Stay Cool With the 4 Best Ice Cream Places in Estes Park

Stay Cool With the 4 Best Ice Cream Places in Estes Park

Estes Park Ice Cream: A young woman wearing sunglasses and holding and ice cream cone smiles during summer in Estes Park.

Even if the summer weather in Estes Park doesn’t usually get too hot, finding a good place for ice cream still comes in handy when temperatures rise above the norm, especially after an exciting adventure at Rocky Mountain National Park. So, if you need to find a way to stay cool post-hike or just want a yummy sweet treat when you’re strolling through downtown or on your way to your next activity, Fall River Village Resort has you covered with a delicious list of the four top-rated ice cream spots in town.

Your Guide to the Best Estes Park Ice Cream Shops

The alpine summer air typically stays pretty comfortable, but ice cream is an excellent option when things heat up. Whether you like cones, shakes, or sundaes, there are several nearby parlors to choose from that will undoubtedly satisfy your sweet tooth. But be warned: You may want to grab something before uncovering Estes Park’s top shops because you could become hungry!

Hayley’s Ice Cream

Hayley’s Ice Cream, located right on the main street, is a must-visit for anyone craving homemade ice cream. With a friendly staff providing excellent customer service and a vast selection of fresh, delicious flavors, there’s something for everyone. Beyond the incredible ice cream, they offer a variety of other treats, including fudge and candies!

Estes Park Sugar Shack and Fudge

Estes Park Sugar Shack and Fudge is a great shop that adds a fun burst of color to your day with vibrant decorations. This friendly spot is known for its consistent ice cream and gelato flavors, crunchy fresh cones, and competitive prices. The shop’s diligent staff makes every visit enjoyable, and their wide variety of fudge ensures a sweet snack for those who don’t want cold treats.

Munchin’ House

Munchin’ House offers a nostalgic ice cream experience with a great location and a wide array of homemade flavors, including dairy-free options. With delicious sundaes, this charming parlor ensures a memorable treat. The friendly service and variety of choices make it a must-visit for ice cream lovers in Estes Park.

Shakes Alive

Shakes Alive is one of the few late-night spots in town known for its top-notch service and cleanliness. They offer creative shakes and delicious smoothies made with high-quality, authentic ingredients and no artificial additives. With decent prices and a charming selection of Colorado-themed products, this place is a perfect stop for a tasty treat and unique souvenirs.

Estes Park Lodging Near Rocky Mountain National Park

An exterior view of an rustic yet elegant vacation rental in Estes Park, CO.

Although all the ice cream shops in Estes Park offer something different, they have one thing in common: providing a satisfying snack whether you’re eating in or on the go. After all, there’s nothing like an iconic cone or sundae on a warm summer day in the Rockies. And the best part of all is they’re all easily accessible from Fall River Village Resort! Find out more about Estes Park by visiting us online and book your stay today!

Say Cheers to Colorado at This Estes Park Winery

Estes Park Winery: Three woman laugh while enjoying wine at Snowy Peaks Winery in Estes Park, CO.

Letting loose with local libations is nothing new for Estes Park vacationers. And although there are a few distilleries to go along with a handful of breweries, only one Estes Park winery is located downtown. Snowy Peaks Winery is a family-friendly establishment specializing in unique varietals from Colorado-grown grapes and gourmet artisan-crafted snacks. This award-winning operation has become a popular destination for Fall River Village Resort guests looking for sips of Centennial State Merlots, Rieslings, and Viogniers, so we prepared a rundown of what to expect at Snowy Peaks.

A Memorable Estes Park Winery Experience

Like many places in Estes Park, Snowy Peak Winery’s idyllic scenery is one of its most alluring aspects. The surrounding alpine landscapes graciously provide the perfect setting for conversation, laughs, and cherished memories. Relaxing with a glass of your favorite flavor amid the iconic Rocky Mountains is something every wine-lover should consider adding to their bucket list. What’s more, this Estes Park winery has a weekly live music series every Friday, where you may see Colorado’s next star in the making!

A Wide Assortment of Varietals

Snowy Peaks Winery offers an impressive collection of popular vinos, including Rosé, Cabernet, Riesling, and Malbec. The best part is that their affordable prices allow you to sample to your heart’s content, making it easier to decide which varietals you’d like to take home. Just ask for a flight and try them all!

Gourmet Culinary Creations

All wine enthusiasts should anticipate top-tier food pairings at the best establishments, and Snowy Peak Winery is no exception. Made with only the finest ingredients from highly reputable artisans, their gourmet snack selection is a testament to their dedication. Mouthwatering meats, handmade cheeses, and sweet treats are staples of their tasting room, but they also have seasonal offerings that may not show on the menu, so be sure to ask if they have any special items!

