June visit

Question

We are attending a wedding in Boulder at the end of June and staying there for 3 nights. Where else, not far away from Boulder or Denver, would be good to spend a couple nights. Previously been to Denver, Golden, Grand Junction and Durango. Thinking of Aspen, Fort Collins or Colorado SZprings but open to other possibilities.

Answer

Since you’ll already be in Boulder for a wedding, there are several nearby destinations worth considering for a short 2-night extension. Your previous visits to Denver, Golden, Grand Junction, and Durango give you flexibility to explore other scenic or charming towns within a reasonable drive.

Here are some suggestions:

Fort Collins: About an hour north of Boulder, Fort Collins offers a lively downtown with craft breweries, boutique shops, and great dining. It’s also known for its historic architecture and access to nearby outdoor activities in the Cache la Poudre River area. Summer weather is generally mild and enjoyable.
Estes Park / Rocky Mountain National Park: Just 1.5 hours northwest of Boulder, Estes Park is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. You can enjoy scenic drives, moderate hikes, wildlife viewing, and mountain vistas. Even spending just a couple of nights gives you a chance to explore some trails without going too far.
Colorado Springs: About 1.5 hours south of Boulder, Colorado Springs is home to Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and other natural landmarks. You can combine outdoor sightseeing with relaxing evenings in town. It’s a good choice if you enjoy scenic drives and photo-worthy landscapes.
Aspen: Roughly 4 hours from Boulder, Aspen is a bit farther but offers stunning alpine scenery, high-end dining, and boutique shopping. If you want a luxurious mountain escape and don’t mind the longer drive, Aspen is a beautiful choice.

Other options to consider:

Lyons: Just 30–40 minutes from Boulder, Lyons is a small artsy town with a charming main street, local music scene, and easy access to hiking and rivers. It’s quieter and very walkable, ideal for a low-key short stay.
Nederland: About 30 minutes west of Boulder, Nederland offers a quirky mountain town atmosphere with local shops, mountain views, and access to hiking trails. Great for a more offbeat, relaxing experience.

For a 2-night extension, Estes Park or Fort Collins are the easiest drives with plenty to do, while Aspen is a splurge if you want a scenic getaway. Colorado Springs is a good mid-range option with iconic sights and moderate driving time. Your choice depends on whether you prefer a mountainous retreat, small-town charm, or scenic outdoor adventures.

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