Want the inside scoop on the best things to do, see, and sip in Glenwood Springs? Ask a local! Kevin and Sharon Brady, owners of Cooper Wine & Spirits, have turned their love for this mountain town into a way of life—and they’re spilling their favorite ways to enjoy it.
A Dream Turned Reality
Kevin and Sharon first visited Glenwood Springs on family trips, always imagining they’d retire here someday. But when an unexpected job opportunity popped up in the Vail Valley, they fast-tracked their mountain-town dream. In 2007, they made the move, only to face tough times when the 2008 housing crash hit. Hustling to make ends meet, they worked multiple jobs—from youth recovery programs to valet parking—until they decided to leap into entrepreneurship.
“In 2013, we opened the store out of survival and poured everything we had into making it work,” Kevin explained. They searched for the perfect location and found it at the corner of Cooper St. and 8th Ave., in a historic building they instantly fell in love with. Now, over a decade later, Cooper Wine & Spirits is a community staple, drawing both locals and repeat tourists who’ve become friends.
The Brady’s Favorite Glenwood Springs Adventures
Best Outdoor Activities. “We love biking Glenwood Canyon,” says Sharon. “You can go as far as you want, then turn around and grab a beer in town.” They also enjoy hiking trails like Scout, Red Mountain, and Jess Weaver. For a nearby daytrip, Avalanche Creek is their trail of choice.
Live Music Vibes. The Bradys love catching concerts at Two Rivers Park’s Summer of Music series and Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. “There’s something magical about a concert on top of a mountain with views of the Roaring Fork Valley all around,” Kevin says.
Seasonal Must-Dos. In unison, “Strawberry Days!” Glenwood’s signature summer festival is a favorite, and Kevin gives a special shoutout to Pie Day, an underrated part of the event that benefits the work of the local Rotary Club. “We are avid supporters of Pie Day—giving and taking,” he laughs. Sharon also raves about the Market on 7th, where local farmers, crafters and musicians sell their wares on Seventh Street, each Tuesday summer and fall from 4 to 7 p.m.
Tasty Drinks & Fresh Bites
As liquor store owners, the Bradys know their spirits. They recommend checking out local tasting rooms for craft spirits and beer. They also invite visitors to join them at Cooper Wine & Spirits for free tastings every Friday and Saturday from 5 – 7 p.m. What will Kevin be pouring? It could be anything from French wine to Kentucky bourbon!
Where do they eat after a long day? “Since we’ve been here, the dining scene has really evolved. Glenwood’s restaurants are mostly independent, not chains, which means great quality and creativity,” says Sharon. Kevin concurs, adding, “We have so many favorites, you really can’t go wrong dining in Glenwood Springs.”
A Perfect Glenwood Springs Day
For Kevin, an ideal day starts with sleeping in, followed by fishing on the Roaring Fork River, a round of golf at Glenwood Springs Golf Club, aka “The Hill, ”and ending with an evening soak in the hot springs. Sharon swaps fishing for a morning hike. “If you only have time for one thing though, the hot springs are a must,” she says. Kevin agrees. “But why stop there? End the day with a great meal at a restaurant with patio dining—there are many—soaking in the mountain air and ambiance.”
No matter how you choose to spend your time, the mountain town is a place to savor—just like a good glass of wine. Learn more and find your own local favorites in Glenwood Springs! Cheers!
