Beyond fantastic skiing and other winter activities, Steamboat Springs, in the upper valley of the Yampa River in Colorado, is brimming with outdoor playgrounds that are great for families to enjoy all year round.
From national parks offering amazing hikes and lakes for water-based activities to scenic drives where you and your family can have a more intimate experience with Colorado's gorgeous nature, there's no shortage of outdoor fun or enjoyment. The best part? Every season brings unique sceneries and unique experiences for all.
Another significant fact about the city is that it boasts a cosmopolitan and vibrant vibe through its stellar restaurants, bars, cafes, and entertainment venues. The amount of things to do is very diverse and if you’re visiting for the first time it's challenging to know where to start.
We are here for your rescue. In this blog, we’ve put together a weekend itinerary blending the best of what Steamboat Springs has to offer.
Friday afternoon: Immerse yourself in Steamboat Springs' Downtown Charm
Immersing yourself in Downtown Steamboat is one of the best things you can do when you arrive. That's where you'll find most restaurants, bars, cafes, entertainment venues, and boutiques — not to mention the delightful mountain city charm.
Walk along the iconic Lincoln Avenue, a postcard-worthy street surrounded by gorgeous mountain views and the stage for the legendary Winter Carnival. Soak in the charming atmosphere, take lovely photos, and check out the great cafes, and boutiques.
Feeling peckish? You’ll be spoiled for choice, especially along Lincoln Avenue and Yampa Street. The latter is home to many spots that focus on farm-to-table culinary experiences. If you need help to pick a place, check out our top picks for restaurants in Steamboat Springs.
Friday evening: Kick off your weekend with live music at The Press
After dinner, how about listening to a top-notch music performance and grabbing some drinks?
Situated in downtown Steamboat Springs within a historic building that housed Northwest Colorado’s first newspaper, The Press is a must-visit live music venue for a delightful and fun evening.
Since its opening, the venue has hosted over 300 artists, ranging from amazing local bands to Grammy award-winning performers. The inviting ambiance, paired with superb music, is simply on-point.
Check their events calendar for upcoming performances.
Friday evening (alternative plan): Strike up some friendly competition at Snow Bowl Steamboat
If you're traveling with kids and prefer a family-friendly experience, a visit to Snow Bowl Steamboat is a brilliant choice. Drawing crowds since 1977, their beautifully designed 12 bowling lanes are sure to make everyone's night out memorable.
Pair this with a fantastic drink and food menu, along with weekly live music, and you've got a winning combination
Saturday morning: Power up with breakfast at Creekside Cafe
Start your Saturday fueled by a delicious breakfast at Creekside Cafe. This charming spot blends excellent food with a delightful setting. Their famous Eggs Benedict is a must-try, but the real star might be the patio overlooking a babbling creek.
On chilly mornings, the cozy, bright indoor space creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Creekside Cafe uses locally sourced ingredients to craft classic breakfast dishes like Bacon Fried Rice and Breakfast Burritos. Don't forget to save room for one of their delightful sweet treats, like the toasted croissant with caramelized banana and chocolate hazelnut spread.
Vegetarians and vegans will find delicious options here too!
Saturday afternoon: Discover the best of nature at Fish Creek Falls
A short drive from downtown, discover the captivating Fish Creek Falls. Cascading 280 feet through a lush forest, this waterfall beckons visitors year-round for a fun family adventure amidst pristine nature.
Each season offers a unique charm: in summer, relish the cool mist and explore the rocky formations around the tranquil pool. Fall paints the surroundings in warm hues, while winter transforms the scene into a breathtaking wonderland.
Several trails lead to the falls, catering to all levels. You can opt for the easier paths with informative signs to learn about the vibrant local flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for fragrant pine trees, and maybe even spot deer, elk, foxes, magnificent birds, or even a rare black bear!
Saturday afternoon (alternative winter plan): Embrace the winter wonderland
Every winter, Steamboat Springs transforms into a winter wonderland, a haven for families seeking snowy adventures. Famed for its "Champagne Powder Snow," this resort town offers some of the country's best opportunities to embrace winter fun amidst breathtaking scenery. If your winter escape coincides with the snowy months, indulging in these activities is a must.
