Celebrate at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort
There are plenty of ways to celebrate Independence Day in the mountains, but few traditions compare to spending the Fourth of July at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort. Since opening 138 years ago on July 4, 1888, Glenwood Hot Springs Resort has welcomed generations of guests looking to relax, reconnect and create lasting memories together.
Today, the tradition continues with red, white and blue celebrations at the world’s largest host springs pool and across Glenwood Springs. Plus, it’s Colorado’s 150th birthday and America’s 250 birthday, so there is extra reason to wave the flags in 2026.
Red, White & Blue Fun at the World’s Largest Hot Springs Pool
Glenwood Hot Springs Resort becomes even more festive during Independence Day weekend as guests splash, float and soak beneath sunny Colorado skies. Guests visiting the resort during the holiday can enjoy complimentary red, white and blue beads while supplies last, along with exciting beach ball drops happening at 11 a.m. in the Sopris Splash Zone and 3 p.m. in the Grand Pool.
Kids love the energy of the beach ball drops, while adults appreciate the relaxing atmosphere and mountain scenery. With seven mineral hot springs pools to enjoy, there’s space for everyone to find their perfect way to celebrate.
Starting at 5 p.m., the Yampah Mineral Baths area with five pools and a gas fireplace to lounge around become adults only.
Book a Room for the Full Holiday Experience
Guests looking to turn the holiday into a weekend getaway have two overnight options: Hotel 1888 and the Lodge at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort. Included in all overnight stays:
- Complimentary breakfast
- Unlimited soaking in the mineral hot springs during business hours – 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the summer
Hotel 1888 Luxury Boutique Stay
Located inside the historic Stone Bath House, Hotel 1888 celebrated its first anniversary on June 12. The boutique property features 16 luxury guest rooms and suites blending modern comfort with historic character.
One standout option is the Silver Kings Suite, featuring a spacious balcony overlooking the Grand Pool — a front-row seat for the ball drops and festivities.
Hotel 1888 guests receive complimentary access to the Athletic Club, which also is in the Stone Bath House and includes fitness facilities, classes, a steam room, a sauna, a hot tub, racquetball/handball courts and more.
Family-Friendly Lodge Accommodations
The Lodge at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort is ideal for families traveling with kids. Conveniently located across from the pool on Sixth Street, the Lodge completed a refresh of all 107 guest rooms and suites in March 2025.
Relax in a Private Cabana or The Overlook
For families and groups wanting extra comfort, private cabanas are available for rent throughout the pool area. Each cabana includes:
• Lounge seating for five guests
• Four bottled waters
• Four club towels
• Two lounge chairs
Adults ages 18 and older can also rent space at The Overlook, a private upper-deck lounging area above the Therapy Pool. Umbrella rentals include reclining lounge chairs, towels and bottled water for a relaxing adults-only retreat.
Delicious Food Options Poolside
No Independence Day celebration is complete without great food. The Grill, Snack Bar and Red Brick Eats food truck all have tasty options available. New this year, grab a refreshing cup of Dippin’ Dots near the Snack Bar. Look for the QR codes around the pool deck to place a mobile food order and beat the lines!
Local Fourth of July Events in Glenwood Springs
The celebration extends throughout town with family-friendly community events happening all day.
Declaration of Independence Reading
From 10–11 a.m., locals and visitors are invited to attend a nonpartisan public reading of the Declaration of Independence at Sayre Park. Live patriotic music and community participation add to this meaningful event.
Two Rivers Park Celebration
Beginning at 4:30 p.m., Glenwood Springs’ Fourth of July festivities continue at Two Rivers Park. The community celebration offers something for every age group and creates a fun way to continue the holiday after a day at the pool.
- Bounce houses
- Lawn games
- Mechanical bull riding
- Axe throwing
- Food vendors
- Live music
- Family entertainment
Live music begins with the first band going on stage at 5 p.m. followed by a second band at 7 p.m. Carpooling, biking or walking to Two Rivers Park is highly recommended due to limited parking.
Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park Live Music
Also consider stopping by Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, which has live music on holidays this summer, including the duo Wild Flight on Fourth of July from 3 – 6 p.m. Eric Gross and Emily Jurick are singer songwriters from the mountains of Colorado. Their mix of rock, blues, jazz, and country creates the perfect soundtrack for a summer holiday in the mountains.
A Fourth of July Tradition Since 1888
For 138 years, Glenwood Hot Springs Resort has brought families together to relax, play, and celebrate. From hot springs soaking and mountain views to festive poolside activities and local community events, Independence Day in Glenwood Springs continues to be a favorite Colorado tradition.
Whether you visit for the day or stay for the entire weekend, Glenwood Hot Springs Resort offers a memorable way to celebrate summer with the people you love most. It’s an American tradition in the mountains.
