It can be hard to find a family fun destination, but look no further, the ultimate family friendly destination has finally found you! Pack your bags and grab the kids because Alamosa is calling and we have curated the perfect itinerary for an epic summer get away!
Day One: Sand Dunes & Mountain Beaches
Morning: Splash and Sled at the Great Sand Dunes Before heading out, stop by Kristi Mountain Sports in Alamosa to rent dedicated sand sleds and boards (regular snow sleds won’t slide on dry sand!). Hit the dunes early to beat the heat. If you’re visiting in late spring or early summer, the seasonal Medano Creek creates a literal beach right at the base of the massive 14,000-foot peaks. It’s a clean, wide mountain-runoff splash pad the kids will love. (Check conditions year to year) For an extra challenge, try hiking up Star Dune, the tallest sand dune in North America.
Lunch: Great Sand Dunes Oasis Refuel right outside the park entrance. Grab some burgers, fries, and a slice of their famous homemade pie.
Afternoon: Discover Hidden Waters at Zapata Falls Just a few minutes down the road from the dunes, take a short 0.5-mile hike up to Zapata Falls. You’ll walk right into a cool, rocky cavern where a hidden 30-foot waterfall crashes down, a perfect, refreshing way to cool off after the sand.
Day Two: Gators, Out-of-This-World Views, & Geothermal Pools
Morning: Colorado Gators Reptile Park Head north up Highway 17 to Mosca for something truly wild. Tour a geothermally heated reptile sanctuary holding over 400 alligators, giant tortoises, and rescued exotic snakes. Kids can see massive gators feeding and even get their picture taken holding a baby alligator.
Early Afternoon: The UFO Watchtower Keep driving north to Hooper to visit one of Colorado’s most legendary, delightfully bizarre roadside attractions. The San Luis Valley is a world-famous hotspot for paranormal activity. Climb the watchtower to scan the skies, browse the alien memorabilia, and let the kids leave a trinket for good luck in the “cosmic rock garden.”
Late Afternoon & Evening: Sand Dunes Recreation Pool Unwind for the rest of the day in 150,000 gallons of perfectly warm, natural artesian water. While the kids splash around the giant pool, parents can check out the Greenhouse, a lush, adults-only oasis on-site. When hunger strikes, they’ve got you covered with an excellent menu of craft pizzas, mini burgers, small plates, and local beers.
Day Three: Family Fun for Everyone: All Aboard a Historic Steam Train
Morning to Afternoon: Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Head just south of Alamosa to Antonito and step back in time. You’ll board America’s highest and longest authentic steam railroad. The coal-fired train chugs up steep mountain grades, hugs narrow canyon shelves, and loops through tunnels. They offer fantastic half-day family excursions that include a delicious, hearty lunch in the mountains before bringing you back.
Dinner: An Alamosa Icon Wrap up your epic 3-day weekend back in Alamosa at Calvillo’s Mexican Restaurant. Known as a local institution, it features an incredible menu (and an massive, authentic buffet when running) packed with legendary green chile and classic dishes that will have the family talking all the way home.
From otherworldly landscapes and quirky roadside wonders to historic train rides through the Rockies, the San Luis Valley is a place where family memories are practically guaranteed to be unforgettable. Whether you’re racing down a massive sand dune, holding a baby alligator, or scanning the high-desert skies for UFOs, this itinerary offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and classic roadside fun. Pack your camera, bring your sense of wonder, and get ready for a uniquely Colorado road trip that the kids will be talking about for years to come! Safe travels!
