Spring is one of the best times to get out and explore. The weather is (usually) mild, we’re all starting to get vaccinated and the world is beginning to open back up. If you’re itching to travel but not quite ready to commit to a long, involved trip, consider these easy weekend trips for a quick spring or early summer getaway.
Denver
For an urban staycation of sorts, head to Denver for a long weekend (especially if it’s been a while since you last made the trek south!)
Where to stay
The Rally Hotel at McGregor Square, a brand new hotel near Coors Field. Even if you’re not planning to attend a baseball game, the hotel’s location is prime for exploring the new McGregor Square development, which features tons of restaurants, shops and a 110-foot LED screen for live sporting events. Ask for a room on the eighth floor, which sits exactly 5,280 feet above sea level. The Mile High Floor, as it’s known, is decorated with dark woods and deep purples — a nod to the “purple mountain majesties” and the Rockies uniforms colors.
The hotel has an extensive art collection, a skybridge rooftop and a plunge pool. If you need a late-night snack, head to The Original for a Croughnut Slider Burger or a boozy milkshake. The Rally Bar is also a great place to grab a drink at the end of the night.
Fun fact: The hotel’s name is a play on the baseball superstition in which fans wear their hats backward or inside out to help their team pull off a come-from-behind victory,
Where to eat
Wander across the bridge over I-25 and head to Wildflower, a cozy new cocktail bar and restaurant in Lower Highlands. The menu is full of vegetarian-forward tapas, natural wines and floral cocktails. When it’s time for dessert, you’ll have a hard time choosing between pastries, cakes and biscotti. The restaurant is part of Life House, LoHi, a brand new hotel that combines Old West and Victorian decor in lavish suites and modern bunk rooms.
What to do
Explore the Dairy Block, a historic LoDo micro-district with 15 shops, 19 restaurants, seven bars, a coworking space and a 172-room boutique hotel. The block used to be home to Windsor Dairy but has been transformed into a thriving destination. It’s fun to wander around and pursue the shops, take in the sights and grab a bite from Denver Milk Market, an all-local food hall.
Golden
When was the last time you headed south on U.S. 93 and explored Golden? It’s probably been a while (thanks, pandemic). You’re in luck because there are quite a few new places to explore in Golden.
Where to stay
Make a reservation now to stay at The Eddy Taproom & Hotel, a four-story, 49-room boutique hotel located along Clear Creek. The hotel, which officially opens June 1, is the perfect basecamp for your adventures or a long weekend spent relaxing. You can get a private massage on one of the hotel’s rooftop patios, grab a bite from the Truck Eddy food truck or sip a beer at The Taproom.
The hotel is located on the site of the old Golden Fire Brick Company, which dates back to the 1980s. The aesthetic is a nod to the historic and industrial significance of the site, with some contemporary and vintage touches.
Where to eat
Be sure to check out The Golden Mill, a brand new food hall that opened in April. The 1860s building used to be a flour mill before transitioning to a feed and supply store. Now, it’s been lovingly transformed into a community gathering space featuring food vendors, a bar and an ice cream shop. There’s even a self-serve beverage system with 56 taps, so you can pour your own beer, cider, wine, cocktails, cold brew and more.
What to do
Hit the numerous Golden-area trails on foot or on your mountain bike, or hit up the Clear Creek Whitewater Kayaking Park in a canoe or kayak.
Colorado Springs
Hit the road and head to Colorado Springs for a weekend of tasty eats, outdoor adventures and relaxation.
Where to stay
Kinship Landing is one of Colorado Springs’ newest hotels. This 40-room hotel features 34 suites and junior suites, plus six eight-bed bunkrooms. Located in New South End of downtown Colorado Springs, the hotel is home to a beautiful jade bar, gear storage lockers, an outdoor patio and a vibrant mural created by artist Zane Prater.
Where to eat
Check out one of the many award-winning restaurants at The Broadmoor. Even if you aren’t staying there, eating there is a good opportunity to wander around the gorgeous grounds and enjoy the fresh meals prepared by chefs using ingredients grown in on-site gardens.
What to do
For a totally unique experience, head to the new U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum, where you can learn all about Team USA. The interactive 60,000-square-foot museum has tons of cool exhibits and art, including a collection of Olympic medals and torches!
