Just because the holidays are over and pocketbooks are a little thinner doesn't mean you can't have fun in Fort Collins! While there are many luxurious parts of the city, these winter budget options will put a little spring in your step!
Free Fort Collins Fun
1. Get Outdoors
With an average of 300 days of sunshine a year, going outside in the dead of winter doesn't have to be miserable! Fort Collins has 53 natural areas covering over 36,000 acres and are all free of charge to enjoy. So put on your walking shoes or grab that book you've been dying to read - no matter what your favorite hobby is, just get out and enjoy the great outdoors! If you're looking for a more difficult jaunt, try Reservoir Ridge as it's sure to get your blood flowing.
2. Enjoy Live Music
Fort Collins is a music city. We're known for our local music, venues, and multiple concert series throughout the summer. However, there are still ways to listen to free music while the sun is still going down early. Magic Rat, a venue in the Elizabeth Hotel, is always free to the public. While they do have a great bar where you can purchase beer, wine, and cocktails, no purchase is required to enjoy the music.
The Fort Collins Symphony provides free week-of-concert events, including an open rehearsal for each upcoming show. This is a great opportunity to learn what it takes for an orchestra to bring live music to the stage, while being able to hear the conductor make comments to the band. The next open rehearsal is Thursday, February 6, 2024.
3. Bingo, Trivia, and Board Games
Many Fort Collins drinking establishments have weekly activities that can fill the void of summer fun. If you get hooked on their games like bingo or trivia, you can continue the fun through the summer, a perfect way to end the day, no matter the season. If you need a few suggestions, we recommend Maxline for bingo, Stodgy for their monthly Euchre tournament, and Gilded Goat for trivia.
4. Monthly Downtown Events
Every month, the Downtown Development Authority host two great reccuring events that deserve a spot on your calendar year round. On the first Friday of every month, they host the Downtown Fort Collins First Friday Art WalkTM. Over 30 businesses keep their doors open late so you can enjoy art and a night out on the town. The third Friday of every month boasts the Fort Collins Foodie WalkTM. This self-guided tour takes you to some of the most popular culinary stores downtown where you can enjoy free samples of their products!
And if none of these catch your eye or fit into your schedule, check out our event calendar where you can filter by free!
Willing to spend a little bit?
When you're balling on a budget, you can't beat free. But if you're willing to spend a little bit, we think these are some pretty good options.
5. Unleash your inner child at Pinball Jones
Limit your spending by only bringing a certain number of quarters, or better yet, swing by on a Monday when it's a $5 cover with all-you-can-play games!
6. The Happiest Hours
There is no shortage of budget-friendly happy hours in Fort Collins! Here are some of our favorite (and cheapest) deals for a night on the town.
- Austin's American Grill - Monday through Friday, 3pm to 6pm. Discounted appetizer and drinks
- Rare Italian - Monday through Friday, 4pm to 6pm. $7 pizzetta, $6 wine, $9 burger and fries
- Road 34 - Monday through Friday, 4pm to 7pm. $2 Coors, Coors Light and Old Aggie; $.50 off all other drafts and appetizers
- Social - Sunday through Thursday, 4pm to 6pm. All night on Tuesday. Discounted cocktails, wine and appetizers
7. Check Out Thrift Culture
Fort Collins prides itself on being sustainable. One key aspect of sustainability is reuse. By shopping at thrift stores and finding hidden treasures, you're sure to save money while still updating your house or your wardrobe. Check out our thrift store blog for details about some of our favorite thrift stores.
8. Book a Staycation
A staycation is a great way to reduce costs while still getting out of the house for a night. If you're looking for a boutique experience, we recommend booking with the Armstrong Hotel, Edwards House, or Remington Flats!
