WESLEY & ROSE – the Surf's on-site restaurant and bar (open for dinner only) EDDYLINE – beer, burgers, salads, and sandwiches right across from the Surf COOL RIVER – breakfast, lunch, coffee, and cocktails right across from the Surf THE BLEND – coffee, smoothies, and bagels in downtown BV THE CELLAR ON RAILROAD – wine and tapas in downtown BV FANCY WIENER – hot dog stand in downtown BV DEERHAMMER – distillery in downtown BV that offers free tours THE LARIAT – comfort food, cocktails, and live music in downtown BV
MOUNT PRINCETON HOT SPRINGS – Hot springs and spa 20 minutes from Buena Vista. Buy a day pass and soak in the infinity pool, which has amazing views of the Chalk Cliffs and Mount Princeton. BARBARA WHIPPLE TRAIL – Easy, 2-mile hiking trail along the river. Trailhead is a 10-minute walk from the Surf. Takes about an hour to do the full loop. RIVER RUNNERS RAFTING – Guided white-water rafting trips on the Arkansas River. 10-minute drive from the Surf. (We did a beginner-level trip for Michelle's birthday last year and it was a blast!) They also have a riverside bar/grill which is a great hangout if the weather's warm. TWIN LAKES – One of our favorite spots in the area to camp, hike, paddleboard, or eat a picnic lunch by the lake. The drive itself is worth it! 30 minutes from BV. COLLEGIATE PEAKS SCENIC BYWAY – Beautiful drive with views of the Collegiate Peaks, a stretch of 14ers (mountains that tower over 14,000 feet in elevation).
There are lots of shops for home goods, gifts, clothes, and local art along Main Street in downtown BV. Great way to kill a couple of hours!