A Kid-Friendly Wine Destination

Understandably, many parents wouldn’t dream of bringing their kids to a winery, but at Snowy Peak, that isn’t a problem. Children are welcome at Snowy Peaks Winery, where they can explore the “No Wine-ing Zone,” a dedicated playroom to entertain them. This vibrant space offers things to do for children of all ages, ensuring they have a fun experience in a safe environment. Older kids will happily sample small-batch soda and refreshing fruit juices with the grown-ups.

Estes Park Resort Lodging near Downtown

An interior view of an Estes Park Condo.

The nice thing about having just one winery in Estes Park is you don’t have to put much effort into finding the best place. So, if you’re looking for a place close to Fall River Village Resort to sample the best varietals with a dash of Colorado in every sip, we know the staff at Snowy Peak would love to have you! In the meantime, you can find your home base for discovering everything Estes Park has to offer by browsing our rental selection or reaching out to us online today!

5 Fun Things to Do in Estes Park with Kids this Summer

Fun Things to Do in Estes Park with Kids: A young family explores a nearby hiking trail at Rocky Mountain National Park.

If you’re planning a family summer vacation in Colorado, you’ll want to know about all the fun things to do in Estes Park with kids! From exploring the wonders of nature to exciting recreational attractions, our beloved mountain town offers seemingly endless opportunities for family bonding and cherished memories. However, since there are so many options, the Fall River Village Resort concierge team narrowed the list to five activities to help you start your itinerary.

Classes and Tours with Rocky Mountain Conservancy

Immerse your family in Rocky Mountain National Park’s natural beauty with a visit to the Rocky Mountain Conservancy. This non-profit organization offers a variety of family-friendly educational programs and guided nature walks led by experts. Kids can learn about local wildlife, ecosystems, and conservation efforts while exploring scenic trails and spotting fascinating flora and fauna.

Playing Around at Lake Estes

Cool off on a hot summer day with a visit to Lake Estes, a picturesque reservoir just minutes from downtown Estes Park. Families can partake in various recreational activities, including fishing, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and more. Rent a watercraft and cruise around the serene waters while soaking in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. With plenty of picnic areas and scenic spots along the shoreline, Lake Estes is the perfect destination for a relaxing family outing.

Creative Endeavors at the Art Center of Estes Park

Unleash your family’s creativity with a visit to the Art Center of Estes Park. This vibrant hub of artistic expression offers various classes and workshops that can be fun things to do for all ages and skill levels–especially on a rainy day. Kids can explore different mediums, including painting, drawing, pottery, and more, under the guidance of experienced instructors. Let your little Picasso’s imagination soar as they create their first masterpieces to take home as souvenirs of their Estes Park vacation. Check the center’s schedule for special family-friendly events and exhibitions!

Be the Mayors of Merriment at Fun City

We’d feel somewhat remiss making a list of fun things to do in Estes Park without mentioning Fun City! This family-friendly amusement park features a range of thrilling attractions, including miniature golf, go-karts, and bumper boats. Kids of all ages will love exploring the colorful and interactive environment while engaging in friendly competition with their siblings and parents. With something for everyone, Fun City promises an exciting day of adventure and entertainment for the whole family.

Get a Bird’s Eye View from the Estes Park Aerial Tramway

Soar to new heights with a ride on the Estes Park Aerial Tramway, offering panoramic views of Estes Park and the surrounding Rocky Mountains. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a scenic journey to the top of Prospect Mountain, where you’ll find breathtaking vistas and photo opportunities. Kids will be amazed by the beauty of their surroundings as they take in the majestic landscapes stretching out before them.

Estes Park Summer Condo Lodging

From outdoor adventures to artistic exploration and thrilling attractions, there are so many fun things to do in Estes Park that you’ll probably need to return! Thankfully, Fall River Village Resort offers a serene riverside setting just minutes from downtown and Rocky Mountain National Park for families looking for the perfect home base for their Colorado summer vacation. Visit us online today and choose from a selection of suites and vacation rental condos, each equipped with modern amenities and stylish furnishings to ensure a comfortable stay.

5 Ways to Enjoy Your Colorado Summer Vacation in Estes Park

Colorado Summer Vacation: An aerial view of Fall River Village in Estes Park, CO.

Between the crisp alpine air and beautiful scenery, it’s no surprise that Estes Park is a premier destination for those hoping to soak up the sun amid the great outdoors. And when it comes to planning your getaway, it’s always best to look ahead. If you’re putting together an itinerary for your Colorado summer vacation, you may wonder what activities to prioritize. That’s why the Fall River Village Resort concierge team wants to give you a leg up by sharing five ways to enjoy your summer retreat in Estes Park.

Take a Scenic Drive Along Trail Ridge Road

We’ve talked about it before, but Trail Ridge Road is worth revisiting as the highest continuous paved road in the nation. At over 12,000 feet above sea level and boasting jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains, this iconic corridor demands your attention. At the top, the Alpine Visitor Center is an excellent place to get out, stretch, and get a closer look at the surrounding landscape, thanks to a modest hiking trail—a great way to start your Colorado summer vacation.

