Relaxation in Steamboat Springs vacation home rentals
An internationally renowned skiing destination, Steamboat Springs began life as a small settlement tucked away high in the Colorado Rockies. During harsh winters, skiing became the inhabitants’ only means of transportation, before finally becoming a popular pastime. These snow-tipped peaks have been drawing holidaymakers to Steamboat Springs vacation rentals ever since, while the promise of luxurious dips in the nearby hot springs has made it a must for the traveler seeking relaxation. The city’s name comes from one of these springs, the soothing bubbling of which, it is said, mimicked the chugging of the local trains.
Steamboat Springs’ pioneering history
The Yampa Valley has been home to a varied group of characters over the years, thanks in no small part to Steamboat’s natural wonders. The Tread of Pioneers Museum, open Tuesday through Saturday every week, exhibits artifacts showcasing the rich tapestry that this diversity has created. The main attraction is the turn-of-the-century Queen Anne-style house at its center. Here, original Victorian furnishings are still displayed, while exhibitions offer invaluable insight into the history of Native Americans, settlers, and passers-through in the area. You’ll also learn about the role of mining and skiing in the city’s development.
Things to do near Steamboat Springs vacation homes
You can't visit Steamboat Springs and not sample the region’s world-famous hot springs. A free bus service connects the Old Town Hot Springs with most central Steamboat Springs vacation rentals, so it’s the best place to start. Once a gathering place for native Ute tribesman, and later a social spot for the earliest settlers, today this family-friendly facility boasts waterslides and rock-climbing walls for children, and invigorating adults-only springs for their parents. Nestled in a breathtaking aspen grove 15 minutes from downtown Steamboat Springs vacation rentals, the Strawberry Park Hot Springs are a top alternative for nature enthusiasts.
Climate during your stay in Steamboat Springs vacation homes
Skiers, snowboarders, and winter-sports enthusiasts flock to Steamboat Springs vacation rentals in the winter months, when average temperatures drop and snowfall is frequent. Rentals with saunas, hot tubs, and fireplaces are especially popular at this time of year. Summers in the region are mild and dry, with average highs reaching the low 80s in July, while the milder fall months still promise warm conditions, with averages often reaching the high 70s and low 80s. This is also the easiest time to find central Steamboat Springs vacation rentals at off-season prices.
Wildlife in Steamboat Springs
The area around Steamboat Springs supports an enviable diversity of plants, animals, and terrains, which is perhaps best seen at Steamboat Lake State Park. A wide variety of native plant communities grows across these different territories—see bitterbrush and rabbitbrush in shrubland settings, lodgepole pines and aspens in shady forests, and willow trees and sedges in the region’s marshes and wetlands. Bird-watchers can spot over 200 species within the boundaries of the park, including northern harrier, western screech owls, and osprey, while the trails are also home to everything from long-tailed weasels and muskrats to tiger salamanders and garter snakes.
Transportation options to and around Steamboat Springs
Fly into Steamboat Springs, CO (HDN-Yampa Valley), the closest airport, located 20.4 mi (32.8 km) from the city center.
Family attractions near Steamboat Springs vacation homes
Steamboat Springs has an array of family-friendly attractions for kids of all ages. Vacation homes can be found near places like Amaze'n Steamboat Family Fun Park, a kid-oriented park with mini golf, a maze, laser tag, and other attractions, and Stagecoach State Park, a year-round recreation destination with trails, a reservoir, and campsites. Kids will also like Whistler Park, a park with soccer fields, a playground, and picnic areas.
Romantic vacation rentals in Steamboat Springs
Couples can enjoy plenty of romantic locations in Steamboat Springs. In addition to the natural hot springs, vacation rentals are also close to places like Yampa River Botanic Park, a scenic park and botanical garden with vibrant blooms and summer concerts, and Fish Creek Falls, a nature area with hiking routes to a roaring waterfall. You'll also like the Steamboat Art Museum, a regional art museum with Colorado artwork, special workshops, and lectures.