Retirement Bucket List Trip: Santa Fe, Colorado Springs, Denver
Apr 20th, 2015, 08:43 AM
#21
P.S. Just because you got altitude illness once does not mean you'll get it again. Staying hydrated, as mentioned above, is perhaps the single best thing you can do to help. Unfortunately, so is laying off margaritas... 
Apr 20th, 2015, 11:55 AM
#22
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Nelson is so correct about altitude sickness. We visit Denver often--and the mountains, and sometimes I get a bout of it--and others not. As I said, you will have already been at altitude a long time before Pike's Peak, if you decide to do it. It's pretty much of an hour plus up, an hour plus back and 30 minutes in the gift shop waiting for the train to go back down. A long trip.
Apr 20th, 2015, 12:42 PM
#23
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We stayed at the Inn of the Governors several years ago and loved it. Their breakfast was one of the best we have ever had at a hotel. The restaurant at the hotel was very good and like others have said the margaritas are wonderful. It is in a great location for walking to the Plaza. Also loved the Georgia O'Keefe museum.
I didn't have any trouble with altitude in Santa Fe or Denver, but when we got to Breckenridge I was sick-so guess it just depends on the individual.
Hope you have a great trip.
I didn't have any trouble with altitude in Santa Fe or Denver, but when we got to Breckenridge I was sick-so guess it just depends on the individual.
Hope you have a great trip.
Apr 20th, 2015, 12:57 PM
#24
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Santa Fe and Denver aren't all that high, Pikes Peak is over 14,000 ft!
I got sick at Pikes Peak while I still lived at sea level; so a gain of 14,000 ft.
Last November, we went to the top of Mont Blanc in Chamonix. I have lived at 5600 ft for over a decade now. The gain was around 10,000. Yup, I got sick again. I was sure after living at altitude for so long it would be ok.
There are times I have been around 10,000 feet and was fine but that is now only 4,400 ft gain.
It does indeed vary individually and even on each trip.
Forewarned is forearmed...
I got sick at Pikes Peak while I still lived at sea level; so a gain of 14,000 ft.
Last November, we went to the top of Mont Blanc in Chamonix. I have lived at 5600 ft for over a decade now. The gain was around 10,000. Yup, I got sick again. I was sure after living at altitude for so long it would be ok.
There are times I have been around 10,000 feet and was fine but that is now only 4,400 ft gain.
It does indeed vary individually and even on each trip.
Forewarned is forearmed...
Apr 20th, 2015, 04:27 PM
#25
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If you decide to go to Boulder, the Pearl Street mall is a lot of fun, shopping & many restaurants. There's always a lot of activity.
you have many options for dinner in Denver. If you want good Mexican, we like La Loma which is a little west of downtown. Tell us what you like.
If you decide to drive to Denver, I would vote for the Botanic Gardens. It's a little ways east of town. But with the mint & the Art Musem you have a full day already. Put it on the Denver to do list.
Happy Retirement!
you have many options for dinner in Denver. If you want good Mexican, we like La Loma which is a little west of downtown. Tell us what you like.
If you decide to drive to Denver, I would vote for the Botanic Gardens. It's a little ways east of town. But with the mint & the Art Musem you have a full day already. Put it on the Denver to do list.
Happy Retirement!
Apr 20th, 2015, 05:46 PM
#26
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Thanks Betsy, Retirement sounds scary. Driving to Santa Fe is out of my comfort zone too, and then living in Fort Collins for 3 months!! The trip details are such a small part of it. Originally I thought of moving to be by the grandkids, but I can't help it, I still like my Illinois. We'll see how these 3 months work out.
My friend is a pickier eater than I am. I love Mexican food. I would love to be able to give her some choices and let her choose because I'm good with most anything (except blood sausage.I tried some yesterday and I can say honestly I will never eat it again). I love the recommendation about the chiles on the side. We have Midwestern palates. We need this kind of advice.
Nelson, you need to try a PImm's. Quite refreshing on a hot summer day. I wish I could tell you the name of the bar that makes them so well in Old Town Fort Collins. I could show you easily, it's right down from the candy store and pretty close to a spice store, Helpful aren't I?? I am coming across as quite the drinker on this thread which is funny. My friends would laugh.