Steamboat Ski Resort, a top contender for family-friendly resorts in North America, reigns supreme. You'll find world-class skiing — including the unforgettable night skiing experience — alongside a bounty of winter activities: snow tubing, ice skating rinks, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, snowshoe hikes, and exhilarating snowmobile or snow buggy tours.
Good to know: The ski season typically runs from late November to early April.
Saturday evening: Treat yourself to a soul-warming feast at Yampa Valley Kitchen
Indulge in style at Yampa Valley Kitchen (YVK), a local fave in a charming, renovated farmhouse downtown. White walls, tropical plants, and natural light create an elegant backdrop for memorable meals - from breakfast to dinner.
YVK champions fresh, local ingredients, offering something for everyone: gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options included. Lunchtime faves include Truffle Fries and Smoked Salmon Salad, while dinner boasts delights like Truffle & Herb Frites and Duck a L'Orange. Don't miss their unbeatable desserts!
Sunday morning: Unleash your inner explorer at Stagecoach State Park
Start the day getting active and enjoy the wide variety of outdoor activities at Stagecoach State Park, home of more gorgeous natural landscapes.
Centered on the vast Stagecoach Reservoir, Stagecoach State Park is the full package with outdoor fun. Whether you're traveling with young children, older kids, or furry companions, the park has something for everyone.
Activities include scenic hikes, biking, and wildlife viewing, among others. Water activities are highly popular with families. The reservoir is ideal for boating, jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. During the summer months, you can enjoy a refreshing dip in the water since swimming is allowed in certain areas.
Top-notch fishing opportunities add to the fun, and you don't need to bring equipment since fishing equipment rentals and bait shops are available within the park. Winter months give you the opportunity to engage in snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
If you need a break between activities, the park offers picnic tables and barbecue facilities where you and your group can enjoy a delicious meal while admiring the stunning landscape.
Sunday afternoon: Seek even more thrills at Steamboat Lake State Park
Craving more adventure? A short drive from downtown lies Steamboat Lake State Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled amidst dazzling lakes, pine forests, and wildflower meadows, this park offers endless opportunities to reconnect with nature.
Imagine gliding across the tranquil waters on a rented motorboat, kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. Soak in the breathtaking mountain views as you explore the lake. For a thrill, try water skiing! Back on land, cool off with a refreshing dip at the sandy beaches, perfect for sunbathing and summer fun.
Family-friendly hikes wind through the park's meadows, offering glimpses of fascinating wildlife like deer, elk, bald eagles, and maybe even a rare mountain lion. For an extra dose of adventure, explore some trails on horseback. Winter transforms the park into a snowy wonderland, ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Sunday evening: Top off your Steamboat adventure with a stylish farewell at Table 79 Foodbar
Table 79 Foodbar offers a unique and upscale space where you can indulge in contemporary American fare and signature cocktails while getting a glimpse of the food being prepared. This is a fantastic place to celebrate the end of a weekend in Steamboat!
The restaurant’s eclectic menu features stellar dishes like Potato-Wrapped Salmon, Korean Short Rib served with kimchi fried rice, Tuna Poke, Grilled Oysters, Portabella Fries, Short Rib Bao Buns, and Rocky Mountain Trout. While you dine in their modern-chic, softly lit space, you can catch glimpses of the action in the open kitchen.
Most of the ingredients used by the chef are sourced from the Yampa Valley and Rocky Mountain Region. Complementing the dining experience is a list of amazing craft cocktails. Don’t miss their happy hour offering food and drink specials.
Your Weekend Itinerary to Steamboat Springs, CO
First time in Steamboat Springs? Following this itinerary will undoubtedly give you a great immersion in the breathtaking nature of the region and the vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere of this charming mountain town.
Want more tips on Steamboat Springs, CO? Then head to our destination blog, where we cover everything from a full guide on family-friendly outdoor activities and the best places to grab coffee in town to the top activities to enjoy on a rainy day. And there's much more coming, so keep an eye out for future blogs!
Wondering where to stay during your visit to Steamboat Springs, CO?
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, some pet-friendly. Staying in one of our properties, we guarantee you'll have nothing less than a 5-star experience, something that will enhance your Steamboat Springs vacation.