Sometimes life gets so busy, it’s all we can do to make it to the weekend. That doesn’t mean you have to stay home to relax and recharge or hop on an airplane when you have so many options here in the Centennial State. Colorado boasts a plethora of hotels, resorts, and getaways that make remaining in our home state a wonderful and enticing option. The following spots are within a few hours’ drive of the Independence Community, offering a chance to make memories with an impromptu, easily planned staycation.
Fort Collins, Colorado
Just over an hour from Independence Neighborhood in Elizabeth, Colorado, Fort Collins is a fun college town with mountain vibes. Nestled against the foothills, this historic city is equal parts elegant and down to earth. Splurge on a stay at The Elizabeth Hotel in Old Town and enjoy walking to numerous fine-dining restaurants peppered throughout Fort Collins’ charming downtown. If you’re looking for something more low-key, rent a quaint historical home on AirBnB and bike to local craft breweries – this town has 20 of them. Looking for a little more adventure? Rent paddle boards or pack a picnic and head to Horsetooth Reservoir for a day spent splashing in the water and the sun.
Grand Lake, Colorado
Only a two-hour drive gets you to this picturesque mountain town just west of Rocky Mountain National Park. This alpine lake getaway transports guests to a tranquil, high-elevation hideaway free from Summit County crowds. Post up in a rustic cabin lake-side or book a room at one of Grand Lake’s many hotels or AirBnB. Rent a pontoon boat at the marina and cruise around the gorgeous sparkling waters of Grand Lake. Take a stroll around the small downtown on foot or bike, chat with locals, and fill up on small-town charm with this staycation.
Boulder, Colorado
There’s a reason that Boulder continuously tops ‘best of’ lists year after year. It’s a beautiful, well-rounded city that offers the best of all worlds. Renowned outdoor recreation like climbing, paragliding and hiking attract adventure enthusiasts from near and far. World-class restaurants continue to find footing along the historic Pearl Street Pedestrian Mall, while dive bars like the Sundowner host locals who will happily share legends of old Boulder in exchange for a beer or two. Award-winning hotels, such as the historic Hotel Boulderado and St Julien are ready and waiting to welcome you with open arms and show you the best that Boulder has to offer.
Alamosa, Colorado
Known for the Great Sand Dunes National Park, Alamosa has some other unique draws that make it a cool spot to hang for the weekend. Catch the sunset at Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge and bring your camera to snap shots of gorgeous rare birds. Take a train ride back through time by boarding the Rio Grande Railroad and soaking in views of the near-by mountains from the comfort of a train car. If you’re really craving some true rest and relaxation, visit Valley View Hot Springs to soak in natural mineral pools overlooking the valley. Or, camp in luxury just a stone’s throw from the Sangre de Cristo mountain range with Dunes Desert Camp. For a complete list of things to do in Alamosa, check out this article.
Our welcoming neighborhood is only a hop, skip, and a jump from some of Colorado’s most epic adventures. Contact us today to learn more about Independence, a conservation community where residents can engage with neighbors, take in scenic views, and embrace this beautiful place we are fortunate to call home.