Ten Things to Do in Frisco

While Summit County’s ski towns draw tourists for good reason, they can’t quite match the small-town feel of Frisco. There’s a Hallmark movie charm to its downtown district, with views of snowy peaks and warm string lights stretched between cozy storefronts.

Situated on Main Street, the boutique Hotel Frisco puts visitors within walking distance of most attractions. Before settling into your newly renovated room, sip a complimentary glass of wine next to the lobby’s stone fireplace. Live music is a regular occurrence on Friday and Saturday evenings, and a collection of board games in the loft completes the inviting atmosphere.

In the surrounding residential areas, several townhomes serve as short-term vacation rentals. Look to local management company Alpine Meadows for spacious accommodations with private hot tubs, equipped kitchens and more.

Though a fantastic getaway, this nearby destination also makes for a great day trip from Denver. Either way, start building your itinerary with these ten fun things to do in Frisco this season.

Two Below Zero Sleigh Rides
616 Recreation Way
Dash through the snow on one of Colorado’s most popular sleigh rides. Guests who book with Two Below Zero can choose between a short and sweet daytime hot cocoa tour or a down-home dinner experience. Both feature live country music entertainment inside a heated yurt, plus a scenic round-trip commute via a mule-drawn wagon. The jingle of harnesses and postcard views add to the winter magic.

Frisco Adventure Park
621 Recreation Way
Sleigh rides depart from Frisco Adventure Park, a hub for many winter activities. Grab onto the terrain park’s tow rope to practice ski and snowboard tricks, take the little ones to the sled hill or better yet, purchase a pass to one of the area’s best tubing spots. A carpet lift saves visitors the effort of stomping through the snow, and groomed runs guarantee a fast, thrilling ride. It’s a joyful experience for all ages.

Rainbow Lake
464 Temple Trail
The Rainbow Lake trailhead is set on the perimeter of downtown and a popular pick for winter hiking. Locals frequent this easy, 1.6-mile path, meaning it’s generally well packed and often even suitable for fat biking. Follow the trail past snow-heavy evergreens and stark aspens to the large, iced-over lake. Moose are a common sighting here later in the season; keep your distance and dogs on leash.

Copper Mountain
509 Copper Road
Though past the downtown area, Copper Mountain falls within the boundaries of Frisco. Few realize that it’s one of the state’s most affordable places to ski. Every Thursday through April 9, pre-purchased lift tickets are just $99, and a portion of sales benefits nonprofit partners. Should you have an Ikon pass or the means to splurge, don’t miss the pond skim contests and live music during closing weekend’s Sunsation festival happening April 25 and 26.

Frisco Nordic Center
616 Recreation Way
While this year’s lack of natural snow has limited its cross-country skiing, the Frisco Nordic Center is a scenic place to glide across classic and skate trails. Groomed terrain currently spans 3.5 kilometers (just over two miles), with options for beginners and those with intermediate skills. Private lessons are available, as are equipment rentals inside its cozy timber lodge.

Outer Range Brewing Company
182 Lusher Court
There are a number of reasons why Outer Range ranks as one of the best après-ski spots around. Enjoy a laid-back ambiance from its sunny deck or heated dog-friendly patio, and drop by between Friday and Sunday to experience its regular sauna and cold plunge pop-up. While there’s a wide variety of beers on tap, its award-winning IPAs pair deliciously with saucy and spicy Thai-inspired bowls from on-site eatery Bird Craft.

Butterhorn Bakery & Cafe
408 Main Street
If you hit the snooze button, there may be a worthwhile wait for a table at Butterhorn. Fortunately, this homey cafe full of friendly locals serves breakfast all day. Sip on a steaming cup of coffee while waiting for your order, which should definitely include the eggy French toast made from house-baked cinnamon fruit bread. Savory classics like country-fried steak and green chile-smothered huevos rancheros round out the menu, as do brunch cocktails.

Main Street Mile
311 to 720 Main Street
Snowcapped mountains and string lights set the scene on Main Street, which is home to dozens of local businesses. Peruse the shelves at Next Page, an independent bookstore and cafe. Purchase outdoor apparel from Colisco, pop into art galleries and drink a beer at Highside Brewing while getting a free wax for your board or skis. Restaurants along this stretch are generally casual, though places like Vinny’s and Tavern West are fit for a date night.

Frisco Emporium
313 Main Street
While there are many retailers on Main, none are as eclectic as the Frisco Emporium. More than twenty vendors are nestled into its four levels, with wares spanning from antique wooden skis to handmade decor, turquoise jewelry, consignment clothing and cowboy memorabilia. Among the treasures, a vintage train car on the first floor serves classic cocktails and spirits from Pullman, the town’s first distillery.

Frisco Historic Park and Museum
120 East Main Street
Along Main, this educational attraction preserves ten historic structures. As a true park, there is no official entrance, and visiting is free. Simply wander the grounds at your leisure, peering into several log-built homes, the old chapel, a four-cell jail that once held rowdy miners and the oldest cabin in Frisco, which dates back to around 1860. Exhibits within the renovated schoolhouse provide more insight into the town’s storied past.