 Photo Credit: Visit Estes Park Estes Park isn’t just a fantastic place for tourists to visit on a trip to Colorado. It’s also a coveted destination wedding hub! As Colorado wedding planners, we spend significant time there each year helping our clients celebrate. Accordingly, we’re also familiar with the best things to do in the area. Today, we’re sharing our favorite activities and sightseeing spots so you can gather inspiration for your destination wedding in Estes Park. Plus, don’t forget to link this guide on your wedding website so your guests can plan their perfect weekend here! Rocky Mountain National Park Photo Credit: Visit Estes Park Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most visited National Parks in America, and Estes Park residents have the luxury of enjoying it right in their backyard! This expansive National Park boasts picturesque mountain views for miles and miles. It’s also accessible to outdoor adventurers of all ages and ability levels. From driving Trail Ridge Road to riding on horseback up the mountain peaks or simply hiking with your best friend (furry or human), there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Rocky Mountain National Park is truly the gem of Colorado—if you do nothing else on your trip to Estes Park, make sure you go here! The Stanley Hotel Photo Credit: Stanley Hotel The historic Stanley Hotel is one of the oldest in the Estes Valley, situated high on a mountain slope to offer panoramic views of the surrounding Rocky Mountain range. F.O. Stanley, inventor of the Stanley Steamer, had the hotel built in 1909 as an upscale resort and wellness destination. However, there’s more to Stanley Hotel than meets the eye. Pop culture fanatics flock here to visit the place that inspired Stephen King to write The Shining. Moreover, the hotel was a filming location for the comedy film Dumb and Dumber. As the inspiration for The Shining, The Stanley has earned a reputation as a place for seeking out paranormal experiences. You can now embark on a night tour of the property to learn more about the active phenomena and spirit folklore. There’s also a daytime tour for those more interested in learning about the hotel’s history and celebrity guests. Not into ghosts? Not to worry, The Stanley is also known internationally for its expansive whiskey bar, home to Colorado’s largest selection of whiskeys and single malts. There’s also a gift shop, onsite restaurants, and event spaces (you could even host your Estes Park destination wedding here!). OUtdoor Adventures & Activities Photo Credit: Visit Estes Park Since Estes Park is the gateway town for Rocky Mountain National Park, it boasts endless opportunities for thrill-seeking and getting out in nature. Try whitewater rafting on the Poudre Valley River with one of the local rafting guides based in Estes Park, or hit up one of the local stables to embark on a horseback riding tour through the mountains. If you prefer to take your time and breathe in the mountain air, several companies based in Estes Park offer guided Jeep tours. Conversely, if you’re looking for an adrenaline fix, rent a four-wheeler/ATV or dirt bike to take on an off-roading adventure. Finally, if you’re an animal lover, don’t miss the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hike through the Rocky Mountains on a guided llama trek! Kirks Mountain Adventures hosts these hikes that range from daytime excursions to overnight odysseys. You’ll have the opportunity to hike alongside a born-and-bred Colorado llama, enjoying these gentle giants up close while they carry your gear over the mountain slopes. Sign us up! Downtown Riverwalk & Shopping Photo Credit: Visit Estes Park Estes Park’s downtown Riverwalk is a picturesque stroll that you can enjoy for an hour or an entire afternoon. It’s chock-full of local restaurants and artisan shops! It’s also the perfect activity for soothing your pre-wedding nerves as you take in the bubbling brooks and streams and the peaceful sounds of nature. Art galleries and gourmet ice cream shops are also among the amenities found in downtown Estes. Not to mention that you’ll enjoy views of the Rocky Mountains in every direction! Eat & Drink Photo Credit: Visit Estes Park Whether you’re seeking classic mountain cuisine, the flavors of Italy, or a sweet treat, Estes Park has the fare to suit your taste buds and fill your belly. Locally owned coffee shops offer quick bites, while dine-in options are perfect for tucking in after a day spent on the trail. Estes Park also boasts a collection of distilleries, wineries, and breweries where connoisseurs can while away a slow-paced afternoon. However, our favorite place to eat and drink in Estes Park is Bird & Jim. This elevated casual restaurant offers an authentic taste of Colorado with dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Our favorite way to enjoy our incredible state is through our bellies, and we think you’ll agree after dining here! Estes Park Destination WeddingsOf course, our favorite way to experience Estes Park is by hosting a destination wedding here! If you’re seeking a quintessentially Colorado location for your celebration, you can’t go wrong with this picturesque mountain town. Whether you’re eloping privately or flying in all your friends and family for the ultimate destination wedding, Estes Park will take your breath away! Are you ready to start planning the wedding of your dreams in Estes Park or another top Colorado destination? Our experienced team would love to connect with you to discuss our planning packages, creative process, and more. Get in touch today! Plus, travel to Visit Estes Park to start planning your trip and see what else Estes Park has to offer! Comments are closed.
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Angela Johnston
LET’S CONNECT TO START DESIGNING YOUR DISTINCTIVE COLORADO EVENT TODAY
Sapphire Celebrations combines the energy, perspective and creativity of two generations when planning weddings and events throughout Colorado. Founded by a mother and daughter team, Sapphire Celebrations reflects their Colorado heritage. With family roots dating back to 1907 and covering the northeastern plains and Rocky Mountain vistas, there is no team better qualified to plan your Colorado wedding or special event. Pamela and Angie are proud of the high level of service for which Sapphire Celebrations has come to be known. Two principal wedding designers and four event concierges take pride in exceeding the expectations of couples who entrust us with their wedding day. Archives
February 2025
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