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Summertime Steamboat Springs

  • May 15, 2017
  • 6 min read

I can't help but think that Steamboat Springs, CO., although it is not an unfamiliar name, is still one of the best kept summer vacation secrets. Located a little over 3 hours North West of Denver International Airport, this small city gem is full of flavor (5 star cuisine), views, and activities... all WITHOUT the altitude struggle!

Steamboat Springs is a family summer favorite, so this blog is all about signature restaurants, things to-do, sights-to-see, companies to use, what to bring, and where to stay. Enjoy!

How To Get Here : Where To Stay

HOW TO GET HERE: Yampa Valley, Hayden Airport (HDN)

The BEST Way :: Direct flights through United and American Airlines are available during the Summer until Mid-September. Yes, prices range from mid $400s-$500s, but the extra cash is more than worth it! Flights that connect at Denver International Airport (DEN) are typically $350-$450...so might as well go direct and skip the connection hassle.

The CREATIVE Way :: If you are up for the scenic drive, book a flight to DEN (Southwest and United usually have round trip tickets for $150-$250) and rent a car for the day. I have done this a few times, and the cost comes out to a grand total that is just below $350 for car + air! If your group is fun and spontaneous...this could be a great way to add more memories to the trip.

The CHAUFFEUR Way :: I'm definitely just kidding, but the shuttle is also a great option to shed some dollars off transportation. Go Alpine will get you there for $95 each way.

Luxury All The Way :: I recommend renting a home or condo from Platinum Lodging for groups of 6+ because the prices are great once group members split per person. Usually the views/locations of these luxury homes are close to golf courses, on the sides of the mountain, and are equipped with spas, bikes, shuttle passes, and more!

(Our home away from home for the Summer)

Sights to see : THINGS TO DO

SCENIC Gondola rides Beginning June 30, WEBSITE

The gondola is scheduled to open for daily operations June 30 through August 27. It will reopen for Labor Day weekend, September 1 - 4, and will be open Friday through Sunday, September 5 - 24.

**SCENIC GONDOLA RIDES ARE AVAILABLE 10AM TO 4PM WITH THE LAST DOWNLOAD BY 4:30PM.

Take a ride up Mt. Werner and enjoy the views that can only be appreciated from Steamboat's own eight-passenger gondola. Once up top, enjoy lunch and the views from the Oasis Sundeck.

Top of the Gondola (Info. Credit: Steamboat.com)

"Located at the top of the gondola, lunch at the Oasis Sundeck comes with one of the best views in town. Kick back and relax at 9,000 ft. above sea level while sipping your favorite frozen drink or ice-cold beer. Enjoy a number of tasty bites from the grill, such as the Prime Rib Philly Sandwich, or try popular Mother Earth salad while you take in the sweeping views of the Yampa Valley."

"Treat yourself to a Steamboat tradition with Sunday Brunch on the Mountain. Located in Hazie's at the top gondola. Enjoy mimosas, Bloody Marys, and specialty coffee drinks as you choose from a wide selection of seasonal fresh brunch items created by Hazie's award-winning culinary team. Brunch includes gondola ride, and complimentary soft drink or glass of champagne or mimosa for our guests 21 and over."

"This is a fun, informative, and invigorating hike with gorgeous views high up on Mt. Werner. Guided by a Steamboat Ambassador, the hike begins at the top of the gondola then proceeds along the Vista Nature Trail, stopping along the way for photo opportunities and interesting talks about the mountain and the community."

"One of the best ways to explore the mountain is via its hiking trails. Whether you're a strong hiker or just looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll of the outdoors, we have a trail for you. Pick your hiking adventure and get ready to take in the vast views of the Yampa Valley and soak up the Colorado sunshine."

"The Steamboat Gondola transports you to Thunderhead, 9,100ft above sea level, to a celebration of an amazing Steamboat sunset from high above the Yampa Valley floor. It’s a can’t miss Steamboat activity and one that will bring you back time and again. Take in the scenery, enjoy the culinary delights, listen to live music, and toast the sunset."

(A few snapshots at Sunset Happy Hour!)

HAYMAKER GOLF COURSE WEBSITE

"Haymaker Golf Course is owned by the City of Steamboat Springs which is committed to environmental sustainability. This 18-hole championship course, designed by Keith Foster, features a full practice facility, pro shop and Haymaker Patio Grill. Guest green fees include access to the practice range, range balls, and a cart."

HOT SPRINGS WEBSITE

"At the end of an active day, a relaxing soak in a natural hot springs mineral pool can be just what your sore muscles need. The natural hot springs at Strawberry Park is one of Steamboat's many natural treasures. The Strawberry Park Hot Springs, located less than 7 miles from downtown, features therapeutic, thermal pools with temperatures from 101 - 105 degrees in a rustic mountain setting."

