5-Day Culinary Adventure in Salida, Colorado Itinerary

Fuel up for an active day with a breakfast sandwich and a cup of joe from Starbucks. Then, gear up for a morning of outdoor fun at the Monarch Mountain. Whether it's skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, the mountain offers a range of activities for nature enthusiasts.

After working up an appetite, grab a quick and satisfying lunch at Panda Express for some flavorful Chinese cuisine. Post-lunch, continue your outdoor adventure with a visit to the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, where you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Arkansas River.

For dinner, experience the local flavors at The Vic Tasting Room, known for its small plates and extensive wine selection. Unwind in the cozy ambiance as you sample a variety of dishes paired with the perfect wine. End the evening with a sweet treat from Domino's Pizza, offering a range of desserts to satisfy your cravings.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Cracker Barrel, known for its classic American comfort food. After breakfast, visit the Chaffee County Courthouse, a historic landmark in downtown Salida. Take a self-guided tour and admire the architecture.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Subway, where you can customize your sandwich to your liking. Post-lunch, take a scenic drive to the nearby town of Buena Vista. Explore the charming streets and visit the Buena Vista Heritage Museum to learn about the area's rich history.

Head back to Salida for a cozy dinner at McDonald's, where you can enjoy a classic burger and fries. After dinner, take a guided ghost tour of Salida, learning about the town's intriguing past and paranormal encounters. It's a unique way to cap off the evening.

Enjoy a mountain sunrise with a breakfast burrito from Taco Bell to go. Then, take a scenic drive to the Cottonwood Pass, one of the highest mountain passes in Colorado. Stop at the overlooks and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

For lunch, visit Panera Bread for a variety of soups, salads, and sandwiches. After lunch, continue your mountain exploration with a hike in the San Isabel National Forest. Choose a trail that suits your skill level and immerse yourself in the alpine beauty.

Dine at The Bounty, a local favorite known for its farm-to-table cuisine. The menu changes with the seasons, so you're in for a culinary treat. After dinner, enjoy a laid-back evening at Soulcraft Brewing, where you can sample a range of craft beers and relax with friends.

Grab a quick breakfast at Dunkin' to start your day. Then, take a scenic drive along the Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway. Marvel at the panoramic views of the Sawatch and Mosquito mountain ranges as you make your way through the high country.

Stop for a leisurely lunch at Five Guys, where you can enjoy a juicy burger and hand-cut fries. After lunch, visit the St. Elmo Ghost Town, one of the best-preserved ghost towns in Colorado. Explore the historic buildings and imagine life in the mining days.

Conclude your culinary adventure with a memorable dinner at Shake Shack, known for its gourmet burgers and shakes. Raise a toast to a fantastic trip at Deerhammer Distillery, a local craft distillery. Take a tour and sample their unique spirits, reflecting the essence of Colorado.