Sometimes, when we think back on our favorite vacation memories, many of the bright spots revolve around the food we ate. We become more adventurous in our travels, trying out foods we’ve never experienced before, just as we are visiting new places we have never visited before, and when your summer journey brings you to our Voyago Vacation Rentals in the town of Estes Park, your dining adventures are sure to be memorable ones. This guide to must-try Estes Park restaurants will make your mouth water and your stomach grumble that you aren’t feeding it these wonderful meals right now!
Bison Tacos at Ed’s Cantina & Grill, 390 E Elkhorn Avenue
Tacos are the world’s obsession, and we personally feel that no one does tacos like Ed’s Cantina & Grill. If you have never tried bison meet, we are thrilled to introduce you to the delicacy! First of all, bison meat is lower in fat and cholesterol, so it is a healthy protein choice, but when you eat Mexican food, do you really care about fat and cholesterol? These delicious tacos, made with a crispy corn shell, Pico de Gallo, and cheese, will put some spice into your life and perhaps spoil you against all other taco meats!
Homemade Biscuits and Gravy at Big Horn Restaurant, 401 W Elkhorn Avenue
Our mamas taught us that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and apparently the owners at Big Horn restaurant agree! Offering a menu filled with hearty and delicious breakfast foods, including a monster-sized breakfast burrito that we considered choosing for our favorite meal. The homemade biscuits, however, topped with homemade sausage gravy, are a habit we don’t want to kick, and we bet that you too will fall in love at first bite!
Spicy All Game Elk Burger at Elevations Eatery & Bar, 153 E Elkhorn Avenue
We really are trying to take you out of your comfort zone during your unforgettable vacation in Estes Park, first with the bison tacos, and now with the spicy all game elk burger at Elevations Eatery & Bar. Served on a pillowy brioche bun, the elk patty is topped with pepper jack cheese AND wild game boar sausage, which adds an extra kick you will soon begin to crave. For those looking for something a little lighter, their Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl is a game changer!
Dirty Martini Artichoke & Spinach Dip @Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ, 820 Moraine Avenue
Sometimes you just want to share some appetizers as you sip cold craft beers, and although the barbecue served at Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ is some of the best BBQ we have ever tasted, you may be equally delighted with snacking on their Dirty Martini Artichoke & Spinach Dip. Made with a blend of cheeses that now includes bleu cheese, garlic, cream, spinach, roasted green chiles, and artichoke hearts, we don’t really care to know the calorie count and while on vacation you shouldn’t have to worry about that either!
Huckleberry Oreo Ice Cream at Pines & Cones Ice Cream, 125 Moraine Avenue
It’s summer, of COURSE, you want ice cream, and Pines & Cones Ice Cream, one of Estes Park’s newest ice cream shops, has already won our hearts, offering homemade ice cream and their own waffle cones. Every flavor is worthy of trying, but the blend of huckleberries and Oreos is a unique one that tastes so good you will dream about it long after you have returned to real life.
Cherry Streusel Pie at the Colorado Cherry Company, Stanley Hotel
The Stanley Hotel is famous for a lot of things, including its longevity, its starring role in a very popular horror movie, and the fact that the hotel is very much haunted, but here in town, we also appreciate it for the Colorado Cherry Company café that does business from inside the hotel. Offering all the pies in all the flavors and a variety of what they call pie pockets (small, handheld pies that slightly resemble the ones that used to come in wax paper that you remember from your youth). But it is their cherry streusel pie that we hope you try, savoring the tart and sweet treat that has been a mainstay for the Colorado Cherry Company throughout 4 generations of ownership.
Your Family Recipes Made at Home in our Voyago Vacation Rentals
Now that you have enjoyed a sample of the culinary landscape of Estes Park, it is time to insert your own creations into the mix, with the final must-try item on our list being the family recipe that yours has always cherished. Our fully equipped kitchens might just bring a tear to the eye of the chef that is hiding within, offering high-end appliances, plenty of counterspace, and the vibe of the heart of the home. Contact us to reserve your favorite Estes Park vacation rental today!
