Steamboat Pilot & Today

Steamboat Springs — A cool, damp Memorial Day didn't scare tourists, or residents, away from spending time downtown Steamboat Springs this weekend.

While cool temperatures and rain might have hindered plans for hiking and mountain biking, Steamboat hotels along U.S. Highway 40 and downtown merchants reported doing better-than-average business for Memorial Day weekend.

"We had more walk-ins than reservations," said Mary Latek, owner of the Alpiner Lodge. "It was good. I can't complain."

Fisherman and mountain bikers made the strongest showing at the Alpiner Lodge, Latek said.

The Holiday Inn saw a brisk walk-in business as well, front office manager Kelly Lansford said. Lansford said the hotel was full of visitors in town for the Steamboat Stock Dog Challenge and a tennis tournament. Both Latek and Lansford said they saw a strong presence from the Front Range this weekend.

While weather hindered outdoor activities, downtown business reported that locals and visitors alike were using the opportunity to shop. Finally, there seemed to be more tourists than residents, reported Lindsey Grannis, manager of One Fine Day on Lincoln Avenue.

"Of course, no one was thrilled about the weather, so they were out shopping," Grannis said.

Amber Hinton, manager of the Steamboat Art Company, said a quick glance at last year's numbers showed business was up this Memorial Day weekend. Hinton said the store was seeing a lot of foot traffic that seemed to be continuing on Monday morning. Steamboat Fishing Company saw similar results, especially Saturday.

Rain brought people inside to eat as well.

"We did see a lot of campers getting in out of the rain," said Kathy Diemer, owner of Johnny B. Good's Diner. Diemer said the weekend was about on par with other Memorial Day weekends.

But the rain was tough for local restaurants that rely on outside seating.

"Cold and rainy kills the deck business," said Morten Hoj, owner of the Steamboat Springs Yacht Club. Hoj said he had to completely close his deck on Sunday, a disappointment for what is traditionally a very busy weekend for him. Still, Hoj has the bigger picture in perspective.

"We're looking forward to a good summer. I can't complain about the rain because it might keep the fires away," Hoj said.

--To reach Jennie Lay call 871-4210

or e-mail jlay@steamboatpilot.com