New openings, major mountain upgrades since 2024, and the local spots that still define the town. Below, you'll find your 2026 Steamboat Springs cheat sheet to plan a smarter, smoother trip to Colorado's most laid-back ski town.
If you're coming back to Steamboat Springs after a few seasons away, or planning your first visit, there are a few new things to include in your itinerary, and, of course, the all-time favorites that make this top Colorado destination a magnet for visitors from across the country. Yes, we're talking about Champagne Powder, outdoor activities boasting stunning mountain views, relaxed Western vibe, charming historic spots, great restaurants, and more.
Below, I've put together a cheat sheet to plan your next Steamboat Springs vacation, highlighting what's new and what you shouldn't skip for the best experiences in this ski-town favorite.
Just a quick hello from us first:
At Retreatia, we have many years of local expertise in luxury rental properties, ski-in/ski-out options, and downtown lodging. Many of our rentals are pet-friendly, and all are perfect for any time of the year!
We proudly consider ourselves local experts. On our blog, we write about everything from hidden gems to indoor attractions, such as the town's wonderful coffee shops.
New Openings and Fresh Spots Around Town
There are a handful of new and reimagined venues worth including in your itinerary. Here they are:
Cypress
Occupying the former Carl's Tavern space, Cypress mixes comfort food with a more polished, contemporary approach. If you're hesitant about trying new spots, here's an important detail: Cypress's sister restaurant is Primrose, a local staple voted Best Restaurant in Steamboat two years running by Best of the Boat. That means you can expect high-quality, standout food here as well.
Some must-tries include the broiled Lowcountry oysters, New Orleans BBQ shrimp, pan-roasted Louisiana redfish, fire-roasted pork chop, Cypress burger, and Savannah red rice. Want to pair your meal with a cocktail? You can't go wrong with the Infinity Old Fashioned, Hurricane, or Winchester.
The Crooked Antler
Crooked Antler is a new spot inside the Steamboat Grand where you can enjoy comfort food, scratch-made dishes, polished plates, and great cocktails. The atmosphere is unexpectedly playful yet refined, with décor that blends fun and classic touches. Make sure to try their 24-hour brined crispy chicken wings, and stop by during their Crooked Hours for standout drink specials.
5th Street Kitchen
In the heart of downtown Steamboat Springs, in the former Mahogany Ridge space, 5th Street Kitchen serves hearty dishes made with regionally sourced ingredients. The menu is concise, reflecting a clear commitment to each dish, ranging from premium steaks to seafood. Highlights include the Short Ribs, Colorado Lamb Chops, Bison, and the unmissable Banana Bread Pudding for dessert.
The Westerly
Blending retail and art space, The Westerly focuses on curated goods, art, design-forward home pieces, and high-quality, stylish apparel. Even if you don't buy anything, a visit to this charming shop is worth it. The space brings a refreshing concept to town and pays homage to Steamboat's past. If you're into art, the pieces are incredibly well curated by The Westerly's founders.
Steamboat Springs Resort Major Updates (2023/2024)
If you're a recurrent visitor to Steamboat but haven't been back since before 2023, the resort went through major renovations that wrapped up their most impactful phase during the 2023/2024 winter season. Here are some of the major updates you'll notice right away:
- Wild Blue Gondola: The Wild Blue Gondola, fully completed for the 2023/2024 season, is the headline upgrade. It now runs from Gondola Square all the way to the top of Sunshine Peak in about 12 minutes. What used to take multiple lifts and some patience is now one continuous ride. The impact is immediate: shorter wait times, better flow across the mountain, and a smoother start to your day.
- Terrain expansion: Also launched for the 2023/2024 season, Steamboat added 655 acres at Mahogany Ridge and Fish Creek Canyon. These aren't minor additions; they bring in steeper lines, tree skiing, and more technical terrain that used to feel like a side option. Now, they're fully integrated into the resort experience, giving advanced skiers a lot more to work with.
- Gondola Square: Gondola Square has been reworked into something far more usable. The addition of the Range Food & Drink Hall (opened late 2023), along with better circulation and updated public spaces, means this area finally functions as a proper hub. You'll notice it right away: less congestion, more places to sit, eat, and regroup between runs.
Where to Eat & Drink: Your Shortlist of Local Legends You Shouldn't Skip
- Winona's: Winona's is an all-time favorite for breakfast and lunch in Steamboat. The cinnamon rolls alone are worth showing up early for, and the menu is packed with classics like burritos, huevos rancheros, Eggs Benedict, and pancakes.
