9 Unforgettable Luxury Summer Experiences in Colorado
Discover Colorado's most exclusive summer adventures, from rooftop dining in Denver to luxury train rides through the Rockies
June 6, 2025 - The Schossow Group
Summer in Colorado isn’t just about camping and hiking—though those are amazing, too. If you’re looking to elevate your summer with luxury, leisure, and a splash of adventure, the Centennial State delivers. You don’t have to rough it to enjoy the Rockies, treat yourself to a season of beauty, adventure, and splendor this summer.
From private guided outings to rooftop dining, here are 9 unforgettable luxury summer experiences worth putting on your calendar:
Above: A private hot air balloon ride in Colorado offers an intimate and unforgettable journey above the majestic Rockies.
1. Charter a Private Hot Air Balloon Ride
Soaring above Colorado’s breathtaking landscapes in a hot air balloon offers a peaceful yet exhilarating way to experience the Rockies. With sunrise flights departing from scenic towns like Boulder and Colorado Springs, riders can take in panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and wide-open skies.
Fair Winds in Boulder
Launch Site: Boulder County Fairgrounds (but can vary due to weather - check website or call ahead of your flight)
Highlights: Sweeping views of the Flatirons, Continental Divide, and Boulder Valley
Price: ~$300 per person
Notes: Offers group and private rides; family-friendly
Rocky Mountain Balloon Rides
Launch Site: 12192 Sugar Mill Rd. Longmont, CO 80501
Highlights: Panoramic views of the Front Range, including the majestic Longs Peak and the expansive Rocky Mountains.
Price: ~$500 per person
Notes: VIP and private options, traditional champagne toast at the conclusion of flight
Adventures Out West Colorado Springs / Pikes Peak Region
Launch Site: Near Garden of the Gods or Eastern Plains
Highlights: Views of Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and downtown Colorado Springs.
Price: ~$300–$350 per person
Notes: Champagne toast, flight certificate, group or private options
Above: Sunset view from the rooftop of The Jacquard Hotel and Kisbee on The Roof. (Photo credit: The Jacquard Hotel Facebook)
2. Dine on a Rooftop in Downtown Denver
Treat yourself to fine dining with panoramic views.
El Five - LoHi: Atop the fifth floor at 2930 Umatilla Street, El Five offers sweeping views of downtown Denver paired with a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired menu. This rooftop dining gem provides a lively yet upscale atmosphere, ideal for a memorable evening out. Reservations can be made through OpenTable or directly on their website, though requests for bar or patio seating cannot be guaranteed. El Five serves dinner Sunday through Thursday from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and stays open until 11:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. The dress code is smart casual, and valet parking is available for $15.
Corridor 44 - Larimer Square: Located at 1433 Larimer Street, Corridor 44 is Denver’s only dedicated champagne bar, offering an intimate and stylish setting with a curated selection of over 115 champagnes. This elegant spot is perfect for celebratory nights or a sophisticated evening out. Reservations are recommended and can be made via OpenTable or the bar’s official website—especially important for larger parties looking to enjoy the cozy ambiance. Corridor 44 is open daily from 3:00 PM to 2:00 AM, and the dress code is business casual.
The Woods - RiNo: Located on the 8th floor of The Source Hotel at 3330 Brighton Boulevard, The Woods offers sweeping views of the Denver skyline and the Rocky Mountains, making it an ideal spot for both sunrise breakfasts and sunset dinners. The menu features elevated pub fare in a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. Guests can choose between indoor and outdoor seating, depending on the weather and their preference. Reservations can be made through OpenTable or The Source Hotel’s official website. The Woods is open Sunday through Thursday from 7:00 AM to 10:45 PM (with the kitchen closing at 9:00 PM), and Friday through Saturday from 7:00 AM to 11:45 PM (kitchen closes at 10:00 PM). The dress code is business casual, and parking is conveniently available through The Source Hotel.
