Sun Valley is a beautiful resort destination that hosts many fun winter activities outside of the ski resort. Take a day to rest the legs and explore all that Sun Valley has to offer. Below are my recommendations for 5 family-friendly activities that the group is sure to enjoy.
Ice Skating:
Glide along the ice, try some cross overs or even a twirl. Enjoy the beautiful mountain backdrop and light music playing to top a fun winter’s day.
The Sun Valley Ice Rink’s outdoor ice-sheet and indoor arena enjoy one of the most spectacular locations. Rentals are available at the rink and offer all sizes. Group and private lessons are also available with a staff of pros led by Olympic silver medallist Linda Fratianne.
Feel like reminiscing the good old days skating on a frozen pond? The Hailey Ice converts the Rodeo Grounds at Wertheimer park into an outdoor natural ice sheet. You may even find loaner skates and sticks. The lights in the rodeo arena stay on each night until 10 pm. Admission is free and the rink is located right across the parking lot from the Campion Ice House.
Ride the Gondola:
Ride the gondola for awe-inspiring views of the resort and town below. Take in the big mountain backdrop as you relax and enjoy the serenity. Hop off at the top to catch a bite to eat at the Roundhouse Restaurant. Enjoy hot cocoa and warm up before riding back down to the winter elements. The gondola is a great activity for anyone in your family or group who does not ski and would like to get a glimpse of the ski resort.
Shopping:
Explore the village and town of Sun Valley by taking a stroll through the boutique shops, galleries, outdoor stores and more. Pop into one of the many local restaurants for a bite to eat. Many breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner spots host an array of flavors that will please any pallet.
Bowling:
The Bowling Alley and Game Room in the Sun Valley Lodge is one of the Northwest’s oldest bowling alleys. It is open year-round and is the fun party place in the basement of the lodge. The newly renovated bowling alley has six lanes that are now regulation length providing for some 1950's soul. There is even a new bar and food service available.
Sleigh Rides:
Enjoy a classic and cozy sleigh ride through the snow. Sun Valley offers half-hour tour of the scenic area between the Sun Valley Inn and Trail Creek Cabin – known as the Trail Creek Golf Course in summer. The sleigh rides depart from the Sun Valley Inn Lobby Lounge and are $25 per person (plus tax and gratuity. No charge for infants under 3 yrs. old). Reservations are required – call 208-622-2135.
For the full sleigh ride experience, try the dinner ride option. For dinner at Trail Creek Cabin, horse-drawn sleighs leave the Sun Valley Inn at 6, 7 and 8 pm for a family style dinner Tuesday through Saturday. The ride lasts about 1/2 hour and blankets are provided to help keep you warm. Reservations are also required – call 208-622-2135.
