We’re up to snow good this winter!
To celebrate one of our favorite times of year – we came up with 16 of the best things to do in Colorado this winter 2024. Whether you’re looking for some classic winter fun, chill winter festivals, or a winter break – our list has you covered! With so much to do this season, is it too early to wish for 6 more weeks of winter?
WINTER FUN
1. FRISCO ADVENTURE PARK
Kicking off our list of classic winter fun is Frisco Adventure Park.
This winter wonderland is jam packed with plenty of winter fun for everyone! With activities like tubing, sliding, snowshoeing, sleigh rides, and more; it’s perfect for for the whole family. Be sure to visit their site to stay up to date on events, book your tubing reservations, information on their Nordic Center and more.
2. THE RINK AT EVERGREEN LAKE
Our next pick is sure to be an ICE time!
We’re of course talking about The Rink at Evergreen Lake. This outdoor skating rink located (you guessed it) on Evergreen Lake is nature’s picture-perfect ice skating and hockey backdrop. Be sure to check out the Evergreen Park and Recreation District’s site for hours of operation, rentals, lake rules, programs and activities and more.
3. ROCKY MOUNTAIN COASTER
We’ve got the need, the need for speed.
For all of our winter adrenaline junkies, the Rocky Mountain Coaster located on Copper Mountain (near the American Flyer lift) is an absolute must this winter. This mountain coaster is one of the longest in North America and reaches speeds of up to 25 mph with plenty of curves, turns, and steep descents. Additional information on tickets, hours of operations, driver requirements and more can be found here.
4. SLEDDING
Up next is an oldie but a goodie – sledding. With so many great options in Colorado, we could use 6 more weeks of winter this season. Winter Park has some great sledding and tubbing options – whether you’re looking for mini hills, racing lanes for a little healthy competition, and more, there’s plenty of fun for everyone at Winter Park this year.
5. RIDE THE DIVIDE
Rounding out our list is classic winter fun is snowmobiling the Continental Divide. For those thrillseekers looking to make the most out of their next Breckenridge trip, snowmobiling is an absolute must this winter. With miles of beautiful trails, phenomenal views, and some fresh mountain air – it’s perfect for individuals, families, or groups.
Psst… Good Times Adventures is a great option in the Breck area.
WINTER FESTIVALS
6. INTERNATIONAL SNOW SCULPTURE CHAMPIONSHIPS
Kicking off our list is one of our favorite winter traditions – Breckenridge’s International Snow Sculpture Championships. This icy competition brings teams from all over the world to Breck as they compete and create some truly incredible works of art – made entirely of snow. This year’s event runs January 22– 31, with viewing beginning on the 26th. This event is free to the public, however, timed entry reservations (free of cost) are ONLY required on Saturday, Jan. 27th.
7. ULLRGRASS
UllrGrass is coming.
This 3-day festival taking place in Golden, CO the last weekend in January (26-28), is the perfect way to unleash your inner Viking. Complete with live music, beer festival, costume contest(s) and so much more. Be sure to grab those last-minute tickets and enjoy some nordic vibes.
8. FROZEN DEAD GUY DAYS
You had us at Frozen Dead Guy.
Frozen Dead Guy Days is back in Estes Park and sure to be jam packed with winter fun. Taking place March 15-17 it’s the perfect way to say goodbye to those short winter days and head into the melting snows of spring. With live music, coffin races, polar plunges, brunch, costume contests and more – it’s a classic winter festival every Coloradan needs to experience at least once. Tickets can be found here.
9. WINTER POLO CLASSIC
We know what you’re thinking… Polo in the winter?
Trust us, The Broadmoor’s Winter Polo Classic makes its return to this iconic hotel. With the resort’s deeply rooted polo past and some of the country’s top players, it’s a great way to explore the world of polo. Reserved and GA seating can be found here.
Psst… don’t forget to enjoy a little winter break at The Broadmoor this season.
10. STEAMBOAT WINTER CARNIVAL
Celebrate 100+ years of tradition at the Steamboat Winter Carnival.
This is one of the oldest winter carnivals in Colorado that highlights Steamboat’s unique western roots and love of winter sports. Taking place February 7-11, it’s a great way to celebrate the season of freezin’. From Nordic jumping, mountain soirees, ski jumping street events, parades, fireworks and more; it’s easy to see what makes it a winter favorite.
11. LUNAR NEW YEAR
Rounding out our list of winter festivals is The Far East Center’s annual Lunar New Year Festival.
This event is free and open to the public and runs from now until February 25th. This year’s celebration features incredible events including: workshops, Lion Dance performances, street markets, vendors, ice carving, and so much more.
Psst… keep an eye out for their list of food vendors, events and more.
WINTER BREAK
12. HOT SPRINGS
No winter bucket list would be complete without a visit to one of Colorado’s many hot springs. With so many to choose from, whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day on the slopes or just looking to stay warm this winter CO has plenty.
13. DURANGO & SILVERTON RAILROAD
Next on our list is the iconic Durango & Silverton Railroad.
This historic steam train runs between Durango and Silverton, covering over 26 miles (a total of 5-hours round trip) each way that promises winter fun for everyone. You’ll take in some incredible views of the San Juan National Forest and scenic Animas River all while relaxing in one of their heated coaches. Be sure to check out their site for more information on departure dates, tickets, packages and more.
14. 54THIRTY
For those looking for some cozy vibes this winter – 54Thirty Rooftop has all that and then some. Aside from some phenomenal views of Denver, you’ll also enjoy delicious bites, expertly crafted cocktails and plenty of fire pits to keep you warm.
Psst… we’d highly recommend trying their Hot Cocoa.
15. DAIRY BLOCK
While we’re sure you’re most likely familiar with Dairy Block, we can’t think of a better way to kick off the winter season than with a visit to The Block.
This walkable micro-district located in the heart of LoDo has become a Denver Ear favorite as there’s always something to do, see, or (more importantly) eat. Complete with unique local shops, pop-up events, specilaty markets and more; you’ll stay busy all winter long.
16. ALPENROSE VAIL
Fondue in a gondola, where do we sign up?
Alpenrose Vail is serving up a unique private dining gondola experience that you need to see to believe. This incredible dining experience includes a stellar 2-course pre-fix menu Raclette Grill and fondue combo that’s perfect for those chilly winter nights.
IT’S A WINTERFUL LIFE
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, winter in Colorado is unreal! We hope you take the time to enjoy some of these great things Colorado has to offer this winter. Stay cozy!
As always, we love seeing and hearing from you, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheDenverEar and tag #TheDenverEar for a chance to be featured.