In addition to hiking, biking, skiing, cross country, snow shoeing and fly fishing, there are many things to do in Steamboat Springs. Make sure to explore Main Street downtown with its many shops, restaurants, bars and galleries. I liked:
F.M. Light & Sons: Opened in 1905, this is a great place to explore and shop for western wear, cowboy boots and Stetson Hats. 830 Lincoln Ave.
Stop in at Lyon Drug Store and Soda Fountain to experience an old soda fountain. 840 Lincoln Ave.
Artists’ Gallery of Steamboat: At 1009 Lincoln Ave., this is an excellent local gallery featuring 26 artists working in oil painting, water color, textiles, sculpture, glass, jewelry and photography. Make sure to ask for the pottery by Michael Wisner, one of my favorite artists from Aspen/Snowmass who I have studied with in the past at Anderson Ranch Arts Center.
Steamboat Wine Festival: For over 10 years, this is an annual festival in August featuring wine tastings, wine dinners and special outdoor activities.
Strings Music Festival: A must in the summer is to attend a concert at the Strings Music Festival. Started over 25 years ago, the festival presents over 75 performances every summer in classical music, jazz, country, rock, bluegrass and world rhythms. The venue is the attractive 550 seat Strings Music Pavilion, a short drive from downtown with ample parking. I enjoyed a wonderful jazz performance with Earl Klugh and Nnenna Freelon on a gorgeous summer night in the mountains.
There are many other activities including rodeos, walking tours, golf tournaments, marathons, theater performances and readings, farmers’ markets, hot air balloon flights, a First Friday Artwalk and film presentations. There are hot springs to enjoy, the MusicFest with country music and operas from the Opera Steamboat.