So you made it. You got from Denver to Estes Park, and you’re ready to see what all the fuss is about. We get it. As your local guide for getting here and back, we’re focused on giving you the best, most up to date information. And while most people come for that big, beautiful thing called Rocky Mountain National Park (and you totally should), you can’t miss spending a day, or three, exploring downtown Estes Park.
It’s the heart of the town, really. The main street, Elkhorn Avenue, is this classic mountain town experience. It’s walkable, it’s charming, and it’s packed with stuff to do. But where do you even start?
Trust us, we know. We’ve helped countless folks with shuttles, car rentals, and transfers, and the first question they ask is “what’s there to do downtown?”
Well, here’s your complete guide.
The Famous Estes Park Riverwalk
Before you even hit the shops, you gotta check out the Riverwalk. This is maybe the best part of downtown. It’s not just a concrete path; it’s this beautiful walkway that follows the Big Thompson and Fall Rivers right through the middle of town.
It’s peaceful. You can hear the water, find a bench, and just watch the world go by. It’s also the center of everything. The Riverwalk winds behind the shops on Elkhorn, so you can pop in and out of stores, grab a coffee, or sit on a patio right by the water.
You’ll find cool bronze sculptures, flower beds, and little plazas. In the summer, you might even catch some live music at George Hix Riverside Plaza. It’s the perfect way to see downtown without being in the middle of the sidewalk traffic.
Shopping in Downtown Estes Park 🛍️
Okay, let’s talk shopping. Downtown Estes is not your average shopping mall. It’s almost all small, local businesses, which is why we love it. You’ll find things here you just won’t see anywhere else.
The Sweet Stuff: Taffy and Candy Shops
You can’t walk ten feet on Elkhorn Avenue without smelling sugar. Estes Park is famous for its candy, and you just… have to. It’s like a rule.
- The Taffy Shop: This place is an institution. It’s been here since 1935, and you can watch them pull and wrap the saltwater taffy on their ancient, amazing machine. They have tons of flavors, and it’s the classic Estes souvenir.
- Laura’s Fine Candies: Another long-time favorite. They’ve got fudge, caramel apples (that look insane), and “Laura’s Twirls.” It’s a must-visit.
- Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory: You might have seen these elsewhere, but the Estes Park one just hits different. The smell of waffle cones and chocolate… just go in.
- The Old Fashion Candy Store: This is pure nostalgia. They have all the weird, wonderful candies from when you were a kid, plus bins and bins of new stuff.
- Munchin House: Need ice cream? This is your spot. They also have fudge and all kinds of other sweets.
Art Galleries and Local Crafts
The nature here is inspiring, so it’s no surprise the town is full of artists. If you want a souvenir that’s more than a t-shirt, check out a gallery.
- Aspen and Evergreen Gallery: This place is packed with beautiful, high-quality stuff from local and Colorado artists. We’re talking pottery, jewelry, paintings, photography, and more.
- Images of Rocky Mountain National Park: This gallery is dedicated to… well, exactly what the name says. The photos are stunning. It’s the perfect way to take a piece of the park home with you.
- Earthwood Artisans: A really cool shop with unique home decor, pottery, and jewelry.
- Art Center of Estes Park: Located a little off the main drag (in Stanley Village), this non-profit gallery showcases and supports local artists. It’s a great spot to see what the community is creating.
Unique Gifts and Mountain-Style
Need a gift? Or just something for yourself?
- Trendz at the Park: A more modern, contemporary gift shop. They have cool home decor, accessories, jewelry, and gifts that feel a little more “boutique.”
- Thirty Below Leather: The name says it all. Everything in the store—belts, wallets, purses, gloves—is under thirty bucks. The quality is great for the price.
- The Christmas Shoppe: Yep, it’s Christmas all year round. This place is magical, especially in the summer for some reason. They have thousands of ornaments and decorations.
- Brownfield’s: A classic mountain-town store. They’ve got everything from hiking socks and outdoor gear to souvenirs and moccasins.
- And… T-Shirt Shops: Let’s be real, you’re going to see a lot of t-shirt and souvenir shops. And you know what? They’re fun. Dont worry, you’ll find your perfect “elk” shirt or coffee mug.
Gear Up for Adventure
If you got from denver to estes park and realized you forgot your hiking boots, don’t panic.
