Visit Winter Park, Colorado
Lunch in Winter Park, Colorado
Looking for the perfect place to have lunch on your Winter Park, Colorado Vacation? We’ve got you covered with our top 5 best places for lunch in Winter Park, Colorado.
Durbar
This is our go-to for Indian for lunch in Winter Park, Colorado, everything on the menu is delicious.
Durbar is located on the second floor of Cooper Creek Square
78930 US Highway 40
Winter Park, CO 80482
Phone: 970-726-9674
Smokehouse BBQ
The Smokehouse BBQ is a great place to have lunch in Winter Park, Colorado. You’ll catch locals there ordering the lunch special which includes a sandwich, one side, and a fountain drink. The dogger is our go-to which is a twice smoked brisket burnt ends.
Smokehouse BBQ
78656 US Highway 40
Winter Park, CO 80482
Phone: 970-722-0227
New Hong Kong Chinese
Another local hangout for lunch in Winter Park, Colorado, is New Hong Kong Chinese.
New Hong Kong is located on the third floor of Cooper Creek Square
78930 US Highway 40
Winter Park, CO 80482
Phone: 970-726-9888
Rudi’s Deli
Rudi’s Deli is a Winter Park institution, you have to make it in on your Winter Park, Colorado vacation.
I personally love the turkey chili with a No. 4.
Rudi’s Deli
78699 US Highway 40
Winter Park, CO 80482
Phone: 970-726-8955
The Ditch on 40
it’s all about the chili at the Ditch. They make delicious New Mexico Hatch chili. My favorite is the Ditch Burger.
The Ditch on 40
78941 US Highway 40
Winter Park, CO 80482
Phone: 970-363-7113
So you’ve hit a wall. There is nothing worse than getting stuck in the daily grind of work, school, holidays, blah, blah, blah… You’re itching to travel, get away from it all, reclaim your sanity, but you’re not sure where to go?
Make Winter Park Your NEXT Escape!
Here are 11 reasons your sanity NEEDs YOU to Escape to Winter Park, Colorado!
ONLY – 67 Miles from Denver.
Don’t want to deal with a rental car or your not-so-snow-worthy car in the mountains? No problem. Catch the Amtrak or Home James Shuttle to Winter Park. Once here, we have accessible (and FREE) transportation throughout town, the resort, and to most lodging in Winter Park and Fraser, Colorado.
Great Lodging Deals!
No matter your budget or the number in your group, you’ll be able to score lodging in Winter Park.
Traveling With a Group?
There’s plenty of lodging available for groups of all sizes and all budgets. In Winter Park you’ll find everything from rustic cabins, to luxurious vacation homes sleeping 2 – 30+, to affordable cabins, ski condos, Bed & Breakfasts, and even yurts*! For great options that will fit your group and your budget.! (*Yurt – A circular tent built on a collapsible framework. Originally used by nomads in Mongolia, Siberia, and Turkey.)
Get Wild!
Looking for a WILD Colorado Lodging Experience? Three words, “High Lonesome Hut.” Accessible only by snowshoe, ski, dog sled, or depending on the weather, by foot, this three-story hut is located 2.5+ miles back in the wild. Your neighbors will be moose, coyotes, deer, and the occasional mountain lion.
Cheapest Ski and Ride without spring break crowds!
Early season is full of great deals! (Plus, with most rug rats still in school, you won’t have to worry about plowing them over on the slopes, or visa versa…) Four Pass deals to Winter Park Resort are currently available for as low as $50 a day!
It’s Legal…and We’ve Got Three Retail Marijuana Outlets!
It’s no secret that Colorado is one of a few states where weed is legal. If you’re not interested in “that scene,” you probably won’t even know it’s here…so skip to #5.
If you are interested in “that scene”, or are just curious, we have two dispensaries and a revolutionary growing facility! Take a tour of the 12,500 square foot facility and see hundreds of plants at all stages of life. Next, observe “canna-chefs” as they create, infuse, and bake edibles! In the retail shop, you’ll be able to purchase everything from flower, wax, topical ointments, candies, and more! (It’s all very scientific.)
