When winter rolls into Fort Collins, the city doesn’t just slow down—it transforms. Imagine crisp, cool air that feels refreshing, streets dusted with the softest snow, and a cozy, welcoming vibe that makes you want to linger over a hot drink.
This isn’t a season for hiding indoors; it’s a chance to see the “Choice City” in a whole new, magical light.
So, what makes this list so special? We’re going way beyond the obvious. We’re talking about the secret sledding hills the locals love, the coffee shops that feel like a warm hug, and the outdoor trails that become silent, snowy wonderlands.
This is your insider guide to having an unforgettable adventure. Get ready to discover the very best places to visit in Fort Collins this winter and create memories that will have you planning your next trip before this one even ends.
1. Glide Under the Twinkling Lights at Old Town Square
Picture this: you’re lacing up a pair of skates, your breath making little clouds in the chilly air, surrounded by the glow of thousands of twinkling holiday lights. That’s the magic of the outdoor ice-skating rink right in the heart of Old Town Square.
It’s a classic winter experience that feels straight out of a movie. The best part? Admission and skate rentals are completely free, making it a perfect, wallet-friendly activity for the whole family or a charming date night.
After a few loops around the rink, you can warm up with a hot chocolate from a nearby cafe and just soak in the festive atmosphere. This is, without a doubt, one of the top winter activities in Fort Collins that captures the joyful spirit of the season.
The skating rink is typically open from late November through late January, but hours can depend on the weather, so it’s a good idea to check the latest updates online before you go.
While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to just wander. The Downtown Holiday Lights display is breathtaking, illuminating 22 city blocks with sustainable LED lights that create a sparkling canopy over the historic streets.
It turns a simple evening stroll into a magical winter destination in Fort Collins you won’t soon forget.
2. Find Treasures on a Boutique Shopping Spree in Old Town
Forget the crowded, impersonal malls. Winter is the perfect time to discover the unique character of Fort Collins through its local shops. Wandering the historic brick sidewalks of Old Town, ducking into warm, inviting boutiques, is a delightful way to spend a chilly afternoon.
You’ll find everything from handmade jewelry and local art to quirky gifts and cozy winter wear—things you’d never stumble upon in a chain store.
The shop owners are often right there, ready with a friendly smile and a great story about their products. It feels personal, like you’re discovering a secret.
Make your shopping trip extra rewarding by joining the Old Town Spree. From November through December, when you shop or dine at participating locally-owned businesses, you can enter to win weekly gift card prizes.
It’s the city’s way of celebrating its small businesses and giving you another reason to explore.
Between finding that perfect one-of-a-kind gift and the chance to win, a shopping day here becomes more than an errand; it’s a fun and engaging winter activity in Fort Collins that supports the community.
3. Trek into a Silent Forest on a Snowshoe Adventure
When the snow falls in the Rockies, some of Fort Collins’ best hiking trails become peaceful, snowy highways for snowshoes. Strap on a pair and step into a world of quiet beauty, where the only sounds are the crunch of snow underfoot and the whisper of the wind in the pines.
Lory State Park and Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, located just west of the city, offer a fantastic variety of trails with stunning views of the foothills and reservoirs, all transformed by their winter blanket.
If you’re up for a scenic drive, head into the Cache la Poudre River Canyon. Trails like the Big South Trail offer unforgettable sights, like frozen waterfalls glistening in the cold sunlight.
Don’t have your own gear? No problem! You can easily rent snowshoes from local outfitters in town before you head out. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, exploring these trails is an essential thing to do in Fort Collins in winter for anyone who loves the great outdoors.
4. Discover Flavors at the Fort Collins Winter Farmers Market
Just because there’s a chill in the air doesn’t mean the local harvest stops. Fort Collins hosts the only Winter Farmers Market in northern Colorado, and it’s a vibrant celebration of the region’s craft culture every Saturday from November into April.
Held at the Foothills Mall, this isn’t your typical summer market. You’ll find rows of beautiful, hardy winter produce—think crisp greens, colorful root vegetables, and earthy local mushrooms.
But it’s more than just food. You’ll also discover tables piled with homemade artisan crafts, perfect for finding a unique souvenir. It’s a fantastic place to talk directly with the farmers and makers, sample something new, and taste the true flavor of the community.
