Real Estate in Denver and the Suburbs

Memorial Day Weekend has just past, my kids get out of school this week, and its time for my own family to evaluate our summer plans.  Last summer my family was very fortunate in taking two very wonderful trips for vacation.  We actually had not planned two trips so close together - it just sort of happened.  We had been planning our trip to Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons for almost two years and a bit more last minute we accepted an invitation to attend a family reunion in Europe.  Which was fantastic as we had ever been there before.

In any case both trips were absolutely wonderful, but we have decided to plant our legs a bit more firmly in Colorado this summer and spend some time enjoying everything that is offered right in our own back yard. 

If you have recently moved to Colorado, here are some ideas for you, too, to enjoy this summer.  Some of these my own family will be heading to this summer as well!

In Denver

Denver Mint - You are going to need to make a reservation online, but pick a day and do it now.  The Denver Mint is quite a fun place to visit, especially if you have kids.

Denver Zoo - A regular favorite of our family and there are plenty of special programs at the zoo to check out as well. 

Water World - So not a big glamorous place to visit, but if you have kids that love water as much as mine, you have to go here at  least once.  Check the area grocery stores & coupon books for deals. 

Chatfield Reservoir at Chatfield State Park - This is one of our own local favorites and you will most likely find us in the south ponds fishing.

Around the State

Camping - If you have never been camping in Colorado - you are in for a  treat.  There is no shortage of wonderful camping sites, but if you haven't made reservations yet, you need to do so soon. 

Great Sand Dunes - I haven't been in ages but it may be about time for me to take my own children here.

Grand Lake - Ah, Grand Lake.  This is truly one of the most special places.  I can't but my finger on it, but it is paradise to me.  At teh base of Rocky Mountain National Park, there is hiking, fishing, shopping, restaurants and just good ol' R&R.

Steamboat Springs - One of my families favorites.  Spend some time on a tuber on the river, hiking among wildflowers on the ski slops, or venture further to Steamboat Lake.  Yes, a bit of a drive, but worth it.

Boating on Lake Dillon - When my kids were much younger, one of my fondest memories is sitting on a pontoon boat in the middle of Dillon Reservoir with a bag of pebbles and watching my children throw each pebble in one at a time and going crazy with giggles as they splashed.  They are a bit more high action now, but still a great place to be.

Breckenridge - Another favorite.  I am starting to see a pattern here - these are all my favorites.  Once the snow melts, summer starts and Breckenridge is a great get away, for a day, a week-end or more.

White Water Rafting - It is looking like my son & I may have our first rafting adventure together this summer. 

Hiking & Biking- There is absolutely no shortage in hiking trails in Colorado and the Denver area is no exceptions.  If you are new to the area I recommend you check out the following book.

Also, many of the area recreation centers are now providing recreation maps that indicate the area trails.  I have seen these at the Northridge Rec Center in in Highlands Ranch and the Goodson Recreation Center - part of South Suburban Parks & Rec.

Golden Gate Canyon State Park - This can either be a camping outing for just a day trip.   Hiking and biking are very popular in Golden Gate State Park.

Castlewood Canyon - Shame on Me for not bringing my children here yet to this beautiful state park.  That will change this summer though.  Hiking in the canyon can get very hot, so make sure you bring lots of water and morning trips can be a bit more pleasant.

Colorado Springs - A trip to Colorado Springs can easily be a day trip but there are all sort of places to stay to enjoy a full weekend as

well.  Want to splurge, try The Broadmoor.  And if you have kids they will love the fantastic pool and kids activities.  Colorado Springs has so much to offer including The United States Air Force Academy, The Garden of the Gods, Seven Falls, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, The Winter Olympics Museum, and of course hiking galore.

Durango - If you are coming from Denver, this is perfect for a long weekend.  Don't forget to make reservations in advance for the Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad through the mountains.  A not to miss trip that is a treat!

Have other ides for Colorado Trips?  Feel free to add them!

Steve Scheer, REMAX Masters, Inc.
Denver Real Estate - Highlands Ranch Real Estate