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My top Aurora recs
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items Think of this as my local favorites guide. These are the restaurants, coffee shops, and family-friendly spots I’d text you about if you were visiting my neighborhood.
Map
I’m basically on a first-name basis with the Margarita of the Month Club at this point. 😂 The chicken strips are elite, the chips and salsa are dangerously addictive. If you’re only taking one recommendation from me, make it the chocolate chip skill...
Chili's Grill & Bar
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is hands-down my favorite zoo in Colorado! From the moment you walk in, you’re face-to-face with giraffes, and getting to feed them is such a fun experience. It’s one of those places our family never gets tired of visiting b...
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
The RiNo Art District is one of my favorite places to explore in Colorado! Every corner is filled with colorful murals, unique local shops, amazing restaurants, and so many fun photo spots. Whether you’re planning a date day, girls’ day out, or just ...
RiNo Art District
Denver Union Station is one of my favorite spots to visit in the city! Whether you’re grabbing coffee, enjoying one of the amazing restaurants, or just soaking in the historic atmosphere, it’s such a fun place to spend an afternoon. The beautiful arc...
Denver Union Station
Breckenridge
POV: You thought you were stopping for one espresso martini… then the menu showed up. 🤎🍸
If you’re an espresso martini lover, Welton Room’s Monkey Bar belongs at the top of your Colorado bucket list. Order a flight and taste your way through flavo...
Monkey Bar Cocktails
If you didn’t know this place existed… now you do. 🤯 The colorful rock formations seriously don’t even look real. It’s one of those spots that makes you stop every few steps just to take another picture. If you’re looking for a unique day trip in Co...
Paint Mines Interpretive Park
This might be one of the coolest hidden places I’ve found in Colorado. It’s an actual castle built by one man over the years, and you can walk all through it. It’s quirky, unexpected, and definitely worth checking out if you love finding places that ...
Bishop Castle
Three waterfalls… in one place! 😍 This is one of those easy adventures with a huge payoff. The short walk makes it perfect for families, and the scenery is absolutely gorgeous. Don’t forget your camera because you’ll want pictures here.
Rifle Falls State Park
This one is for the adventure lovers! You’ll hike a short trail and then actually walk into the creek to find the hidden waterfall tucked inside the canyon. The cold water is part of the experience, and trust me… it’s worth every step.
Zapata Falls
If you’ve ever seen a dreamy Colorado photo and wondered where it was taken… it was probably here. Crystal Mill is one of the most iconic views in the state, and seeing it in person is even better. Definitely a bucket-list stop if you’re planning a m...
Crystal Mill in Autumn | Crystal Mill, Marble, Colorado
If you love being on the water, this place deserves way more attention. Think crystal-blue reservoirs, mountain views, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, or just relaxing by the shoreline. It’s one of those places that makes you wonder why more peopl...
Curecanti National Recreation Area
Need a break from the crowds? This peaceful little lake is one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets. Pack a picnic, bring a paddleboard, or just enjoy a quiet afternoon surrounded by mountains. It’s the definition of relaxing.
Pearl Lake State Park
This place is pure joy. Every animal on the carousel was hand-carved, and the story behind it is just as beautiful as the carousel itself. Whether you have kids or you’re just a kid at heart, this stop is guaranteed to make you smile.
Carousel of Happiness
Imagine soaking in natural hot springs surrounded by the forest. 🌲✨ It’s peaceful, cozy, and one of the most relaxing places in Colorado. This is definitely one to save for a weekend getaway.
Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs
This is such a fun little hidden gem, especially if you have kids. Tiny buildings, a miniature train ride, and a whole lot of charm. It’s one of those places that brings out your inner child and makes for a really fun afternoon.
Tiny Town
This is hands down one of the coolest experiences in Colorado. Walking above rescued lions, tigers, and bears while they roam below is something you’ll never forget.
The Wild Animal Sanctuary
Don’t let the outside fool you. This old-school steakhouse has been a local favorite for years, and the Sugar Steak is something every Coloradan should try at least once.
Bastien's Restaurant
Hidden below street level is one of the most unique restaurants I’ve been to. The atmosphere is so fun, the food is amazing, and it feels like you’ve stepped into another world.
The Rabbit Hole
Paradise Cove is a beautiful swimming hole with crystal-clear water and cliffs surrounding it. Whether you want to cool off, soak up the sun, or just enjoy the scenery, this hidden gem is worth the drive
Paradise Cove / Guffey Gorge
This hike ends with one of the coolest views in Colorado. After climbing the historic fire tower, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic mountain views that stretch for miles. It’s a little bit of a workout, but the payoff is absolutely worth it.
Devil's Head Lookout, Colorado - 7,901 Reviews, Map
If you’ve never had Colorado-style mountain pizza… this is your sign. 🍕 Beau Jo’s is famous for its thick, hand-rolled crust that’s meant to be dipped in honey at the end. It might sound strange, but trust me… you’ll never look at pizza the same way...
Beau Jo's Idaho Springs
This isn’t your average hot dog stand. 🌭 From elk and wild boar to rattlesnake and pheasant sausages, Biker Jim’s has built a cult following for a reason. If you’re feeling adventurous—or just want an unforgettable bite in Denver—this place deserves...
BIKER JIM'S
The best cocktail of your life is hiding behind a bookshelf. 📚🍸 If you love craft cocktails and cozy, intimate vibes, this Denver speakeasy belongs on your bucket list. Just finding the entrance is half the fun—and once you’re inside, you’ll unders...
Williams & Graham
This might be the coolest hidden bar in Denver. Walk into an ice cream shop… then head through the freezer door. 🍦🚪 On the other side? A retro sci-fi speakeasy serving creative cocktails that are just as fun as the atmosphere.
Retrograde Denver
No sign. Hidden alley. Ring the doorbell… and welcome to one of Denver’s most exclusive cocktail bars. ✨ If you’re looking for a date night that feels a little mysterious, this is it.
B&GC
Hidden beneath Dairy Block is one of Denver’s dreamiest cocktail lounges. 🍸 Dim lighting, plush seating, and handcrafted drinks make this the perfect place to end a night downtown. It feels like you’ve discovered a secret only the locals know about.
Run For The Roses
Step back into the 1920s at this hidden speakeasy tucked away in Colorado Springs. 🥃 Velvet seating, vintage décor, and handcrafted cocktails make it feel like you’ve traveled back in time. It’s the kind of place you’ll immediately want to tell your...
Blake Street Vault
If it’s your first time in Colorado, start here. Giant red rock formations, mountain views, and it’s completely free to explore. It honestly feels like you’re walking through a postcard, and it’s one of those places everyone should see at least once.
Garden of the Gods
This place doesn’t even feel like Colorado. 🤯 Imagine massive sand dunes with snow-capped mountains in the background—it honestly feels like another world. You can hike to the top, sandboard or sled down the dunes, splash in Medano Creek (when it’s ...
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
If you’re visiting Colorado, this is a must. New Belgium is one of the state’s most iconic breweries, and the Fort Collins location is such a fun place to spend an afternoon. Grab a flight, relax on the patio, and don’t leave without trying their fam...
New Belgium Brewing Company
Locals absolutely love this place, and after one visit you’ll understand why. Odell has an amazing outdoor patio, incredible seasonal beers, and a laid-back Colorado vibe that makes you want to stay for hours. If you only have time for one brewery in...
Odell Brewing Company
Great beer, mountain views, and delicious food? Say less. Avery is the kind of brewery where you can easily spend an entire afternoon. Their beer selection is huge—from easy-drinking favorites to bold barrel-aged brews—so there’s something for everyo...
Avery Brewing Company