Are you in desperate need of a vacation? Whether you’re looking to visit Steamboat Springs for the first time or you want to experience a staycation as a local — these are some of the best ways to spend the perfect fall day in town!
Where to Stay in Steamboat Springs this Fall
One of the most important aspects of any vacation, getaway, or staycation is to find cozy accommodations. That’s why we’ve collected some of the best places to call home for a long weekend this fall!
The Bristol Hotel
Where? 917 Lincoln Avenue
At The Bristol Hotel, you’ll experience the essence of Steamboat Springs. This hidden gem is located in the heart of downtown. The historic building is charming and dates back to 1948. The boutique-style hotel succeeds in seamlessly blending authentic character with a modern style. This one-of-a-kind accommodation option is perfect if you’re visiting town for the very first time or if you’ve lived in the area for decades. Enjoy world-class skiing right outside your door during the winter months or simply relax, unwind, and enjoy the ambiance. The Bristol Hotel is owner-operated and features unique rooms that all tell stories of generations past while still ensuring you have the contemporary comforts that make you feel at home.
Nordic Lodge
Where? 1036 Lincoln Avenue
As one of Trip Advisor’s top-rated hotels in Steamboat Springs, the Nordic Lodge should catch your attention. With a great location and beautifully remodeled rooms, guests will love the friendly atmosphere, thoughtful amenities, and reasonable rates. The amenity fee includes on-site parking with in and out privileges, as well as a 24-hour lobby with coffee and tea. Once you book a room at the Nordic Lodge once — don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to spot when you want to get away for the weekend! Additional amenities include an indoor hot tub, free Wi-Fi, a free ski bus to the Steamboat Ski Area every 10 minutes, and easy walking distance to 40 restaurants! Save money by making your reservations directly through the lodge’s website!
Gravity Haus Steamboat
Where? 2304 Apres Ski Way
Gravity Haus is a ski-in/ski-out Steamboat experience with all of the elevated amenities you expect from a boutique hotel. Sitting at the base of the Steamboat Gondola, this hotel is arguably one of the best spots to be when the snow begins to fall. However, even in the fall time, this is a great option for your mini getaway to Steamboat. Guests enjoy comfortable, beautiful rooms with curated in-room amenities and easy access to Unravel Coffee and White Rabbit Tavern. The hotel has a fitness facility onsite, as well as hot tubs, sauna access, and even a shared co-working space if you need to catch up on some emails!
The Village at Steamboat Springs
Where? 900 Pine Grove Circle
The Village at Steamboat Springs features an indoor pool, as well as a 24-hour fitness facility and a sauna! Free WiFi is available in public areas and free self-parking is provided. There is a seasonal outdoor pool, BBQ grills, and each condo has a kitchen with a fridge, stovetop, microwave, and dishwasher. Guests will appreciate the conveniences like a dining area, as well as a coffee and tea maker. Due to the location, there is no A/C and the resort has no elevators (and no ground floor units). If you want to upgrade, two-bedroom units have an interior spiral staircase!
Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas
Where? 2200 Village Inn Court
You’re sure to create unforgettable memories at the Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas! The resort and spa provide refined rental options, as well as elevated dining. You’ll be conveniently located in the heart of the Steamboat Base Area, next to the Christie Peak Express. Depending on which season it is, the villas provide easy ski-in/ski-out access as well as proximity to golfing in the summer and hiking and biking throughout the rest of the year. There is a heated outdoor pool, as well as a fitness center so you can keep up with your workout program. Enjoy a tasty meal and a refreshing cocktail at the seasonally heated patio bistro and lounge or take advantage of a full kitchen in your room when you upgrade your stay!
Autumn Activities in Steamboat Springs
While on your getaway to Steamboat, make sure to check off bucket list fall items like peeping leaves, pampering yourself with a spa day, and hiking to Fish Creek Falls!
Catch the Yampatika Fall Fest
On September 22nd, make plans to head to the Torian Plum Lawn at the Ski Time Square. The Yampatika Fall Fest is a free event that invites the whole family out to experience a pumpkin patch, interactive crafts, giveaways, and a bingo scavenger hunt with prizes! Free parking is available nearby, though organizers recommended riding a bike or utilizing the free city bus when possible. Yampatika’s mission is to inspire environmental stewardship through engaging experiences, so attendees are encouraged to participate where they can. The fall fest will also include a ping pong ball drop fundraiser, where attendees can purchase a $20 ping pong to compete for prizes!
Go Pumpkin Picking at Local Farms
Arguably, one of the best family-friendly fall activities is to go in search of that perfect gourd. Luckily, Steamboat Springs is in proximity to several farms that invite families of all ages and sizes to pick the pumpkin that speaks to them. Whether you want to carve it up for Halloween or simply use it as decor on your porch, this is a great way to spend the afternoon outdoors! Many farms offer additional activities as well, such as corn mazes, petting zoos, hayrides, and more. This is one fall tradition that you won’t forget!
