Complete Guide to Estes Park's Riverside Pub Near Rocky Mountain National Park
Want to escape the downtown Estes Park crowds? The Wapiti serves prime rib and elk burgers on a patio where Fall River literally runs underneath your table - with 3,000+ reviews and a huge beer selection to match.
• Cheese Burger - $17.99
• Mushroom Swiss - $19.99
• Patty Melt - $19.99
• Big Daddy Fire - $20.99
• Ranch Hand - $20.99
• Gettin' Figgy (fig jam & blue cheese) - $21.99
• Centennial State (Elk or Bison) - $21.99
• Beyond Burger (vegan) - $19.99
• Spicy Pork - $14.99
• Fish Tacos - $15.99 (popular)
• Skinny Gyros - $15.99
• Carne Asada - $16.99
• Ahi Won Ton - $17.99
• Brisket Tacos - $17.99
• Comfy Pup - $13.99
• Cuban Canine - $14.99
• Jelly Dog - $14.99
• Perro Caliente - $14.99
• Chili Dog - $15.99
• Hickory Dickory Dog - $18.99
The Wapiti delivers something most Estes Park restaurants can't - riverside dining where Fall River literally flows underneath the patio. With 3,000+ reviews averaging 4.2 stars, this lodge-style pub sits at Nicky's Resort on Fall River Road, away from downtown crowds.
The prime rib consistently earns praise - among the top in Estes Park. The menu spans steaks, wild game, seafood, and comfort food - something for everyone in mixed groups.
The beer selection stands out as genuinely impressive - both variety and quality. Service runs friendly and attentive, with staff willing to accommodate dietary needs and customize orders.
Prime Rib - The most-mentioned dish across reviews. Cooked properly (not overdone like some Estes Park spots) with a creamy horseradish sauce that earns specific praise. This is the move for steak lovers.
Elk Burger - Solid wild game option without the premium steakhouse price. Pairs well with their onion rings or PTO fries. I'd order this for a true Colorado experience.
Lobster Roll - Served on a perfectly buttered, lightly toasted split roll. Absolutely bomb. Pairs excellently with the PTO fries.
Fish and Chips - Hand-battered cod, delicious and well-executed. Good portion size.
Rocky Mountain Oysters - If you're adventurous. First-timers find them surprisingly good here.
💡 Pro Tip: Request patio seating overlooking Fall River - it's the main draw here. The sound of rushing water and mountain views transform a good meal into a memorable experience.
Best for: Families with picky eaters (huge menu variety), post-RMNP visitors wanting to avoid downtown, groups seeking patio dining by the river, beer enthusiasts, and anyone staying at Nicky's Resort.
Skip if: You want fine dining atmosphere (this is pub-style), need vegetarian variety beyond the Beyond Burger, or prefer downtown walkability.
Looking for other options? Check The Grubsteak for downtown wild game or Trailhead Restaurant for RMNP gateway dining.
💡 Money Hack: The huge portions mean splitting works well. Expect to take home fish and chips leftovers. Order strategically - appetizers like wings or nachos plus a shared main keeps costs around $20/person.
Common questions about The Wapiti Colorado Pub
Expect $20-30 per person for a main course. Prime rib and steaks run higher, while burgers and sandwiches keep costs lower. The huge portions mean you might not need appetizers. Beer adds $5-8 per drink depending on selection.
Generally no. Expect no wait or under 10 minutes. Walk-ins work well here. Saturday nights might see short waits during peak summer season, but nothing like downtown Estes Park restaurants.
Fall River runs directly underneath the patio seating. You dine with the sound of rushing water and mountain views in the background. This is the highlight. Request patio seating when you arrive.
Yes. Located at 1350 Fall River Road, it's on the way to/from RMNP and the last dining stop before the park entrance. Perfect for post-hike meals without driving into downtown Estes Park.
Limited but available. The Beyond Burger serves vegans, and the owner is personally gluten-free so GF bread options exist. Staff customizes orders well - ask about a Beyond Taco. Staff accommodates dietary needs well.
Consistently praised. Cooked properly (not overdone), tender, and served with a creamy horseradish sauce. Among the top prime rib in Estes Park. This is the signature dish.
Lodge-style pub with rustic décor and multiple dining areas. Casual and relaxed, quieter than downtown restaurants. The bar area works for drinks, while the patio delivers the river views. Good for families and groups.
For riverside patio dining near RMNP, yes. The 4.2-star rating from 3,000+ reviews shows consistent quality. Prime rib and elk burgers deliver, beer selection impresses, and the location beats downtown crowds. Not fine dining, but excellent pub fare in a beautiful setting.
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