Nig, I'm happy to hear your good comments about Inn of the Governors. It's their 50th Anniversary this year, their promotion is the 4th night costs $50. Nice deal. Also reviews rave about the breakfast so I am looking forward to that.
TomFuller, if I wasn't staying on for those 3 months I would have considered a train but I need my car. That sounds like a wonderful trip. Galesburg Illinois huh?
Such great advice and recommendations here. I just bought a big tube of sunscreen today. SPF 50. I'm not fooling around with this. I also hope we're not jinxed with the altitude sickness talk here. I really think that was my problem last time I was in Fort Collins. My legs felt so weak and I had a weird headache. It got better with rest and some water. I got a bigger water bottle today too at Target. See, I'm listening.
We leave June 2nd. We hope to make it as far as Wichita the first night. A good hotel off the expressway is all we need. I have such a great friend to come with me. Her husband is excited for her to be able to do this. She likes to travel, he not as much.
My friend is a pickier eater than I am. I love Mexican food. I would love to be able to give her some choices and let her choose because I'm good with most anything (except blood sausage.I tried some yesterday and I can say honestly I will never eat it again). I love the recommendation about the chiles on the side. We have Midwestern palates. We need this kind of advice.
Nelson, you need to try a PImm's. Quite refreshing on a hot summer day. I wish I could tell you the name of the bar that makes them so well in Old Town Fort Collins. I could show you easily, it's right down from the candy store and pretty close to a spice store, Helpful aren't I?? I am coming across as quite the drinker on this thread which is funny. My friends would laugh.
Nig, I'm happy to hear your good comments about Inn of the Governors. It's their 50th Anniversary this year, their promotion is the 4th night costs $50. Nice deal. Also reviews rave about the breakfast so I am looking forward to that.
TomFuller, if I wasn't staying on for those 3 months I would have considered a train but I need my car. That sounds like a wonderful trip. Galesburg Illinois huh?
Such great advice and recommendations here. I just bought a big tube of sunscreen today. SPF 50. I'm not fooling around with this. I also hope we're not jinxed with the altitude sickness talk here. I really think that was my problem last time I was in Fort Collins. My legs felt so weak and I had a weird headache. It got better with rest and some water. I got a bigger water bottle today too at Target. See, I'm listening.
We leave June 2nd. We hope to make it as far as Wichita the first night. A good hotel off the expressway is all we need. I have such a great friend to come with me. Her husband is excited for her to be able to do this. She likes to travel, he not as much.
Apr 20th, 2015, 06:02 PM
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" legs felt so weak and I had a weird headache"
My legs felt like they wieghed 200 lbs EACH and I had horrible headache at PP. At Mont Blanc, I felt weird, had awful headache and then there were those blue lips.
Sounds like you are getting quite prepared!
My legs felt like they wieghed 200 lbs EACH and I had horrible headache at PP. At Mont Blanc, I felt weird, had awful headache and then there were those blue lips.
Sounds like you are getting quite prepared!
Apr 21st, 2015, 06:31 AM
#28
Barb, it might be the Crown Pub where you have your Pimms. OK, I'll check it out some hot summer day.
Don't worry too much about the altitude issue - it can become a self fulfilling prophecy. Take it easy, especially the first few days, stay hydrated, and odds are you'll be fine. The only cure is to descend, so you can always simply head back into town from the mountains.
Welcome to retirement. Hope you enjoy the Kakawa chocolate.
Don't worry too much about the altitude issue - it can become a self fulfilling prophecy. Take it easy, especially the first few days, stay hydrated, and odds are you'll be fine. The only cure is to descend, so you can always simply head back into town from the mountains.
Welcome to retirement. Hope you enjoy the Kakawa chocolate.
Apr 21st, 2015, 06:59 AM
#29
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I've done the cog train a couple of times and felt very safe. If possible, try to plan your trip around the weather. The first time was in July and when we left the station it was beautiful and sunny. As we made our way up we were soon in fog for the rest of the trip along with rain and some spitting snow. We couldn't see any scenery. As we arrived at the summit we were greeted with a big bolt of lightning and thunder so we were unable to leave the visitors center. People who drove up had to wait for a ranger to guide them back down the mountain.
The next trip was in October and it was beautiful and we were treated to wonderful views for the entire train ride.
I've stayed at the Inn of the Governors three or four times and would stay there again. On my last stay I noticed much more street noise at night, so I'd recommend requesting a quiet location. That was only one night though so I'm not sure what was going on that weekend.
