Dreaming of mountain adventure with hot springs and Western charm? Head to Steamboat Springs! This vibrant resort town in the Rocky Mountains offers world-class skiing, year-round outdoor fun, and a laid-back cowboy spirit. Whether you're hitting the slopes or soaking in natural springs, Steamboat delivers an unforgettable getaway.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Steamboat Springs depends on your plans. Winter (December to March) is ideal for skiing and snowboarding, while summer and early fall (June to September) offer hiking, biking, and festivals amid stunning alpine scenery.
How to Get There
- By Air: Fly into Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN), about 30 minutes from downtown Steamboat Springs. Seasonal direct flights are available from major U.S. cities.
- By Car: Steamboat is about 3.5 hours northwest of Denver via I-70 and US-40. Scenic mountain roads make for a beautiful drive.
- By Shuttle: Several shuttle services operate between Denver International Airport and Steamboat Springs year-round.
Where to Stay
- Steamboat Grand – Full-service resort with slopeside access, a spa, and family-friendly amenities.
- Rabbit Ears Motel – Iconic, budget-friendly lodging right downtown across from the hot springs.
- Moving Mountains Vacation Rentals – Luxury homes and condos ideal for larger groups or extended stays.
Recommended Activities for Families
1. Hike to the Roaring Beauty of Fish Creek Falls
Hike scenic trails and admire breathtaking waterfall views year-round.
Take a short walk from downtown Steamboat to reach Fish Creek Falls.
2. Ski, Ride, or Après-Ski at Steamboat Ski Resort
Enjoy thrilling winter sports and admire breathtaking mountain views.
Go skiing at Steamboat Ski Resort.
2305 Mt Werner Cir, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487, Phone: 970-879-8000
3. Explore Regional Creativity at the Steamboat Art Museum
Explore regional artwork and discover inspiring local exhibitions.
Located in downtown Steamboat Springs on Lincoln Avenue near the Yampa River, the Steamboat Art Museum was established in 2005. Housed in the historic First National Bank building, the museum’s goal is to collect and show artwork to the public.
It's a great Steamboat Springs attraction for couples and families interested in the art and culture of Northwestern Colorado.
Museum exhibits include paintings, photographs, watercolors and quilts. Education programs like the children’s “Student Gallery,” classes, workshops and museum tours are also offered.
801 Lincoln Avenue, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Phone: 970-870-1755
Top Attractions
4. Experience Live Classical Music with the Steamboat Symphony Orchestra
Enjoy captivating performances showcasing talented local musicians.
A modest community ensemble became the Steamboat Symphony Orchestra started in 1991. Since then, it has been transformed into a thriving, well-respected orchestra by the members’ talent and enthusiasm. Made up of local professionals with plenty of talent and experience, SSO also includes a String Quartet and a Woodwind Quintet. Performances can be enjoyed at various events in Steamboat Springs and elsewhere. If you are looking for great things to do this weekend, check the performance schedule.
The Steamboat Symphony Orchestra has a well-organized music education program for both children and adults, and is well loved by the community. Programs include Youth Music Immersion Weekend and traditional string education programs which have scholarships available.
Art Depot, 1001 13th Street, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Phone: 970-879-9008
5. Browse Books and Local Finds at Off the Beaten Path
Browse unique books and savor coffee in a cozy atmosphere.
Off the Beaten Path in downtown Steamboat Springs is a charming bookstore where you will find a good selection of books and excellent coffee. They stock all book genres: NY Times best sellers, fiction, memoirs, history, young adults, Indie books. There is a cute kids’ book corner for their youngest readers and a large selection of children literature.
You can also purchase greeting cards, puzzles, candles, chocolates, games, and other items which make great gifts. Off the Beaten Path brews some of the best coffee in town. You can also get pastries, soups, smoothies, quiches as well as beer from the local Butcherknife Brewery.
68 9th Street, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Phone: 970-879-6830
6. Take in Panoramic Views on Steamboat’s Scenic Gondola Rides
Admire panoramic views and enjoy a peaceful mountain adventure.
There is no better way to see Steamboat and its stunning scenery than from the Scenic Gondola .
7. Stroll Through Seasonal Blooms at Yampa River Botanic Park
Walk along peaceful paths and admire vibrant seasonal blooms.
The Yampa River Botanic Park is a six-acre botanical garden situated at an altitude of 6,800 feet on Pamela Lane just outside of Steamboat Springs. The park contains a number of unique gardens that thrive in the region, including the Butterfly Garden, the Culinary Herb Garden, the Children’s Garden, the Hummingbird Garden, and many more.
