The holidays are always such a magical time. Even as a grown up, I’ve always looked forward to December when the Christmas cheer starts rolling in and lights start twinkling on our streets and in everyone’s eyes. I’ll never get over the magic of Christmas. And this year especially, we needed a little extra boost of holiday cheer. So when the Gaylord Rockies Resort and Convention Center asked me to come check out their holiday festivities, it seemed like the perfect Colorado staycation!

I feel I’d be remiss not to mention the vast amount of safety precautions this resort has taken during these pandemic times. Masks were required at all times, social distancing was set up everywhere (and easy to maintain as this place is MASSIVE) and capacity was limited, all keys and tickets were mobile and touch-free, and there was no eating or drinking inside the resort. I felt 100% safe the entire time we were there.

The Gaylord Rockies Resort and Convention Center is located just outside of Denver, in Aurora Colorado. This vast 500,000 sq. ft. resort is incredible any time of the year but at Christmas, they go above and beyond! The property is lit up with over 3 MILLION lights and there is a Christmas tree in almost every corner. They have a variety of activities for all ages and it’s a great destination for families, couples, singles, anyone! Running through January 3, 2021, here are 5 reasons to visit the Gaylord Rockies Resort at Christmastime.

1.MISTLETOE VILLAGE

Located in the convention center, this adorable Christmas “village” immediately puts you in the spirit! Full of holiday shops, this is the perfect place to get gifts for those hard-to-buy-for people on your list (I know I did). The village also has a gingerbread decorating corner, a sweets shop, Snoopy’s Scavenger Hunt, photo ops with Santa, and the immersive pop-up experience “I Love Christmas Movies” that walks you through some holiday movie classics.

2. SNOW ADVENTURES

Outside of the resort, is a winter wonderland of snow fun. They have ice skating, snow tubing, a snow merry-go-round, and ice bumper cars to name a few things! They offer full packages to enjoy each activity, or you can purchase individual tickets for each thing. I was blown away at how efficient and smoothly everything ran. They even had someone to open the door to the skating rink to avoid touching anything and people sanitizing the snow tubes after each rider. With unlimited rides, we had a blast bouncing around to all the different activities.

3. THE LIGHTS! THE LOTS AND LOTS OF LIGHTS!

As I mentioned, the resort has over 3 million Christmas lights strung throughout their property and its magical! From the entryway of giant ornaments and lit up snowflakes, to the massive Christmas tree inside, it’s a holiday heaven! Outside, there is an art installation called “Light!” that you can walk through and changes with the wind so it’s different every single time you experience it! Full of photo ops, this is a beautiful spot for that holiday card family photo!

4. HOLIDAY DRINKS AND A VARIETY OF RESTAURANTS

Yes, I know, we can’t fully enjoy the old days of sitting inside a cozy restaurant and taking in the ambiance, but luckily Gaylord Rockies is full of gorgeous scenery inside and out! The pop up bars located around the resort offer some incredible holiday cocktails, local craft beers, and bar favorites. As a seasonal special, when you check in you get a token for a free cocktail sample or Christmas cookie! They have the outdoor area set up with individual tables, fire pits, heaters, and seating areas to enjoy your food and drinks at. The view of the Rocky Mountains doesn’t hurt either. If you prefer, you can also take your food and drinks back to your room to enjoy; room service all day!

5. THE HOTEL

With over 1,500 rooms to choose from, the Gaylord Rockies is an awesome destination for a family vacation or staycation! As I write this, I’m currently enjoying the luxurious king size bed with the view of the mountains outside my window. The hotel also gives you access to their Arapahoe Springs Indoor Water Park and lazy river which is awesome for families year-round. Looking for extra luxury? Check out the Relache Spa. Hotel packages including their Christmas festivities are also offered. With so much to see and do in the resort this is a great way to have a totally inclusive vacation!

Whether you’re looking for a fancy place to stay on your way in or out of the Denver airport, looking for local family adventures, or just needing an extra boost of Christmas cheer, Gaylord Rockies Resort has it all. Even if you just come for the day to do a little holiday shopping or photos with Santa, this place is guaranteed to get you out of that 2020 rut! Can’t make it this year? No worries, they’re already talking about their 2021 ICE! Exhibition which I will for sure be back for. As always, stay safe, stay cheerful, and happy holidays everyone!