Kisbee on the Roof - Cherry Creek: Perched atop The Jacquard Hotel in Cherry Creek, Kisbee on the Roof is a stylish rooftop bar and lounge offering sweeping views of the Denver skyline and Rocky Mountains. This chic destination pairs curated cocktails and light bites with a vibrant, modern ambiance, perfect for both daytime lounging and evening socializing. By day, guests can enjoy a playful poolside atmosphere complete with craft drinks and small plates, while on Friday and Saturday nights from 6 PM to close, Kisbee transforms into a 21+ lounge with live DJ sets and an upbeat vibe ideal for mingling and dancing. For a more exclusive experience, private poolside cabanas are available for rent. Evening lounge hours are open to the public on a walk-in basis, and reservations or waitlist spots can be secured through OpenTable.
Above: The mineral-rich natural hot springs that flow at Dunton Hot Springs. (Photo Credit: Dunton Hot Springs Facebook)
3. Book a Luxury Resort Weekend
Book a weekend at The Little Nell in Aspen, Four Seasons Vail, or Dunton Hot Springs for a 5-star mountain escape or stay closer to home with The Broadmoor or The Jacquard Hotel for the ultimate staycation.
The Jacquard Hotel - Cherry Creek: Located in the heart of Cherry Creek at 222 Milwaukee Street, The Jacquard Hotel offers contemporary accommodations with easy access to boutique shopping, art galleries, and fine dining. Pair with a cabana at Kisbee on the roof for the ultimate staycation. Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, elegant linens, and custom-designed furnishings, providing a comfortable and stylish retreat. Enjoy freshly reimagined local favorites at the hotel's signature restaurant, Narrative, which offers a modern dining experience. For reservations and more information, visit The Jacquard Hotel's official website or Marriott's booking page.
The Broadmoor Resort - Colorado Springs: Located at 1 Lake Avenue in Colorado Springs, The Broadmoor is a legendary Five-Star resort that blends timeless luxury with outdoor adventure. In summer, guests enjoy championship golf, hiking, zip-lining, fly fishing, and paddle boating on Cheyenne Lake. The resort also features a stunning infinity pool, award-winning dining—including the Five-Diamond Penrose Room—and a full-service spa. Accommodations range from elegant rooms to private cottages. For bookings, visit broadmoor.com or call (855) 634-7711.
The Little Nell - Aspen: Aspen’s only Five-Star, Five-Diamond hotel, offering luxury at the base of Aspen Mountain year-round. While renowned for its ski-in/ski-out access in winter, summer at The Little Nell located at 675 E Durant Avenue brings its own kind of magic — think guided hikes, mountain biking, fly-fishing adventures, and starlit dining on the patio. The hotel features 92 elegant rooms, suites, and residences, all recently refreshed with modern, nature-inspired design that mirrors Aspen’s alpine charm. Reservations can be booked directly through The Little Nell's official website.
Four Seasons Resort Vail: Nestled in the center of Vail Village at 1 Vail Road, the Four Seasons Resort Vail blends European alpine charm with modern luxury. Guests can choose from beautifully appointed rooms, suites, and private residences, some with up to six bedrooms perfect for families or groups. The newly renovated spa offers a full menu of healing massages and wellness treatments, ideal for post-ski recovery or year-round relaxation. Dining options include Italian-style après-ski at Après-Tivo at Tavernetta Vail and seasonal cocktails served in a cozy alpine atmosphere at The Chalet. Reservations can be made through the Four Seasons Vail official website or by calling (970) 477-8600.
Dunton Hot Springs - Dolores: Dunton Hot Springs, a beautifully restored 1800s ghost town turned luxury resort, sits tucked away in a secluded alpine valley near Telluride. This one-of-a-kind destination features hand-hewn log cabins, each uniquely decorated, and access to mineral-rich natural hot springs that flow beneath the historic bathhouse and into the open-air pools. Guests can choose from accommodations like the rustic-chic Major Ross cabin, the charming Bjoerkmans, or the glamping-style Christy’s Tent — many of which include private soaking tubs, wood-burning stoves, and breathtaking mountain views.
Summer at Dunton offers a full slate of outdoor adventures, from fly fishing and hiking to horseback riding and stargazing, all wrapped in five-star service. Reservations can be made through the official Dunton Hot Springs website or by calling (970) 882-4800 or emailing [email protected]. All-inclusive rates cover gourmet meals, beverages, and a variety of immersive experiences, with options available for day use, overnight stays, or full-town buyouts for weddings and private events.
