While wintertime is often associated with ski resort getaways and holiday festivities, cold weather connoisseurs know that there’s still plenty of fun to be had in the regular day-to-day. Here are some of the best cold weather activities you can enjoy near Lakehouse right now.
Hit the Ice Rink
Outdoor ice skating season lasts until the end of February, so be sure to lace up your skates and head over to the nearby Downtown Denver Rink for this beloved seasonal pastime. Skate rentals are available there, or bring your own and skate for free. Other than that, all you need are a pair of warm socks and warm gloves, and you’re good to go for a classic winter outing.
Go Dog Sledding
While we’re in the thick of ski season, why not take advantage of one of Colorado’s unique wintertime traditions: dog sledding. It’s a fun and unique way to explore the mountain wilderness, with both driving and riding-only options available. There are plenty of kennels that provide dog sledding that are about 1.5 to 2 hours away from Lakehouse, including Winterhawk Dogsled Adventures and Alpine Adventures Dogsledding in Leadville.
Hunt Down the Ultimate Hot Cocoa
Warm up your body and sate your sweet tooth by personally ranking all the top spots for hot chocolate in Denver. Start your search right downstairs at Whole Sol Blend Bar — order with smooth almond milk, cacao and a dash of maple syrup. Heading to downtown, D Bar is beloved for its pastries and cakes, but their hot chocolate truly shines—it’s served with a toasted marshmallow and a side whipped cream on a bed of cocoa nibs. Woodgrain Bagels also serves a delicious classic hot chocolate, as well as a flashier Campfire Mocha, composed of espresso, chocolate, smoked maple syrup and a graham cracker-dusted, toasted marshmallow. Honorable mentions include Lucile’s Creole Cafe and, of course, Chocolate Lab.
Brunch in Warmth
Just a brisk walk from Lakehouse is beloved local gastropub The Patio at Sloans. Serving up fresh and local fare on a heated outdoor patio, this is a festive and popular spot for brunch, as the atmosphere is always bright yet warm. They’ve got it all from avocado toast to huevos rancheros—and even a bark bowl for four-legged diners.