Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation with a little sightseeing or an active outdoor experience, this Dallas to Colorado road trip has it all.
This Dallas to Colorado road trip has everything you could possibly want in a family vacation. With museums to explore, delicious food to eat and nature to discover, it has something for everyone. The kids will love running around the various parks and monuments while adults will take pleasure in discovering pieces of history and hiking through the beautiful scenery. Start in Dallas and head northwest to discover places like Amarillo, Capulin Volcano National Monument, Colorado Springs, Breckenridge, Denver, and everything in between.
Stops
1. Dallas
2. Amarillo
3. Capulin Volcano National Monument
4. Colorado Springs
5. Breckenridge
6. Denver
Info at a glance
- Length: 2 Weeks
- Type of route: Family
- 6 stops along the route
- Distance: 925 miles of driving
Highlights
- Check out the museums and eat barbecue in Dallas.
- Visit the Route 66 Historic District in Amarillo.
- Hike around the extinct Capulin Volcano.
- Visit Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs.
- Explore Denver and the surrounding area.
Getting to the start
This road trip starts in Dallas, Texas. If you are coming from another part of the country, you can fly into Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. If you are arriving by car, there are many different options as Dallas is super well connected. You can reach Dallas from the north or south via Interstate 35 East or I-45, or state route 75. From the east or west, you can drive in on I-20 or I-30. You can also take an Amtrak train to Dallas.
When to Visit
The scenery throughout the northern part of Texas and into Colorado is beautiful year-round. If you’re looking to take advantage of all the outdoor activities possible, take this road trip in the summer. However, if this is going to be a road trip turned ski trip, winter is the best time to do it. When you’re packing, take into account the attractions you want to visit. No matter what, you’ll want a pair of good walking shoes that are also suitable for hiking, clothing you can layer, a few nice outfits for days in the city, rain gear and your camera.
Driving tips
You’ll hit a few toll roads driving through Texas. Be prepared to pay tolls on the leg of your trip where you’ll be taking I-35 from Dallas to Amarillo. However, this is the only toll road you will encounter during this road trip. The speed limit in Texas is typically 75 mph on interstate highways. During your short jaunt through New Mexico, the speed limit is also 75 mph. It is worth noting that it is illegal to drive in New Mexico without putting your full attention on the vehicle, so it’s best to avoid using your phone or eating while driving. Colorado’s speed limit is generally 65 mph.
What to know about the route
This 925-mile road trip is perfect for the entire family. Chock full of beautiful scenery, history and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone. Starting in Dallas, you’ll explore all the city has to offer, including the iconic local food and museums. Then, you’ll take the I-35 East north towards Amarillo, Texas. Amarillo is a great place to explore the history of Route 66 as well as Cadillac Ranch. Afterward, hop onto Route 87 for a quick skip into New Mexico to visit Capulin Volcano National Monument before heading north on I-25 to Colorado Springs, Colorado. This is where the nature portion of your trip really starts. Explore everything Colorado Springs has to offer before heading to Breckenridge via CO Highway 9. Finally, you’ll take I-70 East into Denver to wrap up your trip. For this family road trip, it’s best to take an SUV or a sedan so you can navigate the roads in the wilderness as well as transport the whole family.
Dallas, Texas
Dallas is a city with plenty to offer. Home to a range of museums, both history buffs and the kids will love learning about the unique history the city displays. Combine the incredible museums with tasty local dishes and a variety of outdoor activities and you’ve got the perfect family destination.
Points of interest
There are tons of things to do in Dallas before you get on the road. Check out the Arts District, home to the Dallas Museum of Art and the Crow Collection of Asian Art. You’ll also want to visit the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which commemorates the assassination of JFK. Reunion Tower is also a popular attraction, as you can go to the observation deck at the top for a panoramic view of the city.
Where to eat, drink and sleep
To sample some barbeque, head to Cattleack Barbeque, the Slow Bone or the Pecan Lodge. And of course, Dallas has its own take on Mexican food, so check out Tejas or Mariano’s Hacienda for the best margaritas. Check out unique establishments like The Tipsy Alchemist for cocktails or the ArtPark beer garden. The best places to stay are located in the downtown area where you’ll be close to all the action.
Sixt Insider Tip
If you’re into the history of outlaws, you can visit the graves of the legendary Bonnie Parker and Clyde Marrow, aka, Bonnie & Clyde. They’re located at different cemeteries but both are worth a visit if you’re into their stories.
From Dallas to Amarillo (365 miles)
Next, you’ll take I-35 north to Amarillo. Along the way, you’ll pass by Fort Worth, Dallas’s sister city, that’s worth a visit in its own right. You can also check out the quaint historic town of Grapevine on the way. You’ll pass by Wichita Falls where you can learn more about the history of North Texas.
Amarillo, Texas
Amarillo, Texas, is perched right on Historic Route 66. With loads of Route 66-themed attractions, there’s plenty to do here. It’s also the epitome of an Old West town. Home to art galleries, a historic downtown area, and more, all in a desert setting, this is about as Texas as it gets.
Points of interest
You’ll want to visit the Route 66 Historic District. Another famous attraction is Cadillac Ranch, an iconic art installation featuring spray-painted Cadillacs buried in the ground. You can even grab your own can of paint and leave your mark. The kids will love the Don Harrington Discovery Center and the local zoo.
Where to eat, drink and sleep
For food, you won’t want to miss the Big Texan Steak Ranch Hotel to try your hand at their steak challenge. It’s also a brewery, so you’ll want to try the local beer. The hotel options in Amarillo are modest but are mostly located in the downtown area, so you’ll have access to all the attractions during your stay.