Above: Schossow Group Agent April Stahl's family spends a day in Gunnison fishing.
4. Experience a Private Fly Fishing Guide
The pristine rivers of Colorado are famous for trout fishing. Opt for a luxury guided experience gear, lunch, and exclusive river access often included.
Black Canyon Anglers – Gunnison River
Located near Gunnison (one of our favorite destinations in Colorado), Black Canyon Anglers is the largest and most experienced fly fishing outfitter on the Gunnison River. They specialize in wilderness float fishing, walk-and-wade fly fishing, and offer private lessons tailored to all skill levels. Their knowledgeable guides provide quality equipment and personalized instruction, ensuring a memorable experience on the renowned "Gunny" River.
Crested Butte Angler – Crested Butte
Just north of Gunnison, Crested Butte Angler offers private fly fishing lessons and guided trips on the Gunnison River, Taylor River, and various private waters. Their professional guides cater to all levels of anglers, providing instruction on casting, entomology, and river reading. All necessary equipment is included, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a comprehensive learning experience.
Angler's Covey – Colorado Springs
Located in Colorado Springs, Angler's Covey offers private fly fishing lessons tailored to individual needs. Their experienced instructors provide one-on-one sessions covering casting techniques, knot tying, and on-the-water strategies. With access to various local waters, they ensure a hands-on learning experience suitable for beginners and seasoned anglers alike.
Above: Yoga retreat at The Ranch at Emerald Valley. (Photo Credit: The Ranch at Emerald Valley Facebook)
5. Unwind with a Yoga & Wellness Retreat
Colorado’s serene landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for wellness and yoga retreats. Many high-end experiences include guided yoga sessions, mindfulness practices, nutritious meals, and access to tranquil, private outdoor settings—creating a rejuvenating escape in the heart of nature.
The Ranch at Emerald Valley - Colorado Springs: At an elevation of 8,200 feet within the Pike National Forest, The Ranch at Emerald Valley offers a secluded, all-inclusive wellness retreat managed by The Broadmoor. Guests can unwind in one of 13 luxurious cabins, each featuring wood-burning fireplaces and rich furnishings.
- Wellness Highlights: Outdoor Hot Tubs: Relax in cedar hot tubs surrounded by nature.
- Gourmet Dining: Savor meals crafted by Broadmoor chefs, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients.
- Equestrian Activities: Explore scenic trails on horseback, suitable for all skill levels.
- Yoga Sessions: Participate in yoga classes set against the backdrop of the Rockies.
- Guided Adventures: Engage in fly-fishing, hiking, and other outdoor pursuits led by experienced guides. coloradoranch.com
This retreat seamlessly blends rustic charm with refined luxury, providing an ideal setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.
C Lazy U Ranch - Granby: Situated in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, C Lazy U Ranch is a historic, all-inclusive guest ranch renowned for its upscale amenities, family-centered approach and wellness offerings. C Lazy U Ranch offers a harmonious blend of adventure and relaxation, making it a top choice for those seeking a holistic wellness experience.
- Yoga Retreats: Join specialized retreats like the "Women in the Rockies Wellness Retreat," which combines yoga, meditation, and horseback riding.
- Equine Therapy: Participate in horse grooming and riding sessions designed to foster connection and mindfulness.
- Spa Services: Indulge in massages and other treatments at the on-site spa.
- Gourmet Cuisine: Enjoy meals that blend Western flair with contemporary culinary techniques.
Above: Nick Schossow tees off at Ravenna's iconic 16th hole in Littleton.
6. Play Championship Golf at Exclusive Private Courses
Colorado's private golf courses offer world-class play amid stunning mountain backdrops, combining exceptional course design with luxury amenities and personalized service. Here are a few of our favorites...
Ravenna Country Club - Littleton: This premier private club in our backyard features an 18-hole championship course, consistently ranked among Colorado's top golf destinations. Set against the dramatic backdrops of the Front Range, Dakota Hogback and Pike National Forest, Ravenna offers meticulously maintained fairways, and undulating greens that showcase panoramic mountain views. The club provides full concierge services, professional instruction, and an elegant clubhouse with fine dining options, along with a vibrant community of luxury homes.
