The 15 BEST Family Things to Do in Steamboat Springs, CO, This Weekend
Family Activities in Steamboat Springs
Nestled in the stunning Yampa Valley, Steamboat Springs is a year-round playground bursting with adventure, natural beauty, and that authentic Colorado charm.
Whether you're a ski-obsessed crew or a summer-loving family, there are countless family things to do in Steamboat Springs, CO, to keep everyone from toddlers to grandparents thoroughly entertained. If your family loves getting active, why not enjoy these yoga spots Steamboat Springs locals love to recommend.
And if you're looking for one of the best hotels in Steamboat Springs, check out The Village at Steamboat. It offers a charming and cozy retreat, providing a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and relaxation for the whole family.
Top Things to Do in Steamboat Springs with Kids
From soaking in natural hot springs to racing down alpine slides, this mountain town offers the perfect blend of outdoor thrills and small-town warmth that'll have you planning your return trip before you even leave.
Ready to discover what makes Steamboat Springs one of Colorado's top family destinations?
1 | Old Town Hot Springs | Start your Steamboat adventure with a splash at Old Town Hot Springs, a beloved downtown gem that's been rejuvenating locals and visitors for over a century.
But this isn't your mother’s pool facility! Fed by the historic Heart Spring, this family-friendly complex features eight mineral-rich pools ranging from 82 to 103 degrees, perfect for soothing those adventure-tired muscles.
Kids will love the two 230-foot waterslides and the 37-foot climbing wall, while grownups can float peacefully in the adult-only spring or swim laps in the dedicated lap pool. There's even a kiddie pool for the littlest swimmers and a full fitness center that offers massages if you really want to treat yourself.
Pro Tip: Visit on weekday mornings to avoid the crowds.
WHERE: 136 Lincoln Ave, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: (970) 879-1828
2 | Howler Alpine Slide | Get ready for screams of delight as your family zooms down the legendary Howler Alpine Slide at Howelsen Hill!
This thrilling attraction puts you in control of a sled as you descend 2,400 feet down the mountainside with sweeping views of the Yampa Valley. Go slow and take in the panoramic mountain views, or lean into those curves for maximum speed.
Either way, one ride is never enough, so be prepared for multiple runs.
WHERE: 645 Howelsen Pkwy, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: (970) 439-0863
3 | Float the Yampa River | Nothing says "Colorado summer" quite like tubing down the Yampa River.
Bring your own or book an experience with a local outfitter, then sit back and relax as your family floats through the heart of downtown, passing parks, restaurants, and stunning mountain scenery while bobbing along on gentle rapids and standing waves.
The float typically takes 1-3 hours, depending on your put-in and take-out points and current river flow.
Pro Tip: The best tubing happens from late June through August when water levels are just right.
WHERE: Colorado 80487 | WHO: N/A
4 | Fish Creek Falls | Few natural wonders inspire quite like Fish Creek Falls, a magnificent 283-foot cascade that thunders down Fish Creek Canyon year-round.
This spectacular waterfall is easily accessible for the entire family, making it one of the top things to do in Steamboat Springs with kids of all ages and abilities.
For families with older kids or strong hikers, continue past the bridge for a moderate 2.5-mile climb to Upper Fish Creek Falls. The trail gets rockier and steeper, but the payoff is absolutely worth it.
Pro Tip: Spring and summer bring clear cascading water perfect for photography, while winter transforms the falls into an ice-climbing destination, and the trail becomes a popular snowshoeing route.
WHERE: 34165 Fish Creek Falls Rd, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: (970) 879-0880
5 | Yampa River Botanic Park | Need a peaceful break from high-octane adventures? The Yampa River Botanic Park offers six acres of pure tranquility right in town.
This hidden gem features over 60 themed gardens showcasing everything from native wildflowers to plants from similar climates around the world, all thriving at 6,800 feet elevation.
Kids will love spotting wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for birds and butterflies, while adults can enjoy the vibrant blooms and peaceful atmosphere. Throughout the summer, the park hosts free concerts, theater performances, and educational programs perfect for families.
Pro Tip: Pack a lunch and have a picnic on one of the benches or lawn spaces.
WHERE: 1000 Pamela Ln, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: (970) 846-5172
6 | Ride the Yampa River Core Trail | Calling all biking families! The Yampa River Core Trail is a 7.5-mile paved multi-use path that's basically made for family adventures.
