06/28/2018

How to Get the Most Out of a Glenwood Springs Vacation

Glenwood Hot Springs is the world-famous geothermal resort in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. For many visitors, it’s the main attraction. In addition to relaxing at the resort spa, there’s plenty more to do, see and experience in Glenwood Springs.

The enormous pool at Glenwood Hot Springs is about the same size as an American football field. It’s huge and it dominates downtown Glenwood Springs! Take a casual stroll over the pedestrian bridge any time of day and you’ll notice visitors and locals alike admiring the pool from an elevated vantage point. This view, which includes the pools, waterslides and the red sandstone bathhouse, is among the town’s most photogenic spots.

While soaking in the mineral-rich waters of Glenwood Hot Springs is a top priority for visitors, Glenwood Springs is also a favorite Colorado vacation destination because of the variety of activities it offers to visitors. If you’re staying at the Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge, your admission to the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool is included with your stay, along with breakfast, but while you’re here be sure to keep all your options open. We’ll show you how:

Get the lay of the land. The Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge is located conveniently close to downtown where shopping and dining are highlights. To get there, just walk across the pedestrian bridge that spans the Colorado River. Our front desk staff are experts on all things Glenwood Springs. Ask them for directions and recommendations or stop by the Glenwood Springs Visitor Center.

Run the river. In addition to being renowned for its geothermal amenities, Glenwood Springs is a river town. We have two: the Colorado River and the Roaring Fork. Make a splash navigating through churning whitewater in scenic Glenwood Canyon. Rafting companies offer a flotilla of guided trips and packages that range from mild to wild. If fishing is more your thing, cast a line from shore or book a leisurely float trip. The area is surrounded by Gold Medal Waters! Who knows—maybe you’ll catch that illusive lunker!

Dig into history. Doc Holliday is the town’s most famous former resident. The card shark/gunslinger/dentist/outlaw/western icon died at the Hotel Glenwood on Nov. 8, 1887, but his legend lives on. Hike to his grave marker in Linwood Cemetery, take photos beneath the pistol neon sign at the Doc Holliday Tavern and visit the Doc Holliday Museum that houses an ornate pistol purportedly gifted to him by his long-time girlfriend “Big Nose” Kate.

Lighten up. Nothing, except maybe our hot springs, cures what ails like a good laugh! For a rib-tickling, family-friendly evening of entertainment, head over to the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue. A variety show in the hilarious vaudeville tradition, it features a professional cast (many of whom have major musical theater cred). The comedy show features skits, jokes, high-energy dance numbers and other acts. Guests have the option of dining in or just coming for the show.

Get moving. When the mood to explore further afield strikes, you’re in luck. Glenwood Springs has miles of trails for hiking and biking. The Rio Grande Trail is paved from Glenwood to Aspen and the Glenwood Canyon Recreation Trail, also paved, follows the Colorado River through Glenwood Canyon. More rugged trails include Hanging Lake, Red Mountain and Boy Scout.

When you visit Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, plan to spend plenty of time relaxing at the pool but leave some room in your vacation plans to discover all that Glenwood Springs has to offer.