The Estes Park Resort is the only hotel that’s situated on postcard-perfect Lake Estes Marina in Estes Park, Colorado, which is surrounded by also postcard-perfect Rocky Mountain National Park. The water and mountain views (which often include wildlife sightings), alone, are worth a stay at this intimate resort.

The rustic, yet modern hotel has a total of 55 guestrooms and seven suites, all of which feature spacious patios or balconies. And because the hotel is shaped like an arrow, most accommodations feature views of the lake. Don’t forget to get out on the actual marina, though — you can paddleboard, kayak and more!

Your family can also enjoy a meal at the cozy, onsite restaurant before heading back outside to roast gooey S’mores around one of the fire pits or play a game of tag on the lawn — it’s that kind of resort. The family-approved resort also has an indoor pool, arcade, and complimentary Wi-Fi — all at an affordable price.

The Estes Park Resort is just a few miles from downtown Estes Park, Colorado and the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park.

The Estes Park Resort has a total of 55 rooms and seven suites, all of which feature comfy beds with pillow-top mattresses; flat-screen TVs; and tiny kitchenettes with mini-refrigerators, microwaves and coffeemakers. They also have air conditioning -- a rarity in Estes Park, Colorado, since it's not typically needed. All of the rustic resort's accommodations feature patios or decks with scenic views (most face Lake Estes), as well.

Rollaway beds (a few) and cribs are available upon request; they are complimentary.

Guestrooms
Guestrooms come with one king bed or two queen beds, in addition to all of the hotel's standard amenities.

King Room Suite
This suite features a separate bedroom with a king bed, and a living area with a sleeper sofa; it's ideal for three to four guests.

Hospitality Suite
While these spacious suites are often used for wedding parties, they're also ideal for families, sleeping up to six guests in a king bed, queen Murphy bed and two sofa beds. Many of the Hospitality Suites also have connecting capabilities.

Jacuzzi Suite
This suite is also popular for wedding parties, but can easily accommodate a family of four. It offers a king bed and Jacuzzi tub in a private bedroom, and a queen-size sleeper sofa in the living area.

Pool
The hotel has a small indoor pool, located next to the fitness center. It's open from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Bring towels from your room.

Game Room
Your teens will love the game room, which has arcade machines, Ping-Pong, foosball and more.

Lake Estes Marina
You can rent paddleboats, kayaks (single or double), canoes (for two to three people), fishing boats and pontoon boats at Lake Estes Marina. Bicycle rentals are also available. Close to the marina, you'll find a playground and volleyball court, as well.

Waterfront Grille
The Waterfront Grille features both indoor and outdoor dining (heat lamps are provided) on Lake Estes. Visit for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The casual eatery caters to children with a kids' menu, and room service is available if you'd rather dine on your balcony or patio. The Waterfront Grille also has a bar with microbrews on tap.

The Waterfront Grille is open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

All About the Extras
Wi-Fi
The hotel provides complimentary Wi-Fi.

Fitness Center
The resort has a small fitness center with limited equipment -- just a few cardiovascular machines and free weights. It's open 24/7 with key card access.

The Art of Smart Timing
Most people head to Estes Park, Colorado in the summer, when the weather provides ideal opportunities to hike, bike, swim, fish, raft and more in Rocky Mountain National Park. It's also a lovely time to stroll through downtown.

Don't overlook a winter vacation to Estes Park, Colorado, though -- the temps are fairly agreeable and contrary to popular belief, Estes Park doesn't receive much snow in comparison to other destinations in Colorado.

Getting There
The closest major airport to Estes Park, Colorado and Rocky Mountain National Park is Denver International Airport, about 1.5 hours away. Part of the drive is highway; the other part is a lone road through Roosevelt National Forest. Expect to lose cell service for part of the drive.

Getting Around
It's easy to get around Estes Park, Colorado via the area's free shuttle system. You'll want your own vehicle to explore most places, though, namely Rocky Mountain National Park. Plenty of free, self- parking is available at the hotel.

For Mom and Dad
Treat yourself to a relaxing hot stone massage, detox wrap or even a "Stomach Soother" at The Estes Park Resort. The resort features a few treatment rooms, and in-room services are also available.