Contrary to popular belief, cheap weekend getaways can be found in Colorado no matter what time of year. From affordable ski areas to free campsites to offseason hotel prices, you may be surprised at how much you can save when you visit these seven Colorado cities. You won’t break the bank when you experience one of these seven cheap weekend getaways in Colorado.
Glenwood Springs
Glenwood Springs offers an affordable getaway no matter if you’d like to visit during the summer or the winter season. Home to one of the most affordable ski resorts in the state, Sunlight Mountain Resort, skiers and snowboarders on a budget regularly flock here. However, a trip to Glenwood Springs wouldn’t be complete without visiting the natural hot springs here. Sunlight Mountain Resort regularly offers ski and soak packages that make a trip to Glenwood quite affordable compared to other ski resorts in the state.
Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs is known for its incredible ski resort, but you’ll pay the price for that during the winter season. Therefore visit this beautiful Colorado town during the summer for a more affordable getaway. Choose to camp instead of staying at a hotel, as affordable camping is offered at Steamboat Lake State Park or Stagecoach State Park. There’s no need to pull out your wallet when you do free activities like hiking or biking. With all the money you save, you’ll have some extra dollars to spend on a pass to Strawberry Park Hot Springs.
Breckenridge
Breckenridge may not come to mind as an affordable Colorado getaway destination. However, it all depends on the time of year you decide to visit this mountain town. A summer weekend in Breckenridge will not break the bank. There are a number of great campgrounds found in Breckenridge that offer an affordable night’s stay, such as Peak One Campground in White River National Forest. If you have an urge to visit Breckenridge during the winter season, skip the pricey ski lift pass and aim for a trail pass with a snowshoe rental, which is a quarter of the price of a ski pass here.
Estes Park
Only an hour and a half drive from Denver, Estes Park is a perfect weekend destination for budget travelers located in the Mile High City. Affordable lodging options can be found in Estes Park during both the summer and winter seasons. You may need to book in advance, especially during the busy summer season, to find affordable lodging prices. Camping in Rocky Mountain National Park is always an option. When you aren’t hiking or snowshoeing in Rocky Mountain National Park, make sure to visit Estes Park’s cute downtown area for window shopping and free taffy samples at The Taffy Shop.
Fort Collins
You may not expect Colorado’s fourth largest city to be an affordable travel option, but Fort Collins has plenty to offer budget travelers. Weekenders looking for cheap fun should head to Fort Collins’ foothills, as the hike up the city’s most iconic mountain, Horsetooth Mountain, is a cheap activity that offers a great view of the city and surrounding mountains. If you aren’t tired after this uphill trek, rent a bike and explore Colorado State University and Old Town, Fort Collins’ charming downtown area. The one thing you should splurge a couple bucks on should be a beer from one of Fort Collins’ local breweries like Odell Brewing Co. or New Belgium Brewing Co.
Leadville
Believe it or not, Colorado is home to affordable ski resorts and one is located in the town of Leadville. Known as Ski Cooper, this ski resort is a cheap weekend getaway for skiers and snowboarders looking to shred some powder.
Durango
The cost of gas involved in the six-hour drive to Durango from Denver will likely be the most expensive cost of your weekend trip here. Therefore Durango is a great option for those living or visiting from surrounding towns near Durango like Telluride or Pagosa Springs. Once you’re in Durango, there are plenty of cheap and even free places to pitch your tent and set out your fishing line.
