Your Ultimate Day Trip Guide to the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park
Looking for the perfect Colorado day trip? Look no further than the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park in Southern Colorado! Whether you’re coming from Denver, Colorado Springs, or Pueblo, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable day filled with outdoor adventure, breathtaking views, and family fun at America’s Highest Suspension Bridge.
Reasons to Visit the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park
- Breathtaking Views: Stand 1,250 feet above the Arkansas River on one of the world’s highest suspension bridges. See mountains line the horizon, wildlife roam around the landscape, and brave the thrilling rides at the Bridge and Park.
- Exciting Activities: From zip lining across the gorge to riding the Royal Rush Skycoaster, there’s something for every thrill-seeker.
- Family-Friendly: With playgrounds, picnic areas, and educational exhibits, the Bridge and Park is perfect for kids of all ages on a family road trip.
- Close to Home: The Royal Gorge is within a 2.5-hour drive or less from Denver, Colorado Springs, or Pueblo, making it one of the best day trip ideas in Colorado.
- Parking for All Visitors and RVs: Whether you’re visiting Colorado or live here, we are all familiar with the traffic. At the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park, we pride ourselves on offering plenty of free parking for all visitors; including spaces for buses, campers, and RVs.
Getting to the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park
From Denver
Distance: Approximately 2.5 hours (130 miles)
Route: Take I-25 South to CO-115 South to US-50 West
From Colorado Springs
Distance: Approximately 1.5 hours (60 miles)
Route: Take CO-115 South to US-50 West
From Pueblo
Distance: Approximately 1 hour (50 miles)
Route: Take US-50 West
Must-See Attractions & Rides for a Day Trip
- Royal Gorge Bridge: Walk across the iconic bridge and marvel at the stunning views and heights!
- Gondola Rides: Enjoy a leisurely ride with panoramic views of the gorge from a bird’s-eye view.
- Skycoaster: For adrenaline junkies, swing out over the rim of the Royal Gorge on this thrilling ride.
- Zip Line: Soar 1,200 feet above the Arkansas River on America’s Highest Zip Line.
- Tommy Knocker Playland: A fun spot for kids to climb, slide, and explore.
- Visitor Center: Learn about the history and geology of the Royal Gorge through educational exhibits.
Attractions To Experience While You Are Here.
The Perfect Royal Gorge Day Trip Itinerary
Morning Adventure: Load Up on the Gondola
Once you walk through the Visitor Center, head to the Aerial Gondola for a gentle glide 1,200 feet up. The gondola crosses the Royal Gorge at a steady space so you can take in all the views of the Royal Gorge, the mountains, and the Arkansas River below.
Mid-Morning Fun: Colorado Zip Line
Find Travel Channel’s #1 Colorado Bucket List experience, our Cloudscraper Zip Line at the unloading area of the gondola. Fly across the Royal Gorge on our hands-free zip line back to the Visitor Center on the north side of the park.
Thrilling Rides in the Park
Cross the Royal Gorge Bridge and experience the excitement of the Royal Rush Skycoaster before the heat of the day and afternoon storms. You will brave the World’s Scariest Skycoaster where the ride swings up to 55 mph over the rim of the Royal Gorge.
Afternoon Relaxation at the Royal Gorge
Then, visit the Plaza Theater to cool off and recharge while learning more about the park’s history. From Memorial Day to Labor Day every year, Nature’s Educators put on the best Birds of Prey show. Catch them in the Plaza Theater daily for educational wildlife shows.
Refuel with Royal Gorge Dining Options
Walk along America’s Highest Suspension Bridge to take in the natural beauty all around. Find local brews and other refreshments at several dining options throughout the park. If you packed your lunch, enjoy a picnic at one of the many scenic spots within the park. Grab a bite at Café 1230 with its breathtaking deck and delicious dining options. Capture a few more photos before heading back home.
1. Morning Adventure:
Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy the cool morning air. Start with a walk across the Royal Gorge Bridge for incredible photo opportunities.
2. Mid-Morning Fun:
Head to the Gondola for a relaxing ride across the gorge. Let the kids play at Tommy Knocker Playland while you take in the views.
3. Lunch Break:
Enjoy a picnic at one of the many scenic spots within the park. Or grab a bite at the Cafe 1230 with its breathtaking overlook and delicious dining options.
4. Afternoon Thrills:
Experience the rush of the Skycoaster or Zip Line. Explore the Plaza Theater to learn more about the park’s history.
5. Late Afternoon Relaxation:
Stroll through the park, taking in the natural beauty. Find local brews and other refreshments at several dining options throughout the park. Capture a few more photos before heading back home.
Tips for a Great Day Trip in Colorado
- Map Your Route: Be sure you are aware of road construction, closures, and other travel conditions when traveling throughout Colorado. Year-round, our weather is unpredictable, which may lead to unexpected delays and change of plans for your day trip.
- Pack Sunscreen: The Colorado sun can be intense, especially at higher elevations. Don’t let your day trip be ruined by a harsh sunburn.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water, especially if you plan to participate in the park’s more physical activities, like the Royal Gorge Via Ferrata. Higher elevations and dry climates require more water consumption! We offer water-filling locations throughout the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park.
- Stock Up on Snacks: In addition to staying hydrated on your Colorado day trip, eating healthy snacks and meals that include complex carbohydrates can provide a steady source of energy and help stabilize blood sugar levels. These healthy snacks make it easier for your body to adjust to the higher elevation of the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: During your day trip in Colorado, expect to stop along the way to explore. You’ll be walking and standing a lot, so comfort is key! Be sure to bring along sturdy, comfortable shoes for your day trip to the Royal Gorge.
- Always Check (and double-check) the Weather: Weather can change quickly in Colorado, so be prepared for all conditions. The Royal Gorge is located in a unique climate of Colorado, known as the Banana Belt. Typically, we see slightly warmer and more temperate weather compared to the mountain and plains areas.
- Buy Tickets in Advance: Save time and avoid lines by purchasing tickets online to destinations you plan to visit on your Colorado road trip. Reservations are not required to visit the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park, however, our visitors who purchase tickets online save $3 on general admission.
Book your trip now, and adventure later with tickets to the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park that are valid for 1 year from the date of purchase.
Ready for Your Colorado Day Trip?
The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is the perfect destination for a day trip when visiting Colorado! This top Southern-Colorado destination offers a mix of outdoor adventure, beautiful landscapes, Colorado history, and family-friendly activities. Thanks to its convenient proximity to Colorado Springs and Denver, America’s Highest Suspension Bridge is a popular choice for day trips among locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re seeking thrilling rides, stunning views, or a mix of it all, you’re sure to create lasting memories.
Plan Your Day Trip Today!
For more information on local things to do, Royal Gorge ticket prices, and to plan your day trip in Colorado to the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, head over to https://www.royalgorgebridge.com.
Start planning your Colorado day trip now and discover why the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is one of the top day trip ideas in the state!