- Estes Park Mountain Shop: This is the biggest outfitter, located a bit north of the main downtown, but it’s where you go for serious gear, rentals, and expert advice.
- Kirks Flyshop: Right downtown, this is the place for fly fishing. They’ve got all the gear, and they run guided trips. Even if you don’t fish, it’s a cool store to browse.
Downtown Attractions & Sights (Beyond the Shops)
There’s more to do than just spend money. The best part of downtown is just being there.
Wildlife… Downtown?
We’re not kidding. You’ll be walking out of The Taffy Shop and… there’s an elk. On the sidewalk. Or a whole herd in Bond Park. The elk love downtown Estes, especially in the fall during the rut. Just remember, they are wild animals. Look, take pictures from a safe distance, but don’t try to pet them. Seriously.
Parks and Plazas
- Bond Park: This is the main town green, right in the middle of everything. It’s a great place to let kids run around, have a picnic, or just chill. They have a farmers market, craft fairs, and in the summer, you can catch the Cowboy Sing-Along.
- George Hix Riverside Plaza: We mentioned it before, but this little spot on the Riverwalk is perfect. It’s where the two rivers meet and often has live music.
A Bit of History
- Historic Park Theater: This is the oldest operating single-house movie theater in the United States! It’s right on the edge of downtown, and its neon-and-bulb sign is an icon. They show current movies, so you can actually go see a film there.
- The Stanley Hotel: You can’t really talk about Estes without mentioning The Stanley. It’s not right downtown on Elkhorn, but it’s the massive white hotel looming on the hill right above it. You can’t miss it. Famous for inspiring “The Shining,” it’s a beautiful, historic (and supposedly haunted) hotel. You can walk the grounds, take a tour, or grab a fancy cocktail at the whiskey bar.
Where to Eat and Drink (You’ll Need a Break) ☕
All this walking is gonna make you hungry and thirsty. Downtown has you covered.
Casual Bites and Classic Grub
- The Grubsteak Restaurant: A local favorite. They’re known for their burgers, especially the wild game burgers. You can try elk, yak, and buffalo.
- Penelope’s Old Time Burgers: A super casual, counter-service spot for a great burger and fries.
- Big Horn Restaurant: If you’re looking for a classic, no-fuss breakfast to fuel your day, this is it. It’s a family-run joint that’s been here for ages.
- Ed’s Cantina & Grill: Great spot for Mexican food and margaritas, with a fantastic patio right on the Riverwalk.
A Nicer Sit-Down Meal
- Claire’s Restaurant and Bar: A staple in Estes Park. They focus on locally-sourced food, including wild game like elk and bison. Great for a nice dinner.
- Mama Rose’s: Good, hearty Italian food in a historic building right on the Fall River. Ask for a table by the window.
Coffee, Breweries, and Wineries
- Kind Coffee: A local coffee shop with a huge patio right on the Riverwalk. Great coffee, great views, and you’ll probably see a dozen dogs.
- Inkwell & Brew: A very cool shop that’s half artisan coffee, half stationery and fine pens. A great vibe.
- Estes Park Brewery: Classic brewpub with solid beers and pub food. Their patio has amazing views of the mountains.
- The Barrel: This is a fantastic beer garden with a huge, rotating tap list of craft beers from all over. They often have food trucks.
- Snowy Peaks Winery: A family-owned winery with a tasting room right downtown. They make their wine from all-Colorado-grown grapes.
- Elkins Distilling: Colorado’s first “whiskey-only” distillery. Their main distillery is on the edge of town, but they have a tasting room right on Elkhorn.
Phew. That’s a lot, right? And that’s really just scratching the surface of downtown Estes Park. The best part is just wandering, ducking into the little alleyways, and discovering your own favorite shop.
But the first step is getting here. And that’s what we do.
Here at Estes Direct, we are focused on everything you need to know about getting from denver to estes park and from estes park to denver. It can be a tricky drive, especially in bad weather or high-traffic season.
Let us handle the drive. Whether you need a simple shuttle from the airport, a private car rental to explore on your own time, or a full-on custom transfer with our concierge services, we’re your local guide.
Trust us for the most up to date information for getting from Denver to Estes Park. We’ll get you here safely and smoothly, so you can spend your energy on the important stuff… like deciding between saltwater taffy and an elk burger.
Check out our services at estesdirect.com and let’s get your mountain trip started.
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