In June we took a few days off school to attend my oldest friend’s beautiful Colorado wedding. The ceremony was held at my new favorite venue, Planet Bluegrass in Lyons. I mostly left photographing the couple and their families to the professionals they hired, and if you browse their Instagram photos you’ll quickly see why — the images are lovely and capture the day perfectly.
Over the weekend we stayed in Estes Park, about a half-hour drive up into the mountains from Lyons. One afternoon we wandered through Boulder for a few hours — it turned out we’d never visited before. Below are notes from Estes Park, Planet Bluegrass in Lyons, and Boulder, with photos and short recommendations at the end if you want quick ideas on where to eat, stay, and play.
The Stanley Hotel, Estes Park
Estes Park has many lodging options, but we chose the most memorable — and possibly the priciest — choice. The Stanley Hotel is steeped in history and well-known for reported paranormal activity; it famously inspired Stephen King’s The Shining. We didn’t encounter any ghosts, as far as I can tell, but we loved the grounds, the wide porch, and the stately yet relaxed interiors.
Is that a ghost?
I briefly thought I saw a ghost reflected in the mirror in the photo below, though it might simply be the top of the bride’s head. Judge for yourself.
Favorite haunts in Estes Park
THE BARREL
KIND COFFEE
I didn’t photograph Kind Coffee because I needed caffeine too badly, but it sits beside a lovely creek that’s worth exploring — consider visiting both the cafe and the creek for a relaxed morning.
Planet Bluegrass, Lyons
Planet Bluegrass is an outstanding wedding venue; photos and a short walk around the property tell the story better than words. Below are a few pre-ceremony shots and candid reception images that capture the relaxed, joyful atmosphere.
An afternoon in Boulder
BOULDER COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKET
FIOR DI LATTE
We always find ice cream wherever we go. Fior di Latte served an exceptional salted caramel — one of my favorites — and made for a sweet stop on our walk through town.
PEARL STREET MALL + BOULDER CREEK PATH
Where to eat, stay, and play in Estes Park, Lyons, and Boulder, Colorado
Estes Park
STAY
The Stanley Hotel: a stately yet relaxed hotel with historic character and a reputation for hauntings. It sits next to Rocky Mountain National Park and offers a beautiful veranda and pleasant grounds.
EAT
Kind Coffee: a cozy, slightly quirky cafe with responsibly sourced coffee and solid breakfast options. We stopped here every morning.
The Barrel: a laid-back beer garden with mountain views and a wide selection of local brews. It’s a great spot to relax in the evening; you can even have dinner delivered and enjoy it there.
Twin Owls Steakhouse: a warm, lodge-like restaurant where the rehearsal dinner was held. The food was excellent and the fireside setting was welcoming, especially during a sudden, heavy storm while we were there.
PLAY
Rocky Mountain National Park: a spectacular outdoor destination if you have the time. Many in our group explored the park and loved it, though we chose to visit Boulder during our free afternoon.
Boulder
EAT
Boulder County Farmers’ Market: open Wednesdays and Saturdays, this market features producer-only stalls and a lively atmosphere. It’s one of the best farmers’ markets we’ve visited, with everything from fresh coffee to kombucha and tasty samples.
Fior di Latte Gelato: outstanding gelato — the salted caramel was a highlight. A perfect stop for a treat while exploring Pearl Street.
PLAY
Pearl Street Mall: a vibrant pedestrian area filled with shops and street life. It’s a pleasant place to stroll and soak in the local scene without feeling like a typical mall.
Boulder Creek Path: an easy, scenic walk along the creek with shaded sections, kayakers, dogs, and good people-watching.
Lyons
PLAY
Planet Bluegrass: an exceptional venue for weddings, festivals, and celebrations. If you have an occasion to mark, consider hosting it here — the setting is beautiful and the atmosphere is joyful.
More details on Colorado wedding vendors will be added once the couple returns from their honeymoon in Bhutan. For now, a quick credit: Photography: Lollylah.
- Photography: Lollylah