As temperatures heat up this summer, many Steamboat Springs residents are looking for ways to stay cool and comfortable. Indoor activities are aplenty around town, such as a visit to the Howelsen Ice Arena or a trip to the local bowling alley. There are also a handful of swimming spots in the area, such as Steamboat Lake and the Old Town Hot Springs.
Steamboat Tennis and Pickleball
Where? 2500 Pine Grove Road
Stay active all summer long at the Steamboat Tennis and Pickleball courts. With both indoor and outdoor options that are open to the public, this is a great way to practice your serve or to introduce friends and family to a new hobby. Pickleball open play is available for all levels and there are youth programs for both tennis and pickleball. Private instruction is available, as well as small group lessons. Upcoming events and tournaments include the Play It Forward Fundraiser, as well as the Nike Adult Pickleball Camp, and the 2024 UPA Colorado State Championship that benefits Stop Alzheimer’s Now in mid-September.
Howelsen Ice Arena
Where? 285 Howelsen Parkway
Cool off in the summer heat at Howelsen Ice Arena, where you can skate all season long! Reservations are not taken for public skating, so keep that in mind and arrive earlier than your preferred time to secure a spot. The arena publishes a calendar each month, with activities such as stick and puck hockey, bumper cars and public skate sessions, freestyle figure skating, and even private coaching. If you’ve never skated before, then there’s a helpful Learn to Skate program that makes for a great introductory class for kids and adults alike. Aside from skating, the arena also hosts adult curling leagues and learn-to-curl and drop-in curling sessions if you want to try out something new while staying cool this summer.
Bud Werner Memorial Library
Where? 1289 Lincoln Avenue
Sometimes there’s no better way to spend a summer afternoon than to escape to a quiet, relaxed oasis such as the local library. The Bud Werner Memorial Library is the perfect “getaway” for kids and adults alike in Steamboat Springs. Aside from checking out books, you can also participate in an array of library programs and workshops such as watch parties, book discussions, and even a READ to Dogs event with trained therapy dogs. Sign up for the library newsletter to stay up to date with upcoming events this summer so you don’t miss out. The library houses over 80,000 volumes, including extensive electronic resources such as downloadable eBooks, audiobooks, videos, and music.
Off The Beaten Path Bookstore
📷 Photo courtesy of Off the Beaten Path Bookstore
Where? 68 9th Street
This full-service independent bookstore should be on your summer bucket list if you’ve never had the chance to visit. With an extensive collection of your favorite genres, such as literature, history, memoirs, young adult, and more — you’re not likely to leave empty-handed. There’s also an award-winning cafe that serves up some delicious coffee and pastries, as well as boozy concoctions for adult visitors! There’s seating upstairs and quiet corners where you can read, flip through magazines, or simply enjoy the ambient sounds of your new favorite summer hang out. The bookstore also hosts events throughout the year, including DND community nights, author chats, and book signings that are designed to create an engaging atmosphere!
Steamboat Art Museum
Where? 801 Lincoln Avenue
As the only art museum in the area, the Steamboat Art Museum has a strong reputation for presenting beautiful exhibits of living master artists. Admission to the museum is free and visitors will find 50+ local and regional artists, vendors, and authors on display throughout the building. The museum’s goal is to inform, educate, inspire, and engage guests and community members by providing inclusive programming and collaboration. The museum is dedicated to representing a diverse array of genres and has drawn national attention as being an important cultural counterpoint to the city and the surrounding Yampa Valley region.
Tread of Pioneers Museum
📷 Photo courtesy of Tread of Pioneers Museum
Where? 800 Oak Street
The Tread of Pioneers Museum has engaging and interactive exhibits that focus on the local and regional history of Native Americans, as well as skiing, agriculture, mineral springs, mining, pioneer settlement, and more. Step back in time in the two story Victorian home, with various exhibits including the Western Heritage Exhibit, home to an extensive firearms collection and provides an overview of the infamous outlaw, Harry Tracy. There are even special additions to the museum that focus on hands-on activities for kids, winter sports history exhibit, and interactive exhibits that use technology to engage visitors on a more modern level. Don’t miss the museum’s extensive list of programs, events, and tours. Admission is priced at $6 for adults and $2 for children under 12. Ages 6 and under are free. If you’re a Routt County resident, you can get in free with a valid address on your ID.
Schmiggity’s Live Music & Dance Bar
Where? 821 Lincoln Avenue
Conveniently located along Main Street in downtown Steamboat Springs, Schmiggity’s is the place to be for dancing and live music. Schmiggity’s is a 21-and-up space for all events, so keep that in mind if you have little ones. Upcoming shows include the Lowdown Brass Band, Colony Funk, Joslyn & The Sweet Compression, the Taylor Scott Band, and Magic Beans. There’s an array of genres performed at the bar, including rock, soul, funk, pop, and hip-hop. Whatever you enjoy listening to, there’s something for everyone and you’ll be able to sip on great drinks all night long.
Old Town Hot Springs
Where? 136 Lincoln Avenue
Old Town Hot Springs is a non-profit center designed to promote health and wellness, providing the public with recreation options and aquatic activities. The hot springs are open to the public every day of the year, apart from Christmas and Thanksgiving. The natural outdoor hot springs typically sit at temperatures between 96 to 103 degrees. Guests are encouraged to visit in the mornings to beat the heat and the crowds. The springs have been in place for over a century, originally enjoyed by the Native American Ute Indians who settled in the area. There’s usually a lap pool and a kiddie splash pad available at the hot springs, though they’re currently under construction for summer 2024.