Memorial Day Weekend has often been described as the unofficial kickoff to summer shenanigans, and although your Estes Park weekend getaway may not feel like the summer you are used to, the weather will be nice, the temperatures will be warmer, and your adventures will be ones you never forget. And because you chose Voyago Vacation Rentals for your holiday hideaway, we can assure you that your weekend will also be comfortable and luxurious. This guide to planning a 2025 Estes Park Memorial Day weekend getaway will paint a beautiful portrait of an All-American holiday filled with the best adventures, giving you a little something extra to look forward to in the weeks leading up to your Colorado vacation.
Estes Park Art Market, May 24-26, Bond Park, 170 MacGregor Avenue
Speaking of painting portraits, there will be plenty to peruse, as well as pottery, paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and so much more at the Estes Park Art Market held every Memorial Day Weekend! The Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies hosts the market, spotlighting local artists and those from surrounding states, and because art isn’t just limited to things you can buy, there will be live music playing all weekend long. Food trucks will be onsite so guests can linger over the cool woodcrafts, fiber art, photography and art glass that will be on display as well, ensuring that all mediums will be represented during this 40 year old event!
Trail Ridge Road Scenic Drive
In the mountains there are times when you just can’t drive on certain roads, and although the Trail Ridge Road is one of those that is closed in the winter, Memorial Day Weekend is when it opens once again. Offering one of the most stunning drives in the nation, it is also the highest continuously paved road, reaching an elevation 12,000 feet and featuring the most spectacular panoramic views. Mountains surround you in all directions, and for once in your life, 48 miles (the length of the scenic drive) will seem too short, even as you should plan on taking the entire day to explore all that can be seen along your route. Technically it will only take 1.5 hours each way, but you will want to pull into the designated parking areas you find along the road, taking pictures and wondering why you can’t live here year-round. It will be colder at these higher elevations, so be sure to bring a coat!
Open Air Adventure Park, 490 Prospect Village Drive
Memorial Day Weekend isn’t just the kickoff to summer, it is also when Estes Park seems to awaken after the beautiful and cold weather, and the Open Air Adventure Park is another fine example. Opening on the holiday weekend after being shut down all winter long, guests can enjoy a large number of outdoor adventures, including the 32 challenges offered in the Aerial Adventure Section for which you will get at least 90 minutes to conquer. Featuring ziplines, balancing equipment, rope ladders and many other exciting ways to release your inner acrobat, this fun park is one of the best parts of summer in Estes Park. Oh, and if you have any frustrations you need to release, their ax throwing adventure will help you release whatever may be bugging you without blowing your top!
Angling for a Good Time?
Fishing is a popular activity in Colorado any time of the year, including over Memorial Day, and there are a variety of lakes, rivers, and ponds in the area where you can cast your line, but Lake Estes is probably our favorite place to catch our dinners. Standing in the cool waters, hip boots keeping most of the water out of our pants and casting a line that will attract the big trout is definitely a summer activity that will bring you vacation memories you will cherish forever. And if you are used to more traditional methods of fishing or are not quite sure of your flyfishing skills, Fly Fish Estes Park, 363 E Elkhorn Avenue Suite 305, offers guided trips that will help you stay in the flyfishing game!
Estes Park Memorial Day Weekend Moments You Will Cherish
Holidays are enjoyed more when spent with family and the moments you enjoy at home with Voyago Vacation Rentals will be the moments you cherish forever. Offering cabins with hot tubs that look out over the lake, barbecue grills that will make the trout you caught taste even better, and the perfect spots to sit and watch the sun set over the mountains and lakes of our mountain town, all offering more ways to hang out and chill with the family. Reserve your favorite holiday Estes Park Colorado cabin today and discover all the ways Estes Park and our Voyago Vacation Rentals mountain escapes will make your 2025 Memorial Day one you wish never had to end!
