You’ve just spent the day on the river! You’ve been paddling through rapids, soaking up the sun, maybe getting a little (or a lot) wet, and sharing a boat with some great people. Whether you were out for a half-day float or tackled a full day through Brown’s Canyon, there’s nothing like stepping out of the raft, toweling off, and realizing that the day isn’t over yet.
Buena Vista might be best known for whitewater, but what makes it truly special is how much there is to explore once you’re back on dry land. After your adventure, slow the pace a little. Head into town and grab a coffee or a cold drink. Veya Coffee Bar has some of the best drinks and poptarts in town! The Surf Hotel’s Wesley & Rose Lobby Bar is a favorite for some drinks and appetizers with a view of the Arkansas River. If you’re hungry, and let’s be honest you probably are, check out local restaurants like Crave for pizza or the Buena Viking for some burgers.
If you’re not quite ready to sit still, stroll along the river park downtown where you’ll get some nice views of the river. It’s an easy way to stretch your legs and take in the beauty of the Buena Vista from a different angle.
For those with kids, or anyone looking to unwind a bit, the community hot springs are a great stop. Mt. Princeton Hot Springs is just a short drive away, with natural soaking pools and plenty of room to relax! You can also keep it simple and swing by a local shop or gallery. Buena Vista has an unexpected creative side, with local artists, handmade goods, and small businesses lining Main Street!
Evening in Buena Vista settles in slow and golden, with alpenglow on the peaks and the town humming quietly. There’s often live music at local venues, food trucks serving up dinner, or families gathering in the park as the sun dips behind the mountains. It’s the kind of place where you don’t have to rush. So if you’re rafting with us at Noah’s Ark, don’t make it a drive-in, drive-out kind of day. Stick around. Buena Vista has more to offer than most people expect, and after a day on the water, it’s the perfect place to land.