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family travel

2018 Family Favorites: Travel

Family getaways can be so much fun, once you’re there. But planning where to go, how to get there, and what to do with the kids once you're there feels overwhelming. Here are some of the favorite spots of Colorado families in-state and beyond.

Colorado Resort or Hotel

Top Five
Winner: The Broadmoor

Plan a family getaway at the Broadmoor that’s as active or relaxing as you want. Whether biking, horseback riding, playing tennis, zip lining, or just splashing in the pool, there’s fun for the whole family. Luxury lodging comes in handy for a good night’s sleep after an active day. 1 Lake Ave., Colorado Springs. 855-634-7711.

Family Day Trip

Top Five
Winner: Estes Park/Rocky Mountain National Park

Whether you just need to get out of the city or you have guests in from out of town, Estes Park, at the eastern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, provides a satisfying one-day glimpse of Rocky Mountain life. Get some unplugged, outdoor time hiking, fishing, and snowshoeing, or head into town for shopping and dining, and maybe glimpse an elk wandering down the street. Check the city website for a rich lineup of special events and festivals. 800-443-7837.

Colorado Family Campground

Top Five
Winner: Jellystone Park at Larkspur

Camp at this 100-acre RV resort in a cottage, tepee, yurt, tent, or your own RV. Amenities include a heated swimming pool, movie theater, basketball court, themed weekends, and activities including geocaching and an escape room. Rough it as much or as little as you want. 650 Sky View Ln., Larkspur. 720-325-2393. 

Colorado Weekend Road Trip

Top Five
Winner: Glenwood Springs

At around three hours from Denver, you will arrive in Glenwood Springs about the time the kids start to ask, “Are we there yet?” With less travel time, there is more time to play or soak in the giant hot springs pool, putt through a round of mini golf, hike in the White River National Forest, and ride the rides at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. Take in views of it all from above in a scenic tram ride, or mom and dad can go undercover in the largest natural vapor caves in North America. 970-945-6580.

Winter Resort for Families

Top Five
Winner: Snow Mountain Ranch

Explore more than 120 kilometers of terrain for Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking in the Colorado Rockies regardless of your winter sports skill level. Or head back to the Ranch for ice skating, swimming, arts and crafts, and other unplugged activities. Stay in a variety of lodging options and enjoy buffet-style meals and communal dining. 1101 County Rd. 53, Granby. 970-887-2152.

Summer Mountain Getaway

Top Five
Winner: YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park Center

Families work, drive to activities, plan, cook, clean, consume tech, and then start each day all over again. The atmosphere at YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park, though, aims to slow things down and reconnect families. With activities available all day long, a family can unwind and unplug with crafts, sports, and games, or head out for a hike, rafting, or zip lining. Stay in the lodge or rent a cabin of your own. Do your own cooking in the cabin or take advantage of YMCA’s buffet-style meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s also a popular destination for family reunions if you need some time with the extended family. 2515 Tunnel Rd., Estes Park. 970-586-3344.

Destination Vacation

Top Five
Winner: Hawaii

When Colorado families plan a big getaway, it’s someplace warm with unlimited outdoor fun. Hawaii offers a broad range of activities, and no matter which of the islands you visit, there’s great food, history, natural features, and adventure waiting. From the Big Wind Kite Factory in Maunaloa to the Waikiki Aquarium or snorkeling in the tide pools on Kauai, there’s something to keep kids of every age happy. Of course, a day at the beach can’t be beat, either.

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