Ten Wonderful Winter Activities
The sunlight is slowly disappearing, the temperatures dropping and that wonderful fluffy snow has already shown up here in Colorado. We're getting ready for winter! While many look to escape the frigidity the season may bring, we have some fun ideas to fully embrace the wintertime glory. Our simplified list is below. Check out our blog for the full details!
1. Palmer Lake Yule Log Hunt
Every year right before Christmas the town of Palmer Lake celebrates the holidays with a yule log hunt! You may join the potluck on December 13th and take part in the hunt on the 17th. Check out more details here.
2. Denver's Christkindl Market
Our favorite holiday market in the Denver area, the Christkindl market is hosted by the German American Chambers of Commerce and celebrates the cultural traditions of Christmas with hand-crafted gifts and delicious German food and drink. Don’t forget to get your mug of Glühwein! Click here for more information.
3. Ouray Ice Fest
Looking to head into the mountains this winter but not wanting to ski? Travel to Ouray for this spectacular annual Ice Festival that transforms the town into an ice climbing mecca with people from around the world. By day you’ll watch expert climbers traverse the walls of ice; by night enjoy parties and entertainment throughout the town. Climb into the fun this winter!
4. The National Western Stock Show
It's a historic tradition dating back to 1906! The National Western Stock Show is the state’s largest western trade show and is representative of our wild west. Don’t miss out on the fun this January!
5. An Evening in LoDo Denver
LoDo Denver offers a variety of activities to enjoy the wintertime season. We recommend taking the train to Union Station and getting some hot chocolate (perhaps with your favorite pick-me-up added) at the Terminal Bar. Take in the lights of Union Station and then walk down 17th Street to the Oxford Hotel to enjoy their holiday display. From there, walk to the free mall shuttle and get off at Arapahoe Street. You’ll see the stunning light display on the D&F Tower while ice skating at Skyline Park. It’s a joyous way to celebrate the holidays!
6. Catch a Show at the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center
While there are many shows in Denver around the holidays, we recommend heading to the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center. It’s been a top cultural attraction in the Pikes Peak region and offers stellar shows for all ages. Check out their website for the holiday season lineup. Enjoy the show!
7. Snowshoeing Near Rollinsville
Colorado offers many snow-centered activities during the winter, but the one we find the most relaxing and beautiful is snowshoeing. Michael’s favorite spot to escape the city for some winter snowshoe splendor is just outside Rollinsville by the east entrance of the Moffat Tunnel. There are easy trails for cross country skiing and snowshoeing, made even more magical if it’s snowing around you!
8. Afternoon Tea at the Brown Palace Hotel
Sometimes it’s nice to stay warm and inside during winter. Should this be up your alley, then we recommend going to the historic Brown Palace Hotel in downtown Denver and joining one of their afternoon teas. Indulge in delicious teas and finger sandwiches while taking in the beauty of the hotel lobby, decorated to the nines for the holiday season. Make a reservation today!
9. Ride the Polar Express with the Colorado Railroad Museum
Ah, to be a kid again! Head to the Colorado Railroad Museum for this splendid experience aboard the Polar Express! You’ll be transported to the North Pole with holiday caroling, treats and even a special visit from Santa. It’s a fun event for the whole family! Make reservations today.
10. Lafayette Oatmeal Festival
For nearly thirty years the town of Lafayette has been hosting an oh-so-yummy Oatmeal Festival! With the choice of more than a hundred toppings, it’s a true wintertime delight. Make room in the belly for this oatmeal on Saturday, January 13, 2024!
