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Steamboat Springs

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Steamboat Springs, Colorado: A Winter Wonderland and Summer Adventure Hub

Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Steamboat Springs is a picturesque town in Colorado that offers a wide range of outdoor activities, fine dining, and cultural events. This year-round destination attracts visitors from all over the world, with its charming small-town feel and natural beauty. From skiing to hiking, to hot springs and more, Steamboat Springs has something to offer everyone. Here are some of the top things to do, favorite local spots, and must-try restaurants in Steamboat Springs.

Steamboat Springs offers a wide range of activities to suit every interest. Winter sports enthusiasts can hit the slopes at Steamboat Ski Resort, take a snowmobile tour, or go snowshoeing. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the Strawberry Park Hot Springs are a must-visit. In the summer months, visitors can go hiking, mountain biking, or kayaking on the Yampa River. For a more unique experience, take a hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscape. The area is also known for its western heritage, with opportunities to go horseback riding or attend a rodeo. And no visit to Steamboat Springs would be complete without indulging in some of the famous local cuisine, such as bison burgers and Rocky Mountain trout.

Skiing and Snowboarding: Steamboat Ski Resort is one of the top ski resorts in Colorado, known for its champagne powder and diverse terrain. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, the resort offers a wide range of slopes for all skill levels.

Hot Springs: After a day on the slopes, relax your muscles at one of the area’s natural hot springs. Old Town Hot Springs is a local favorite, offering several hot spring pools, waterslides, and fitness facilities.

Hiking and Biking: In the summer months, Steamboat Springs transforms into a hiker and biker’s paradise. With miles of scenic trails, visitors can explore the Yampa River Botanic Park or hike to the stunning Fish Creek Falls.

Tread of Pioneers Museum: History buffs will appreciate a visit to the Tread of Pioneers Museum, which showcases the town’s heritage and features exhibits on local legends such as the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club.

Strawberry Park Hot Springs: For a truly unique experience, visit Strawberry Park Hot Springs, located just a few miles outside of town. Soak in the mineral-rich waters while surrounded by nature, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Local Favorites:

Fish Creek Falls: A popular hiking destination, Fish Creek Falls is a must-see natural attraction in Steamboat Springs. The stunning waterfall is surrounded by picturesque views of the Rocky Mountains.

Howelsen Hill: As the oldest ski area in Colorado, Howelsen Hill is a must-visit for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. The hill also offers snow tubing, ice skating, and other winter activities.

Steamboat Springs Farmers Market: Every Saturday from June to September, locals gather at the Steamboat Springs Farmers Market to browse fresh produce, homemade goods, and artisan crafts. It’s a great opportunity to taste the local flavors and get a sense of the community.

Photo by Mick Haupt on Unsplash

Steamboat Springs has a diverse culinary scene that offers something for every palate. One of the most popular restaurants in the area is the Laundry Kitchen & Cocktails, which serves up contemporary American cuisine in a stylish setting. For those looking for farm-to-table fare, the Harwigs restaurant offers a fine-dining experience with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. Other notable restaurants in the area include the Ore House at the Pine Grove for classic steakhouse fare, and the Salt & Lime for Mexican-inspired cuisine and creative cocktails.

Popular restaurants:

Laundry Kitchen & Cocktails is a popular restaurant located in downtown Steamboat Springs, Colorado. It offers a modern American cuisine menu that uses locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that are both creative and flavorful. The restaurant is known for its unique dishes such as the venison meatloaf, fried chicken and waffles, and the elk Bolognese. The bar serves a variety of craft cocktails, local beers, and an extensive wine list. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, with a mix of industrial and rustic decor. Laundry Kitchen & Cocktails is a great spot for a romantic night out, a casual dinner with friends, or a special occasion.

Harwigs is an elegant and upscale restaurant located in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Founded in 1979 by the husband and wife duo of Jim and Wendy and led by their daughter, the restaurant offers a contemporary American menu with a European influence. The cozy ambiance of Harwigs, complete with a fireplace, makes it a great spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, with over 800 different labels to choose from.

