36 Hours in Steamboat Springs… with Kids (Summer Edition)
The New York Times has a long-running series of travel articles called “36 Hours In…” — in fact, there’s a great one on Steamboat from 2023. But while their recommendations are solid (hello, après-ski cocktails and dry-aged steaks), we noticed one thing missing: kids! If you’re planning a trip to Steamboat Springs with little ones in tow, this version is for you.
Whether you’re squeezing in a weekend getaway or making a pit stop on a Colorado road trip, this “36 Hours in Steamboat… with Kids” guide gives you a family-friendly itinerary that hits the sweet spot between fun, flexibility, and not-too-much planning. And if you’re staying longer? Drop us a note — we’re happy to help with an affordable custom itinerary tailored to your crew!
Why Steamboat is Great with Kids
Steamboat Springs is an awesome destination for families because:
- The natural playground: Rivers, trails, mountains, and hot springs offer plenty of screen-free fun.
- Kid-friendly community vibe: Locals are warm, laid-back, and used to accommodating families.
- Tons of flexible activities: Whether you have toddlers or teens, there’s something for every age and energy level.
Friday
3:00 p.m. — Stretch those legs at Old Town Hot Springs
Whether you’ve just pulled in from Denver or landed at the Hayden Airport, your first stop should be a place to shake off the travel wiggles. Old Town Hot Springs, right in downtown Steamboat, is part natural mineral soak and part splash zone paradise. Kids can zoom down the two waterslides (for ages 6+ and 44”+), while little ones splash in the shallow kids’ pool. Grown-ups can rotate turns in the adults-only soaking pool or book a massage. Bonus: there’s on-site childcare available if someone needs a break. Pro tip: check pool hours before you go — slides close earlier than the pools.
5:00 p.m. — Dinner, dancing, and creek-side play at the Free Summer Concert
From Old Town, head to the base of Steamboat Resort for the Free Summer Concert Series (check the Kids In Town calendar to confirm which Fridays it’s happening). Bring a picnic blanket or chairs and let the kids play in the gently flowing Burgess Creek, which winds through the base area with stepping stones and splash-worthy spots. There are plenty of casual food options at the base area. It’s a low-stress, high-fun way to settle into mountain life.
Pro Tip:
You’re now at nearly 7,000 feet above sea level. Hydrate early and often — altitude sickness can sneak up fast, especially with active kiddos. Water, electrolytes, and snacks go a long way.
Saturday
9:00 a.m. — Brunch and browsing at the Farmers Market
Kick off the morning at the Steamboat Farmers Market, which runs along Yampa Street every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. You’ll find fresh pastries, breakfast burritos, local produce, handmade crafts, and live music drifting through the crowd. It’s a great place to grab a picnic brunch and then walk a few steps to the riverfront for a casual meal on the grass. The kids can stretch their legs or even splash in the water.
11:00 a.m. — Zoom down the Howler Alpine Slide
Next, walk across the 5th Street bridge to Howelsen Hill, home to the historic ski jumps and the summer-time Howler Alpine Slide (ages 2+). You’ll take a scenic chairlift ride up Emerald Mountain and zip back down on your own sled. There’s a playground at the base, public bathrooms, and cold drinks at the snack shack. Plus, all proceeds benefit the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club (SSWSC), a cool legacy to support.
2:00 p.m. — Wander, shop, and treat yourself
If you’re not bound by naptime, wander Lincoln Avenue for some local shopping. For a candy-colored dopamine hit, stop at Fuzziwig’s Candy Factory, a tiny shop bursting with sweet treats, toys, and excitement-per-square-foot. Prefer a classic Americana treat? Pop into Lyons Drug Store, a 1950s-style soda fountain where you can belly up to the counter for milkshakes and sundaes served the old-fashioned way.
Too hot? Too rainy? Try a museum.
Two great indoor options give both kids and adults something to enjoy:
- Steamboat Art Museum features rotating exhibits, often focused on Western and wildlife themes, with just enough visual stimulation to keep young kids engaged.
- Tread of Pioneers Museum offers hands-on history with fun scavenger hunts, a recreated historic home, and exhibits on everything from ski history to outlaw lore.
6:00 p.m. — Time for the Steamboat Rodeo
In the evening, grab dinner on Yampa (local favorites include Aurum for upscale dining with a riverside view, Taco Cabo for casual and festive, or The Ice House for family-friendly fare), or head straight to the Steamboat Pro Rodeo Series for a BBQ Cookout. Gates open at 5:30, and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. There’s a special kids’ calf scramble during the intermission, where children race to grab a ribbon from a calf’s tail — always a highlight! Don’t forget to dress the part: hats, boots, and bandanas are all encouraged.
Pro Tip:
Even on cloudy days, the sun at high altitude is intense. Wear a hat, and apply (and reapply!) sunscreen, especially after splash time or sweaty adventures.
Sunday
8:00 a.m. — Get outside with a morning hike
Make the most of your final morning with one of Steamboat’s many kid-friendly hikes. For a classic option, head to Fish Creek Falls — it’s just a quarter-mile on a paved path to the dramatic 280-foot waterfall, and adventurous families can continue on the more challenging trail to the upper falls.
Want something even more memorable? Take the Steamboat Gondola up the mountain. At the top, you’ll find scenic trails with sweeping views, alpine wildflowers, and plenty of space to explore. Got older kids or want to divide and conquer? One parent can sneak in free yoga at the summit, while the other does a short nature walk with the kids. Check out our roundup of kid-friendly hikes in Steamboat for more ideas based on age, distance, and stroller-friendliness.
Pro Tip:
The gondola itself is half the fun. Pack breakfast or a snack and ride it around once or twice. You’ll have a moment to take a breather while the kids munch and marvel at the ever-changing view!
11:30 a.m. — Grab lunch before you go
Before you hit the road, refuel with a family-friendly meal downtown:
- The Egg is a classic, with hearty breakfasts and a great kids menu.
- Fiesta Jalisco is a local go-to for delicious Mexican food and big plates that satisfy tired hikers.
- Hypnotic Chicken serves up fried chicken, wings, and comfort food that hits the spot.
1:00 p.m. — One last adventure at Amaze’n Steamboat
Wrap up your weekend with some classic family fun at Amaze’n Steamboat, a mini-amusement park featuring mini-golf, a giant human maze, laser tag, and gemstone panning. It’s the perfect way to let kids run around one last time before the car ride home.
3:00 p.m. — Hit the road — happy and tired
Pack up, fill up the water bottles, and head out of town with full hearts and maybe a few dirty feet. Whether you’re driving back to the Front Range or heading to the airport, we hope you’re leaving with happy memories (and maybe some local honey or hot sauce from the farmers market). Happy trails!
🔎 Want Local Insight for planning your family vacation to Steamboat Springs?
If 36 hours isn’t enough (and it rarely is!), our Kids In Town Concierge Service can help you plan the perfect trip. From toddler-friendly hikes to teen-approved activities, we’ll put together a schedule that works for your whole crew.
