If you live in Denver, you don’t need a flight to feel like you’ve actually gotten away. Sometimes the best reset is just over an hour south in Colorado Springs—where red rock views, slower mornings, and a little bit of luxury come together in the easiest possible way.

This is your go-to guide for a quick, beautiful, and genuinely relaxing staycation. Think elevated but effortless. The kind of weekend that feels like a real escape without the stress of planning one.

If you’re going to do this right, start with Garden of the Gods Resort and Club.

This is one of those places where you immediately feel like you’ve left your routine behind. The views of Pikes Peak and the red rock formations are front and center, whether you’re in your room, at the pool, or sitting down for a drink. It’s calm, elevated, and just the right amount of indulgent.

Plan to actually spend time here. Order a drink, sit outside, and slow down a bit. That’s kind of the whole point of this trip.

For dinner, head downtown to Sushi Row.

It’s modern, a little bit vibey, and honestly exactly what you want after a day of travel and settling in. Fresh sushi, great presentation, and a space that feels elevated without being over the top. Pro tip: they have happy hour all night on Mondays! These temaki tacos were my FAVORITE - definitely get the tuna and tempura shrimp combo.

This is an easy “yes” even though it's a short drive from the resort - low effort, high reward.

If you’re into golf, or even just want an excuse to be outside, book a round at Kissing Camels Golf Course.

The setting is what makes it. You’re playing against a backdrop that feels very Colorado, but a little more dramatic than what you get day to day in Denver. Even if you’re not taking your score too seriously, it’s worth it for the experience alone. I also LOVED the cute little camel tee markers!

For something casual but really good, stop by Heart of Jerusalem for lunch. Honestly.... we went there twice.

It’s quick, flavorful, and exactly what you want in the middle of a relaxed day. Think fresh pita, hummus, falafel, and solid portions without feeling heavy.

Don't skip their signature sage tea or the baklava - it has a touch of cinnamon which my husband and I were both obsessed with.

You can’t come here and skip Garden of the Gods.

Go for a walk, take your time, and enjoy being outside. The trails are easy, the views are unreal, and it is one of those places that actually lives up to the hype. This is a great place to take people of all ages and fitness levels - it is mostly accessible with wide, smooth pathways. 

If you can, time it for golden hour. It’s quieter, the light is better, and everything feels a little more peaceful.

Bonus - if you have time be sure to head into kitschy Manitou Springs! I especially love the penny arcade and the locally made soft serve ice cream stand.

End the day back at Garden of the Gods Resort and Club with dessert. Definitely grab dinner here if you can get a reservation... but this amazing peanut butter s'mores concoction was INCREDIBLE.

Order something indulgent, grab a seat with a view, and let the day wind down. No rushing and no plans. Just a really good moment to close out the night.

Let’s be honest, I can’t go anywhere without checking out the local real estate.

Colorado Springs has some incredible properties, especially if you’re thinking about a second home, a future move, or just curious what your money gets you in a different market.

If that’s something you’ve been considering, I can connect you with a top agent anywhere in the world. Having the right person on the ground makes all the difference.

This is the kind of trip you don’t need to overplan.

It’s close, it’s easy, and it delivers on exactly what you want. A reset, a little luxury, a lot of views, and just enough distance from Denver to feel like you actually got away.

Save this for when you need a weekend that feels better than it should for how simple it is to pull off.