Colorado is famous for its world-class skiing, but there is so much more to do during a Colorado winter. We would absolutely recommend visiting the ski slopes of Aspen, Steamboat, or even the incredible mountain town of Telluride. Still, you could easily base your trip out of Denver and have so much to do on your vacation.
We have spent many winter weekends in the Rocky Mountain State, so we pulled all of our favorite moments from Colorado winter trips together on this list. It’s impossible to pick a favorite trip and highlight it, so we just figured we would smoosh them all together in one guide.
Our Favorite Colorado Winter Destinations
Try New Restaurants and Places in Denver
Denver is the largest city in Colorado and it’s an obvious destination any time of year. With its location on the east side of the Rocky Mountains, it receives around 300 days of sunshine each year and is usually warmer than any of the mountain towns.
The Diary Block is a great collection of shops downtown to explore. Downtown Denver is home to all kinds of great tourist attractions and museums.
The beauty of a city like Denver is that you can find over 100 different restaurants, breweries, and bars that are incredible. I would definitely encourage getting outside of downtown Denver for at least a few hours to explore one of the incredible neighborhoods in the area. Here are a few of our favorite establishments, plus one that’s on our radar:
- So Radish – a vegan restaurant on the main strip in Arvada with a great brunch
- TrashHawk Tavern – every list requires at least one dive bar
- Bang Up to the Elephant! – another great vegan spot that will make you feel like you’ve landed somewhere far away
- New Image Brewing – a great brewery that is a little off the beaten path
Shop and Enjoy the Surrounding Mountains in Leadville
Leadville sits at 10,200 feet which makes it one of the highest cities in the United States. Surrounded by mountain peaks at 14,000 feet, you still won’t feel like you’re on the top of the world. However, the town is a great place to visit and enjoy the beauty and laidback attitude of a smaller Rocky Mountain town. There is no large ski resort in this town, so you can wander Main Street without hoards of tourists from California and New York.
While you’re in Leadville, visit a few of our favorite spots:
- High Mountain Pies – If you’re dealing with a little altitude illness, make sure to get some food in your belly and drink lots of water. This pizza will not disappoint.
- Shop at Melanzana – This cult favorite is a store where all the items are handmade in town. These people know how to make gear that is comfortable and perfect for all your adventuring. You CANNOT order these online, so make an appointment and get your hands on something rad.
- Grab a pastry and coffee at the City on a Hill Coffee & Espresso
Find Some Frozen Lakes
Mountain lakes are plentiful in Colorado and the beautiful Rocky Mountains. In the summertime, the shores are busy and trailheads are full. During the Colorado winter, you’ll find beautiful lakes and you’ll have them to yourself most of the time. Grab some snowshoes or decent hiking boots and warm socks and get out to explore.
These pictures are from Twin Lakes, but we have also loved hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park in the winter.
Stop at Georgetown On Your Way Home From the Ski Hill
One of our favorite stops on Interstate 70 is Georgetown. This small town is the perfect place to stop on your way to or from the ski hills. Enjoy beers at the brewery or enjoy a giant meal to refuel from your adventures. The downtown area is small and easy to cover on foot in no time and it’s right off the highway, so you don’t have to detour very far.
Ski at Loveland
Loveland Ski Area is the closest large ski area to Denver, so it’s a perfect day trip. It’s impossible to have a Colorado Winter to-do list without including at least one ski spot. We found skiing at Loveland to be absolutely wonderful. The lifts weren’t too busy and there was a great variety of different runs to choose from.
Like we mentioned above, most visitors coming during a Colorado winter are coming to ski and there are more ski resorts in this state than any others. Loveland is just one of the many to choose from, but being only 53 miles from Denver, it’s great for anyone who just wants to sneak a few hours of turns in.
Hike and Hang Out in Evergreen
Evergreen is located just southwest of Denver in the foothills. The views are beautiful and there is a wonderful lake and downtown area to explore. It also happens to be the town our best friends live in. We love visiting them because you feel like you’re in a small little mountain town without being too far from the airport and the city. There is always a new hike to try and the local Elk are always hanging out in town.
Have a Few Indoor Activities for Bad Weather Days
We always like to have puzzles and board games to play when we need a break from the cold air and snow. If you’ve ever sat by a roaring fire playing games and listening to music while the snow is blowing around outside, you know that it’s a whole mood.
Where To Stay During a Colorado Winter Getaway
We have a few favorite hotels for you to stay while visiting. Both of these spots are central to the places we visited with so many options for day trips and adventures.
The Origin Hotel in Golden, CO – A newer hotel located right where the mountains meet the city, this spot is perfect for exploring the mountains and areas surrounding Denver.
The Kimpton in Denver, CO – I love a Kimpton hotel, especially when traveling with pups. This hotel is in a great location downtown and you will have access to all the fun stuff in the city.
Enjoy your Colorado Winter Getaway!
If you do want more information about the ski towns of the Colorado Rockies, check out the best things to do in Telluride.
Let me know what else we should try on our next trip to Colorado.