Be Human…Talk
There’s no better time to strike up a conversation and potentially make friends than when you’re on vacation! Everyone’s got a story to tell, and while traveling you’ve got time to hear it. That’s part of the beauty of traveling! Take a break from your “Snapchat” and chat it up with the local bartender, your lift buddy, or the chick in line behind you…you never know who you might meet, or what insider information they might share with you!
Try a Parking Lot Party.
November and December temps are still enjoyable and you’ll see people grilling, playing Frisbee, and hanging out in the resort lots. (Happen to hit the parking lot on a cold day? Add some “adult beverages” to your menu, and warm up from the inside out.) Don’t know anyone? No problem. Refer to #5.
GET YOUR SPA ON!
If you’re looking to loosen up after a day on the snow, you’re in the right place! With Pamper yourself with a massage, facial, iridology*, reflexology, aromatherapy, a chiropractic adjustment, a yoga class, and more. There are plenty of ways to unwind in Winter Park, Colorado!
(*Iridology reviews the iris for patterns, colors, and other characteristics in order to identify underlying conditions and personality traits.)
Slow Down…
Coming to Winter Park is like slowing down. You’ll notice that unless you’re on the slopes, people generally move slower. There is no need to rush.
Embrace it. Chill out. Take time to say hi to a stranger. Hit up the late-night music scene. Slow your roll. Soak it up!
Après Ski Deals and BOOZE
(Need we say more? If not skip to 10)
Après Ski literally means “after ski.” In Winter Park, when the lifts stop for the night, everyone flocks to the restaurants and bars to eat, drink, mingle, and be merry! Nearly every restaurant around offers Après Ski deals, so whether you’re craving sushi, Italian, Chinese, Pizza, or fine dining, we can assure you there are plenty of options that will satisfy you and your budget.
If you’re a connoisseur of the alcoholic variety, we’ve got you covered. With three breweries and two tasting rooms featuring whiskey and wine, you’ll be set!
Get Outta Your Comfort Zone!
When was the last time you did something NEW? If you had to think about that…that’s not a good sign. Winter Park is the perfect place to get outta your comfort zone and give something new a try!
Fat Biking:
• Need a break from the slopes? Go for a ride on a Fat Bike…(Yes, you can bike in the snow!) There are miles of accessible trails to check out! Plus, with mild weather in November and December, you’ll be set to cruise! Looking to rent a fat bike and get some beginner tips? Hit up the Nordic Center at the YMCA of the Rockies, Snow Mountain Ranch, Devil’s Thumb Ranch, Epic Mountain Sports, Icebox Mountain Sports, or Beavers Sports Shop.
Snowmobiling:
• Take a guided or unguided tour through snow packed and powder trails hitting elevations of 12,000ft+!
Nordic Skiing:
• The old skinny ski. If you thought these skis were for “grandma” you were wrong. Nordic skiing is a somewhat extreme sport requiring coordination, balance, stamina, and skill. Try for yourself at Devil’s Thumb Ranch or YMCA of the Rockies Snow Mountain Ranch.
Snow Tubing:
• 4 Hills within 15 miles. We’ve got that covered!
Cat Skiing:
• No, we’re not inviting you to bring your cat skiing, but we are inviting you to get way out of your comfort zone for an experience you’ll remember forever. Get off the slopes and into the beautiful and serene backcountry with Powder Addiction! Catch a SnowCat up to Jones Pass where you’ll enjoy 2,600 skiable acres, 10,500 – 12,500 ski vertical, and 7 – 12 runs a day! Avalanche beacons, packs, shovels, food, guides, transportations, and powder skis are provided! B.Y.O.B. (bring your own board), if you prefer to ride.
Truly Escape.
The landscape, authenticity, culture, and experiences of Winter Park are captivating. Whatever you decide to do while you’re here, be sure you take time to look around, appreciate nature, the mountains, people, the sun, and your life. If you’re looking for perspective, chances are you’ll find it. It’s pretty hard to dwell on “petty junk” when you are surrounded by the mountains and endless opportunities!
Do it for your sanity. Do it for yourself.
Make Winter Park Your NEXT Escape!
