 towns found near Denver invite you to come enjoy their picturesque winter settings and festive holiday traditions that make them each worthy of a little road trip this season.
Whether you prefer to shop at one-of-a-kind stores, or hit the trails for a hike, Estes Park offers a majestic mountain setting to do a wide variety of winter activities. Escape to Rocky Mountain National Park to give snowshoeing a try, stroll around Lake Estes, or take a guided jeep tour of the area. With snow on the peaks, and elk found around town you will find yourself in a winter wonderland that truly allows you to get away from it all.
You will want to visit historic downtown Louisville, where you will find a charming small town setting complete with old fashioned outdoor ice skating and free horse-drawn carriage rides on the weekends. Don't forget to stop in to the unique shops and restaurants found in this quaint downtown area.
At only 15 miles from Denver, Golden offers that mountain town charm without having to spend too much time in the car. You'll need that extra time to soak in all that this town has to offer during the winter months as Golden tends to "go big" on the holidays. The combination of twinkling lights downtown and along the clear creek path against Golden's naturally beautiful surroundings make for a magical setting during the winter. Snag some tickets for a ride on "The Polar Express" or take in one of their holiday parades and you've got yourself a picture perfect winter getaway.
Make your way to this mountain playground just 35 minutes west of downtown Denver for all sorts of winter adventures. In addition to their quaint main street that is perfect for a little shopping or grabbing a bite to eat, visitors are often drawn to Evergreen Lake, which offers an ideal setting for lacing up your skates and getting out on the ice.
You will feel as if you have traveled back in time when you visit Georgetown during the winter months. With their popular Christmas market, horse-drawn carriage rides, and Christmas carolers dressed in Victorian clothing while belting out traditional tunes, your spirits will be lifted as you take in this postcard-worthy town.
If you are up for a bit of an active adventure when you visit Breckenridge in the winter, you will find so much more than just skiing and snowboarding. This beautiful mountain town also offers ice skating at an indoor arena, sledding at the local Carter Park, riding the Breck Connect Gondala, or even zipping down the mountain on the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster. If you are looking for a more low-key experience, take your time while perusing the downtown boutiques and art galleries and stop in at one of their many wonderful eateries for a delicious bite to eat.
If the majestic sight of the luxurious Broadmoor Hotel aglow with lights isn't enough to fulfill your holiday wishes this season, get a ticket to one of their Holiday Shows and your list will be complete. Don't forget to take a holiday stroll around the festively decorated downtown area or view the nearly one million sparkling lights at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo's Electric Safari.
What nearby towns do you like to visit in the Winter? Please share in the comments below.
