Valentine's Day

17 Fun Things to Do in the Mountains this February

 
 

From a wine and chocolate festival to the longest-running Nordic competition in Colorado, here are the best events in Summit County, Estes Park, Vail, and beyond this month.

For many Coloradans—and out-of-towners—Presidents Day (February 19) means hitting the slopes. In fact, the holiday is often resorts’ busiest day of the year. So, when some you inevitably head to higher ground this month, may we suggest breaking up the barrage of pizza-learning toddlers (if you know, you know), jacked-up cafeteria prices, and lift lines with some relaxing diversions? Or, avoid the crowds entirely and skip town another weekend this month. Rest assured there’ll be loads to do, from a wine and chocolate festival to a citywide winter carnival.

Summit County

Eat, Ski, and Be Merry
There are two kinds of skiers: the speed-racers that barrel down the mountain as though they’re being chased by a yeti and the meanderers that amble down the slopes and enjoy the view. Those in the latter camp will delight in this relaxing candlelit skiing adventure, hosted by Frisco Nordic Center. Over the 2.5k course around the Frisco peninsula, there will be four cozy stops by a bonfire stocked with snacks, adult beverages, and nonalcoholic drinks. Feb. 3; 5:30–9:30 p.m.; $45–$80

Gold Rush Nordic Races
No matter your skill level or age, you’re invited to partake in this 53-year-old Nordic race—the longest running in the state. Opt for a 5k, 10k, or 20k course across Frisco, and make sure to pick up your free BOCO Gear neck gaiter, Chris Cakes of Colorado grub, and Highside Brewing beer. Stick around town for the Spontaneous Combustion Bonfire and Fireworks during which about 300 Christmas trees are used as fuel for a massive (controlled) blaze. Feb. 10; starting at 10 a.m.; $10–$65

In Plain Sight: Queer Rural Narratives from the Water and the Land
Walk the halls of any major Mountain West gallery, and you’ll likely see stunning representations of life this side of the Mississippi. What’s been largely missing from that body of work, however, is depictions of how queer identities and rural environments overlap. In this five-artist exhibition, see visual depictions of the often-underrepresented queer existence, resistance, and endurance in rural and remote areas of our country, including pieces from mixed-media artist Janie Stamm and painter Robert Martin. Don’t miss opportunities to see the artists talk on February 14. Jan. 27–April 28; Tuesdays 10 a.m.–8 p.m., Wednesdays through Sundays 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; free

Vail and Beaver Creek

Dine with the Dogs
Not only do the Vail Ski Patrol Dogs keep skiers safe from avalanches—they look unbearably cute while doing it. Every Sunday through the end of March, families can meet the professionals (both human and canine) who keep guests safe on the mountain and ask them questions about dog training and avalanche safety. Visit on January 14, January 28, and March 31 to receive a free bite to eat, plus the chance to win giveaways from Helly Hansen, which sponsors the event. Through March 31; Sundays 10:30–11:30 a.m.; free

Vail Legacy Weekend
No, those Fireball shooters haven’t gone straight to your head. During this beloved annual event, you’ll actually see an Army Black Hawk helicopter land on Vail Mountain. To honor its heritage—the mountain was founded by veterans of the U.S. Army’s 10th Mountain Division—each year Vail welcomes current members of the division, holds a parade of veterans dressed in traditional uniforms, and has a “ski down” of Riva Ridge, one of Vail’s most iconic runs. Feb. 24–25; noon–5 p.m.; free, on-mountain events require lift ticket or pass

Why Do Dinosaurs Matter?
Channel your inner Alan Grant and dig into the backstory of the Brontosaurus at this scientific lecture. Kenneth Lacovara, a professor at Rowan University, author of Why Dinosaurs Matter, and discoverer of the Dreadnoughtus dino, will talk about the ancient reptiles, climate change, and history, plus answer all of the questions you’ve had since childhood—like why were T. rexs’ arms so tiny? Feb. 29; 6–7:30 p.m.; $10–$25

Crested Butte and Gunnison

Brett Dennen’s Lift Series
Each year, singer-songwriter Brett Dennen makes it a point to hit some of America’s finest mountain towns on his Lift Series tour—because what’s better than skiing and a show? In Crested Butte, the “Ain’t No Reason” folk-pop singer will play the Center for the Arts. If you miss him at this stop, maybe you can catch him at another show in Steamboat Springs, Durango, or Beaver Creek. Feb. 17; 8–11 p.m.; $45–$260

Estes Park

Wine and Chocolate Festival
Even if you’re going stag this Valentine’s Day, you’ll get your fill of chocolate and wine during this high-altitude fest. Pair rich bite-sized confections with wines from the likes of Snowy Peaks Winery and Climb Hard Cider, plus a complimentary wine glass and tote bag. You don’t need a sweetheart to serenade you this year as there will be plenty of live music on-site. To really treat yourself, reserve a table at Twin Owls Steakhouse for a four-course, chocolate-infused dinner with wine pairings curated by Snowy Peaks Winery’s Erik Mohr. Feb. 3; noon–5 p.m.; $15–$125