Steamboat Lake
Where? 925 Weiss Drive
Steamboat Lake is one of the best spots to swim this summer in Steamboat Springs! Cool off by jumping into the water and enjoying the swimming beach. Whether you want to engage in fishing, camping, picnicking, hiking, or boating recreation — there’s a little bit of everything at the lake. The full-service marina can hook you up with gear for a full day on the water. On the way home, make sure to swing by the visitor center to peruse some gifts and memorabilia from your fun summer day on the lake.
Burgess Creek Beach
Where? 3150 Burgess Creek Road
Did you know that you can take a trip to the beach without ever leaving Steamboat Springs? The Burgess Creek Beach is located at the Steamboat Ski Area and features refreshing, cool water and a sandy beach area where kids can hone their sandcastle-building skills. Burgess Creek meanders down the base of the mountain, creating mini waterfalls and ending in a natural pool area where little ones can splash around and cool off from the heat. Parents will enjoy the Adirondack chairs that are perfect for sunbathing and keeping a close eye on the kids.
Snow Bowl Steamboat
Where? 2090 Snow Bowl Plaza
This state-of-the-art bowling and event center has been a staple of the Steamboat Springs community for decades. Not only is bowling a family-friendly activity, but it also makes for a fun date night or an exciting way to catch up with friends with some friendly competition. There’s something for everyone at the center, including music, arcade games, and even dining! Weekday rates are priced at $40 per lane, per hour, and weekend rates rise to $50-$60. Upcoming events at Snow Bowl include Cornhole Sundays through September 15th, Dog Days of Summer, and an array of free concerts!
Steamboat Climbing Collective
📷 Photo courtesy of Steamboat Climbing Collective
Where? 2673 Jason Circle Unit 300
This indoor climbing gym was built so Steamboat Springs residents could enjoy this recreational hobby that’s becoming increasingly popular across the country. Climbing can be a transformative experience and the mission of the collective is to promote health and wellbeing. Climbers of all ages and abilities are welcome, as the community is only strengthened through diversity and inclusivity. If this is your first time visiting a climbing gym, wear comfortable clothes, rent a pair of climbing shoes, and sign a waiver before you get started. One-day adult passes are priced at $18 and 60-minute private lessons can be booked for $60 and are good for up to two people.
Metropolitan Wildhorse 6 Stadium Cinemas
📷 Photo courtesy of Metropolitan Theatres
Where? 655 Marketplace Plaza
Take a break from the sun by enjoying a movie at the Wildhorse 6 Stadium Cinema. The theater features stadium seating, digital projection and sound, as well as closed captioning and wheelchair-accessible seating. Tickets can be purchased online or at the theater and movies rotate throughout the year, so check out what’s playing to see which film strikes your interest. Make sure to grab your concessions, such as buttery popcorn and a refreshing soda, and make your way to your seat. Join M Rewards if you’re a movie fanatic so you can start earning points for every dollar you spend. Reward members will receive large popcorn and large soda refills, as well as free popcorn on their reward anniversary!
Steamboat Fun and Games
Where? 703 Lincoln Avenue Unit B106
Whether you’re still a kid at heart or a parent to young ones who love games and toys, Steamboat Fun and Games is the premier area destination for candy, arcade games, and toys for all ages. This endless indoor adventure is perfect for an overly sunny day or even a rainy afternoon. Customers will enjoy competitive prices and products that range from nostalgic toys to board games and even educational science projects. Explore collections such as fidget toys, plush items, puzzles, card games, and collectibles.
Storm Peak Brewing Company
Where? 1885 Elk River Road & 2500 Village Drive
Beat the heat with a cold beer and some good company at Storm Peak Brewing Company. The brewery has a range of styles on hand, so there’s always something new to sip on. There are two Steamboat Springs locations, with the Elk River Road spot being the brewery and taproom and the Village Drive location being dubbed the “Bus Stop.” Enjoy happy hour from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM and throw back $5 beers with the crew. The taproom invites patrons to bring their dogs as long as they remain on a leash. Kids are welcome at both locations but must remain with their parents. Even if you don’t drink, there are nonalcoholic options, including NA beers, mocktails, local kombucha, and soda on the menu.
Kids Play Garden
Where? 345 Anglers Drive B
Kids Play Garden is a learning center and a drop-in preschool. Children will engage with peers in a hands-on and screen-free play environment with nutritious meals and snacks. The curriculum is updated and diverse, with an emphasis on the creative arts. Educators are highly trained and experienced and are dedicated to planting seeds of imagination. If the days are getting too warm and the kiddos are antsy to get some energy out, an afternoon at the play garden may be just what they need. From adaptable preschool programs, engaging afternoon classes, and immersive seasonal camps — there’s something to suit every family’s summer schedule.
Stay Cool This Summer in Steamboat Springs!
While outdoor activities are all the rage during the summer months, there’s plenty to do inside as well! Take a break from the heat and cool off in the AC while you explore museums or pick up a new hobby such as pickleball or indoor climbing. You can also take a dip in the lake or at the “beach” this summer to keep the heat manageable.