My husband grew up going to Steamboat Springs, Colorado with his family (they had a home there and skied in the winter) and he and his siblings decided they wanted to take their kids to experience it, as well.
We went in the summer and we all absolutely loved it! There was so much to do and see for both the children and adults, and it was truly special for all the cousins to get to see where their parents grew up vacationing.
We rented a roomy, comfortable home in a resort community that really broadened our options for activities. We had our own private hot tub, as well as access to the community pool, fitness center, and tennis and pickleball courts. The home is called Wildhorse Sanctuary and you can see it for yourself here.
Of course, some of the main attractions are the natural surroundings and outdoor activities. The views are beautiful and we took full advantage of the great hiking trails.
Our kids and their cousins loved climbing and playing on the collections of big rocks and boulders we ran across on our adventures, as well.
The trout fishing is fantastic there. We rented all the necessary equipment for those who wanted to try their hand and ended up catching quite a few.
The guys spent a full day with local guides who knew the best and most beautiful spots. Britt was so proud of his catch!
Even those of us who didn’t care to go fishing enjoyed walking along the water, skipping rocks, and enjoying the cool breeze off the water–quite a nice reprieve from the mugginess of our Charlotte, NC summers!
We also discovered a delightful little botanical garden, complete with lily pads. What a treat!
The Main Street area in downtown Steamboat Springs has so much to offer, as well. In addition to everything from high-end art galleries to Western wear and souvenir shops, the area hosts seasonal events like a farmer’s market, live music, and culinary challenges. You can check out what’s on offer at any given time here on the Main Street Steamboat website.
One highlight of the trip was riding the gondola, which runs in the summer. We rode it to the top and got such a beautiful vantage point! At the base, there’s a cute little village area with a few restaurants, as well as an activity center where the kids can jump on the trampoline and do a mini ropes course.
Another unforgettable event was attending the local rodeo. It’s put on every Friday night in the summer by a group of traveling families and it is absolutely adorable! Our kids loved seeing the horses and riders, as well as all the other animals. There’s even fun food there for dinner like a meat +3 spot and a taco stand. I recommend coming hungry!
As far as dining in Steamboat in general, things are fairly casual. Eating at Taco Cabo is an absolute must. They offer authentic Mexican food and excellent drinks for the adults. It’s a riverfront setting with outdoor dining only, so check the weather first and bring a sweater just in case!
Lyon’s Corner Drug and Soda Fountain is a fun attraction downtown that has great greeting cards and even better food, from classic lunch food to $1 ice cream scoops. If you’re in the mood for candy or more elaborate treats, Fuzziwigs is just across the street.
All told, this was a relaxing, fun, memorable trip for us the adults and kids alike. What a special treat for my kids to see where their dad spent his childhood, and what a treat for him to see them love it as much as he did!