Things To Do
in Glenwood Springs

Glenwood Springs is a picturesque mountain town located in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, known for its natural hot springs and stunning landscapes. Nestled at the confluence of the Colorado River and Roaring Fork River, it offers a variety of outdoor activities year-round. The area boasts rich history, including its significance to the Ute Native Americans and early settlers.

With a charming downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, Glenwood Springs is a perfect destination for relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the Glenwood Canyon Brewpub, then head to the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool for a relaxing soak.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park for a guided cave tour and thrilling amusement rides.

evening
:

Dine at The Pullman, known for its farm-to-table cuisine, then take a leisurely stroll along the scenic riverwalk.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with breakfast at the Sweet Coloradough, famous for its gourmet donuts, then explore the Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves.

afternoon
:

Visit the Frontier Historical Museum to learn about the local history, followed by a hike on the Hanging Lake Trail.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at the Smoke Modern Barbeque, and end your night with live music at the local bars.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🏨Hotel (per night)$100-$250
🚗Gasoline (per gallon)$3-$4
🍺Craft beer$6-$8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities year-round.
  • Rich history and culture with unique local attractions.
  • Variety of dining options catering to different tastes.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Higher prices for accommodations and dining during summer.
  • Limited public transportation options.

Places to Visit in Glenwood Springs

Visit one of these nice places.

Hanging Lake

A stunning turquoise lake with waterfalls, accessible via a scenic hiking trail.

Glenwood Hot Springs Pool

Capture the expansive hot springs pool surrounded by beautiful mountain views.

The Iron Mountain Hot Springs

The unique thermal mineral pools offer great sunset photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Glenwood Springs

Glenwood Springs offers a delightful culinary scene that highlights local flavors and fresh ingredients, ensuring that every visitor finds something to satisfy their palate.

Glenwood Springs Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rocky Mountain Oysters

A local delicacy made of bull testicles, often served fried.

Must-Try!

Green Chili

A spicy stew made with green chili peppers and pork, popular in Colorado.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Glenwood Springs Farmers Market

Held weekly, this market features local produce, crafts, and food vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Glenwood Springs experiences a diverse climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from 15°F to 40°F (-9°C to 4°C). Summers are warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 85°F (16°C to 29°C). Spring and fall offer mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Friendly Greetings

It's customary to greet people with a smile and a friendly 'hello'.

Respect for Nature

Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles when enjoying the outdoors.

Punctuality

Being on time for reservations or appointments is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Glenwood Springs is generally a safe destination for visitors. However, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially during nighttime activities. Outdoor safety measures include staying on marked trails while hiking and being cautious around bodies of water.

Tipping in Glenwood Springs

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Standard tipping is 15-20% at restaurants and for services.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but having cash for small vendors is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming wildflowers, making it a great time for hiking and sightseeing.

Summer

Warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine are perfect for outdoor activities such as rafting and hiking.

Fall

Enjoy vibrant fall foliage, ideal for photography and exploring the scenic trails.

Winter

Cold temperatures with snowfall create a winter wonderland, perfect for skiing and hot springs relaxation.

Nightlife Guide

Glenwood Springs at Night

Glenwood Springs has a cozy nightlife scene with a variety of bars, live music venues, and relaxed lounges. The downtown area features local breweries and pubs that often host live music and events. For a more laid-back evening, visitors can enjoy a quiet drink at a wine bar or engage in fun activities like bowling or karaoke.

Hiking in Glenwood Springs

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hanging Lake Trail

A 2-mile round trip hike that leads to the stunning Hanging Lake, known for its turquoise waters and beautiful waterfalls.

Grizzly Creek Trail

An easier, scenic hike along Grizzly Creek, ideal for families and those looking for a relaxed outdoor experience.

Airports

How to reach Glenwood Springs by plane.

Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASP)

Approximately 30 miles from Glenwood Springs, this airport offers regional flights and is a convenient option for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Glenwood Springs is quite walkable, especially in the downtown area, where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the riverwalk offers a scenic path for pedestrians. However, some attractions may require a short drive or bike ride.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Outdoor Enthusiasts

Many visitors and residents are outdoor lovers, participating in activities like hiking, skiing, and rafting.

Families

Glenwood Springs attracts families looking for adventure and relaxation, making it a family-friendly destination.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing

Winter sports, especially skiing and snowboarding, are hugely popular in the area, attracting enthusiasts from around the world.

Mountain Biking

With numerous trails, mountain biking is a favored activity during the warmer months, catering to all skill levels.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Glenwood Springs is generally light, but can become congested during peak tourist seasons or during special events. Public transportation options include local buses, which connect visitors to various attractions, though having a personal vehicle is recommended for exploring more remote areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Glenwood Springs.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, but it's advisable to check menus in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Several eateries provide gluten-free alternatives; confirm with the staff about preparation methods.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Glenwood Springs has access to quality healthcare services through facilities such as Valley View Hospital, which offers emergency and outpatient services. For more specialized care, residents may travel to nearby cities like Aspen or Vail, which have larger medical centers.

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