From the blog

Where to Dine Outside in Estes Park

Image of blurred string lights strung across café ceiling.

It’s summer and who doesn’t love an evening of dining under the stars or a mid-afternoon picnic lunch? Often with scenic views and always pleasant mountain air, dining outside in Estes Park is one of the many enjoyable activities visitors enjoy the most in town. So, pull up a chair and discover where to dine outside in Estes Park.

Poppy’s Pizza & Grill

Poppy’s Pizza & Grill is the perfect place to grab a pizza and a beer, all while basking in the picturesque patio that backs up to the Riverwalk in downtown Estes Park. But pizza isn’t the only item on the menu, the popular restaurant also serves up burgers, sandwiches, and salads.

Open Monday – Sunday, 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The Barrel

The Barrel is known for its festive atmosphere amongst its beer garden set-up. The outdoor space is complete with long tables with seating and often live music. While people really come here for the beer, spirits, and wine selection, but The Barrel also offers small snacks and a daily food truck schedule (check their website).

Open daily with varying hours.

La Cabana Mexican Bar & Grill

For flavors south of the border and a beautiful rooftop deck patio, check out La Cabana Mexican Bar & Grill. Kick back and relax as you enjoy a flavorful margarita while you take in views of Estes Valley and reminisce on another fine day in Estes Park.

Open daily, 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., except Mondays.

The Grubsteak Restaurant

The Grubsteak Restaurant is where visitors come to get their wild game meat and enjoy a delightful summer afternoon underneath their shaded back patio – the largest covered patio in Estes Park. Choose from beef, elk, buffalo, and yak steaks – all available with a variety of side orders. Pair your meal with a cocktail or glass of wine from their extensive bar menu, including their famous bloody marys.

Open Sunday – Thursday, 11:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Friday – Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Claire’s Restaurant & Bar

Feel right at home when you dine outside in Estes Park at Claire’s Restaurant & Bar. Located outside of downtown and less than two miles from Brynwood on the River, Claire’s offers stunning mountain views along with a seasonal menu that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Of course, you can always pack a picnic lunch and head to the mountains in Rocky Mountain National Park. There are plenty of places throughout the park that make for the perfect lunch spot and where you can properly social distance.

Tip: Head to Scratch Deli & Bakery for some delicious sandwiches and wraps to go.

Stay at Brynwood on the River

brynwood on the river in estes park

Dine outside in Estes Park with these restaurants or also dine-in on your private patio or deck at one of our riverside cabins at Brynwood on the River. All cabins and vacation homes come with a private deck or porch, the perfect setting for an afternoon lunch or evening dinner. Plus, all rentals feature kitchens or kitchenettes with a dining area so you can prepare your meal from the comforts of your cabin. Before summer’s over, book your stay with Brynwood today!

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