Spot the Migrating Sandhill Cranes
It won’t be long before the squawking sandhill cranes make their departure from the Yampa Valley. This annual migration is notorious as the cranes fly towards their winter range. Between 600 and 1,200 cranes settle in the valley each year, nestled into wetlands for the summer. As the weather cools, these same birds head south to warmer pastures. Keep your eyes on the sky or pack a pair of binoculars on your next outing in hopes of catching a glimpse of these large birds.
Soak in the Hot Springs
Of course, going for a soak in one of the Steamboat Springs area’s hot springs is always a good idea — but it feels extra good as the weather is beginning to change. Stay warm and relaxed with a visit to the Old Town Hot Springs or the Strawberry Park Hot Springs, where you can breathe in the cool autumn air while you sit back and enjoy the mineral-rich waters that provide a truly therapeutic experience. Whether you’re looking to destress, unwind, or just want to enjoy the beautiful surroundings, this is an activity that you should add to the top of your fall bucket list.
Enjoy the Flavors of Restaurant Week
📷 Photos courtesy of Yampa Valley Kitchen
Restaurant Week is an annual event that draws in food lovers from around Colorado to sample some of Steamboat Springs’ finest local offerings. This year, the week is scheduled from October 5th through the 12th. The best restaurants in town offer select menus for the occasion and offer a range of specials on meals. This is a true culinary celebration and reservations are highly recommended. Participating restaurants include Salt & Lime, Yampa Valley Kitchen, and 8th Street Steakhouse.
Go for a Scenic Drive
Sometimes you just don’t feel like breaking out the hiking boots and wearing a backpack with extra water! No problem. You can still get prime views of the stunning fall foliage in and around Steamboat Springs by taking a drive. Grab some of your favorite snacks, put on your fall playlist, and hit the road in any direction. You’re sure to find groves of the beautiful aspens as they’re changing colors in preparation for winter. While driving along windy mountain roads is always a good time, it’s even more special during the fall season when vividly colored beauty is in abundance!
Pamper Yourself at the Spa
Nothing says getaway like a relaxed afternoon at the spa. Check out the offerings at Waterside Day Spa & Salon, which is located on the Yampa River in Downtown Steamboat Springs. This family-owned and operated spa is a great way to relax tight muscles, get a manicure, and even rejuvenate your skin with a facial! There is even a salt room for a holistic respiratory detox. Simply relax in the room and breathe in the dry salt air, which can benefit the body via anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
Check Out Fish Creek Falls
Fish Creek Falls is a popular spot throughout the year but if you’ve never viewed the falls in the autumn, then it’s a must for your getaway! The area is open year-round and has several trail options, depending on how strenuous you want your hiking excursion to be. There is a $5 per day vehicle fee and no permit or reservation is required to visit. The 280-foot waterfall is an iconic Steamboat photograph, so make sure to bring your camera along for the outing!
Golf 9 Holes on the Yampa River
📷 Photo courtesy of Haymaker Golf Course
If you’ve never golfed in Steamboat Springs, make this autumn your time to finally practice your swing in the crisp mountain air. After all — balls go further in the mountains! Steamboat has various courses to choose from, including Rollingstone Ranch known for its championship-caliber design, and Steamboat Golf Club, which is located alongside the beautiful Yampa River. You also can’t go wrong with a visit to Haymaker Golf Course either, which has been ranked as the top course in the Yampa Valley and the #1 mountain golf course in Colorado.
Take a Stroll Along Lincoln Avenue
When you see photos of Steamboat Springs, you’ve likely noticed the iconic Lincoln Avenue. This is your one-stop shop for local treats, souvenirs, apparel, and more! Nothing says shopping spree like a sunny fall day. Take a walk up and down Steamboat Springs’ Lincoln Avenue and peruse the wide variety of shops selling western wear, artwork, culinary treats, crafts, and more! You’ll have a variety of coffee and ice cream options as well for when you need a midday pick-me-up.
Meander Around the Botanic Gardens
The Botanic Park in Steamboat was voted as one of the best places to take out-of-town guests, so if you’ve never been — here’s your chance! Enjoy the crisp fall air as you walk around the living museum and collection of plants. There are free guided walking tours at the Yampa River Botanic Park, as well as a garden shop where you’ll find limited-edition souvenirs to commemorate your fall getaway. If you’ve only ever visited the gardens during the summer, see what’s blooming now!
Enjoy Steamboat Springs This Fall!
There are few getaways that are as exciting as Steamboat Springs. If you’re planning a visit during the fall months, even better! The area is bright with color from the Aspens and the weather is cool and comfortable. Make sure to plan your itinerary with classic fall activities while also making sure to spend time just relaxing and taking in the views as well!