Daydream-worthy Denver resorts to visit year-round

Just booking a stay at a resort can feel like an act of self-care. After all, everything you’ll need to have an enjoyable vacation is within walking distance, from organized activities and acclaimed restaurants to a soothing spa experience. Colorado may be known for its world-class ski resorts, but there are plenty of others away from the slopes that are worth visiting year-round, and perhaps especially when the weather is warm and you can kick back with the sun overhead and a view of the mountains in the distance. With that criteria in mind, these are our top picks for year-round Denver-area resorts that suit a range of budgets.

5 top all-season resorts near Denver 

While many resorts give the impression that they have something for everyone, the truth is that each one offers a standout experience that is its main attraction. If distance or location aren’t determining factors for where you’ll stay, then consider the resort’s main amenities and activities to find the one that’s perfect for you and those you’re traveling with (if you aren’t going solo). 

1. Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center

Driving distance from Denver: 21 miles (34 minutes)
Best for: water park fun

You don’t need to go into the heart of the Rockies to find a Denver resort. The Gaylord Rockies Resort is only a 10-minute drive from Denver International Airport and ~30 minutes from downtown. 

Year-round activities and experiences make this 4-star resort the perfect retreat when you need an escape without the long travel time that usually comes with it. Modern, well-appointed rooms will make your stay comfortable, but you may spend more time lounging poolside in a cabana than on the couch in your room. The on-site indoor/outdoor Arapahoe Springs Water Park has pools, whirlpools, an adult-only hot tub, waterslides, a lazy river and sunbathing decks exclusive to resort guests. Many of these amenities are open throughout the year. 

For those who want to exercise out of the water, the fitness center is open 24/7 and equipped with free weights, cardiovascular machines and strength training equipment. When you’re ready to be pampered, Relâche Spa offers a variety of salon services and spa treatments that will calm your muscles, hydrate your skin and leave you feeling rejuvenated. 

Dining options at the Gaylord Rockies are exciting, with bold flavors that will transport you to Asia, Mexico and Italy, or keep you right in the U.S. with modern American menus. If you want to dine beyond the property or enjoy another local experience, like a round of golf, turn to the resort’s concierge service to help you make reservations or arrangements during your stay.

2. The Estes Park Resort

Driving distance from Denver: 70 miles (1 hour and 25 minutes)
Best for: lake and Rocky Mountain National Park access

Located on Lake Estes and a mere 6.5 miles from the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, The Estes Park Resort is the perfect destination when you want to be surrounded by nature but prefer to stay in a quaint town that also has plenty to offer. From the property grounds, you’ll have great views of the mountains; access to walking paths, lawn games and water activities; and the opportunity to spot wildlife, especially elk. The town of Estes Park offers plenty of restaurant options, but you can also dine at the resort, either by taking advantage of outdoor grills or going to the on-site restaurant, Dunraven, which also offers room service.

When it’s time to relax and unwind, the resort’s Qi Lounge offers a range of spa treatments and salon services. Treat yourself to a little extra pampering by adding a plate of tapas, a cocktail or a glass of sparkling wine to your experience.  

If you happen to be considering this Denver resort for a romantic getaway, book the two-room Jacuzzi King Suite. Beyond the incredible indoor Jacuzzi, this suite also has a cozy fireplace and stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and Lake Estes.

3. Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa

Driving distance from Denver: 75 miles (1 hour and 30 minutes)
Best for: outdoor activities for both kids and adults

A mountain escape full of wilderness activities awaits the adventurous at Devil’s Thumb Ranch. This family-friendly Denver resort welcomes visitors every month of the year with seasonal, authentic ranch adventures that will boost your adrenaline, bring you closer to nature and help you disconnect from the stresses of everyday life. Speed through the untamed wilderness on a zip line, fat-tire mountain bike or cross-country skis — depending on the season, of course. Trot through fields on horseback or a children’s pony ride. Test your skills with archery, hatchet throwing and fly fishing. And relax your mind and body with yoga, a spa treatment or a soak in the resort’s hot tub. 

Accommodations at Devil’s Thumb Ranch have a Western aesthetic that is simultaneously elegant and rustic. Choose from well-appointed lodge rooms, log cabins and private guest houses, each complete with modern features and amenities.

You don’t have to venture outside of your mountain retreat to dine here: An on-site coffee shop, tavern and restaurant provide all the sustenance you’ll need to fuel you through any of the ranch activities and adventures that you choose.

4. The Inverness Denver, a Hilton Golf & Spa Resort

Driving distance from Denver: 17 miles (25 minutes)
Best for: golfers and tennis players

If you or your travel partner need access to a golf course in order for your getaway to feel like a true vacation, then this upscale Denver resort is the perfect destination. The property’s 18-hole Inverness Golf Course, designed by J. Press Maxwell, has a slope rating of 139 and 7,026 total yards. There is also a driving range and chipping and putting green. Club rentals are available as well. The Inverness Denver also features courts for tennis and pickleball, indoor and outdoor pools, a 24-hour fitness center with group classes and the ability to rent bikes, skateboards, outdoor games and more in its Adventure Vault.

Stylish dining options include The Fireside Bar & Grill, serving up dishes with locally sourced ingredients and Colorado flavor, and The Garden Terrace, where the elaborate Champagne Sunday Brunch buffet is a must-do, with live music, more than 100 all-you-can-eat items and the option for bottomless mimosas. Breckenridge Brewery also has a brewpub location at The Inverness Denver, where you can try its award-winning Colorado brews alongside a tasty food menu. 

As part of the daily resort charge, guests at The Inverness Denver receive a 10% discount on spa services (and golf pro-shop merchandise), so take advantage of the savings and enjoy a tailored treatment or package that will leave you feeling rejuvenated. Those who book a spa service also have access to a relaxation suite, private sun deck and cozy outdoor fire pit and patio.

5. Ameristar Black Hawk

Driving distance from Denver: 38 miles (46 minutes)
Best for: casino access

No need to go to Sin City to play the slots, roll the dice or make the call to hold ‘em or fold ‘em. This Denver resort features nearly 1,000 slot machines, a poker room, a sportsbook, a variety of table games and Colorado’s only baccarat parlor. And just like a Vegas resort, Ameristar has a selection of on-site restaurants, including an all-you-can-eat buffet, so you don’t have to venture far to fuel up before returning to the casino floor. 

Guests can enjoy hotel amenities like a rooftop swimming pool with stunning panoramic views of the city of Black Hawk and beyond, indoor and outdoor hot tub spas and an open-air heated rooftop patio. There’s an on-site fitness center that’s open 24/7, complete with free weights, weight machines and cardiovascular equipment. Put your winnings to work before the end of your stay at the ara Spa, where you can pamper yourself with salon services or book a relaxing treatment that will leave you feeling refreshed.

Your Denver resort vacation starts with Avail

If you need a reliable car to get you to your destination, look no further than Avail car sharing. Our convenient Denver neighborhood locations are equipped for self-service pick up, so you can grab the keys and drive off without waiting in line. Every trip booked with Avail is protected by Allstate insurance and 24/7 roadside assistance, so you can reach your Denver resort or any of the other destinations on your travel itinerary with peace of mind.