Colorado Golf Club - Parker: This private club boasts a challenging layout designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, featuring rolling terrain, native grasses, and stunning views of the Front Range is known for its minimalist design philosophy and natural beauty.
Red Sky Ranch & Golf Club - Wolcott (Vail Valley): Located in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Red Sky Ranch features two distinctly-designed courses—the Fazio Course and the Norman Course—both offering unparalleled mountain vistas at 7,000+ feet elevation. This exclusive club combines championship golf with luxury mountain living.
The Country Club at Castle Pines - Castle Pines: Here's a rewritten version that maintains the quote while making the rest original:
Castle Pines Country Club - Castle Pines: This Jack Nicklaus-designed masterpiece winds dramatically through elevated pine forests and mountain valleys, creating one of Colorado's most visually stunning golf experiences. The championship course sits at 6,200 feet elevation, where each hole offers breathtaking panoramas of the Rockies and Denver's distant skyline.
As Jack Nicklaus himself noted, "a person can play The Country Club and feel he's had a great time no matter what his score, simply because of the views."
Above: Guests enjoy the one of a kind views on the Royal Gorge Train. (Photo Credit: Royal Gorge Train Facebook)
7. Take a Luxury Train Ride Through the Mountains
Take a first-class rail journey through dramatic canyons, rivers, and peaks—complete with fine dining, panoramic windows, and bar service aboard.
Royal Gorge Route Railroad – Cañon City: Journey along the Arkansas River through the stunning Royal Gorge, often called the “Grand Canyon of the Arkansas.” This is a luxurious yet laid-back option for couples or families, with specialty events like wine-tasting rides and murder mystery dinners. Train features include:
- Vista Dome Seating for unobstructed views of the 1,000-foot canyon walls
- First-Class Lunch or Dinner Service with seasonal menus and Colorado-sourced ingredients
- Open-Air Cars for fresh mountain air and Instagram-worthy photos
- Full-Service Bar with Colorado craft beers, wines, and cocktails
Rocky Mountaineer – Rockies to the Red Rocks: This ultra-premium train journey connects Denver to Moab, Utah, across two days of spectacular landscapes—from the Continental Divide to red rock deserts.
- SilverLeaf Plus Class offers panoramic dome windows, gourmet meals, craft cocktails, and an exclusive lounge car
- Overnight Stay in Glenwood Springs at a curated hotel as part of the package
- Fully Hosted Journey with storytelling, service, and luxury touches throughout
- Ideal for travelers seeking a true once-in-a-lifetime experience with comfort at every turn
The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway Pikes Peak Luxury Experience – Colorado Springs
After a recent multi-million dollar renovation, the historic Cog Railway now offers a smooth, scenic ascent to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak. While not a full luxury train in the traditional sense, the premium experience includes:
- Upgraded seating with wide windows for alpine views
- VIP packages from The Broadmoor that combine the ride with fine dining or spa access
- Exclusive Summit House access, home to gourmet donuts and panoramic lookouts
- Pair this adventure with a stay at The Broadmoor, one of Colorado’s most luxurious resorts, for a seamless and stylish mountain getaway.
Above: The Telluride Jazz Festival offers multiple ways to enjoy the music, with exclusive perks available for Patron Experience ticket holders. (Photo Credit: Telluride Jazz Festival Facebook)
8. Attend an Epic Outdoor Concert
There’s nothing quite like an outdoor concert in Colorado, where stunning mountain backdrops and open skies elevate the music to unforgettable heights. Iconic venues like Red Rocks Amphitheatre offer natural acoustics and panoramic views that make every performance feel magical. Whether you're enjoying a symphony under the stars or dancing to live jazz in Telluride, Colorado turns every concert into an immersive, scenic adventure.
Aspen Music Festival July 2 – August 24, 2025: One of the world’s most celebrated classical music festivals, hosting over 400 events throughout its eight-week summer season. For 2025, the lineup is more impressive than ever. Renowned soprano Renée Fleming will make her directorial debut with a bold new take on Mozart’s Così fan tutte, reimagined in a 1980s American high school setting, with performances scheduled from July 21–26.
