Don’t let a little rain ruin your day – there’s just too much to do and see in Winter Park, even when the weather turns rainy! Check out our suggestions for what to do if it rains to experience everything from happy hours in the mountains to fast paced-family fun.
For Families
Indoors at the base
The base of Winter Park is loaded with activities, including the rock wall and the low ropes course. If you’re looking for something to do if it rains, these activities are still a great option. Some will be moved indoors, so you can still get your adventure on. The yard games, located on level 2 of West Portal, are perfect indoor activities for fun lovers of all ages.
Purchase a Gondola pass to ride comfortably up to Sunspot Lodge! The views are magnificent and Sunspot Lodge is the best place to enjoy a Rocky Mountain lunch while soaking in the spectacular views. Wait for the rain to pass before taking on your mountaintop adventure!
*The Gondola does not run in the event of lightning – always be prepared for inclement weather when in the mountains*
Stop in and snag a lane at The Foundry to bowl the day away! The Foundry’s state-of-the-art bowling equipment makes playing games fun and easy for all skill levels with access to bumpers. If you’re looking for more fun, try a game of Billiards or Shuffle Board. Extend the night with a movie in one of The Foundry’s two movie theaters.
For Thrill Seekers
Take a hike
What to do if it rains? Go on a hike! A little rain never hurt anyone!* Pick up a rain jacket at James and Parry’s before heading up the Ute Trail directly under the Gondola. This hike makes its way up to Sunspot Mountaintop Lodge where you can dry off inside with a beer or delicious snack before hiking your way back down. Or, if you’re looking for a change of views, ride the Gondola back down to the base while experiencing the breathtaking views from your Gondola cabin.
*Please use caution when hiking. We DO NOT recommend hiking in the event of lightning and/or thunder.*
For the Culturally Curious
Join nationally renowned artist, Karen Vance, for this day workshop. She will show you drawing and painting skills and “tricks” with watercolor, ink, and pencil to create your own landscape painting, all in one day! Classes occur every Tuesday and include all the materials you’ll need to create your masterpiece.
Grand County is filled with plenty of amazing and interesting history. The Grand County Historical Foundation operates four museums in the Grand County area. The Cozens Ranch Museum, the Emily Warner Field and Aviation Museum, Heritage Park, and Pioneer Village are all perfect opportunities to see how wild the Wild West used to be.
For the Couple
Explore the Village
Take a stroll through the Village to explore the award-winning dining options at Winter Park Resort. Enjoy a Mexican-inspired meal at Lime, sample some of the delicious appetizers at Vertical, or sip on a refreshing margarita at Doc’s bar. There’s no rush when you’re in the mountains so take your time to explore it all!
Featuring a menu full of refreshing libations and delicious eats, this gem is an ideal place to spend a rainy day. All of the spirits are distilled right here in Colorado – you’ll be able to taste the difference of what it means to be a small-batch local distillery!
While we all prefer those bright, sunny days over rainy ones, don’t let a little moisture stop you from venturing out. With so much to do at Winter Park Resort, and in the surrounding Fraser Valley, all it takes is a little planning and local know-how to keep spirits up and the adventures coming. Now that you know what to do if it rains, you’re ready to venture out rain or shine!