Pay a Visit to Lake Estes

Although Estes Park is known for its idyllic mountain vistas, we also have the legendary Lake Estes. The nearby marina has various rental options, including kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, canoes, and even pontoons. If you don’t feel like getting on the water, you can rent a bike or a pedal cart for reasonable prices.

Experience Colorado Rocky Mountain Fishing

You don’t have to be an avid angler to put Colorado Rocky Mountain fishing on your summer vacation bucket list. Between the Big Thompson River and Lake Estes, you’ll have plenty of options. And if you’re not familiar with the nuances of fishing, a few outfitters and guide services are available, like Kirks Flyshop and Estes Angler, to show you the ropes.

Hangout in Downtown Estes Park

As anyone who’s stayed at Fall River Village knows, our proximity to Downtown Estes Park is a significant draw. With shopping, food, and fun wrapped up in one package, Estes Park’s epicenter has something for everyone. The best part is we’re so close you can walk!

Tour the Stanley Hotel

If classic Colorado outdoor adventure is not your primary concern this summer, consider taking a tour of the Stanley Hotel. Sometimes spooky and always insightful, the fabled Stanley Hotel offers a treasure trove of historical exploration opportunities and intrigue. Afterward, stop by The Whiskey Bar for cocktails, laughs, and a few bites. They’re also known for their live entertainment events.

Vacation Condo Rentals in Estes Park, CO

Planning a Colorado summer vacation is never daunting when you stay in Estes Park. There are so many ways to enjoy everything our alpine community offers that your itinerary nearly writes itself. Still, it never hurts to consider outside ideas to activate your creativity. And with the best lodging options around, Fall River Village promises to provide the perfect home base for endless exploration. To make your reservations, visit our accommodations page and find your favorite option!

Horseback Riding Estes Park: An Out West Experience

Horseback Riding Estes Park: Two youngsters and their mother prepare for a horseback riding adventure in Estes Park.

Many travelers consider Colorado the gateway to the “Old West.” While that may be debatable, there’s no denying that “The Centennial State” has excellent opportunities for horseback riding, and Estes Park is no exception. Several outfitters across the valley offer guided rides ranging from quick one-hour treks to all-day adventures.  Still, you may want to research your options before settling in at Fall River Village Resort. So, to help you out, we put together an easy list of the five best horseback riding guides and horse stables in the area and a quick summary of each.

Exploring Estes Park on Horseback

Immersing yourself on horseback in an alpine setting like the Rocky Mountains is a bucket list item for many equine enthusiasts. Thankfully, Estes Park has some reputable stables that will show you the ropes. So not only will you have a unique horseback riding experience, but you’ll probably learn a few things along the way.

National Park Gateway Stables

Located on the outskirts of Rocky Mountain National Park, National Park Gateway Stables is a fan favorite among families visiting Estes Park. They have a wide range of guided rides from two to nine hours, giving visitors many options. Their two-hour dinner ride and the “Ponies for the Li’l Cowpokes” ride are extremely popular.

Elkhorn Stables

Elkhorn Stables offers three primary rides for up to two hours. Guided group trail rides will take you through the Rockies at a comfortable pace, ensuring novice riders feel safe. On the other end of the spectrum, the guide advanced trail rides require more skill as there is much trotting and galloping along the trails. In other words, you must have control over your horse.

Hi Country Stables at Glacier Creek

As the only stable inside Rocky Mountain National Park, Hi Country Stables at Glacier Creek boasts many exploration opportunities. Whether you prefer a gentle walk or an intense gallop, their customized rides offer something for everyone. And since they’re inside the park, you’ll get free park access and timed entry when purchasing any ride.

Sombrero Stables

Sombrero Stables is proud to be the largest guided ride service in Colorado, and you’ll know it by their high-level expertise. If you’re only looking for a sample of the old west, Sombrero Stables is one of the only places that offers 30-minute horseback riding for adults. Otherwise, their “Cowboy Experience” package fully would-be wranglers into the lifestyle with a crash course in horsemanship, including line dancing!

Jackson Stables

In partnership with the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Jackson Stables has all their trail rides authorized by the National Park Service and over 120 horses at any given time. Their all-day rides are a favorite among avid horseback riders, allowing patrons to reach the highest altitude possible. They also have popular hayrides lasting an hour and a half.

Estes Park Lodging for Any Adventure

An exterior view of an rustic yet elegant vacation rental in Estes Park, CO.

Whether you’re a seasoned wrangler or a budding beginner, horseback riding in Estes Park is a worthwhile endeavor. Even if you’ve never ridden a horse, there’s nothing like saddling up in the majestic Rocky Mountains. If you’re looking for a convenient place to stay with top-tier amenities and ideal proximity to downtown Estes Park, Fall River Village Resort is your place to call home. 
Find out more by reaching out online or calling 970-325-6864 today!