A major highlight of the season is the world premiere of Siddhartha, She by Christopher Theofanidis—a gender-swapped operatic adaptation of Hermann Hesse’s classic novel—debuting on August 2.
The festival also features an extraordinary roster of talent including Lang Lang, Patti LuPone, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, and Gil Shaham. Guests can elevate their experience with VIP seating, pre-concert champagne picnics, and exclusive access to signature events like the Opera Benefit on July 8 and the Season Benefit on August 11. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or new to the scene, AMFS offers an unforgettable cultural escape in the heart of the Rockies.
Telluride Jazz Festival August 8–10, 2025: Telluride Jazz Festival returns for its 48th year, bringing the sounds of jazz, funk, and soul to the heart of the San Juan Mountains. Set in one of Colorado’s most breathtaking alpine towns, this boutique music festival combines world-class performances with scenic beauty and a laid-back atmosphere.
The 2025 lineup features powerhouse acts like Kamasi Washington, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, and Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe. Festival goers can indulge in fine wine, craft cocktails, and gourmet food truck offerings while soaking up the music. For an elevated experience, Patron Experience tickets offer exclusive perks such as access to private tents, lounge seating, and a hosted bar perfect for those looking to enjoy the weekend in style.
Above: Schossow Group Agents Molly Petrelli and Nick Schossow enjoy a Red Rocks concert in 2025 together with their families.
Colorado Symphony at Red Rocks Various dates, summer 2025: Experience the harmony of classical music and Colorado’s stunning natural landscape at the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheatre during the Colorado Symphony’s 2025 summer season. Highlights include the Jerry Garcia Symphonic Celebration on July 6, featuring Melvin Seals and other celebrated artists; an exclusive collaboration with Beck on July 27; and a nostalgic performance by The Beach Boys with the symphony on August 3. These one-of-a-kind concerts blend iconic music with Red Rocks’ unmatched acoustics and atmosphere. Elevate your evening with add-ons like backstage tours or the "Top of the Rock" packages, offering unforgettable views and behind-the-scenes access.
Above: Private boating adventures are an essential part of a Colorado summer. (Photo Credit: Dillon Marina Facebook)
9. Enjoy Private Boating
Rent a luxury pontoon or speedboat for the day. These locations provide excellent opportunities to enjoy private yachting experiences amidst Colorado's picturesque landscapes.
Cherry Creek Reservoir – Denver: Located just southeast of downtown Denver, Cherry Creek Reservoir is a popular spot for boating enthusiasts.
- Pelican Bay at Cherry Creek: This marina offers boat slip reservations and hosts events like the Summer Music Concert Series.
- Denver Sailing Association: Based at Cherry Creek Reservoir, this organization provides sailing opportunities and events for members.
- Platforms, such as GetMyBoat, list boats and captains available for rent in the Denver area, with prices ranging from $250 to $6,500 per day, depending on the vessel and amenities.
Lake Dillon – Summit County: Situated at over 9,000 feet elevation, Lake Dillon offers stunning mountain views and a range of boating activities.
- Dillon Marina: This full-service marina provides boat rentals, including powerboats, and offers sailing lessons through the Dillon Marina Sailing School.
- Frisco Bay Marina: Located on the lake's western end, this marina offers powerboat rentals and other watercraft options.
Lake Granby – Grand County: As one of Colorado's largest reservoirs, Lake Granby is a prime destination for boating and fishing.
- Grand Lake Marina: Located in the town of Grand Lake, this marina offers boat rentals and guided tours on Grand Lake.
- Rental Options: GetMyBoat features listings for various watercraft rentals on Lake Granby, allowing for personalized boating experiences.
Above: Dale Schossow always enjoys a day spent outdoors in Colorado.
A luxury summer in Colorado is nothing short of extraordinary. Whether you’re soaking in the healing waters of a high-end hot spring, dining al fresco on a rooftop with sweeping city views, or escaping to a private mountain retreat, the state offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. With every indulgent detail and scenic moment, Colorado transforms summer into an elevated experience you won’t soon forget.
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