This mostly flat, traffic-free trail winds along the gorgeous Yampa River, connecting parks, playgrounds, scenic overlooks, and downtown Steamboat, making it perfect for riders of all ages and abilities.
Along the way, you'll cruise over charming wooden bridges, pass the Yampa River Botanic Park, spot fishing spots and tubers on the river, and enjoy those incredible mountain views. There are numerous parks perfect for rest stops and playgrounds where kids can burn off extra energy.
Pro Tip: Dr. Rich Weiss Park (also known as "Hippy Hot Springs") is a favorite spot where warm overflow water from Old Town Hot Springs creates a perfect swimming hole.
WHERE: 936282004, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: N/A
7 | Steamboat Pro Rodeo | Yeehaw! No Steamboat visit is complete without experiencing the authentic Western tradition of the Steamboat Pro Rodeo.
Watch professional cowboys and cowgirls compete in bareback riding, bull riding, steer wrestling, team roping, and more. The announcer keeps things fun and family-friendly while explaining the action, making it easy for rodeo newbies to follow along.
Kids especially love the Calf Scramble and Ram Scramble events, where children can actually enter the arena and chase calves or sheep to grab ribbons from their tails!
WHERE: 401 Howelsen Pkwy, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: (970) 879-1818
8 | Tread of Pioneers Museum | Get a dose of Colorado history at the Tread of Pioneers Museum, housed in a beautifully preserved 1901 Queen Anne-style Victorian home.
This engaging museum brings the colorful history of Steamboat Springs and Routt County to life through interactive exhibits, hands-on displays, and fascinating artifacts.
Kids can learn the fun way with a scavenger hunt that leads them through exhibits exploring Native American heritage, the history of skiing, pioneer life, ranching, mining, and even the story of infamous outlaw Harry Tracy!
The museum also features interactive exhibits, an extensive firearms collection in the Western Heritage room, and a fantastic historic photograph collection that'll transport you back in time.
WHERE: 800 Oak St, Steamboat Springs, CO 80477 | WHO: (970) 879-2214
9 | Strawberry Park Hot Springs | For a more rustic and adventurous hot springs experience, venture out to Strawberry Park Hot Springs.
Nestled in an aspen grove in the mountains, these natural 104-degree mineral pools offer a stunning wilderness setting that feels worlds away from civilization – yet it's only about 15 minutes from town. The property features multiple stone-masonry pools at varying temperatures, allowing everyone to find their perfect comfort zone.
Pro Tip: Strawberry Park is completely family-friendly during the day; however, children are not permitted after dark when the springs become clothing-optional and adults-only.
WHERE: 44200 Co Rd 36, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: (970) 879-0342
10 | Amaze'n Steamboat Family Fun Park | Looking for concentrated family fun in one spot? Amaze'n Steamboat delivers with its action-packed amusement park featuring activities for all ages.
This local gem offers miniature golf on a challenging 18-hole course, a giant human maze where kids can race against the clock through twists and turns, gemstone panning (kids find real gems they can keep!), laser tag battles, squirt gun fun, and the unique "Shoot'n Shower Basketball."
WHERE: 125 Anglers Dr, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: (970) 870-8682
11 | Snow Bowl | Sometimes you just need a good old-fashioned bowling outing, and Snow Bowl delivers with 12 lanes of family-friendly fun.
This isn't your typical bowling alley; the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with arcade games, TVs for catching sports, and a full menu of tasty food and drinks.
The snack bar serves up classic bowling fare, including pizza, wings, burgers, and fries, plus they have beer and cocktails for the adults.
Pro Tip: Check their schedule for cosmic bowling nights with black lights and music.
WHERE: 2090 Snow Bowl Plaza, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: (970) 879-9840
12 | Downtown Steamboat Springs | Downtown Steamboat Springs is an experience unto itself, blending Western heritage with modern mountain town charm.
Wander the charming streets, discovering local boutiques like Chrysalis for unique accessories, Off the Beaten Path bookstore for reading material, and Fuzziwigs Candy for sweet treats that'll fuel your afternoon explorations. Art galleries showcase local and regional artists, and you'll find plenty of souvenir shops offering that perfect Steamboat memento.
Pro Tip: When hunger strikes, downtown offers incredible dining diversity. Grab casual eats at The Commons Food Hall, where seven vendors offer everything from wood-fired pizza to poke bowls, perfect when everyone wants something different.
