Steamboat Springs, Colorado is known as a family friendly destination. Here at Grand Adventure Lodging Company, we have kids of our own and know all the tips and tricks of traveling to our town with children. See below for a list of recommendations and information regarding your ski getaway with kids.
Skiing:
Teaching kids to ski is one of the greatest joys of a parent in a ski town. Here in Steamboat, kids hit the slopes as soon as they can walk! We recommend signing your children up with the Steamboat Ski Area’s Ski School or Kids Vacation Center options. Or if you have a good handle on things and want to get your kids out there yourself check out the Greenhorn Ranch area accessed by the Wild Blue Gondola to get your ski legs under you. Once you are ready to move up, ride the Gondola and take the Why Not trail all the way down. Locals tip, stop at the Teepees about half way down to give little legs a break and maybe a snack.
Dining:
Most restaurants in Steamboat Springs are family friendly with a few exceptions. We have some favorites that make dining out as a family an enjoyable experience (instead of a chore!).
Fiesta Jalisco: A great family friendly Mexican option located between downtown and the mountain area. They can accommodate small and large parties alike. Delicious menu options.
Mai Thai: A family run Thai restaurant located downtown. They are so friendly, love the little ones and the food is great!
Mazzolas: A delicious Italian restaurant option located downtown. Everyone will leave here full and happy.
Slopeside: This is a good pick for lunch on the mountain or an après ski early dinner or snack. We like to sit outside where the kids can run around (year-round). They have great pizzas. Sometimes they are swamped during ski season, so expect a little wait for your food but the festive après atmosphere should hopefully make up for it.
Babysitting:
We recommend calling Steamboat Babysitting Company to reserve a babysitter for a parent’s night (or day) out. All of their sitters are background checked and certified.
Other Activities:
Parks: Steamboat has some great parks for letting the little ones run out some energy. In the mountain area, hit up Whistler Park which is one of our favorites or if you are downtown check out Little Toots Park located next to the library along the river or Howelsen Hill Park located by the baseball fields at Howelsen Hill.
Howelsen Ice Arena: For a change of pace take the family to Howelsen Hill Ice Arena for some fun on the ice. They offer skating and skate rentals as well as bumper cars on ice!
Summer Activities at the Base Area: During the summer season, the Steamboat Ski Area offers fun activities at the base area. Check out the Ski Area’s website for details and cost. Or just hang out in the “beach” area along Burgess Creek.
Supplies:
Both City Market and Walmart are good spots for finding supplies for the little ones. Each place offers baby food, diapers, medicine etc. Walmart carries a small selection of outdoor clothing, swimsuits and toys. Check out Christy Sports for any specialty gear you need for the kids.
Medical Info:
We hope that everyone stays healthy during your visit, but if you need to visit a doctor while in town, Steamboat Medical Center is a good option for urgent care type appointments. There are a few pharmacies in town including Walgreens, City Market, Safeway and Lyons Drug downtown.
