10 Colorado Winter Activities to Warm Your Heart
Winter in Colorado, is not just a season, it’s an experience! As our landscape transforms into a snowy wonderland, the opportunities for unique activities abound. Whether you’re a long-time resident or considering making Colorado your home, exploring these winter pastimes could make you fall even more in love with this vibrant city. Here are our top 10 winter activities that blend fun, culture, and natural beauty!
1. Skyline Ice Skating: A Downtown Delight
Nestled in the heart of downtown Denver, the Skyline Park Ice Rink is a cherished seasonal tradition. Open to all ages, this free outdoor rink (with skate rentals available for a small fee) offers a quintessential winter experience under the city’s dazzling lights. Glide across the ice while soaking in views of Denver’s iconic skyline—it’s a perfect activity for families, date nights, or a quick break from holiday shopping.
2. Dazzling Lights at Denver Zoo and Botanic Gardens
Nothing captures the holiday spirit quite like a stroll through the Denver Zoo Lights or the Blossoms of Light at the Denver Botanic Gardens. The Zoo Lights showcase over two million LED lights illuminating animal sculptures and pathways, creating an enchanting experience for all ages. Meanwhile, the Botanic Gardens transform into a winter wonderland, with trees wrapped in glittering lights and pathways glowing with festive cheer. These events are must-visits for anyone looking to soak in the city’s winter magic.
3. Sledding at Ruby Hill Park
For those who love the thrill of speeding down snowy hills, Ruby Hill Park is the place to be. This local favorite offers free sledding on its rolling slopes, attracting kids and adults alike. Bring your sled, bundle up, and enjoy an afternoon of pure, unadulterated fun. The park’s central location makes it easily accessible, and the surrounding views of Denver’s beautiful skyline only adds to the charm.
4. Ice Exhibit at Gaylord Rockies Resort
Each year, the Gaylord Rockies Resort hosts a breathtaking ice exhibit that draws visitors from across Colorado and beyond. This exhibit—a blend of art and engineering—features intricate ice sculptures and life-sized displays carved from over two million pounds of ice. This year’s theme promises to transport visitors into a whimsical winter tale. Bundle up (the exhibit is kept at a chilly 9℉!) and immerse yourself in a frosty wonderland.
5. Ice Castles in Cripple Creek
The Ice Castles in Cripple Creek are worth the drive! This awe-inspiring attraction features towering ice formations, tunnels, slides, and LED-lit sculptures that glow beautifully at night. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that combines the wonder of nature with the creativity of man-made design. Tickets sell out quickly, so plan ahead for this unforgettable adventure!
6. The Nutcracker at the Buell Theatre
No winter season is complete without a touch of classical culture, and the Colorado Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker delivers just that. Held at the Buell Theatre in the heart of Denver, this beloved ballet showcases world-class performers, stunning sets, and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. It’s an ideal outing for families, couples, or anyone looking to embrace the artistic side of winter.
7. Snowshoeing in Rocky Mountain National Park
Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park offers pristine landscapes perfect for snowshoeing. This low-impact activity lets you explore the park’s serene trails and snow-covered forests while soaking in the majestic views of Colorado’s famed peaks. Whether you’re a seasoned snowshoer or a first-timer, the park’s diverse trails cater to all skill levels.
8. Tubing in Winter Park
Looking for a thrilling winter adventure? Head to the Coca-Cola® Tube Hill in Winter Park! With dedicated lanes, exhilarating banked curves, and plenty of thrill to go around, this family-friendly snow tubing spot guarantees non-stop fun. Enjoy the ease of a covered conveyor lift whisking you back to the top for endless runs—and don’t miss the magical night tubing experience under the stars. Pro tip: skip the traffic and maximize your time on the hill (or slopes) by taking the Winter Park Express straight from Union Station! With expanded service and affordable tickets (starting at just $19 for adults and $9.50 for kids), it’s never been easier to enjoy Colorado’s snowy wonderland. Tickets for tubing and the train are required, so plan ahead for an epic day in the mountains!
9. Hot Springs Getaway
While Denver shines with its vibrant city life, sometimes you need a break from the urban buzz. Luckily, some of Colorado’s most serene hot springs are just a short drive away! Destinations like Strawberry Hot Springs, Indian Hot Springs, and Mount Princeton Hot Springs offer the perfect retreat. Immerse yourself in warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by breathtaking snowy landscapes—an iconic Colorado experience that rejuvenates the body and soothes the soul. Whether it’s a day trip or a weekend getaway, these natural oases are calling your name. Relaxation awaits!
10. Union Station’s Holiday Market
Denver’s Union Station is a hub of activity during the holiday season, hosting a festive market that features local vendors, artisanal goods, and seasonal treats. The grand building itself is decked out in holiday decor, making it a picturesque spot to shop, sip hot cocoa, or simply soak in the seasonal ambiance. Don’t forget to snap a photo by the iconic Union Station sign lit up for the holidays.
Discover Denver Real Estate with Blue Pebble Homes
Colorado’s winter activities are a testament to the state’s dynamic blend of urban culture and natural beauty. Whether you’re enjoying a night out at the Buell Theatre, exploring ice castles, or tubing in Winter Park, there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the snowy season. If these winter activities have you dreaming of life in Colorado, now is the perfect time to explore the state’s real estate opportunities. At Blue Pebble Homes, we specialize in helping clients find the perfect home in Denver and beyond! From urban condos to family-friendly neighborhoods, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today at www.bluepebblehomes.com to start your journey to homeownership in Denver, Colorado. Winter adventures await!