- Creekside Café: Another go-to for breakfast and early lunch, Creekside offers not only hearty, warm, and fresh food but also a scenic dining experience if you're visiting during summer, thanks to their lovely patio with a garden and views of Soda Creek. Their Kraft Macaroni and Cheese is to die for, and if you come here for brunch, make sure to try their Bloody Mary and mimosas.
- Yampa Valley Kitchen: One of the most beautiful restaurants in town, and they don't just serve good aesthetics. YVK is known for stellar, farm-fresh food (even the plating is incredibly beautiful to match the décor and surroundings). Open all day for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, you can indulge in highlights like the Forager Benedict, Bananas Foster French Toast, ham, Gruyère & mushroom crêpe, truffle & herb frites, Buffalo Ricotta agnolotti, and glazed beef short rib.
- Café Diva: For a cozy, romantic, and polished dinner in Steamboat, Café Diva is always a good idea. They create a new menu each season, featuring premium, naturally raised meats, sustainably sourced seafood, and produce from small family farms. They also offer a wide variety of wines to pair with their five-star dishes and the warm, inviting atmosphere.
- Table 79 Foodbar: This local staple is home to a menu focused on elevated comfort food prepared with ingredients sourced from the Yampa Valley and Rocky Mountain region. The space boasts a modern vibe while still capturing some of the mountain-town allure. If you want to be close to the action, make sure to grab a seat at the counter facing the open kitchen; it's definitely a great addition to the dining experience. Must-tries? There are many, but the truly unmissable options include the Short Rib Bao Buns, Portobello Fries, Bistro Steak, Seafood Black Ink Linguini, and the Korean Short Rib.
- Storm Peak Brewing: You'll always have a fun time at Storm Peak Brewing, especially if you're a beer lover. You can try both classic styles and more inventive creations, and get to know friendly locals who are often around. They have two locations: the West Side space at 1885 Elk River Plaza, which is their OG taproom and manufacturing facility, and the Bus Stop branch at 2300 Mt. Werner Cir, where you'll also find a taproom and their own kitchen concept.
- Old Town Pub & Restaurant: A classic, historic spot you can't leave off your bucket list. Old Town Pub is located inside a historic building and offers one of the most vibrant and friendly spaces in town for classic American fare, live music, and great drinks. Many locals say their chicken wings are the best in town.
Where to Have Fun
- Steamboat Ski Resort: Steamboat Ski Resort boasts over 3,000 acres of terrain, now paired with improved lift access and expanded expert zones for some of the best winter fun with your loved ones. Beginners still have plenty of space to learn, especially with dedicated areas like Greenhorn Ranch, while more advanced skiers can spend full days exploring the newer terrain. Make the most of night skiing, tubing, snowshoeing, and guided experiences, all amazing experiences if you're looking for an epic winter escape.
- Old Town Hot Springs: Right in downtown, this is one of the best places to unwind after a long day outside and, if you're traveling with little ones, gives them more opportunities to play. Old Town Hot Springs is home to multiple pools with different temperatures, a climbing wall, and water slides, where kids will have a blast while you relax.
- Howelsen Ice Arena: Howelsen Ice Arena offers public skating sessions, bumper cars on ice, and hockey sessions if you want to take a break from the outdoors but still stay active. Just make sure to book ahead during peak season; the slots here fill up fast.
Go Beyond the Obvious
If you want to add something beyond skiing and dining, Steamboat has enough history and context to make it worthwhile. The attractions below are great for learning about the town's history and giving you a fresh perspective when visiting the city.
- Tread of Pioneers Museum: Gives a compact but well-curated look at the town's past.
- Historic Steamboat Springs Depot: Offers a quick snapshot of the railroad era that helped shape the area.
Nature & Outdoor Activities
- Fish Creek Falls: A quick, easy stop just outside town with a short walk to a stunning 280-ft waterfall.
- Stagecoach State Park: Best pick for a full outdoor day. Hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing, all in one place. More space, fewer crowds than in town.
- Strawberry Park Hot Springs: Natural hot springs in a forest setting. Go at sunset or after skiing. Make sure to bring cash, as they only accept it, and note that reservations are often needed in winter.
- Saddleback Ranch: Go here for organized experiences like horseback rides in warmer months, snowmobiling and sleigh ride dinners in winter.
Steamboat Springs is Calling!
While in town, why not stay in style with the great backdrop of the Rocky Mountains in one of the most iconic rental properties and complexes Steamboat Springs offers?
Retreatia offers luxury properties, ski-in/ski-out options, and downtown lodgings, many of which are pet-friendly. Staying in one of our properties, we guarantee you'll have nothing less than a 5-star experience, something that will definitely enhance your Steamboat Springs vacation.