Backcountry Colorado Mountain Huts are a fantastic, simple way to enjoy the wilderness on overnight trips. Huts exist in many forms across Colorado, the country and the world. From small shacks that provide protection from the elements to more modernized cabins for larger groups, huts are a great way to enjoy nature without a tent. In Grand County, two huts of the latter variety can be rented for any gathering of family and friends!
Broome Hut
The Broome Hut sleeps up to 16 people and is located West of Berthoud Pass near Second Creek. The Broome Hut is about 1 mile from the trailhead with an 800 foot gain in elevation, so be prepared for a trek through the elements. It’s totally worth the hike, the surrounding area is beautiful and the stars are amazing! Get there any way you can as long as it’s not by snowmobile or another motorized vehicle.
The Broome Hut has an enclosed day use area for passers-by, including an eco-friendly composting toilet! The other 3/4 of the structure is just for overnight guests. There’s a kitchen with propane stove and pellet stoves provide heat at night. Rainwater and snowmelt provide the non-potable water for the Broome Hut. How cool is that?
Be sure to reserve your spot(s) at Broome Hut well in advance: Adult rates are $35, Children 12 & below are $17.50. Sorry, no dogs allowed. For more information or to place a reservation, click here.
High Lonesome Hut
The High Lonesome Hut sleeps up to 12 people and is located off of County Road 84 in Tabernash on the way to Meadow Creek Reservoir. High Lonesome Hut is also only accessible on foot, by cross-country ski or any other means that don’t involve a motor! There is a corral for those who travel by horse. The trail to get to the hut gains 600 feet in elevation and is 2 1/2 miles long.
High Lonesome Hut also allows passers-by to stop by for lunch- the fee is $3 per person. This hut has running water including a flush-toilet and a shower. There’s also a kitchen, dining room and wood burning stove to keep you cozy! Electricity is provided by solar power. So cool!
High Lonesome Hut charges $37.50 per night for adults, and $20 per night for those 19 and below. Alternatively, you can rent the whole hut for $350. For an additional fee, you can also get the owners to haul your gear, provide guided trips and more! Talk about peace of mind. Check out this link for more information or to reserve your spot.
all is a great time for everyone to have fun! Here’s a list of kid-friendly family activities in Winter Park Colorado, and the best part is they are all free!
Fall Festival – Sept. 26 – Fraser, Colorado
The 15th Annual Grand Kids Fall Festival is located at the Fraser Valley Sports Complex. Free admission to festival, tickets available for the following festivities: Tasty Food, Bake Sale, Prizes, Silent Auction, Bouncy House, Bobbing for Donuts, Tie Die, Ear 2 Ear Photo Booth, Face Painting, Plinko. All proceeds benefit Grand Kids Child Care Center.
Fishing Ponds:
Lions Club Ponds – Fraser, Colorado
Fraser River Valley Lions Club Fishing Ponds are located next to Safeway in Fraser, Colorado. There is both a kids and adult pond stocked with a variety of fish. Adjacent to the ponds you can find a pavilion with BBQ grill and picnic tables as well as a children’s play area. Close enough to take a stroll along the Fraser River.
Kaibab Park – Granby, Colorado
Kaibab Park is located near the bridge at the southern entrance to Granby. Along with the children’s fishing pond is a playground as well as softball and baseball fields. Picnic shelter and tables are also available.
Easy Biking and Hiking Trails:
Discovery Trail – Winter Park, Colorado
Distance: 1.5 miles round trip
Description: This shorter, child-friendly hike is great for family picnics and a chance to spot wildlife. The path eventually meets up with Jim Creek Trail for those looking for a bit further of a hike.
Fraser River Trail – Winter Park/Fraser, Colorado
Distance: 5 miles one way
Description: Starting at Winter Park Resort the Fraser River trail is a combination of paved and dirt paths that lead all the way to Safeway in Fraser. This path is great for strolling on foot or cruising on a bike, and follows the Fraser River.
Creekside – Flume Loop Trails #61 / #82 – Fraser, Colorado
Distance: 5-mile loop
Description: This easy/intermediate trail offers a less challenging scenic route next to St. Louis Creek, offers wildlife viewing of moose and deer.