The Trillium House houses the park’s headquarters, including the Emerald Room and the patio which can be rented out for special events. Music events, children’s stories, and special classes are offered while the park is open from April 15 to October 30.
1000 Pamela Lane, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Phone: 970-846-5172
8. Bike or Walk the Waterside on the Yampa River Core Trail
Bike or walk scenic riverside paths with beautiful nature views.
Yampa River Core Trail is 7.5 miles long and located along the Yampa River and runs from one side of Steamboat Springs to the other. The trail is paved and appealing to people of all ages: you can either walk or ride a bicycle on the scenic trail.
Wooden bridges cross over the Yampa River along the way, and visitors often stop on the bridges to see rainbow trout in the river. Floating down the river on an inner tube is another popular activity in this area. Along the trail, you can view the Alpine Slide and the Yampa River Botanic Park.
Attractions for Couples
9. Soak and Rejuvenate at Strawberry Park Hot Springs
Soak in natural hot springs and enjoy a relaxing retreat.
Strawberry Park Hot Springs is a collection of natural hot springs where people can swim year-round. You will find the springs on County Road #36 along Hot Springs Creek just outside of Steamboat Springs. The mineral water is 104 degrees, and it is enjoyable after a long hike and in the winter when snow is falling.
Many people head to the hot springs after mountain hikes or a day of skiing.
Hot springs facilities include heated changing rooms, picnic areas, and a concession stand that sells beverages. If you want more cool stuff to do after, you can also get a relaxing massage after a soak. The park also offers a variety of unique lodgings such as the “Covered Wagon,” the “Train Caboose” and campsites.
44200 County Road #36, Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Phone: 970-879-0342
10. If You’re Craving Craft Beer and Mountain Vibes, Visit Mountain Tap Brewery
Savor craft beers and enjoy a casual, lively atmosphere.
Check out Mountain Tap Brewery, a delightful Steamboat Springs brewpub.
910 Yampa St #103, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487, Phone: 970-879-6646
Where to Eat
- Creekside Café & Grill – Beloved breakfast and brunch spot with hearty fare and creekside seating.
- Aurum Food & Wine – Upscale dining with locally inspired cuisine and a stunning riverfront patio.
- Winona’s Restaurant – Classic downtown eatery known for giant cinnamon rolls and comfort food favorites.
Local Events
- Steamboat Winter Carnival (February) – Quirky traditions like ski-jumping kids and shovel races down Main Street.
- Hot Air Balloon Rodeo (July) – Watch colorful balloons rise over the Yampa Valley at sunrise.
- Steamboat OktoberWest (September) – A fall celebration of craft beer, food trucks, and live music.
Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Steamboat Springs, Colorado
- Strawberry Park Hot Springs (20–25 min) – Soak in natural mineral pools surrounded by forested hills and mountain views.
- Fish Creek Falls (10–15 min) – Hike to a breathtaking 280-foot waterfall just minutes from downtown Steamboat.
- Yampa River Core Trail (5–10 min) – Walk, bike, or skate this paved trail along the Yampa River through scenic downtown parks.
- Steamboat Lake State Park (25–30 min) – Boat, paddle, fish, or picnic with stunning views of Hahn’s Peak and alpine waters.
- Howelsen Hill (5–10 min) – Visit the oldest ski area in Colorado and watch local athletes train for winter sports.
- Haymaker Golf Course (10–15 min) – Golf a championship course with wide fairways and sweeping valley vistas.
- Mount Werner and Steamboat Ski Resort (5–10 min) – Ride the gondola, hike scenic trails, or enjoy seasonal mountain events.
- Stagecoach State Park (25–30 min) – Fish or boat on the reservoir, hike scenic trails, and camp under starry skies.
- Yampa River Botanic Park (5–10 min) – Wander through vibrant themed gardens and attend free outdoor concerts in summer.
- Downtown Oak Creek (25–30 min) – Explore this historic mining town’s art shops, cafés, and relaxed Western vibe.
FAQ
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What makes Steamboat Springs a great destination?
- Steamboat Springs is not only a fantastic destination for outdoor lovers, but it is also home to great attractions and restaurants.
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What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Steamboat Springs during summer?
- Hiking is a must in the summer, along with horseback riding and romantic walks through the scenic Yampa River Botanic Park.
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Why is Steamboat Springs known as "Ski Town, USA"?
- Steamboat Springs is famously known as Ski Town, USA, offering exceptional skiing and its signature Champagne Powder snow.
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