Whether you are looking for an outdoor adventure or just a relaxing hot springs soak, Glenwood Springs has something for everyone. The historic downtown offers shopping, art galleries, and dining options that will not disappoint. The area is also home to the Tuesday evening farmers’ market, which has been operating for over 20 years. Whether you are looking for local produce or a unique craft beer, you’ll be able to find it in Glenwood Springs.
A little town museum preserves the history of early pioneer days in Glenwood Springs. It is fully furnished with period furniture and the typical household items of the time. Displays depict early mining, cattle ranching, and the Ute Indians. In addition to the historical museum, you can participate in the annual Ghost Walk to learn more about the history of this Colorado town. And if you’re looking for a souvenir to take home, the Frontier Historical Museum will have just what you’re looking for!
While you’re in town, you’ll want to make time for the town’s strawberry-based heritage. It is home to Doc Holliday, Kid Curry, and Butch Cassidy’s Hole-in-the-Wall gang. The town actively promotes heritage tourism and preserves its past. The Frontier Historical Society runs a museum and publishes a downtown walking tour that features buildings that were built in 1884 through 1928. The town also hosts a strawberry festival, Strawberry Days, in which more than 30,000 people come together to celebrate the bounty of the season. The National Trust recognized Glenwood Springs as a “distinct Destination” in 2004.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Glenwood Springs boasts world-class hot springs. Visitors can try their hand at downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowboarding, as well as a variety of other outdoor activities. While you’re there, don’t forget to check out the town’s affordable ski resorts, including Sunlight Mountain. The resort offers some of the finest glade skiing in the state. And if you’re looking for a day at the spa, head to Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves.
Visitors should keep in mind that Glenwood Springs is located off Interstate 70. You can reach Glenwood Springs by car, or by plane through one of the regional airports. For instance, the Eagle County Airport is 30 miles east of town, and the Aspen/Pitkin County Airport is about 40 miles south. The nearest train station is Grand Junction, 90 miles west. Regardless of which way you travel, you will want to plan your trip carefully and be prepared for a variety of weather conditions.
Besides its mineral hot springs, Glenwood Springs is home to one of the largest outdoor pools of mineral water in the world. Ute Indians once used the Yampah Hot Springs as a healing spa, and the resort facilities built in the 1880s became world-renowned. The elegant Hotel Colorado, modeled after the Medici Palace in Italy, served as Theodore Roosevelt’s Western White House in 1905. The city’s growth was accelerated by the arrival of the railroad and hotels.