Adams Falls Trail – Grand Lake, Colorado
Distance: 1 mile out and back
Description: If you’re in the Grand Lake area this hike is a great experience for all ages. This easy hike takes you out to a spectacular lookout point to view Adams Falls.
Local Parks:
Hideaway Park – Winter Park, Colorado
Address: 78841 US-40 Winter Park, CO 80482
Hideaway is a beautiful park located in the heart of Downtown Winter Park, Colorado. This versatile park is home to a number of events including the summer concerts series.
Park Features:
• Playground
• Rock Climbing Wall
• Skateboard Park
• Events Space
• River Walk
• Pavilions
• BBQ Grill
• Picnic Tables
• Public Restrooms
Wolf Park – Winter Park, Colorado
Address: 320 Kings Crossing Rd. Winter Park, CO 80482
Wolf Park is Winter Park’s largest park located off Kings Crossing Road in Winter Park. This neighborhood park is a great option if you would like to get off the busy beaten path.
Park Features:
• Playground
• Basketball Court
• Sand Volleyball Court
• Tennis Courts
• Fitness Trail
• Playing Field
• Pavilions
• BBQ Grills
• Public Restrooms
• Gazebo
• Picnic Tables
Old School House Park – Fraser, Colorado
Address: 153 Fraser Ave. Fraser, Colorado 80442
Old School House Park is located next to Fraser Town Hall (Fraser’s original schoolhouse). A great place for youngsters to safely view trains that are passing through.
Park Features:
• Playground
• Tennis Courts
• Playing Field
• Canopy
• Pavilion
• BBQ Grill
• Picnic Tables
Fraser Valley Sports Complex – Fraser, Colorado
Address: 220 County Rd 522, Fraser, CO 80442
Fraser Valley Sports Complex is a 40-Acre park located just north the town of Fraser. This spacious park has an awesome 360-degree view of surrounding mountain skyline.
Park Features:
• Playground (New Cowboy & Indian Playground Coming Soon)
• Soccer Fields
• Softball/Baseball Fields
• Ice Rink
• Big Teepee
• Sand Volleyball Court
• Public Restrooms
• Picnic Tables
• BBQ Grills
• Pavilions
Polhamus Park – Granby, Colorado
Address: Zero West Jasper Ave. Granby, CO 80446
Polhamus is a gated park located next to Granby Town Hall. This neighborhood park provides a variety of equipment making it perfect for all ages.
Park Features:
• Playground
• Skateboard Park
• Gazebo
• Playing Field
• Picnic Tables
• BBQ Grills
• Public Restrooms
Visit Winter Park, Colorado
Your unofficial guide to all things Winter Park and the Fraser Valley
5 Surprises What to do in Winter Park, Colorado
1. A Summer Tubing Hill
Yes, you read that correctly. A summer tubing hill! We have the only summer tubing hill in Colorado and one of only three in the county here in our own backyard! You’ll be able to enjoy tubing without the heavy gear and snow pants. When you Visit Winter Park, Colorado be sure to add this downhill adventure to your bucket list!
Located at Snow Mountain Ranch YMCA of the Rockies
2. An Experimental Forest
We are home to an experimental forest managed by the United States Department of Agriculture and the United States Forest Service. Located next door in Fraser, CO this experimental forest is a 23,000-acre forest that was established in 1937. The forest focuses on researching the effects of different forest management styles on timber and water production. Take a hike in the Fraser Experimental Forest when you Visit Winter Park, it can be found down route 73 past the Fraser Rodeo grounds.
Find out more about the Fraser Experimental Forest.
Love the outdoors? Try a leaf peeping drive this fall!
3. Summer Dogsled (cart) Rides
Dogsledding in the summer? We’ve got it! Dog Sled Rides of Winter Park offers cart rides when there isn’t snow, sled rides when there is snow cover, and kennel tours year-round. Their team of nearly 80 dogs were born and raised to pull sleds and carts and just watching them work as a team you’ll realize what talented and passionate pups they are.
