Craving a serene spa-centered getaway with world-famous hot springs? Searching for an adventure-packed and nature-focused destination, complete with hiking trails and blossoming wildflowers? Glenwood Springs has it all and more. This Colorado mountain town is an ideal destination for families, friends, and couples alike. Here are our top four reasons to choose the year-round perfection of Glenwood Springs for your next vacation.
Colorado is world-renowned for the beautiful slopes of the Rocky Mountains, the lush green forests and sprinklings of wildflowers, the refreshing rivers, and picture-perfect waterfalls… the list goes on. Glenwood Springs, in particular, boasts an array of natural wonders, and intense athletes and casual visitors alike will find something to explore. Rivers, lakes, and mountain peaks surround the town, and hidden gems (like caverns!) can be found at every turn.
Explore the meandering mountain trails on foot with the town’s many hiking trails (such as iconic Hanging Lake), or rent a bike or four-wheeler. Take a guided horseback ride through the trees. Go on an aerial adventure: zipline across the Colorado River, go tandem skydiving, or test your strengths on a ropes course. Golf a championship-caliber course in the fresh mountain air; kids (and parents!) also have mini golf and disc golf courses at their fingertips. Experience the rapids on a whitewater raft (or choose a calmer path for easy floating) on a nearby river. Ski down a slope or two at a family-friendly ski resort. Your options are endless when it comes to enjoying nature here.
Glenwood Springs’ hot springs pool (the largest in the world!) has attracted visitors for over a century. The soothing, healing mineral water heats up to hot tub temps thanks to geothermal energy. Spend a leisurely afternoon swimming at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, then finish the day with a facial or massage at the spa, a workout at the premier athletic club, or a laid-back meal by the pool.
A tourist destination since the late 1880s, Glenwood Springs has a vibrant history. One such highlight: legendary Old West gunfighter and gambler Doc Holliday spent his last days in Glenwood Springs. (Pay a visit to his grave during your trip.) For the town’s full story, visit the Frontier Historical Society Museum. Step back in time with a stroll through a pioneer home replica, learn more about the area’s mining and ranching industries, and discover the history of Glenwood Springs’ original inhabitants, the Ute Indians.
Art lovers have a handful of galleries and shops to explore, including Cooper Corner Gallery’s artisan-crafted home goods (carved wooden bowls, blown-glass pieces, and more) and Artist’s Mercantile’s handmade art (like paint, charcoal, and ceramics).
In the mood to shop? An abundance of options ensures everyone can find what they’re looking for. Peruse sportswear and outdoor gear shops, high-end boutiques, old-fashioned candy stores, and the local farmers’ market.
Aside from the natural attractions, Glenwood Springs has several manmade experiences that are worth a visit. Make a pit stop at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, an adventure park like no other. Built into the natural landscape, this mountain-themed attraction offers scenic gondola rides up the slopes, thrill rides and roller coasters, and walking tours of the mountain’s natural caverns. For the hottest summer days, cool off with a trip to the Glenwood Escape Room, an indoor challenge where the room itself is a puzzle to solve.
When it comes to food, you’ll find both fine dining and laid-back family restaurants in Glenwood Springs. The town offers a diverse array of cuisines; try highly-rated restaurants with focuses on Mexican, Italian, Nepalese, Thai, or German food. Health nuts will find solace amongst fitness-focused locals, who flock to several plant-focused restaurants. If you’re simply craving a burger or steak, you’ll find a top-notch one in Glenwood Springs.
Need even more convincing? Glenwood Springs is a “Top Destination on the Rise” in the TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Awards, as well as one of the “Friendliest Cities in America” according to Travel + Leisure. Visit Glenwood Springs’ official blog for more information and book your trip today.
Nature
Colorado is world-renowned for the beautiful slopes of the Rocky Mountains, the lush green forests and sprinklings of wildflowers, the refreshing rivers, and picture-perfect waterfalls… the list goes on. Glenwood Springs, in particular, boasts an array of natural wonders, and intense athletes and casual visitors alike will find something to explore. Rivers, lakes, and mountain peaks surround the town, and hidden gems (like caverns!) can be found at every turn.
Explore the meandering mountain trails on foot with the town’s many hiking trails (such as iconic Hanging Lake), or rent a bike or four-wheeler. Take a guided horseback ride through the trees. Go on an aerial adventure: zipline across the Colorado River, go tandem skydiving, or test your strengths on a ropes course. Golf a championship-caliber course in the fresh mountain air; kids (and parents!) also have mini golf and disc golf courses at their fingertips. Experience the rapids on a whitewater raft (or choose a calmer path for easy floating) on a nearby river. Ski down a slope or two at a family-friendly ski resort. Your options are endless when it comes to enjoying nature here.
Hot Springs
Glenwood Springs’ hot springs pool (the largest in the world!) has attracted visitors for over a century. The soothing, healing mineral water heats up to hot tub temps thanks to geothermal energy. Spend a leisurely afternoon swimming at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, then finish the day with a facial or massage at the spa, a workout at the premier athletic club, or a laid-back meal by the pool.
A Rich Local History and Culture
A tourist destination since the late 1880s, Glenwood Springs has a vibrant history. One such highlight: legendary Old West gunfighter and gambler Doc Holliday spent his last days in Glenwood Springs. (Pay a visit to his grave during your trip.) For the town’s full story, visit the Frontier Historical Society Museum. Step back in time with a stroll through a pioneer home replica, learn more about the area’s mining and ranching industries, and discover the history of Glenwood Springs’ original inhabitants, the Ute Indians.
Art lovers have a handful of galleries and shops to explore, including Cooper Corner Gallery’s artisan-crafted home goods (carved wooden bowls, blown-glass pieces, and more) and Artist’s Mercantile’s handmade art (like paint, charcoal, and ceramics).
Shops, Attractions, and Restaurants
In the mood to shop? An abundance of options ensures everyone can find what they’re looking for. Peruse sportswear and outdoor gear shops, high-end boutiques, old-fashioned candy stores, and the local farmers’ market.
Glenwood Springs is a “Top Destination on the Rise” in the TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Awards, as well as one of the “Friendliest Cities in America” according to Travel + Leisure.
Aside from the natural attractions, Glenwood Springs has several manmade experiences that are worth a visit. Make a pit stop at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, an adventure park like no other. Built into the natural landscape, this mountain-themed attraction offers scenic gondola rides up the slopes, thrill rides and roller coasters, and walking tours of the mountain’s natural caverns. For the hottest summer days, cool off with a trip to the Glenwood Escape Room, an indoor challenge where the room itself is a puzzle to solve.
When it comes to food, you’ll find both fine dining and laid-back family restaurants in Glenwood Springs. The town offers a diverse array of cuisines; try highly-rated restaurants with focuses on Mexican, Italian, Nepalese, Thai, or German food. Health nuts will find solace amongst fitness-focused locals, who flock to several plant-focused restaurants. If you’re simply craving a burger or steak, you’ll find a top-notch one in Glenwood Springs.
Need even more convincing? Glenwood Springs is a “Top Destination on the Rise” in the TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Awards, as well as one of the “Friendliest Cities in America” according to Travel + Leisure. Visit Glenwood Springs’ official blog for more information and book your trip today.
