5 Days in Denver and Surroundings Itinerary

Begin your day with breakfast at Pete's Kitchen, a beloved local spot for hearty morning meals. Then head to the beautiful Denver Botanic Gardens to enjoy the stunning plant displays and serene atmosphere.

Have lunch at City O' City, which offers creative vegetarian dishes in a hip setting. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Colorado State Capitol Building for a guided tour of this historic landmark.

Enjoy dinner at Linger, which serves globally inspired small plates in a unique setting. Conclude your day with some fun at the nearby Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park, perfect for thrill-seekers.

Begin your last day with breakfast at Biker Jim's Gourmet Dogs where you can try unique gourmet hot dogs. Visit the interactive exhibits at Denver Firefighters Museum afterwards.

Have lunch at The Capital Grille known for its upscale dining experience featuring dry-aged steaks and fresh seafood. Then spend some time exploring the vibrant neighborhood of Lower Downtown Denver (LoDo).

End your trip with dinner at Tavernetta by Frasca Food and Wine Group offering Italian-inspired dishes made from seasonal ingredients followed by an evening visit to the iconic landmark of Union Station.

Drive to Vail early in the morning (approximately 2 hours from Denver). Start your day with breakfast at The Little Diner, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious breakfast options. Spend your morning exploring Vail Village with its charming shops and scenic views.

For lunch, dine at Mountain Standard where you can enjoy rustic American cuisine by Gore Creek. In the afternoon, take advantage of Vail's outdoor activities such as hiking or mountain biking depending on the season.

Have dinner at Sweet Basil, one of Vail's top-rated restaurants offering contemporary American cuisine. After dinner, relax by taking an evening stroll through Lionshead Village before heading back to Denver.

Drive to Colorado Springs early in the morning (approximately 1 hour from Denver). Start your day with breakfast at Urban Egg Eatery known for its farm-to-table approach. Visit Garden of the Gods Park to marvel at stunning red rock formations.

For lunch head over to Shuga's Restaurant which offers eclectic dishes in a cozy setting. Spend your afternoon exploring Pikes Peak via car or cog railway for breathtaking views from one of Colorado’s highest summits.

Dine at The Famous Steak House renowned for its steaks and elegant ambiance before driving back to Denver.