4. Lift-served Cross-Country Biking and Hiking
Not only is Granby Ranch is home to a fantastic downhill mountain bike park, but they also have lift-serve access to miles of cross-country biking and hiking trails. These trails range from beginner trails to expert and wind and curve along mountain vistas, through aspen forests, and end at the base of the mountain. Foot traffic enjoy free lift rides and hiking!
5. Hot Sulphur Springs
Located in nearby Hot Sulphur you’ll find Hot Sulphur Springs. As you may guess from the name, these springs are filled naturally by hot Sulphur water, originating from deep inside the earth’s crust. This historic hot springs was originally discovered by Native Americans who felt the springs were healing. William Byers rediscovered the hot springs in 1840 and decided to turn the hot springs into a resort, and named the town Hot Sulphur Springs.Read our guide for what to do in Winter Park, Colorado besides ski.
Do you remember the last time you went on a date with your significant other? If not, you’re overdue so plan a date when you Visit Winter Park, Colorado. If you’re in need of some Winter Park date night ideas we’ve got you covered, (we’ve even got childcare covered)!
Here is a list of options for date nights ranging from happy hour to a fun-filled night out on the town!
Pack a Picnic
Pack a picnic and a bottle of wine and head to the mountains with your significant other and enjoy a low-key date night of a sunset and stargazing. Be sure to bring headlamps, bug spray, a blanket, layers, and plenty of water if you choose to do your own backwoods cooking. (Be sure a fire ban is not in place and prior to leaving make sure your campfire is out, out!)
Where to go? If you have 4-wheel drive head up to Corona Pass in Winter Park! – It’s a bit longer of a drive on a bumpy road, but the views from the top of the divide are unbelievable! Otherwise, head up Strawberry Creek in Tabernash, Colorado for a smoother drive and lots of great lookouts!
Pizza and a Movie
Winter Park, Colorado is home to The Foundry, one of the coolest movie theaters in the country. Here you can grab a drink, order a pizza or sandwich, and head into their deluxe and newly remolded theater with perhaps the most comfortable seats in existence. (Insider’s tip: The seats in the front are extra-comfy, lazy-boys that recline!) Not feeling a film? The Foundry also offers bowling and pool, in a retro-styled environment.
Ice Cream and a Show
In need of an extended night out, away from the words, “Mom” and “Dad?” If so, head over to Grand Lake, Colorado for a night on the town. In just 30 minutes you will be passing by the beautiful Lake Granby and heading on your way to the rustic town of Grand Lake, Colorado. There you’ll find a bustling Main Street complete with souvenir shops, art galleries, and ice cream shops.
Once you’ve grabbed some ice cream and checked out the town, head over to the Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre and settle in for a great show. This year’s shows include, 42nd Street, The Addams Family, All Shook Up, and Forever Plaid.
Happy Hour
Looking for an early date night so you can get back with the family before bedtime? Try happy hour at Tabernash Tavern. Located a five-minute drive West of Winter Park, Tabernash Tavern offers a full happy hour menu, amazing drink specials, and live music on select nights.
Dinner and Live Music
Friday’s throughout the season, Cooper Creek Square is offering live music and outdoor dining. The various restaurants have gotten together to organize a delivery system so you can eat your meal while watching a live band perform in the courtyard. Cooper Creek Square offers a variety of different dining options including; Mexican, Sushi, Indian, Chinese, Barbeque, Coffee, Gelato, and more.
Fancy and Affordable
If you’re looking for delectable food, a vast wine selection, a romantic atmosphere, and a surprisingly affordable menu, Volario’s is the place to go. Located in downtown Winter Park, Volario’s offers a variety of Italian-American dishes, with homemade pasta, and fantastic service.
Childcare
If childcare, (or lack thereof) might be the difference between a great date night out, or another night in have no fear. There are plenty of responsible and professional child care providers in the area.
- Checkout – SitterCity.com
- Ask someone you meet – a lot of people have kids up here and most have a go-to sitter. Ask them if they have a babysitter they’d recommend.
- Contact Snow Mountain Ranch – they have an awesome camp department, complete with staff who are all first aid and CPR certified.