Del Charro Saloon is a good stop for a drink, but also head over to the Bell Tower Bar at La Fonda for some great views. My husband likes to eat at The Pantry. After we were stuffed with New Mexican food, we needed a change and stopped for lunch at Clafoutis French Bakery for lunch one day and then went back again the next day for breakfast. We also brought home dessert!
The Santa Fe Farmer's Market is definitely worth a visit. www.santafefarmersmarket.com
I wouldn't be overly concerned with altitude sickness. I live in the Denver area and have had issues a couple of times, but only when I started out for a hike with a cold or a headache to begin with. I take a couple of motrin the night before I know I will be hiking in the mountains.
I'm heading up to Fort Collins later today and wish I had time for a Pimm's Cup. Have you been to the Cupboard kitchen store in Old Town? I love it and can spend hours in that store.
The next trip was in October and it was beautiful and we were treated to wonderful views for the entire train ride.
I've stayed at the Inn of the Governors three or four times and would stay there again. On my last stay I noticed much more street noise at night, so I'd recommend requesting a quiet location. That was only one night though so I'm not sure what was going on that weekend.
Del Charro Saloon is a good stop for a drink, but also head over to the Bell Tower Bar at La Fonda for some great views. My husband likes to eat at The Pantry. After we were stuffed with New Mexican food, we needed a change and stopped for lunch at Clafoutis French Bakery for lunch one day and then went back again the next day for breakfast. We also brought home dessert!
The Santa Fe Farmer's Market is definitely worth a visit. www.santafefarmersmarket.com
I wouldn't be overly concerned with altitude sickness. I live in the Denver area and have had issues a couple of times, but only when I started out for a hike with a cold or a headache to begin with. I take a couple of motrin the night before I know I will be hiking in the mountains.
I'm heading up to Fort Collins later today and wish I had time for a Pimm's Cup. Have you been to the Cupboard kitchen store in Old Town? I love it and can spend hours in that store.
Apr 21st, 2015, 12:04 PM
#30
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If your friend has never been to the mountains, have you considered driving into the mountains? You could take a leisurely drive up, and spend the night in Vail or Breckenridge, just to name two lovely towns.
I live in a Denver suburb, and would trade one day up in the mountains for 5 days in Denver or even Boulder (though Boulder is fun).
Driving in Chicago vs. Denver. Nothing like. You'll find driving in Denver easy (I used to live in Lincoln Park, before Denver). Also, taxis are not used so much; and the distances of anything in the city is close, or you could just get back in your car and drive to the new place.
I live in a Denver suburb, and would trade one day up in the mountains for 5 days in Denver or even Boulder (though Boulder is fun).
Driving in Chicago vs. Denver. Nothing like. You'll find driving in Denver easy (I used to live in Lincoln Park, before Denver). Also, taxis are not used so much; and the distances of anything in the city is close, or you could just get back in your car and drive to the new place.
Apr 22nd, 2015, 09:03 AM
#31
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For the trip to the mountains they could make a nice loop up through RMNP, through the park, down the west side to Silverthorne (Route 9?) and then if they wanted to take a turn through Breckenridge and Frisco back to Denver.
I would MUCH MUCH prefer that to Colorado Springs and the Garden of the Gods and most especially for a friend driving me to Colorado.
I would MUCH MUCH prefer that to Colorado Springs and the Garden of the Gods and most especially for a friend driving me to Colorado.
May 2nd, 2015, 06:28 AM
#32
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I wanted to update my planning, ask a few more questions and be sure to thank everyone for helping me so much. It's been so great, the help I have gotten from this forum.
Drive from Illinois to Santa Fe: We were going to stay overnight in Wichita, now we are going to make it to Dodge City. We are staying in a hotel on Wyatt Earp Boulevard which probably sounds way cooler than it is. We will stop at Boot Hill Cemetery and Front Street for an hour or two before continuing on to Santa Fe.
Santa Fe: New plans. We are going to go to Tent Rocks one morning and do the hike. That looks great. We have also booked a class at the Santa Fe School of Cooking. It is The Foods of New Mexico class, and we eat what is made in class. It sounds really fun. I also have the Georgia O'Keefe home and studio tour booked. I hope the driving directions are not too hard for me. I have not booked any restaurants, should I? My friend sent me some links to places she likes but the prices are quite high. One was the Santa Cafe. She said it's worth the money. Thoughts??
