Tucked into a picturesque box canyon and surrounded by towering peaks, Telluride, Colorado is a hidden gem for families seeking a magical winter escape. Renowned for its world-class skiing, historic charm, and breathtaking alpine scenery, Telluride offers an unforgettable mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you're teaching your kids to ski, exploring snowy trails, or simply enjoying a cup of cocoa by the fire, Telluride is the perfect setting for a cozy, high-altitude getaway.
Where to Stay: Family-Friendly Lodging in Telluride
The Madeline Hotel & Residences (Auberge Resorts Collection): Located in the heart of Mountain Village, Madeline is a luxurious family-friendly resort offering ski-in/ski-out access, spacious suites, and a heated outdoor pool with mountain views. Kids will love the in-room tent packages and s’mores kits, while parents can take advantage of the spa and on-site dining. The hotel also offers babysitting services and a concierge team to help plan your family’s adventures.
Mountain Lodge Telluride: This cozy, log-cabin-style lodge is perfect for families looking for a home-away-from-home. Choose from suites or multi-bedroom condos with full kitchens and fireplaces. Located slope-side with ski-in/ski-out access, Mountain Lodge has a heated pool, hot tubs, and shuttle service to town, making it easy to balance activity with downtime.
The Peaks Resort & Spa: A great choice for active families, The Peaks offers spacious accommodations, an indoor water slide and pool, and on-site ski rentals. Located just steps from the lifts in Mountain Village, the resort also has a kids’ game room and family programming throughout the winter season.
Things to Do: Family Fun in Telluride
Skiing and Snowboarding at Telluride Ski Resort: Telluride Ski Resort is consistently ranked among the top ski destinations in North America—and it’s surprisingly family-friendly. With over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain, there's something for every level. The Galloping Goose trail is ideal for beginners, while Ute Park offers gentle terrain for families just getting started. The Telluride Ski & Snowboard School has expert instructors and dedicated kids’ programs, including full-day lessons with lunch and supervised play.
Snow Tubing and Sledding: Head to Firecracker Hill in Telluride Town Park for old-school sledding fun. Bring your own sled or rent one locally and enjoy an afternoon of giggles and snowy thrills.
Ice Skating at the Hanley Rink: This indoor rink in Town Park is perfect for families. With skate rentals and open skate hours, it’s a great alternative to the slopes—and a fun way to end the day.
Telluride Historical Museum: Warm up indoors and explore Telluride’s fascinating past. This kid-friendly museum features interactive exhibits on mining, local wildlife, and the area’s unique Wild West history. It's both educational and fun for curious young minds.
Gondola Rides Between Telluride and Mountain Village: The scenic gondola ride that connects Telluride and Mountain Village is free and offers spectacular views of the San Juan Mountains. Kids love the ride, and it's a fun, low-key activity any time of day—especially magical at sunset or after a fresh snowfall.
Where to Eat: Family-Friendly Dining in Telluride
Smuggler Union Restaurant & Brewery: This lively spot offers a warm, casual atmosphere with hearty comfort food, local brews, and a dedicated kids’ menu. After a long day in the snow, it’s the perfect place to refuel with burgers, mac and cheese, or a bowl of house-made chili.
The Butcher & The Baker: A bright and cozy downtown café that’s great for breakfast or lunch. With house-baked goods, soups, sandwiches, and smoothies, there’s something here for everyone. Kids will love the cookies, and parents will appreciate the locally sourced ingredients.
La Cocina de Luz: Serving up fresh, organic Mexican cuisine, this colorful eatery is a hit with families. The casual vibe, quick service, and healthy options make it an easy choice, even with picky eaters in tow. Be sure to try the house-made tamales!
Brown Dog Pizza: Known for its award-winning Detroit-style pizza, Brown Dog is a must-visit. With plenty of seating, fun sports décor, and generous portions, it’s a reliable favorite for families looking for a laid-back dinner spot.
Telluride Truffle: End your day with a sweet treat at this charming chocolate shop, where hand-crafted truffles and hot cocoa will delight kids and grown-ups alike. It’s the perfect pit stop while strolling through Telluride’s historic main street.
Plan Your Family Escape
Telluride is a winter wonderland that combines big-mountain adventure with small-town charm. With kid-friendly lodging, exciting outdoor activities, and delicious dining, it’s the perfect setting for a family vacation that blends adrenaline and coziness. Whether you’re carving fresh powder, riding the gondola under the stars, or sharing stories by the fireplace, Telluride offers memories that will last long after the snow melts.
Ready to plan your family’s snowy escape? Pack your warmest gear and head to Telluride—where adventure meets togetherness at 8,750 feet.