As locals, we know the Estes Valley better than most. Living here full time gives us the opportunity to patronize local businesses and get a feel for the experience that future guests will have in many different areas of town. From restaurants to activities to lodging, we feel confident in recommending several options in each category to ensure that your Estes adventure is local-approved.
EAT
Antonio’s Real NY Pizza
Our owner, Andy, calls this “some of the best pizza you’re going to get anywhere,” and for good reason - Washington Post named this pizzeria the best New York pizza in Colorado in 2023. With offerings such as the Sicillian, the Grandma Pie, and the Mega Don – a 26” pizza that weighs in at 5-6lbs – Antonio’s is a great place to stop for dinner after a full day in the mountains. It is also conveniently located less than half a mile from Backbone Adventures!
To learn more or to place an order, visit estesparkpizza.com.
The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern
A popular local hangout spot, the Rock Inn serves as the go-to spot for a lively atmosphere, delicious food, and amazing live music. An ever-evolving menu showcases hand-crafted hearty comfort food, and the full bar is a fantastic place to grab a drink on your way out of the park.
For more information, visit https://www.rockinnestes.com/.
Seasoned - An American Bistro
A great stop for couples, Seasoned is a local favorite for a slightly more expensive but totally worth the splurge meal. Made by world-class chefs, the food is exquisite and clearly made by someone who deeply cares about their work. With top-notch staff and comfortable ambiance, this is a great place to enjoy an evening to its fullest.
For more information, visit https://www.seasonedbistro.com/.
Scratch Deli & Bakery
Offering hearty sandwiches, breakfast burritos, and fresh-baked pastries, Scratch Deli is a common lunch choice among employees at Backbone Adventures. It also makes the perfect picnic lunch to take on a trail ride into the mountains or up into the national park.
For more info, visit their Facebook page here.
STAY
Streamside on Fall River
According to our owner, Andy, “Max, the owner, is one of the coolest guys around. He is so nice and so passionate about his beautiful place.” With 21 cabins and suites sprinkled around 29 acres, this property is the perfect getaway for folks wanting a secluded haven of relaxation. Offering fishing right outside the cabins, wildlife often cruising throughout the property, and close proximity to both the national park and downtown Estes, you’ll find a perfect home base for your mountain adventure at Streamside.
Learn more at https://streamsideonfallriver.com/.
Aspen Winds on Fall River
“Pictures of her cabins don't do them justice at all. Her place is in our top 3 in Estes Park. You won't get better quality and service.” - owner Andy Hitch
With spa suites and condos perfect for larger families, Aspen Winds is a perfect place to stay near the Fall River entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. Relish the soothing sounds and views of the river along with the majesty of the mountains all from the comfort of your condo and deck. “Pictures of her cabins don't do them justice at all. Her place is in our top 3 in Estes Park. You won't get better quality and service.”
Visit https://www.aspenwinds.com/ for more info.
Romantic RiverSong Inn
“They are amazing people. This is the best couples get away I've ever experienced. The history and beauty is unmatched in Estes Park. Seriously, you MUST stay here. You're gonna thank me. Oh, and if you're gonna get married somewhere in Estes, this is the place to do it. Their personal touch is a rarity in today's world.”
We think this quote from owner Andy Hitch says it all - this place is special. With all the personal attention you want, and without all the crowds you don’t, the Romantic RiverSong Inn is the perfect place to return after a day of adventure.
Learn more at https://romanticriversong.com/.
PLAY
Backbone Adventures
Offering adventures from e-bikes to Slingshots, ATVs to Jeeps, and much more, we know you’ll find your new addiction with us at Backbone Adventures. No Estes Valley vacation is complete without adventuring into the woods to see the beauty of the area that differs from what you’ll see from the road in the national park.
We want to help you have the offroad adventure of your dreams!
Book your adventure or learn more at https://www.backbonecycles.com/
Ride-A-Kart and Cascade Creek Mini Golf
Sometimes, after a busy day of ripping around on Razors, Backbone employees will pop over to Ride-A-Kart for some go-kart antics and a round of the best mini golf in Estes. With bumper boats, batting cages, and more, this is a great stop for the whole family.
Learn more at https://rideakart.com/
National Park Gateway Stables
If you’re looking to ride horses in the area, this is the place to do it. The folks here are knowledgeable, treat their horses well, and provide a high-quality experience like no other. The views on their rides are stunning and their Western hospitality is second to none.
For more information, visit https://rideakart.com/
Estes Park Mountain Shop
Looking to rent gear for an adventure in the national park? Stop by Estes Park Mountain Shop and you’re sure to find what you need: microspikes and winter boots, tents and sleeping bags, even skis and snowboards in the winter. They also have indoor rock climbing for something to do on bad weather days.
Check out https://www.estesparkmountainshop.com/ for more info
Final Thoughts
We know there are a million and one things to do in the Estes Valley, and we hope our recommendations give you a place to start. One final recommendation from our owner is to not plan every moment of your vacation - leave a little wiggle room to give yourself the opportunity to jump on something that looks fun in the moment. Sometimes, those are the best memories made on a trip.
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