Steamboat Springs, Colorado is a vacation spot for most, but for me, it's home. Though many see the town as a cozy ski resort, the people who have lived here for a while, know that there is so much more than just the activities on the mountain.

Below are some of my favorite things to do in Steamboat:

Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo Series

I may be biased because I also work here too, but the Steamboat Pro Rodeo Series is one of the greatest local summer events to attend. Starting mid-June through the end of August, Friday and Saturday nights are filled with food, good music, and rodeo!

*Local Tip: You can buy a season pass and save a lot of money, if you plan on attending more than 1 or 2 rodeos!

Strawberry Park Hot Springs

These hot springs are a hidden gem in the Yampa Valley and open year-round. These mineral pools are a great place to relax with family or friends.

For more information, visit here.

*Local Tip: If planning on visiting in the winter, consider taking the shuttle unless you are experienced with mountain terrain and have 4-wheel drive.

Local Restaurants

I get asked all the time what the best places to eat are in Steamboat, and there are so many! I really don't think you can go wrong! A unique thing about Steamboat is that we don't allow large chain restaurants to come in, which is great for the local economy.

Breakfast: Winonas, Freshies, Creekside, Egg & I...these are just a few I love!

Lunch: Taco Cabo, Cantina, Noodles & More, Mo's BBQ, The Diner @ Lyon's Drug, Back Door Burgers, Johnny B. Goods, Tacos Del Barco, or Azteca.

Dinner: The Ore House, 8th Street Steak House, Big House Burgers, Fiesta Jalisco, Carl's, E3, Mambo's, just to name a few.

There are so many more, but these are a few of my favorites.

The Alpine Slide and Beach Volleyball at Howelson Hill

In the winter, Howelson is busy with skiers, but in the summer, you can go ride the Alpine Slide or play beach volleyball at the sand courts below. There's also a great park for the kids to play on and space to host a BBQ! (Located next to the rodeo grounds!)

4th of July in Steamboat

This is one of my favorite times of year in Steamboat! The city goes all out and there's a parade, pancake breakfast, block parties, an awesome rodeo, and of course one of the coolest fireworks displays in Colorado! Check out all the activities here.

Balloon Rodeo

This is something that I have gone to since I was little. My dad would wake me up early in the morning to go watch the balloons air up and take off. This truly is an awesome event to see.

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Believe it or not, there are so many more events held in Steamboat during all seasons! And if you haven't been to Steamboat yet, I highly recommend it. After moving away for school, coming home really makes me appreciate Steamboat's true beauty.