We at Voyago Vacation Rentals believe there are two types of travelers: the ones who head to the beach every summer, and the ones that understand that the mountains are truly the only place they want to be. Offering long days filled with outdoor adventures, temperatures that never rise too high, and in the case of Estes Park, vacation properties that will comfort and keep you warm on chilly summer nights, this guide to getting a head start on your Estes Park CO summer vacation planning for your Estes Park getaway will give you a better understanding as to why the mountains are going to offer your favorite vacation experience!
Pack for Adventure
Sometimes the most difficult part of vacation planning is trying to figure out how to pack your luggage, but you’ve got Voyago Vacation Rentals on your side, and we make difficult things easy. Your Colorado adventures are going to take place outside mostly; the beauty of our landscape, the moderate temperatures, and your zeal for adventure will ensure that there is nowhere else you want to be. The weather, even in the summer, can get chilly at night, so layers is the key word. Bring t-shirts, jackets, umbrellas, and of course, comfortable walking shoes and extra socks in case your feet get wet. The Colorado sun can be bright, so sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are highly recommended, and hydration packs can make a long hike feel refreshing. And although we don’t really have to tell you how to pack your carry on, we would like to remind you that a couple of bags of pretzels really won’t hold you over and jerky can help you avoid a hangry flight.
Plan Your Hikes in Advance
The trails of Estes Park range from easy to difficult, ensuring that novice hikers will have a great time and experienced hikers won’t be bored. The Bear Lake Loop lasts less than a mile and is one of our easiest trails, offering stunning views of the lake, the trees, and the mountains. Dogs are not allowed on this trail, but it only takes about 15 minutes to complete, so feel free to leave your fur baby at home if you need to. The Gem Lake Trail extends out just over 3 miles and offers an elevation gain of nearly 1000 feet; it is a moderate trail that features incredible views of the Rocky Mountains, Estes Park, and of course, Gem Lake, a crystal-clear body of water that offers a reflection of the mountains in its still waters. And last but not least, our diehard hikers simply must experience the Chasm Lake Trail, a favorite of hikers from all over the world. This 8-mile trail has an elevation gain of 2552 feet, and your muscles will feel every step you take, but the views from the peak will be worth every muscle ache!
Prepare to Feed Your Soul
Your vacation meals in Estes Park are going to be the ones you dream about long after you return home, and whether you are preparing to gorge yourself with a hearty breakfast at Mountain Home Café or are thinking that a special occasion meal at Seasoned: An American Bistro will enhance your vacation experience, we can assure you that with every bite you will be feeding your soul. Life is meant to be lived, and you will never feel more alive than when surrounded by your family devouring a meal from any of our local restaurants.
Plan on a Day in the Park
Open Air Adventure Park, located at 490 Prospect Village Drive, offers outdoor adventures you will never forget, featuring ziplines, air boards, and hanging chairs as well as ax throwing adventures, kayak tours in Rocky Mountain National Park, and hiking tours that will make you fall in love with the stunning landscape of the park. Sometimes the best way to get to know the area you are visiting is with a tour and the tours offered at the Open Air Adventure Park will certainly make you fall in love with this part of Colorado.
Plan on Relaxing at Home on Your Estes Park, CO Summer Vacation with Voyago
As much as you will love your outside adventures in Estes Park, it is the moments spent at home in our seasonal sanctuaries that will create the most treasured memories. Relaxing in front of a roaring fire on a chilly summer night, watching the sunset over the mountains every evening of your stay, even playing board games with the kids while gathered around the dining room tables. Every attention is paid to every detail that ensures comfort and luxury, and as you relax, play, and explore all the comforts we provide, you will realize that this vacation is going to go down in your family history as the one you wish you could relive over and over again. Contact us to reserve your favorite Estes Park Colorado cabin today!
A vacation is not just a luxury. It’s fundamental for your mental and physical health. After all, taking time off work can help relieve stress, enhance sleep, and boost creativity. So if a place that will give you peace of mind is what you seek, Estes Park is the place to be.
And after a great day of exploring, what better spot to return to than Lily Mountain Lodge? Whether with family or friends, this is the ideal place to call home. Kick back and allow us to take you on a tour of this exquisite property.
