For the best summer vacation in Colorado, bring a plus-one mindset to your Glenwood Springs getaway. Adding a single unexpected, new-to-you activity, experience, or cuisine can take your vacation from status quo to supernova. Expand your horizons, this summer in Glenwood Springs.
9 New Things to Try in Glenwood Springs This Summer
Take Off Paragliding
Lift off your summer vacation with a sky-high adventure. Adventure Paragliding in Glenwood Springs will help you soar to new heights on a tandem paragliding flight over Glenwood Springs. Launch from the summit of Red Mountain and sail on the summer thermals over the Roaring Fork River and the town below. It’s an experience you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Dare to Ride the Defiance Roller Coaster
For unbounded thrills add this wild ride to your roster of things to do. Located at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, Defiance boasts an insane drop that recreates the feeling of a zero-gravity freefall. Combine that with a dizzying array of twists, turns, and inversions and you have all the makings of an over-the-edge, adrenaline-pumping good time!
Get a Massage at Yampah Spa
For something altogether different, schedule time for the ultimate in relaxation with a massage or body treatment at the Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves. The storied history of the property dates to Glenwood’s beginnings when Native Americans partook in the healing power of the mineral-rich steam. Visitors today can do the same and conveniently add a massage or body treatment for a day of well-deserved pampering.
Soak in New Hot Springs Experiences
Glenwood’s geothermal amenities have recently gotten a whole new look and feel. WorldSprings at Iron Mountain Hot Springs features soaking pools inspired by fabled mineral waters from around the globe set against the backdrop of the Colorado River. In addition to the historic pools and Sopris Splash Zone at the west end, the new Yampah Mineral Baths at Glenwood Hot Springs Pool feature five distinct new pools including two cold plunge pools. An experience in themselves, the Baths set the tone for relaxation in Glenwood Springs style.
Engage Cruise Mode with an Electric Bike
Get your motor runnin’ and head out on Glenwood’s paved bike trails. Electric bikes are quick to learn, fun to ride, and easy to rent at bike shops in town. With a little extra oomph, you can go for miles undeterred by an incline. Ride the Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path which follows the Colorado River through Glenwood Canyon or take a tour along the Roaring Fork River via the Rio Grande Trail from Glenwood Springs to Aspen.
Impress Your Friends with a Fun New History Fact
If you spend time in Glenwood Springs, you’ll notice that quite a few places bear the name “Grand.” Have you ever wondered what’s so Grand about Glenwood’s main street, or why the splash park at Glenwood Hot Springs Pool is named the Grand Fountain? You’ll notice references to “Grand Valley” in the names of local businesses and if you’re paying attention the next biggest city west of town is Grand Junction. It makes more sense when you understand that the Colorado River used to be called the Grand River, the dominant geographical feature of the region. Your family and friends will no doubt be impressed with your “insider” knowledge of Glenwood Springs.
Add a Boozy Tasting to Your Bucket List
There’s no better time to try a new craft beer, wine, or spirit than while on vacation. Glenwood has several opportunities to enjoy and sample a variety of boozy drinks. Home to award-winning breweries, order up a flight of sours at Casey Brewing Taproom or try what’s on tap from pale ales to coffee stouts at Glenwood Canyon Brewpub. For a bourbon or scotch tasting, Smoke Modern Barbeque, is the place to go. And for a weekly surprise, see what the owners are pouring every Friday and Saturday evening at Cooper Wine and Spirits. In the spirits category, head to Stoneyard Distillery and Spirits Taproom for a tasting of a variety of liquors, spirits, and bitters all made from Colorado beet sugar. Of course, you can also pop into Glenwood Springs restaurants for signature cocktails, wine, and after-dinner drinks.
Sway, Stomp & Sing Along to the Music
If you haven’t experienced Glenwood’s music scene, you’re in for a treat this summer. Turn up the tunes at venues all over town. Ride the Glenwood Gondola to catch bands at Music on the Mountain at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. Kick up your heals on Tuesday evenings at Market on Seventh and for riverside entertainment, bring a blanket and picnic dinner to let the good times roll at Summer of Music Wednesday’s in Two Rivers Park. Looking for a more intimate experience, head over to Hotel Colorado for low-key listening every Friday and Saturday evening on the veranda. On Fridays, at Music on Seventh, let the sounds of talented local performers delight your senses in the Bethel Plaza under the Grand Avenue Bridge.
Take the Up-Front Challenge at the Vaudeville Revue
Why not get in the act? If you sit up front at this local comedy house, you’re sure to catch the attention of performers who might persuade you to join in their antics. Regardless of where you sit, don’t miss the opportunity for lots of laughs. The Glenwood Vaudeville Revue features new acts every season and combines a mix of song, dance, and hilarious skits sure to keep you in stitches for the duration. Before the show and during intermission, the cheeky performers switch gears and serve guests dinner and drinks.
So, why settle for the ordinary when you can elevate your summer escape to the extraordinary? By adopting a plus-one mindset and embracing new activities and experiences, you’ll instantly transform your Glenwood Springs summer getaway into a truly unforgettable adventure. Don’t wait—make plans to visit Glenwood Springs today!