Colorado Springs: Yes, still going but staying one night only. I talked to my friend , she has her heart set on doing the railroad up Pike's Peak so that is what we will do come hell or high water, altitude sickness or not. We will do Garden of the Gods the next morning.
But then....Breckenridge: See I listened to the advice. I am very excited about this as I've never been. We only have a day here too, but my friend added one more day to her stay so we could go here. I have booked a lodge with mountain views. I'm not sure what we should do here except walk around but it looks so breathtaking .
Fort Collins: We are staying in a VRBO minutes from Old Town. I am staying with my kids after my friend leaves so this is only for 4 nights. An added plus was that two bikes and helmets come with this rental and it is close to a nice park. We are still doing day trips to Estes Park/Rocky Mountain National Park and then one full day in Denver. I still don't have plans formulated for Denver but thanks to all of you I have loads of ideas and I'm going to let my friend choose.
I only have 12 more shifts left to work until retirement. (I work 12 hour shifts). It all seems so surreal so I am happy to have this trip planning to do. I probably wasn't clear before but I'm doing the driving, this is my car. My friend is along for the ride. Our friends at work are calling us Thelma and Louise. I have promised not to drive over any cliffs though. (but I would not be adverse to meeting a Brad Pitt ha,ha).
Drive from Illinois to Santa Fe: We were going to stay overnight in Wichita, now we are going to make it to Dodge City. We are staying in a hotel on Wyatt Earp Boulevard which probably sounds way cooler than it is. We will stop at Boot Hill Cemetery and Front Street for an hour or two before continuing on to Santa Fe.
Santa Fe: New plans. We are going to go to Tent Rocks one morning and do the hike. That looks great. We have also booked a class at the Santa Fe School of Cooking. It is The Foods of New Mexico class, and we eat what is made in class. It sounds really fun. I also have the Georgia O'Keefe home and studio tour booked. I hope the driving directions are not too hard for me. I have not booked any restaurants, should I? My friend sent me some links to places she likes but the prices are quite high. One was the Santa Cafe. She said it's worth the money. Thoughts??
Colorado Springs: Yes, still going but staying one night only. I talked to my friend , she has her heart set on doing the railroad up Pike's Peak so that is what we will do come hell or high water, altitude sickness or not. We will do Garden of the Gods the next morning.
But then....Breckenridge: See I listened to the advice. I am very excited about this as I've never been. We only have a day here too, but my friend added one more day to her stay so we could go here. I have booked a lodge with mountain views. I'm not sure what we should do here except walk around but it looks so breathtaking .
Fort Collins: We are staying in a VRBO minutes from Old Town. I am staying with my kids after my friend leaves so this is only for 4 nights. An added plus was that two bikes and helmets come with this rental and it is close to a nice park. We are still doing day trips to Estes Park/Rocky Mountain National Park and then one full day in Denver. I still don't have plans formulated for Denver but thanks to all of you I have loads of ideas and I'm going to let my friend choose.
I only have 12 more shifts left to work until retirement. (I work 12 hour shifts). It all seems so surreal so I am happy to have this trip planning to do. I probably wasn't clear before but I'm doing the driving, this is my car. My friend is along for the ride. Our friends at work are calling us Thelma and Louise. I have promised not to drive over any cliffs though. (but I would not be adverse to meeting a Brad Pitt ha,ha).
May 2nd, 2015, 10:25 AM
#33
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How exciting for you - retirement rocks!! It's been quite a while since I've been out that way, but I recall a stop at the Taos pueblo (north of SF) being worthwhile...I was surprised I saw no mention of it.
I used to be in ColSpgs at lease once a year when I had family living out there...and as - then - a Chicago flatlander, I just loved making a drive north from CS on Hwy. 24. I realize the Rockies are all around wherever you are out there, but that drive, for an hour or so, through Manitou Springs and then on towards/through Fountain was just my favorite....felt like you were standing right amid all those glorious peaks.
Retirement....road trip....rockies....it doesn't get better! Enjoy.