Grabbing ingredients for a hearty winter soup or a special treat here is one of the most authentic and satisfying winter activities in Fort Collins.
5. Unleash Your Inner Artist on the First Friday Art Walk
On the first Friday evening of every month, the creative heart of Fort Collins beats a little louder. The Downtown Fort Collins First Friday Art Walk™ is a free, self-guided tour that lets you explore the city’s vibrant gallery scene.
From November through February, imagine strolling under the soft glow of the downtown holiday lights, popping into galleries and creative spaces that stay open late to showcase new exhibits.
You’ll see everything from fine art paintings to funky sculptures, with styles to catch the eye of both casual admirers and serious art lovers.
The beauty of this winter activity in Fort Collins is that you can go at your own pace. Map out your own route, discover a new favorite artist, and enjoy the lively, communal atmosphere.
It’s a wonderfully cultured way to spend a winter evening, proving that some of the best places to visit in Fort Collins this winter are filled with color and creativity, not just snow.
6. Savor a Hearty and Historic Meal at Ginger and Baker
There’s something about winter that just calls for comfort food. Located in a beautifully restored 1920s grain mill, Ginger and Baker is the kind of place that feels like an instant classic.
It’s famous for its pies, both sweet and savory, which they believe are “the fastest way to memories, family, comfort and pure satisfaction”.
On a cold day, tucking into one of their legendary chicken pot pies is practically a rite of passage. But the menu goes much deeper, offering a range of hearty, satisfying dishes in a warm and rustic setting.
The complex also houses a cozy café and a unique market, so you can enjoy a full meal or just grab a slice of pie and a coffee to go.
With its historic charm and focus on timeless, feel-good food, it’s a cornerstone of winter dining in Fort Collins. It’s the perfect spot to refuel after a day of skating or shopping, making it a must-visit in Fort Collins for your taste buds.
7. Experience Need-for-Speed Fun at the EPIC Sledding Hill
When the snow is fresh and deep, Fort Collins families and thrill-seekers know exactly where to go: the sledding hill at the EPIC (Edora Pool and Ice Center).
This local-favorite spot is like a wintertime playground, complete with small jumps and fast tracks that are perfect for kids and kids-at-heart. All you need is a sled, a tube, or even a makeshift cardboard box, and you’re set for hours of simple, exhilarating fun.
It’s a fantastic, low-cost way to embrace a snowy day. Just bundle up, grab your gear, and get ready for that classic rush of flying down a hill. Remember to check area restrictions for sledding, but once you’re there, it’s pure, unadulterated joy.
This hill is a prime example of why Fort Collins earns its nickname “Fort Fun,” offering classic winter recreation that everyone can enjoy.
8. Explore Science and History at the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery
Some winter days are just too brisk for extended outdoor time, and that’s when Fort Collins’ incredible museums shine. The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is a top pick for a fascinating indoor adventure.
This isn’t a stuffy, look-but-don’t-touch kind of place. It’s a hands-on, interactive wonderland where you can explore regional history, delve into cool science exhibits, and even experience a state-of-the-art Digital Dome theater.
It’s engaging for all ages, making it a perfect family-friendly winter activity in Fort Collins. You can easily spend a whole day here without realizing how much time has passed.
With changing exhibits and special events year-round, it’s always a great place to visit in Fort Collins during winter when you want to stay warm while feeding your curiosity.
9. Enjoy a Plant-Based Feast at Tasty Harmony
Fort Collins has an amazing food scene that caters to every preference. For a cozy, vibrant meal that will leave you feeling great, head to Tasty Harmony in Old Town. This beloved spot is an all-vegetarian restaurant with a huge selection of creative vegan dishes.
Think hearty comfort food like their “Kentucky Fried Freedom” (battered seitan with mashed potatoes) or vibrant bowls and salads. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the colorful, flavorful plates are a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.
What makes it especially great for groups is that while the menu is plant-based, the dishes are so satisfying and inventive that everyone—vegan, vegetarian, or meat-lover—will find something delicious to enjoy.
Enjoying a meal here is a wonderful way to experience the city’s innovative and inclusive culinary spirit, making it a standout place to eat in Fort Collins this winter.
10. Catch a Live Show in a Historic Venue
Fort Collins has a surprisingly rich and diverse performing arts scene. On a winter evening, there’s nothing quite like settling into a seat at a historic venue for some live entertainment.
