You’ll Love These Fun Day Trips From Longmont, CO

Longmont’s central location makes it easy to head out for a quick adventure and explore more of Colorado. With lakes near Longmont like McIntosh Lake and Golden Ponds, plus quick access to mountain towns and cultural hot spots, it’s ideal for short escapes. Day trips from Longmont CO offer something for everyone.

If you’re looking for somewhere to take friends from out of town, family visiting for the weekend, or just to getaway yourself, you’ll find nature, quaint towns, wildlife experiences, and city culture, all within a short drive!

Scenic Nature Escapes

If you’re looking for easy access to trails, lakes, and mountain views, Longmont is a great starting point. Here are four nearby nature spots that are worth the drive.

Rocky Mountain National Park: Ideal for hikers, families, and photographers. You’ll find alpine trails, wildlife, and dramatic views along Trail Ridge Road and near Longs Peak.

If you’re into landscape or wildlife photography, this is one of the best places to bring a camera. Photography in Rocky Mountain National Park is especially fun at sunrise or golden hour – bring your camera and you’ll get some great shots!

Estes Park: A mountain town just before the national park entrance with quirky shops, the historic Stanley Hotel (where Stephen King was inspired to write the Shining), the Riverwalk, and the Aerial Tramway.

Estes is a great place for ghost tours or grabbing some handmade fudge.

Horsetooth Mountain & Reservoir: Plenty of great hiking, including the popular Horsetooth Falls trail. Also good for boating, fishing, and quick access to whitewater along the Cache La Poudre.

Barker Reservoir: A quiet, scenic spot by the water near Nederland. Pair it with a visit to the Carousel of Happiness or a walk around town.

Nederland CO - Small Town Day Trips From Longmont Boulder Denver — Photo by Brylie Oxley

Historic and Quaint Towns

For a slower pace and local character, these nearby towns deliver charm without the crowds. All are within a short drive and easy to explore in a single afternoon.

Niwot: A small, historic town with antique shops, summer concerts, and a cozy downtown.
Great for a casual stroll or lunch. It won’t take you long to get there, Niwot is about 5 miles southwest of Longmont.

Lyons: Known for Oskar Blues Grill and Planet Bluegrass, this town blends music, food, and mountain access. Head to local parks for tubing, playgrounds, or winter ice skating.

Fort Morgan: Located about 90 minutes east, Fort Morgan offers small-town charm with a touch of history. If you want a change of scenery or something different than the classic mountain town trip, this is a great option!

Visit the Fort Morgan Museum, stroll the quiet downtown, or check out riverside trails near the South Platte River.

Nederland: A little offbeat in the best way. Visit the Carousel of Happiness, browse local shops, or head up to Eldora Ski Resort. Laid-back with great mountain views.

Evergreen or Georgetown: Both are under two hours away and recommended by locals. Expect scenic drives, historic architecture, and charming downtown areas perfect for walking.

Family-Friendly Attractions

Families have plenty of options for day trips that combine fun and learning. From wildlife encounters to interactive exhibits, these attractions near Longmont are perfect for kids and adults alike.

The Wild Animal Sanctuary: Spread over 720 acres, this refuge offers a unique view of rescued animals from an elevated walkway called the “Mile Into the Wild.” The Wild Animal Sanctuary is a great summer day trip for curious kids. Expect to see lions, tigers, bears, and other animals roaming in open habitats.

Denver Zoo & Museums: The Denver Zoo is a top pick for families with its wide range of animals and kid-friendly activities. The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is another huge hit, with some of the coolest exhibits you’ll find anywhere.

Add a stop at the Denver Botanic Gardens, the U.S. Mint, or local museums for an educational twist.

Carousel of Happiness: Located in Nederland, this hand-carved carousel is a hit with younger children and offers a nostalgic, relaxed experience surrounded by mountain views.

Denver Art Museum & More Day Trips from Longmont — Photo by Butterbean

City Day Trips With Big Experiences

If you’re ready for a change of pace from mountain towns, these city day trips are a great option. Whether you’re looking to visit a museum, catch live music, or explore a downtown art walk, these spots offer plenty to do without a long drive.

Boulder: Just 16 miles from Longmont along Highway 119, Boulder blends outdoor access with urban flavor.

Walk the Pearl Street Mall, hike around Chautauqua, or check out exhibits at CU Boulder. Great for shopping, dining, or grabbing a coffee while people-watching.

Denver: Only 35 miles away, Denver is packed with options. Visit museums, catch live music at Red Rocks, explore local galleries, or hit a major league game. Don’t miss the chance to watch a Rockies game at Coors Field, especially on a sunny afternoon.

Fort Collins: About 30 miles north of Longmont, Fort Collins is known for its walkable Old Town, thriving craft brewery scene, and access to the Cache La Poudre Scenic Byway. Stop by Horsetooth Reservoir or try your hand at fly fishing just outside town.

Local Outdoor Fun Right in Longmont

You don’t have to go far to enjoy the outdoors, Longmont has plenty of spots right in town that are perfect for a quick walk, ride, or fishing trip. We love the amazing bike trails, lakes for paddleboarding & swimming, and exploring downtown Main street.

These local gems are some of the best Longmont CO activities for staying active without leaving city limits:

McIntosh Lake: A flat, 3.6-mile loop with open views of the Front Range and Longs Peak. Great for walkers, joggers, and families.
Golden Ponds: This 94-acre park features multiple lakes, scenic trails, and birdwatching opportunities.
Expect peaceful mountain views and quiet paths.
LoBo Trail: A 12.8-mile route from Longmont to Boulder. Popular with cyclists, runners, and anyone looking for a scenic ride.
Pella Crossing & Lagerman Reservoir: Both offer easy access to fishing, birding, and nature watching. Good for short getaways without leaving town.