The holidays are one of the best times to visit Steamboat Springs and unwind from the long year behind you. The excited anticipation on our children’s faces, the sight of businesses and homes dressed up for the holidays, and, if you are lucky, the feeling invoked when snow starts falling on Christmas Eve all let us know that this year will be a white and peaceful yuletide! Of course, not everyone in the world is able to enjoy a white Christmas. If you happen to live in more “tropical” areas of the country, a visit to Colorado and a stay in one of our Steamboat vacation rentals may be the perfect gift to give your family. This guide will ensure a very merry holiday in Steamboat Springs!
If you’re thinking of visiting Steamboat for the holiday season, here are some tips to make your visit memorable:
Sleigh Rides Through the Snow
Horse-drawn sleigh rides are such a popular event in Steamboat Springs at Christmas. If you have never been on a sleigh ride, your Christmas visit to Steamboat Springs is the perfect time to change that! Locations such as Bar Lazy L Ranch or Haymaker offer sleigh rides throughout the winter months and over the holiday season.
Christmas Shopping
No matter how organized you are, chances are there will still be a necessity for a little last-minute Christmas shopping. Be a happy Christmas elf when you visit the Jewelry and Fossil Shop of Steamboat Springs, located at 745 Lincoln Avenue, or Moose Mountain Trading Company at 824 Lincoln Avenue; filled with cool gifts and sweet surprises, the recipients on your very long nice list are guaranteed to be happy that you remembered them and even happier that you picked up something that will remind them of their unforgettable Christmas getaway in Steamboat Springs!
Stay in a Steamboat Ski-In/Ski-Out Rental
If you’re looking to visit Steamboat over Christmas, you’ll want to take a peek at some of our ski-in/ski-out Steamboat properties! Staying at a ski-in ski-out Steamboat rental is the ultimate way to enjoy a Steamboat winter vacation. Spend less time getting to and from the mountain, and have more time to make quality memories! Some of our favorite Steamboat Ski-in Ski-out rentals include Learning to Fly, Slopeside Retreat, Golden Hour View, and Sun and Snow! Or browse all of our Steamboat rentals, because there really isn’t a bad place to stay in Steamboat.
A Celebratory Ski
A Christmas day spent skiing or snowboarding at Steamboat Resort is the perfect way to enjoy your holiday and make lasting memories! Gliding through our stunning aspen trees on our world-renowned Champagne powder is a day spent like no other. Stop by the base to get your fix of hot cocoa or an apres ski cocktail before heading back to your cozy vacation rental for presents and festivities.
The Spirit Is Strong in Steamboat Springs
The addition of Christmas decorations makes town feel like a holiday village, something you will soon discover during your Steamboat getaway! With our downtown decked out in colorful lights and displays, your Christmas spirit will slide right back into place with a simple walk. Everywhere you turn you will see something special. Steamboat Springs really comes alive over the holiday season, and the town and mountain are buzzing with festive energy.
Check out our Mountain Properties
Want to be close to the hill for the best views this holiday season, but away from the bustle of town? Check out our stunning Steamboat mountain-side properties for the best views this Christmas! These properties get you close to the mountain while giving the ambiance of a family home within the community. When you’re ready to head downtown, just hop on the bus line and mosey on down!
Merry and Bright
Everyone knows that you do not have to go far to discover the Christmas spirit. Turn on your favorite Christmas movie and marvel at how beautiful everything looks on our state of the art televisions or turn your laptop to your favorite Christmas station and host a singalong that consists of only your family members! Hot cocoa and Christmas cookies taste even better when made from scratch in our fully equipped kitchens, and once the children reluctantly drift off to sleep in our soft beds, even Santa wouldn’t mind sitting down for a sip or two eggnog before he heads back out into the elements.
FAQs: Visiting Steamboat Springs for the Holidays
Q: What is Steamboat Springs like during the holidays?
A: Steamboat transforms into a winter wonderland—sparkling lights downtown, fresh powder on the mountain, and festive events like the Torchlight Parade, fireworks, and holiday concerts.
Q: When does Steamboat Ski Resort open for the winter season?
A: The resort typically opens in late November (this year’s opening day is slated for November 22, 2025) and runs through mid-April, with peak holiday skiing conditions from mid-December through early January.
Q: Are there holiday events in Steamboat?
A: Yes! Enjoy the Torchlight Parade and Fireworks on Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve celebrations, local craft fairs, the Cowboy Downhill in mid-January, and the annual Winter Carnival in February for extended holiday fun.
Q: What are the best places to stay in Steamboat for the holidays?
A: For easy slope access and cozy amenities, choose mountain rentals like Four Seasons Steamboat’s homes and condos, offering fireplaces, hot tubs, and stunning views.
Q: What should I pack for a holiday trip to Steamboat?
A: Bring warm, layered clothing, waterproof gear, gloves, hats, snow boots, and casual outfits for dining and après-ski activities in town.
Q: Is Steamboat Springs family-friendly during the holidays?
A: Steamboat is very family-friendly all year long! The town offers ski school programs, snow tubing at Howelsen Hill, sleigh rides, hot springs, and plenty of festive dining and family events for all ages.
Christmas Blessings
Reserve your merry getaway to Steamboat Springs for the Christmas holiday!