Sixt Insider Tip
Just a short drive away from Amarillo, check out Palo Duro Canyon State Park to visit the country’s second-largest canyon. There are plenty of hiking trails to explore and incredible scenery as well, so if you have time, you won’t want to miss it.
From Amarillo to Capulin Volcano National Monument (191 miles)
You’ll head northwest on US Highway 87 across the border into New Mexico. You’ll mostly be driving on desert roads for the entire time, so relax and enjoy the scenery around you. You’ll pass small towns like Masterson, Texas, and Clayton, New Mexico, on the way.
Capulin Volcano National Monument
This national landmark is part of the Raton-Clayton Volcanic Field. This extinct volcano offers a unique geological landscape for your entire family to explore. You’ll also encounter local wildlife during your volcanic exploration, so don’t forget your camera. You can hike around the area and camp nearby for a chance to stargaze.
Points of interest
You may want to check out the Visitor’s Center before exploring the volcano itself so you can learn more about the history and the geology you’re about to experience. Then, drive up to the rim of the volcano before hiking down into the crater. Be sure to take your time at the rim. On a clear day, you’ll have a panoramic view that allows you to see as far as the state of Kansas.
Sixt Insider Tip
Hiking down into the mouth of the crater is an experience you’ll never forget. The kids will be thrilled at the idea of checking out a volcano while the adults will enjoy the somewhat challenging hike and the scenery.
From Capulin Volcano National Monument to Colorado Springs (183 miles)
Next, to head to Colorado Springs, you’ll take I-25 North. You’ll pass through the town of Trinidad, Colorado, home to Victorian architecture and great hiking at Simpson’s Rest. You can also check out Bishop Castle and Lake Isabel Forest for a quick pit stop. You may also want to check out Royal Gorge Bridge, the tallest suspension bridge in the country.
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Situated on the eastern edge of the Rocky Mountains, the scenery in Colorado Springs is like nothing you’ve ever seen before. Home to both mountain peaks and natural sandstone formations, there’s a lot to explore. If you’re looking to escape the outdoor adventure activities for a bit, you can check out the neighboring towns of Manitou Springs or Old Colorado City.
Points of interest
You’ll need at least 3 days to hit all the attractions in this area. The most popular by far is Pikes Peak in Pikes National Forest. You can drive to the top of this summit—the highest one in the northern part of the Rocky Mountains. Don’t forget your camera! Garden of the Gods is another National Natural Landmark full of red rock formations. You can also take a tour of the Cave of the Winds for a unique experience.
Sixt Insider Tip
If you’re up for a challenge, try hiking the Manitou Incline Trail. It’s adjacent to the drive up to Pikes Peak, so this may not be an activity for the kids.
From Colorado Springs to Breckenridge (106 miles)
Next, you’ll drive through Pikes National Forest via US Highway 24 to Breckenridge, Colorado. The drive is incredibly scenic, so you’ll want to take your time. You’ll pass through a few small mountain towns on the way in case you want to stop for lunch or fill your gas tank.
Breckenridge, Colorado
Breckenridge is a lively mountain oasis. Home to many boutique shops, unique restaurants and bars and easy access to all the outdoor adventure activities your heart desires, it’s a destination everyone in the family will love. Breckenridge is a historic mining town, so you’ll also have plenty of opportunities to learn about how this impacted the history and culture of the area.
Points of interest
Main Street is the first place you should check out when you’re in town. The Victorian-era buildings in front of a mountain backdrop are a sight to see. If you’re here in the winter, you’ll want to check out Breckenridge Ski Resort for skiing, snowboarding and more. If you’re here in the summer, check out the hiking and mountain biking opportunities surrounding the town. You may also want to do some water sports on Maggie Pond.
Where to eat, drink and sleep
Breckenridge’s mountain charm means that there are tons of cozy places to eat, drink and sleep in town. For dinner with a view, head to the luxurious restaurants Twist or Hearthstone. For local beer and cocktails, check out Breckenridge Brewery and Breckenridge Distillery. The city is also home to dozens of mountain lodges for your comfort and convenience.
Sixt Insider Tip
If you’re here in the summer, check out Epic Discover, an adventure park with zip lines and alpine slides. Perfect for the whole family, it’s a great opportunity to get the adrenaline flowing while you enjoy the great outdoors.
From Breckenridge to Denver (80 miles)
To get to your final destination, you’ll take I-70 East out of the forest and on to Denver. This drive is also scenic, so be sure not to rush it. You’ll pass through a few other mountain towns, including Frisco and Idaho Springs, on your way to Denver.
Denver, Colorado
Denver, Colorado, is your last stop. This city is home to a wide variety of attractions, from museums to outdoor activities, unique food and lots of history. This bustling metropolis is the perfect place to end your trip and relax a little after all your outdoor adventures.
Points of interest
There are tons of things to see and do in Denver all year. Check out a show at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre during the warmer months. Denver is also home to many unique museums, such as the Denver Art Museum, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science and the Children’s Museum. You’ll also want to check out the Denver Botanical Gardens. If you haven’t had enough outdoor adventure, there are also plenty of hiking opportunities nearby.
Where to eat, drink and sleep
Did you know that Denver is the birthplace of the cheeseburger? This is an excuse to try all the great burger restaurants in town. Check out Bob’s Atomic Burgers. Denver also has its own take on Mexican food, known as Den-Mex. You should order a pork green chile solo. If you’re looking for a place to stay, there are loads of options in the downtown area, whether you’re looking to stick to a budget or you want a more luxurious experience to end your trip.
Sixt Insider Tip
If you’re looking for a unique historical experience, check out the Molly Brown House Museum, the former home of the legendary Titanic survivor. You’ll browse through some of her old possessions and learn more about her story as one of the most famous survivors of the shipwreck.