WHERE: 75 5th St, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: N/A
13 | Take the Gondola Up Mount Werner | While Steamboat is famous for winter skiing, the free Wildhorse Gondola operates during summer too, whisking families up Mount Werner for stunning alpine views and mountain activities.
At the top, you'll find hiking trails suitable for families, including easy nature walks that showcase wildflowers and possibly wildlife.
The views alone are worth the trip! On clear days, you can see for miles across mountain peaks and valleys. Bring a picnic to enjoy at the summit, or grab a bite at one of the on-mountain restaurants.
Pro Tip: Golden hour creates absolutely stunning light for family photos with the mountains as your backdrop. Worth planning your gondola ride accordingly!
WHERE: 2305 Mt Werner Cir #2291, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: N/A
14 | Bud Werner Memorial Library | Don't overlook this community gem! Bud Werner Memorial Library isn't just a place to check out books; it's a vibrant hub of free family programming.
The library regularly hosts story times for young children, craft sessions, educational programs, and special events throughout the year.
During summer, the library often extends its programming with outdoor activities and special reading challenges for kids. It's completely free, climate-controlled, and right in the heart of downtown, making it an easy addition to any Steamboat itinerary.
WHERE: 1289 Lincoln Ave, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: (970) 879-0240
15 | Hike to Emerald Mountain | For active families ready to experience Steamboat's mountain trails, Emerald Mountain offers an accessible network of hiking and mountain biking paths with varying difficulty levels.
The trails range from easy, kid-friendly nature walks to more challenging climbs for experienced hikers. Even the easier routes reward you with beautiful views of Steamboat Springs nestled in the valley below, wildflower meadows, and possible wildlife sightings, including deer, birds, and maybe even moose if you're lucky.
The trailhead starts right near downtown behind the rodeo grounds, making it convenient for families staying in the area.
WHERE: Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 | WHO: N/A
When to Visit Steamboat Springs with Kids
Steamboat Springs truly shines as a year-round destination, each season offering unique family adventures:
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Summer (June-August): Peak season for family activities in Steamboat Springs, featuring tubing, hiking, the rodeo, alpine slide, and perfect weather for outdoor exploration. Expect crowds, especially on weekends, but also the fullest activity schedule.
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Fall (September-October): Gorgeous aspen leaf colors, fewer crowds, cooler temperatures ideal for hiking, and more affordable lodging. Some attractions close for the season, so check ahead.
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Winter (December-March): World-class skiing and snowboarding, plus snowshoeing, sledding, ice skating, and cozy hot springs soaks. Winter Carnival in February is legendary!
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Spring (April-May): Shoulder season with unpredictable weather but great deals on accommodations. Some summer activities haven't opened yet, but Fish Creek Falls is spectacular with snowmelt.
Tips for Visiting Steamboat Springs with Family
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Book early: Popular activities like tubing outfitters and hot springs reservations fill up quickly in summer. Reserve 30 days in advance when booking windows open.
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Stay central: For the ultimate family-friendly home base, consider The Village at Steamboat. Along with offering a wide array of amenities that the whole family will love, its central location gives you easy access to all the family activities in Steamboat Springs while providing a peaceful retreat to return to each evening.
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Altitude adjustment: Steamboat sits at 6,800 feet. Give everyone time to acclimate, drink lots of water, and don't overdo it the first day.
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Layer up: Mountain weather changes rapidly. Even summer days can start chilly and end warm, or vice versa. Bring jackets, sunscreen, and rain gear.
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Free transportation: Steamboat Springs Transit offers free bus service around town. It's convenient, eco-friendly, and helps avoid parking hassles.
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Embrace the pace: Steamboat has a relaxed, friendly vibe. Don't try to cram too much into one day—part of the magic is slowing down and soaking in that mountain town atmosphere.
Full Steam(boat) Ahead!
From natural hot springs to Wild West rodeos, thrilling alpine slides to peaceful botanical gardens, Steamboat Springs delivers an incredible variety of fun things to do in Steamboat Springs, Colorado that'll satisfy every family member.
This authentic mountain town combines outdoor adventure with small-town charm in a way that feels both exhilarating and welcoming. The best part? You've barely scratched the surface of what this amazing destination offers.
So, ready to start planning your Steamboat Springs family getaway? For more travel tips and tricks, visit our Westgate Resorts Travel Blog.
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* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.
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