Steamboat Springs, Colorado, is a dream winter destination known for its Champagne Powder™ snow, world-class skiing, and relaxing hot springs. Our recent trip over winter break was nothing short of spectacular, packed with adventure, great food, and plenty of après-ski relaxation. If you’re considering a winter escape to Steamboat Springs, here’s a detailed recap of our week of skiing, soaking, and savoring, filled with tips and recommendations to make your trip just as memorable.
Day 1: Arrival and Settling In
We flew directly into Hayden Airport, which is the closest airport to Steamboat Springs. Upon landing, we picked up our rental car, making it easy to get around throughout our trip. (A tip! There are convenient shuttle services available if you don’t want to rent a vehicle yourself.) Our first stop was Cypress for lunch, a fantastic spot to fuel up after a travel day. The menu offered a great mix of fresh and hearty options, perfect for a post-flight meal.
Next, we headed to Christy Sports to pick up our ski rentals. A pro tip: signing up online ahead of time saved us 30%, so if you’re planning to rent gear, book in advance! We made a quick grocery run at Safeway to stock up on essentials before heading to our accommodation. We planned out our meals to balance dining out with cooking in the condo, which helped us save time and money during our stay.
For our stay, we rented Penthouse A at The Meadows through Vacasa. The condo was spacious and well-equipped, and one of the best perks was the free shuttle service that took us anywhere we needed to go, whether it was to the ski mountain, downtown, or a dinner reservation. The condo was perfect for a winter getaway, with a cozy fireplace, comfortable beds, and an amazing hot tub, a feature we took full advantage of every night.
Dinner that evening was at La Fiesta Grill & Cantina, a casual and delicious spot for Mexican food, perfect for a laid-back first night in town. The margaritas were refreshing, and the tacos were packed with flavor. We loved the lively atmosphere and friendly service.
Day 2: Hitting the Slopes
Our first full day was dedicated to skiing, and Steamboat did not disappoint! The mountain offers an abundance of green runs, making it ideal for beginners and those looking for a relaxed skiing experience. The terrain was beautifully groomed, and the weather was perfect, clear skies and fresh powder.
For lunch, we stopped at Rendezvous, a mid-mountain spot with great food and drinks. The menu had a nice variety, from hearty soups to burgers and salads. The views from the lodge were incredible, making it the perfect spot for a mid-day break. After refueling, we hit the slopes again for a few more hours before calling it a day.
After an exhilarating day on the slopes, we returned to our condo and enjoyed a relaxing soak in our condo’s hot tub, the ultimate après-ski experience. It was the perfect way to soothe our sore muscles and unwind before dinner.
Dinner was at Ore House, a must-visit for steak lovers. The restaurant had a rustic charm and served up perfectly cooked steaks, making for a fantastic end to the day. The prime rib was a standout, and the side dishes complemented the meal perfectly.
Day 3: More Skiing & Cozy Evenings
Tuesday was another full day of skiing, and we took full advantage of the pristine conditions. Once again, Rendezvous was our go-to for a midday break before heading back out for more time on the mountain. We explored a few new trails and enjoyed some of the more scenic runs that showcased Steamboat’s breathtaking landscape.
After another post-ski hot tub session, we opted for a cozy night in with homemade chili at the condo, a perfect way to warm up after a cold day outside. Cooking in gave us a chance to relax and recharge for the next adventure.
Day 4: Work & Relaxation at Strawberry Hot Springs
Wednesday was a bit of a workday for us, but we made sure to take full advantage of the evening by visiting Strawberry Hot Springs. Nestled in the mountains, these natural hot springs are an absolute must-do when in Steamboat. The warm waters, combined with the picturesque snowy surroundings, made for an incredibly relaxing experience. We stayed until after dark, when the stars came out, adding to the magic of the night.
Back at the condo, we kept it simple with homemade tacos for dinner. Sometimes, a night in is just what you need!
Day 5: Leisurely Explorations & Fine Dining
Thursday was another workday, but we made time for some much-needed relaxation in the hot tub before heading out for an afternoon of shopping in Downtown Steamboat. The quaint shops and boutiques in downtown Steamboat offered a mix of souvenirs, winter gear, and unique local finds. We picked up a few keepsakes and enjoyed browsing the cozy, small-town stores.
For dinner, we treated ourselves to an exceptional meal at Aurum. Everything we ordered was outstanding, making it one of our favorite dining experiences of the trip. If you’re looking for a spot for a special meal, Aurum is a must! The ambiance was warm and inviting, and the service was top-notch. We especially loved the craft cocktails and the seasonal menu.
Day 6: Snowmobiling Adventure & Brewery Hopping
Friday was all about adventure! We kicked off the day with a thrilling snowmobile tour at Saddleback Ranch. The experience was incredible, offering stunning mountain views and plenty of adrenaline-fueled fun. The guides were friendly and knowledgeable, making sure we had a safe and exciting ride.
In the afternoon, we checked out a couple of local breweries: Mountain Tap and Storm Peak. Both spots had fantastic beer selections, and we enjoyed some delicious pizza from the neighboring eatery while sipping our brews. The laid-back atmosphere and great beer made it a fun and relaxing way to spend the afternoon.
Dinner that night was at Vaqueros, another great Mexican spot that provided a casual and satisfying meal to wrap up the day. The fajitas were flavorful, and the margaritas hit the spot.
Day 7: Wrapping Up with a Classic Breakfast
Before heading back home, we made one last stop at The Shack for breakfast. This cozy diner-style restaurant was the perfect way to cap off an amazing trip. The portions were generous, and the food was classic comfort breakfast fare—pancakes, eggs, bacon, and strong coffee to fuel the travel day ahead.
Final Thoughts & Tips for Your Steamboat Springs Trip
Steamboat Springs is a winter wonderland that offers an incredible mix of outdoor adventures, fantastic dining, and plenty of relaxation. Here are some key takeaways from our trip:
- Book ski rentals in advance to save money
- Take advantage of shuttles if available; they make getting around much easier
- Don’t skip the hot springs; Strawberry Hot Springs was a highlight of our trip
- Try a mix of dining in and out; some nights, a homemade meal at the condo was just as enjoyable as dining at a restaurant
- Explore beyond skiing; snowmobiling, brewery hopping, and shopping downtown added variety to our trip
If you’re planning a trip to Steamboat Springs, we hope this guide helps you make the most of your visit. Whether you’re carving down the slopes, soaking in a hot spring, or indulging in a delicious meal, you’re sure to fall in love with this charming mountain town just as we did!
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