Spring in Northern Colorado

There is nothing quite like the warmth and energy that emerges each spring. Longer days, warmer nights and budding trees are sure to delight travelers and locals alike – many of which you will find cruising along the bike trails and enjoying a crisp beer on a sunny patio this time of year. It is a great time to get outside, hit the trails and discover the unique topography of Northern Colorado. However, you will likely experience a mix of 70° sunny days and potential snow storms when visiting during this season. Luckily, if you know to expect it, you can be prepared and enjoy all of the wonderfully diverse days of spring!

Here are some of our favorite ways to welcome the sunshine and warmth, and a few ways to enjoy the season from the great indoors:

**Walk or Bike the Spring Creek Trail**
Embark on an exploration of the local trail systems! The Spring Creek Trail is a delightfully scenic trail that cuts East to West through Fort Collins and is a great way to see the area from a different perspective. Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Spring Creek, stop to smell the spring blossoms and treat yourself to a well-deserved adult beverage at one of the local breweries.

Fort Collins is known for its’ robust network of natural areas and open spaces. Biking, fishing, hiking and exploration are all highly encouraged here and we hope you take advantage of the natural areas when visiting our town. Horsetooth Falls is a great hike for all levels and is perfect in the springtime. You can see our other recommended hikes here.

This recently restored farmstead has been turned into a delightful collection of unique businesses with local flare. This is a great destination brunch spot with multiple farm-to-table restaurants, shops to peruse and even a Barrel House that is known for their unique barrel-aged beers. You can also grab a delicious cup of coffee at Bindle, pick up a pastry at the Bakery, or enjoy a cone from John and John’s Ice Cream. The local VW flower truck also makes a guest appearance here most weekends!

**Visit The Farm at Lee Martinez Park**
This quaint petting zoo near Downtown Fort Collins is the perfect spring time activity! Visit the farm animals on a beautiful sunny day for a special treat your children will love. They have sheep, pigs, horses, ponies, cows, turkeys, chickens, and more. It is a great way to get some fresh air, learn about the historic farming culture in Fort Collins and spend quality time together. The Farm is also near the Lee Martinez Park and the Poudre River Trail so make a day out of it and enjoy the beautiful spring sunshine!

**Grab a Bite at Rainbow Cafe**
This local favorite is a vegetarian-inspired cafe with food offerings for all diets (gluten free, vegetarian, vegan AND meat eaters). It is a breakfast and lunch spot with a delicious selection of food, juices and alcoholic beverages. The true highlight of this restaurant is its’ beautiful patio with plentiful shade trees and a quaint home-town feel.

**Explore The Exchange in Old Town**
This open-air plaza in the heart of Old Town is the perfect destination for a beautiful spring day. Hop on your bike and head Downtown to The Exchange where craft food and drinks are served from renovated shipping containers. It is a great spot to grab a bite to eat, socialize and puppy-watch in the heart of Old Town. You will love the open-air concept, local flare and unique food and beverage offerings!

**Take the Kids to the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery**
If you need a good activity for a blustery day - the Museum of Discovery is the perfect choice. This family-friendly cultural and science museum is fun for all ages and features a variety of exhibits that are immersive and hands-on. The Music and Sound Lab is one of our family’s favorite exhibits and is perfect for exposing young people to the world of music and instruments!

**Catch a Movie at The Lyric**
The Lyric is a locally-owned independent movie theater with a funky-fun interior and a plethora of special events year-round. Catch a film or simply enjoy a snack and beverage in this eclectic space. It’s a bit of an “Alice in Wonderland - down the rabbit hole” vibe that is fun for children and adults alike! This indoor/outdoor venue is perfect for springtime fun and activities.

If you need more ideas for a blustery spring day, check out our page on the best winter activities in Fort Collins!