As the snow was melting off the slopes and the sun inched up the temperatures, our family took a drive down from the mountains of Colorado to the Gaylord Rockies in Denver for a taste of summer. We had previously visited one winter to experience the Christmas festivities. This time we were looking for a way to experience a taste of summer with all the family fun the Gaylord is known for. We weren’t disappointed. Here’s what you can expect from the Gaylord Rockies Summer of More.
Gaylord Rockies Location
Gaylord Rockies is located on the west side of town out by the airport. While this part of Denver is quite flat, the architects positioned the grand atrium to have a spectacular view of both downtown and the mountains in the distance. There was not much out here the first time we visited. But much has been built since.
Why Gaylord Rockies
Many visit the Gaylord Rockies for conferences. The property is massive. But they’ve given travelers many reasons other than conferences to make their way here for a visit. From the largest big screen TV in the state in the sports bar to a fun waterpark and pool to restaurants and the spa, there’s a little something for everyone. During the holidays the hotel morphs into a winter wonderland carved from more than two million pounds of colorful ice. During the summer, it becomes a place almost with the feel of a beach vacation.
Gaylord Rockies Water Park
The pool is a miniature waterpark year-round. There are two fun waterslides, a heated pool that boasts two splash pads, a large hot tub and a lap pool that doubles as a water volleyball court, all indoors. The outdoor pool area boasts an adult hot tub, a hot tub open to all, an infinity pool with another smaller waterslide, and a lazy river with stone brides overhead and views of the mountains in the distance. Rows of lounge chairs line the pools, and there are even comfortable cabanas for rent. We saw more than one birthday party at the cabanas.
There’s a restaurant and bar in the pool area called Arapaho Springs. On a warm afternoon we enjoyed frozen drinks and Dippin’ Dots from here. There’s also a cute shaved ice truck. We came back to the pool one night after dinner just for this treat, but enjoyed some more time in the water and catching a spectacular sunset.
Entry to the waterpark is included in your stay. Other activities are available out on the pool deck such as bingo.
Gaylord Rockies Great Atrium
The Grand Atrium was my favorite place to hang out. The colorful fountains, a train car, a bridge over the water, caves and the tallest windows looking out to downtown Denver and the mountains beyond drew both me and my son down there. Several restaurants open into the atrium. There’s a variety of seating from couches by a grand fireplace to tables for dining by the water, or even in a cave.
A deck with a huge fire pit and Adirondack chairs pepper the area just outside the huge windows. There’s a grassy area beyond for kids to play or adults to stretch their legs.
Summer Activities at Gaylord Rockies
Dubbed by Gaylord Rockies as Summer of More, we have to agree. There was no shortage of fun activities for the family. The one that we splurged on and were so glad that we did, was the escape room.
Discover Colorado Escape Room: Riches in the Rockies
This is a fabulous addition to activities at Gaylord Rockies, for a few reasons. First off, it was really well done. From the props and decor to the puzzles, you really felt like you were in an old cabin in an old mining area of Colorado. And, Jessie really made the experience. It is also a great way to take a break from fun in the sun and pool.
Shiny Stash Scavenger Hunt
We didn’t actually participate in the Shiny Stash Scavenger Hunt. But it sounds really fun too, and at a much lower price point than the escape room. The story goes that pirates have invaded the resort and Princess Evergreen has stashed the royal jewels. Kids will search high and low to find the treasure chests located around the resort to earn the pirate’s booty.
Mini Golf and More
One morning my son and I played a round of mini golf. While nothing fancy, it was nice to have other options of things to do. Guests can check out mini gold clubs, basketballs and cruiser bikes at the pool.
Gaylord Rockies Rooms
Gaylord Rockies offers a few room types ideal for families.
2 Queen Guest Room
Of course a standard 2 queen guest room works fine for families.
Deluxe Family King
Our first visit we had the pleasure of staying on a deluxe family king. This is ideal for a family of four. Mom & dad get a king bed and the kids get bunks. It is quite spacious.
Junior Suite
We haven’t yet had the pleasure of staying in this room type. But it also sounds perfect for families. In addition to the king bed, there is a queen murphy bed.
Deluxe Suite
The most spacious of room, the deluxe suite has a large bedroom with king bed, a living room with a large sofa that has a pull out bed and a small dining area. Thanks to our Marriott status from our American Express Platinum card we received an upgrade to this spacious suite.
No matter what Gaylord Rockies is a destination of more family fun.