The Lincoln Center hosts everything from touring Broadway shows and symphony orchestra performances to dance troupes and comedy acts.
For a more intimate vibe, check out the lineup at Bas Bleu Theatre Company, known for its thought-provoking plays in a cozy, 80-seat space.
Making a night of it is easy. You can enjoy a fantastic dinner downtown and then walk to the show, creating a perfect, well-rounded evening.
Whether you’re into music, drama, or dance, catching a live performance is a sophisticated and wonderfully entertaining thing to do in Fort Collins in winter. It’s a chance to be moved, inspired, and thoroughly entertained.
11. Sip and Savor on a Self-Guided Foodie Walk
Here’s a delicious way to explore Fort Collins’ culinary landscape: the Fort Collins Foodie Walk™. On the third Friday of each month from November to February, participating downtown culinary shops open their doors from 5 to 8 PM for this self-guided tour.
It’s like a progressive dinner where you get to sample seasonal flavors, watch cooking demos, and discover new foodie hotspots at your own pace.
Imagine strolling from a chocolatier offering spiced hot cocoa samples to a bakery with warm winter pastries, all under the sparkling holiday lights.
It’s a fun, social, and utterly tasty winter activity in Fort Collins that lets you be the architect of your own food adventure. Be sure to check the official website for a map and list of participating venues for each month.
12. Find Your Rhythm on Cross-Country Ski Trails
If you love the idea of skiing but prefer a quieter, more meditative experience than the downhill rush, cross-country skiing in Fort Collins is for you.
It’s a fantastic full-body workout and a serene way to travel through snow-covered landscapes. For beginners, the City Park Nine Golf Course offers gentle, groomed terrain right in the middle of town.
For more of a challenge with epic mountain views, the trails in the Cache la Poudre River Canyon, like the path to Zimmerman Lake, are absolutely stunning.
You can rent cross-country skis from local outfitters, making it easy to try this peaceful sport. Gliding through a silent, snowy forest or across an open meadow is an incredibly rewarding experience.
Adding a day of cross-country skiing to your itinerary is a brilliant way to appreciate the natural beauty that makes this a premier winter destination in Colorado.
13. Enjoy a Perfect Cup in a Cozy Local Coffee Shop
Sometimes, the best winter activity is a simple pause. Fort Collins is dotted with incredible local coffee shops that are the ideal refuge on a frosty morning or a gray afternoon.
Places like The Bean Cycle, Harbinger Coffee, and Lima Coffee Roasters are community hubs where the coffee is crafted with care. Each has its own unique vibe, from hip and modern to quirky and bookish.
Settling into a corner with a novel, meeting a friend, or just watching the world go by with a perfectly steamed latte in hand is a cherished local ritual.
It’s a moment of warmth and comfort. Seeking out these local gems for your caffeine fix is one of the simplest yet most authentic things to do in Fort Collins this winter. Don’t forget to pair your drink with a fresh-baked pastry for the full experience.
14. Take a Scenic and Peaceful Drive Through the Foothills
For a relaxing activity that requires little planning but offers maximum reward, take a winter drive through the foothills west of Fort Collins.
The scenic roads winding toward Horsetooth Reservoir or into the Poudre Canyon offer breathtaking views of snow-dusted ridges and frozen landscapes. The winter light in the late afternoon is especially beautiful, casting a golden glow over the scenery.
You can make it a short loop or a longer exploration, stopping at scenic overlooks for photos. It’s a wonderful way to appreciate the majestic natural backdrop of Fort Collins from the warmth of your car.
This peaceful journey is a fantastic winter activity in Fort Collins for those who want stunning vistas without the hike, proving that beauty is always within reach.
Conclusion
As you can see, winter in Fort Collins is anything but dull. It’s a season filled with sparkling lights, outdoor excitement, cozy corners, and vibrant community life.
From the thrill of sledding down a hill to the quiet awe of a snowy forest trail, the best places to visit in Fort Collins this winter offer something for every mood and interest.
Don’t let another season pass by dreaming of a getaway. Start marking your calendar, checking event dates for early 2025, and packing your favorite warm layers.
Your perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation is waiting for you in Fort Collins. The snow is falling, the lights are twinkling, and your unforgettable winter story is ready to be written. What are you waiting for? Come discover it for yourself.