Bumper-cars-on-ice Kid Friendly Activity, WEBSITE

"Howelsen Ice Arena is the only ice arena in Colorado to offer Bumper-Cars-On-Ice. We also offer regular Public Skate times as well as Stick & Puck and Drop-In hockey for all ages! Schedules and rates are listed in the side bar menu!"

NEIGHBORHOOD PLAYGROUNDS Kid Friendly Activity

Pack a lunch and take a short walk/drive to a local playground where you can enjoy the views and wear the kiddos out! Here are a few pictures of our picnic lunch.

tHE ALPINE SLIDE Kid Friendly Activity, WEBSITE

"Steamboat’s most exciting summer attraction, The Howler Alpine Slide, is fun for the entire family. Enjoy scenic views of downtown Steamboat Springs as you ride a chairlift to the top of historic Howelsen Hill. Using a sled provided to you at the top of the lift, you are in control of your exhilarating ride as you wind down a 2,400 foot track through the bends and curves of the natural landscape of beautiful Howelsen Hill."

FIVE STAR FLAVORS

Personal Favorites ::

Oasis Sundeck

"Located at the top of the gondola, lunch at the Oasis Sundeck comes with one of the best views in town. Kick back and relax at 9,000 ft. above sea level while sipping your favorite frozen drink or ice-cold beer. Enjoy a number of tasty bites from the grill, such as the Prime Rib Philly Sandwich, or try popular Mother Earth salad while you take in the sweeping views of the Yampa Valley."

Recommendations: Prime Rib Philly Sandwich

Haymaker Patio Grill

"Haymaker Patio Grill at the Haymaker Golf Course focuses on casual dining in a fun and friendly atmosphere. Whether dining in the clubhouse, on the patio, or around the course, food selections span the spectrum of lunch, happy hour, and dinner featuring salads, sandwiches, and entrees."

Recommendations: Tuna Melt, Truffle Parmesan Fries

E3 Chophouse

"From range to restaurant, the all-natural beef served at the E3 Chophouse comes straight from the family-owned E3 Ranch, located in Fort Scott, Kansas. The ranch is owned by the LaRoche family, who prides itself on raising hormone, steroid and antibiotic-free E3 Black Angus cattle and is excited to bring its healthy beef to the locals and visitors of Steamboat Springs, Colorado."

Recommendations: Bacon Wrapped Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates, 24 oz Porterhouse, Fogdog Pinot Noir

CAFE DIVA

"Our returning friends and family often comment on how long our staff have been with us, how Café Diva feels like home. Our team of career restaurant professionals take pride in sharing hospitality, in making your experience memorable. While we feel elegant surroundings, fine stemware and china pay respect to Kate's effort in the kitchen, we dismiss the stuffy demeanor of fine dining, and engage in a more personal style of service. We hope your enjoyment and experience make you a welcome addition to our family and home."

Recommendations: Venison Short Loin*

Sweet Pea Market and Cafe

"We are a from scratch restaurant bringing you hand-crafted cuisine using carefully sourced products from local and regional farms and ranches WHENEVER possible. We offer gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian and vegan options. Our chef and staff are passionate about food and supporting Colorado farms. *Our list of local farm and ranch sources changes seasonally based on availability. Check out our menu!"

Recommendations: Roast Beet Salad

CREEKSIDE CAFE

"Enjoy breakfast or lunch while sitting under an umbrella on our picturesque patio located next to Soda Creek. The patio is a popular gathering place for locals and guests. The Creekside Café’s patio is located off Lincoln Avenue; a quiet reprieve from the hustle and bustle of Steamboat’s main street is offered. There is not a better way to start your day than with a wonderful breakfast on a patio surrounded by flowers, listening to Soda Creek bubbling away on a perfect bluebird morning in Steamboat."

Recommendations: Corned Beef Hash, Bacon Bloody Mary

Companies who are there to help

Baby's Away Rental Company- WEBSITE

"Baby’s Away of Steamboat Springs is owned and operated by Courtney and Bradley Moline with the assistance of our two young children Parker and Madelyn. Our goal is to make your trip easy, convenient, and enjoyable by providing you with clean, safe, and reliable baby equipment during your stay here in Steamboat Springs."

Ski Haus Bike Rentals- WEBSITE

"Ski Haus has everything you need to make your day of bike riding great. Helmets and locks are all included with your rental. Ski Haus is open everyday!"

2017 Sunlit. Blonde Travel

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