Step Inside Lily Mountain Lodge
Lily Mountain Lodge is a stunning four-bedroom, four-bathroom rental located in the heart of the mountains. It’s the perfect destination for families or groups of buddies looking to escape the daily grind of city life. As you step inside, you’ll be welcomed by the warm glow of natural light flowing in through the expansive windows that make this lodge feel like home. You’ll also fall in love with the inviting open-floor concept. This design allows for easy socializing and entertaining, making it an ideal gathering space. The best part? You’ll have a front-row seat to the spectacular mountain views surrounding the lodge, all from the comfort of your room. And that’s not all. At Voyago, we understand the importance of staying comfortable regardless of what the weather outside may be. That’s why we’ve equipped this home with an efficient and effective cooling and heating system to keep you delighted year-round.
The living room in this abode is a cozy haven where you can chill at the end of the day. It is outfitted with two plush sofas, comfy wooden armchairs, elegant area rugs, and a center table, among other unique pieces of furniture. The décor is rustic yet modern, giving the space a homey feel. Also, this room’s focal point is a beautiful stone fireplace that adds warmth and charm. With all this in place, you can sit back and watch a movie from the large flat-screen television mounted on the wall. And with the availability of Wi-Fi, you can chat with your online pals or update your family back home on how your break is fairing.
When it’s time to cook, the tempting kitchen in this home is a chef’s dream come true. It hosts everything you need to prepare meals, including a large fridge, stove, oven, microwave, and plenty of cookware. The countertops are made of magnific granite, and an extensive island in the center provides plenty of space for food prep. And that’s not all. This culinary space also hosts brown cabinets to store ingredients and utensils. Even better, this area also has a big picture window above the sink. Thus, it’s an excellent spot to watch the sunset while you cook dinner. You can head to the inviting dining area fitted with comfortable seating when the food is ready.
Whether you spend the whole day outdoors having fun or chilling indoors, getting adequate rest is paramount. Thankfully, each bedroom in this rental is a luxurious retreat in its own right. They are all gigantic, and the beds are topped with high-quality linens and pillows, ensuring everyone a good night’s sleep. And with the large closets where you can safely keep your belongings, you’ll feel like you’re staying in a five-star hotel. One of the standout features of the bedrooms is the oversized windows that let in plenty of natural light and offer lovely sceneries of the surrounding mountains. With that, these resting areas exude a tranquil aura that helps you to get the rest you deserve. So whether you decide to dwell in the master suite or one of the comfy guest rooms, you’ll wake up feeling revitalized.
When you want to freshen up, this home has bathrooms readily available. Each of the four is clean, modern, and well-maintained. The fixtures are all high-quality, and the showers are spacious and elegant. One of the bathrooms’ distinctive features is the attention to detail. From exquisite tile work to chic lighting fixtures, each bathroom is designed to be both functional and aesthetically gratifying. So you will feel refreshed whether you take a quick shower or relish a relaxing soak in the tub.
Captivating Outdoor Space for Enjoying the Scenery
The alfresco space at Lily Mountain Lodge is awe-inspiring. You can savor the peace and quiet from the expansive deck and private balcony. And as you sip on a tasty cup of tea, you can take in the scenic vistas of the surrounding wilderness. There’s also a hot tub perfect for soaking sore muscles and a barbecue grill for cooking tasty meals. In this home, you’ll feel completely immersed in nature as you listen to the fantastic sounds of birds cheeping and leaves rustling in the wind.
Book Your Stay at Lily Mountain Lodge Today
Are you ready to start planning your Estes Park getaway? If so, contact us to book your stay at Lily Mountain Lodge today! With its cozy rooms, stunning views, and convenient location, this charming rental is the perfect home base for all your mountain adventures.
Are you yearning for a mountain getaway? Your dream can become a reality with Elk Corner, the ultimate vacation rental that awaits you. This exquisite four-bedroom home is a haven of luxury, offering unrivaled amenities and an unbeatable location just minutes from downtown Estes Park. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Elk Corner is the perfect retreat to immerse yourself in the beauty of the mountains and create unforgettable memories.