Mazzola’s Italian Restaurant is a family-owned and operated establishment located in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The restaurant serves authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy, inviting atmosphere. The menu features classic Italian dishes such as spaghetti carbonara, lasagna, and chicken parmesan, as well as fresh salads, homemade soups, and hand-tossed pizzas. Mazzola’s also offers an extensive wine list to complement your meal. The friendly and attentive staff ensure that guests have an enjoyable dining experience.

Back Door Grill is a popular eatery in Steamboat Springs that serves a variety of American cuisine. Located in the heart of downtown, the restaurant features a casual atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating options. Their menu includes mouth-watering burgers, sandwiches, tacos, and salads, as well as craft beers and cocktails. The restaurant also offers live music and events throughout the week, making it a great spot for a fun night out with friends or family. With friendly service and delicious food, Back Door Grill is a must-visit for any food lover visiting Steamboat Springs.

Café Diva is a fine dining restaurant located in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Known for its elegant and sophisticated atmosphere, the restaurant offers a menu that features a blend of American and French cuisine, using locally sourced and organic ingredients. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring the freshest and most flavorful dishes. From wild game and seafood to vegetarian and gluten-free options, Café Diva has something to offer for every taste preference. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, featuring wines from all around the world. The warm and inviting ambiance of Café Diva, along with its exceptional food and service, make it a must-visit dining destination in Steamboat Springs.

Steamboat Springs has no shortage of wonderful resorts to stay at while visiting. One of the most popular is The Steamboat Grand, which boasts ski-in/ski-out access to the slopes, a full-service spa, and multiple restaurants and bars on-site. The Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas is another popular choice, offering stunning mountain views, a heated outdoor pool and hot tubs, and direct access to the slopes. The Lodge at Steamboat is also a great option for those seeking a cozy, rustic mountain retreat, complete with a heated outdoor pool, hot tubs, and an on-site shuttle service. No matter which resort you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable and enjoyable stay in Steamboat Springs.

Popular resorts:

The Steamboat Grand is a luxurious resort in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. This beautiful resort offers unparalleled access to skiing, hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. The Steamboat Grand has over 300 rooms and suites, all with modern amenities and beautiful mountain views. The resort features a full-service spa, fitness center, heated outdoor pool, hot tubs, and a sauna. Guests can enjoy dining at the resort’s restaurant, or head to one of the many restaurants in downtown Steamboat Springs, just a short shuttle ride away. With its convenient location and top-notch amenities, The Steamboat Grand is the perfect choice for any traveler seeking a relaxing and memorable mountain getaway.

Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas is a ski-in/ski-out resort located at the base of the Steamboat Ski Area in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The resort offers a range of accommodations, from guest rooms to villas, all equipped with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy various on-site amenities such as a fitness center, a heated outdoor pool, and hot tubs. The resort also features several dining options, including a restaurant, a café, and a bar. In addition, the resort offers ski and snowboard rentals, as well as shuttle services to downtown Steamboat Springs.

Chateau Chamonix by Mountain Resorts is a luxurious ski-in/ski-out resort located just steps away from the Steamboat Ski Resort. The elegant European-inspired architecture of the resort blends seamlessly with the mountain landscape. The spacious and beautifully appointed condominiums provide breathtaking views of the surrounding Yampa Valley. The resort offers a variety of amenities, including an outdoor heated pool, hot tubs, fitness center, and a private ski locker room. The location of Chateau Chamonix provides easy access to all of the skiing, dining, and shopping that Steamboat Springs has to offer.

Steamboat Springs, Colorado is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking for a unique and memorable experience. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the slopes or relaxation in the hot springs, Steamboat Springs has something for everyone. From the breathtaking views of the mountains to the charming downtown area and the delicious food scene, this town has it all. Be sure to add Steamboat Springs to your travel bucket list and discover the magic of this picturesque Colorado destination for yourself.