The valley village of Estes Park is filled with an innumerable amount of natural attractions, from Lake Estes itself to the various waterways that run through town. The Big Thompson River and the Fall River are two of those waterways which feed Lake Estes, and since the community was established in 1859, its growth increased and developed around the two rivers. Today, the Riverwalk in Downtown Estes Park offers a tranquil slice through downtown Estes Park, and along the way visitors can experience the tranquility of the babbling water while at the same time enjoy a beer, cocktail, glass of wine or have a meal at one of the many restaurants.
Estes Park Visitor Center
Start your Riverwalk in Downtown Estes Park at the Estes Park Visitor Center, which deserves a visit in its own right since it expounds upon the history of the community from its inception to the present day. As you leave the visitor center, the path wanders under the traffic overpass but still within earshot of the babbling waters. As you leave the shadows of the overpass, the trail leads walkers to a bevy of different shops, restaurants and boutiques. The Estes Park Playground is at Riverside Drive, and it provides an excellent pit-stop for the kids. Finally, the paved section of the Riverwalk ends at the George Hix Riverside Plaza, a place that hosts live music and events during the summer.
Food & Drink on the Walk
There are several places to eat and drink along the Riverwalk in Downtown Estes Park. In fact, the first stop outside of the visitor center is Kind Coffee, where visitors can grab a caffeine jolt for extra energy. Ed’s Cantina and Grill offers pub grub and cold beers while Poppy’s Pizza & Grill will make everyone happy, except those bizarre souls who don’t eat pizza. Mama Rose’s serves more Italian specialties, and for south of the border excellence, Casa Grande Mexican prepares authentic, hearty dishes.
Shops & Stores
Though many travelers come to visit Estes Park in order to see the natural attractions that surround it, the Riverwalk in Downtown Estes Park allows you to do that while at the same time doing a little shopping as well. As you meander along the pathway, once you reach downtown, there is several shops to entice visitors. From home furnishings at Sticks-N-Stones to leather goods at Thirty Below, there is a little something for everyone. Additionally, Estes Park has a couple of art galleries here as well as a day spa and massage/wellness center.
<br/ >