Top Five Places to Visit Between Centennial and Parker, Colorado

Planning a road trip between Centennial and Parker, Colorado? Here are our top five picks for must-visit destinations on your journey!

A Perfect Route with Parker in the Middle

With just 16 miles between the two towns, you can drive the distance in under half an hour. But why rush when there are so many hidden gems along the way! Here are our top five stops to check out when traveling from Centennial to Parker.

Stop 1: The Wildlife Experience

Explore Nature and Wildlife in Their Natural Habitats

The Wildlife Experience is an art and natural history museum in Parker that features fine art, animal and fossil exhibits. This attraction is one of the best in the area and offers boardwalks and a birdwatching deck, as well as a simulated safari in a real-life park like setting. This place is perfect for anyone who wants to learn about different animal species and to enjoy the beauty of nature.

Stop 2: Cherry Creek State Park

Enjoy Outdoor Activities by the Lake

Just off Parker Road, Cherry Creek State Park is a beautiful recreational area with a variety of outdoor activities available. The park spans over 3,000 acres in total, with a large portion of it being covered by the Cherry Creek Reservoir. Boaters, bikers, hikers, and campers can all come together in this scenic spot. The park also has an archery range, horseback riding trails, and multiple picnic areas for the whole family to enjoy.

Stop 3: The Market at Southlands

Shop and Dine in Style

The Market at Southlands is a bustling outdoor shopping center and entertainment district located off of Smoky Hill Road in Aurora. There are over 40 shops and restaurants that cater to all tastes or preferences. With plenty of stores to browse and dining options available for all moods, The Market is a perfect stop for anyone looking to relax, eat and shop in style.

Stop 4: Parker Farmers Market

Support Local Farmers and Artisans

The Parker Farmers Market brings Colorado farmers, ranchers and artisans together to sell their goods to the community. With over 70 vendors offering local produce, handmade crafts, and a variety of artisan foods, this is the perfect place to stop for fresh and local products. Visitors can see what's in season, discover new foods and interact with vendors to help them learn more about their craft.

Stop 5: Castlewood Canyon State Park

Explore History and Hike Trails

The last stop on our list is Castlewood Canyon State Park. This park near Castle Rock was once home to the Castlewood Dam, which famously burst in 1933 causing damage and destruction in its wake. Nowadays, the area is a beautiful natural wonderland with a variety of hiking and biking trails to explore. Visitors can experience the remnants of the dam while enjoying the natural scenery, interspersed with samples of history like the old homestead.

There you have it: our five top picks for must-visit destinations between Centennial and Parker, Colorado. We hope that these destinations will help to make your trip more enjoyable and memorable. Don't forget to explore what each location has to offer and have fun discovering the rich history and natural beauty of Colorado.