We recently returned from a family road trip through Colorado. The state has diverse scenery from open plains to towering mountains to red rock formations. When we added Denver to our itinerary, I researched hotel options in the area and discovered the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center. I was already familiar with the Gaylord brand and knew they offer exceptional lodging, dining, and entertainment. I received a complimentary stay to facilitate this review.
About the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center
The Gaylord Rockies is more than just a hotel – it’s a full-service resort! You don’t need to leave the property to enjoy your vacation. They offer a variety of dining options, entertainment, sports, and shopping on-site. It provides an upscale atmosphere for families and business travelers to relax, have fun, and get work done if needed.
Location: The Gaylord Rockies is located in Aurora, CO, the largest suburb east of Denver. It offers beautiful views of the Denver skyline and Rocky Mountains.
Distance from airport: The resort is only about 8.5 miles from Denver International Airport, an approximately 10 minute drive.
Booking: As part of the Marriott brand, reservations can be made at marriott.com.
What to Do at the Gaylord Rockies
With restaurants, bars, a spa, fitness center, sports facilities, shops, kid’s activities, three pools, three hot tubs, and a lazy river, there are plenty of ways to have fun! Whether you’re there for business or a family vacation, you’ll enjoy the luxurious setting and seasonal events, likely making some unforgettable memories. 24-hour room service is also available.
Pools
There are multiple pool options, allowing swimming any time of year. The indoor Arapahoe Springs area feels like a private waterpark. It has two waterslides, a pool, lap pool, large hot tub, and splash pad.
The outdoor area features a large heated pool with a fun waterslide. There are also two large hot tubs (one adult-only) and a winding lazy river with rock formations, jets, and bubblers.
From May to September, outdoor cabanas are available to rent. We rented one for half a day – a luxurious way to relax in the shade with mountain views. Cabana guests receive food and beverage service poolside.
Dining
There are eight on-site restaurants with options from grab-and-go to fine dining:
- Mountain Pass Sports Bar (American fare)
- Old Hickory Steakhouse (steaks and seafood)
- Vista Montagne (seasonal Italian)
- Marketplace (grab-and-go entrees and snacks)
- Cocoa Bean Coffee House (bakery)
- Monte Jade Express (Asian cuisine)
- Ski Village Cantina (Mexican-inspired)
- Arapahoe Springs Pool Cafe (burgers, wraps, salads)
- The Cocoa Bean (coffee shop)
There are also several bars serving cocktails, wine, and draft beer:
- Pinyons Lobby Bar
- Arapahoe Springs Pool Bar
- Dry Dock Window
- Caboose Delighter Bar
Seasonal Kid’s Activities
The resort has a welcoming, family-friendly vibe with lots of seasonal activities for kids. The current summer theme is Pirates & Princesses. Some of the activities include:
- Pirate & Princess Academy
- The Captain’s Quarters
- Pirate & Princess Art Studio
- Scavenger Hunt
- Buccaneer Bash
- Escape Room
- Campfire & S’mores
- Family Movies
- Build A Bear Workshop
- Pirates Cove
- Animal Encounters
More Entertainment
Other amenities at the resort include:
- Relâche Spa, Salon, & Boutique
- Relâche Fitness Center
- Yoga classes
- Sports like disc golf, mini golf, pickleball, tennis, basketball
- Rockies Trading Post gift shop
- Live music from 6-10pm on Pinyons Patio
The Perfect Family Vacation Spot
I met many families with young kids, as Gaylord Rockies makes travel with children easy. There’s something for everyone without leaving the resort. I also saw lots of extended families and friend groups who enjoyed private rooms along with shared amenities and activities.
The luxury guest rooms provide ample space, amenities, and lovely bathrooms.
We loved our summer visit to Denver, spending time at Gaylord Rockies’ thrilling waterslides, winding lazy river, scenic views, and more. It was a great place to relax and have fun.
To find out more or book your Gaylord Rockies stay, visit their website. Have you been to Gaylord Rockies or Denver before? What was your favorite part?