Features & Amenities
Welcome to your dream vacation retreat nestled in the heart of the majestic Rockies. Step into this gorgeous 4-bedroom house, where every corner exudes charm and comfort, creating the perfect haven for your mountain getaway. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the magic of this Rocky Mountain cabin, seamlessly blended with modern luxury. The house boasts four exquisite bedrooms, each thoughtfully designed with comfort in mind. The expansive master bedroom, adorned with a plush new king bed, offers its own sanctuary. Wake up to breathtaking views from your private deck and sip your morning coffee while soaking in the serenity of the surrounding nature. The primary bathroom, a haven of relaxation, features beautiful finishes that elevate your pampering experience.
The remaining three bedrooms, each furnished with comfortable new queen beds, ensure a peaceful night’s rest. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, everyone will find their own slice of tranquility in these tastefully appointed spaces. And for those needing additional sleeping arrangements, a queen-sized American Leather pull-out sofa provides comfort and convenience.
Indulge your culinary desires in the well-equipped gourmet kitchen with modern appliances and a double oven, perfect for preparing delicious meals during your stay. The open-concept design allows for seamless interaction with loved ones, whether you’re organizing a feast or simply enjoying a glass of wine in the stylish dining area.
Entertainment options abound in this remarkable property. Descend to the basement level, where you’ll find another inviting bar area, ideal for socializing and creating lasting memories. Movie enthusiasts will delight in the home theater, featuring 7.1 surround sound and an impressive 80-inch TV screen. Immerse yourself in cinematic experiences from the comfort of plush seating, creating the perfect evening for relaxation and entertainment.
Once you step out back, it only gets better. The home features a lovely courtyard with a stone fireplace, radiating warmth and setting the perfect ambiance for cool mountain evenings. Picture yourself gathering around the crackling fire, savoring delicious grilled delicacies prepared on the top-of-the-line barbecue grill nearby. Adjacent to the fireplace, a well-appointed bar invites you to indulge in your favorite libations while marveling at the awe-inspiring vistas of the majestic Rockies. As the sun sets behind the peaks, casting vibrant hues across the sky, this outdoor sanctuary becomes a tranquil haven where cherished memories are made.
A Beautiful Location
Immerse yourself in the vibrant charm of downtown Estes Park, located just 1.5 miles from this remarkable home. This bustling hub invites you to explore various dining and shopping opportunities, offering a delightful blend of local flavors and unique treasures. Stroll along the charming streets, lined with inviting storefronts, boutiques, and art galleries, where you can discover one-of-a-kind souvenirs and keepsakes to commemorate your mountain adventure.
Nature enthusiasts will rejoice at the proximity to the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, located just a few miles away on the other side of town. Step into a world of breathtaking beauty as you embark on scenic drives, hike picturesque trails, or revel in the awe-inspiring vistas that await you. Explore the diverse ecosystems, witness the majestic wildlife, and immerse yourself in the natural wonders that have captivated visitors for generations.
Delicious Dining Awaits
Downtown Estes Park is a haven for food enthusiasts, boasting a delightful dining scene that caters to every taste. Claire’s Restaurant and Bar shines as a local favorite among the standout establishments, serving up mouthwatering classic American dishes such as BBQ, burgers, and trout. What sets Claire’s apart is its inviting patio, where you can savor your meal while soaking in the stunning views of the surrounding park. Another exceptional culinary gem is The View Restaurant, located within the Historic Crags Lodge and renowned for its “Best American Cuisine” in Estes Park. Here, you can indulge in a memorable dining experience, surrounded by the lodge’s charm and treated to breathtaking vistas. These two exceptional dining spots offer just a glimpse of the remarkable culinary adventures that await in downtown Estes Park, where food lovers can explore a diverse range of flavors and experiences.
Book Your Getaway
Your ultimate Rocky Mountain retreat awaits at this breathtaking vacation rental. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a blend of both, this property is a haven that invites you to create cherished memories against the backdrop of nature’s grandeur. So, what are you waiting for? Give us a call today to book your stay at this beautiful four-bedroom Estes Park vacation home!