The Ultimate Insider Guide to Summer in Steamboat Springs (+ Family Photos—of course)

There is an old local saying here: "You come for the winter, but you stay for the summer." If you are lucky enough to spend time in the Yampa Valley during the warmer months, you already know why. The mountain views, the aspen groves, and the laid-back pace of life make it a pretty magical place to be.

Because we had a lighter winter this year, things are looking a little different on the ground. Locals are already gearing up for lower water levels and early river conservation. But that doesn’t mean summer is cancelled. It just means we are adjusting how we play.

If you want to experience Steamboat like someone who actually lives here, this is your official roadmap for how to eat, shop, and spend your days this season.

Navigating the Yampa River This Summer

The Yampa River is the absolute heartbeat of our town. With this year's lower snowpack, runoff peaked early, which means we will likely see voluntary closures or tubing restrictions as the season goes on to protect the trout and the overall health of the river.

If water levels dip too low or temperatures climb too high, commercial tubing might get paused. My best advice is to check in with local outfitters daily. If tubing is a no-go, don't sweat it. Rent a Stand-Up Paddleboard instead and head up to Steamboat Lake or Pearl Lake in Clark or Stagecoach Reservoir for a pristine day on the water.

Where to Eat: River Views and Local Staples

When it is time to refuel, Steamboat’s food scene is best experienced outdoors. If you want a great dinner, grab a patio seat right next to the rushing water.

The River-Side Patios

• Aurum Food & Wine: For an upscale but completely unpretentious evening, Aurum’s outdoor patio is unmatched. Sit right on the riverbank as the sun goes down over the mountains. Their happy hour is legendary for a reason.

• Taco Cabo: If you want something casual, vibrant, and packed with flavor, this is the spot. Grab some street tacos, a cold margarita, and sit on their backyard patio directly overlooking the Yampa. It is the quintessential Steamboat summer vibe.

• The Ice House: This is a perfect stop to cool off after a long day of hiking. Grab a drink and enjoy prime river-side seating right in the middle of downtown.

The Rex’s Family Favorites

You truly cannot go wrong with the restaurants under the Rex’s umbrella. They are local staples for a reason, offering incredible food and great atmospheres.

• Laundry Kitchen & Cocktails: Housed in a historic Steamboat building downtown (the old laundry kiln), this spot is fantastic. They specialize in incredible shared plates, charcuterie, and masterfully mixed craft cocktails. It is the perfect place for a night out with friends or a great post-hike dinner.

• Salt & Lime: Located downtown, this is your go-to for a modern twist on scratch-made tacos, an impressive tequila selection, and a rooftop deck that offers incredible views of Howelsen Hill. ( My family laughs at me, because I go here ALL THE TIME, and my friends know that I may offer other suggestions of places to meet, but I always actually mean here.) ;)

• Mazzola's Majestic Italian: Tucked downstairs downtown, it’s the ultimate spot for hearty, delicious Italian comfort food, house-made pastas, and pizza.

Saturday Traditions, Shopping, and the Rodeo

Steamboat Saturdays are a ritual around here. The town completely comes alive with fresh food, local creators, and unbeatable energy.

• The Main Street Farmers Market: Every Saturday morning, Yampa Street transforms into a bustling walking market. Grab a locally roasted coffee, listen to live music, and browse everything from fresh Colorado produce to handmade jewelry.

• Curated Shopping at The Beck: After you cruise the market, walk over to The Beck. It is a gorgeous, curated pop-up store right on Yampa Street featuring an incredible mix of unique apparel, home goods, and local style. Fun fact: you might even catch me working behind the counter there when I am not behind the camera, so come say hi. (Other local favorites: Ohana, Upcountry Ohana’s sister shop), and Adorn. ( Just cruise down Lincoln, you really can’t go wrong with a variety of other great shops!)

• The Steamboat Pro Rodeo Series: You cannot talk about summer in Steamboat without mentioning the Friday and Saturday night rodeo. It is an absolute must-do. Even if you don't think you are a rodeo person, the atmosphere, the community vibe, and the western heritage are electric. Grab a cold drink, enjoy the sunset over the arena, and experience a piece of living history.

Where to Soak: Natural Steamboat Springs Hot Springs

You cannot visit Ski Town USA without spending time in the natural mineral water that gave our town its name. It is the ultimate way to soothe your muscles after a long day of hiking, biking, or fishing.

• Strawberry Park Hot Springs: Nestled deep in the forest just north of town, this place is legendary. It is a completely rustic, natural paradise with stone-walled pools of varying temperatures alongside Hot Springs Creek. You need a reservation to go, and the mountain road up there can be rough, so consider taking a local Steamboat shuttle. It is family-friendly during the day and adults-only after dark.

• Old Town Hot Springs: If you want something convenient right downtown, Old Town Hot Springs is a fantastic community staple on Lincoln Avenue. It features multi-use mineral pools, water slides for the kids, and a fitness center. No reservations are needed here, making it a super easy stop after shopping or lunch.

Capture Your Summer Memories

Summer in the Rockies is beautiful, but it goes by fast. Whether you are visiting for a family vacation, celebrating a milestone, or just love the way the golden hour light hits the valley in July, let’s document your time here. ***JUST REMEMBER THAT “GOLDEN HOUR” CAN BE LATE HERE (ESPECIALLY IF YOU WANT THE MOUNTAINS BEHIND YOU, OTHERWISE YOU ARE STARING INTO THE SUN) READ MY OTHER BLOGPOST ON KEEPING YOUR KIDS UP LATE AND MAKING THIS FUN ;)***

My summer calendar fills up incredibly fast—especially for limited weekend spots. If you want to plan a storytelling session while the valley is green and the evenings are warm, let's chat.

[Click here to view my summer availability and book your session.]