I used to be in ColSpgs at lease once a year when I had family living out there...and as - then - a Chicago flatlander, I just loved making a drive north from CS on Hwy. 24. I realize the Rockies are all around wherever you are out there, but that drive, for an hour or so, through Manitou Springs and then on towards/through Fountain was just my favorite....felt like you were standing right amid all those glorious peaks.
Retirement....road trip....rockies....it doesn't get better! Enjoy.
May 3rd, 2015, 08:44 AM
#34
Good choice on Breck. Yes, just walk around, like along the Blue River pedestrian and bike trail which goes right through town. There is a good visitor center in town, they'll have lots of options for you.
If you and your friend really enjoyed being at 14,000' on Pikes Peak (this is a possibility!) then you can do that again by driving up Mount Evans on your way to or from Breck. This has the advantage of letting you turn around when you want. Plus the scenery is better on Evans, IMHO.
This could also be a backup if your trip on Pikes gets weathered out. Have fun.
If you and your friend really enjoyed being at 14,000' on Pikes Peak (this is a possibility!) then you can do that again by driving up Mount Evans on your way to or from Breck. This has the advantage of letting you turn around when you want. Plus the scenery is better on Evans, IMHO.
This could also be a backup if your trip on Pikes gets weathered out. Have fun.
May 3rd, 2015, 12:20 PM
#35
Original Poster
Thanks nelson and Tuckerdc,
It looks like the drive to Breckenridge will be amazing. We are staying at The Lodge at Breckenridge-good prices in the off season. I see gondola rides are free, I think we will do that and then walk around. I looked at the Blue River Pedestrian Trail. Nice. One day is not enough. Any restaurant suggestions? It looks like the restaurant at The Lodge is a good choice but maybe someone knows something better? $-$$ price range?
Also wtm, I have been in the Cupboard Kitchen store in Old Town Fort Collins. I did some Christmas shopping there and in the spice store. There are so many amazing shops but I have to admit I've spent the most time in the toy store and the book store. I love the old time feel of these stores. I could spend lots of time in both of these and since I will be there for the summer I probably will. If anyone sees a lady in a Chicago Cubs tee shirt- it might be me. (I don't live in these shirts but I do own a few!).
It looks like the drive to Breckenridge will be amazing. We are staying at The Lodge at Breckenridge-good prices in the off season. I see gondola rides are free, I think we will do that and then walk around. I looked at the Blue River Pedestrian Trail. Nice. One day is not enough. Any restaurant suggestions? It looks like the restaurant at The Lodge is a good choice but maybe someone knows something better? $-$$ price range?
Also wtm, I have been in the Cupboard Kitchen store in Old Town Fort Collins. I did some Christmas shopping there and in the spice store. There are so many amazing shops but I have to admit I've spent the most time in the toy store and the book store. I love the old time feel of these stores. I could spend lots of time in both of these and since I will be there for the summer I probably will. If anyone sees a lady in a Chicago Cubs tee shirt- it might be me. (I don't live in these shirts but I do own a few!).
May 3rd, 2015, 01:32 PM
#36
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When I was in Colorado Springs, I drove up Pikes Peak and I'll never do that again.. I got almost to the top and was just looking for a place to turn around. I would definitely take the railroad if I went back.
Are you also planning on driving/hiking Garden of the Gods? That was wonderful and if I had to choose, I'd pick that over the Cog railroad.
Don't know if you're a sports fan, but I also enjoyed the tour of the USOC and the skating museum.
Are you also planning on driving/hiking Garden of the Gods? That was wonderful and if I had to choose, I'd pick that over the Cog railroad.
Don't know if you're a sports fan, but I also enjoyed the tour of the USOC and the skating museum.
May 3rd, 2015, 08:30 PM
#37
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Born and raised in Denver here! Although I now live in CA. Anyway, I think the Molly Brown house is worth going to, the historic neighborhood is interesting as well and it's near the Capitol Building. I also recommend the mint tour.
As for Casa Bonita...it's indescribable. I think you should go, you seem like you'll have fun there and you can say you did it.
As for Casa Bonita...it's indescribable.
I think you should go, you seem like you'll have fun there and you can say you did it.
May 4th, 2015, 04:37 AM
#39
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Oh, to OP, a possible nice "thank you" to your friend for coming with you might be dinner at The Fort restaurant in Morrison, overlooking the Red Rocks amphitheater. It is famous for its view--and for its wild game menu. it would be a memorable (not to mention delicious) meal, I think.