Winter Park

Winter Wonderland
If a performance from the Talking Swifty Heads (a Talking Heads and Taylor Swift cover band) isn’t enough to pique your interest, we give up. This frosty afternoon bash includes that amusing musical group, plus a hot cocoa bar, sledding, and crafts. The centerpiece of the day isn’t a Taylor Swift and David Byrne duet—although we’d love to see that—it’s an over-the-snow 5k, in which participants will race on snowshoes, cross-country skis, fat-tire bikes, and snow cleats. Feb. 3; 1–4 p.m.; $20

Winter Park Express
This seasonal Amtrak offering could be classified under “transportation”—but we like to think of it as an exclusive event unto itself. For three months each year, Amtrak runs the Winter Park Express (also known as the “ski train”), which takes passengers from Denver Union Station straight to Winter Park. During the two-hour-long locomotive ride, families can enjoy stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and Moffat Tunnel—all while circumventing the blood-pressure-spiking I-70 traffic. (Bonus: Skis ride free.) Jan. 12–March 31; Fridays through Sundays: Train departs Denver at 7 a.m. and departs Winter Park at 4:30 p.m.; starting at $59

Mountaintop Après and Glow Night Ice Skating
Families visiting the mountains for the weekend often hit an age-related fork in the road after unbuckling their ski boots for the day: Should we opt for adult-style food-and-alcohol diversions or kid-friendly fun? Those skiing at Winter Park can do both. Start at 4 p.m. by watching the sunset at Mountaintop Sunset Lodge, where you’ll be greeted with small bites, drinks, and live music. After darkness falls, corral the fam and head to the Village Pond for cosmic-themed Glow Night Ice Skating soundtracked by live DJ tunes. Jan. 4–March 30; Mountaintop Après: 4–7 p.m., Glow Night Ice Skating: 5–7 p.m.; attendance free, rentals and food and drink prices vary

Black Hawk and Nederland

Guanella Pass Brewery Pig Roast
No need to hit the grocery store or scramble for a reservation after shredding all day. Instead, veer off I-70 to this Georgetown brewery for a pig-roasting party. Pair your tender pork with darts, billiards, and a thirst-quenching IPA. Don’t leave before taking a guess at the guest of honor’s weight (the pig, silly). The most accurate estimate receives a mystery gift from Guanella Pass Brewery. Feb. 17; starting at 3 p.m.; free attendance

Buena Vista and Salida

The Melt Goes on Forever
Instead of spending the evening in your vacation rental scrolling TikTok, head to the theater to get a memorable dose of cinema. This documentary follows African-American artist David Hammons, whose multidisciplinary (and hard-to-define) works dissect race and American society. Hammons’ art (including iconic works like “How Ya Like Me Now”) has been featured in the Museum of Modern Art, the Whitney Museum, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, but you can see a wide array of his work in this film at the Steamplant Event Center. Feb. 4; 4:30–6 p.m.; $11

Steamboat Springs

Steamboat Winter Carnival
You may think you’ve seen every iteration of winter-focused festivals—gatherings dedicated to the Norse god of snow, ice carving, and even a frozen dead dude—but have you ever seen one centered around a donkey jump and a shovel race? If the answer is no, head to Steamboat to partake in this iconic event. Besides the aforementioned contests, there will be ski ballet competitions, an on-snow dual slalom bicycle race, a s’mores party, and so much more. Feb. 7–11; times vary; some events ticketed

Aspen

Mother of All Ascensions
The Centennial State does Mardi Gras a bit differently than the Big Easy. For one, we’re all wearing Patagonia puffers and sipping Coors Light instead of Sazerac. Secondly, one of our most beloved celebrations involves willing participants racing up a 2,073-foot snow-packed mountain as fast as they can. Register and complete the course on Mardi Gras or at any point until noon on Friday the 23rd. But there is a mandatory dress code of purple, gold, or green ski ’fits. Feb. 13–23; times vary; $40

Bud Light Hi-Fi Concert Series
If you broke the bank on the Aspen hotel and ski pass, you’re in luck. This annual concert series, which starts its yearlong run this month, brings national acts to downtown Aspen for free. This month, see Greeley-born group the Burroughs perform their whimsical spin on soul music. In March, stay tuned for Shakey Graves and his mixture of blues, rock, country, and folk. Starting Feb. 13; 3:30 p.m.; free

Chefs and Somms Series with Hakan Thörnström
After scarfing down ski-lift PB&Js all day, treat yourself to this upscale aprés dinner at the Michelin Guide–recommended Element 47 inside the Little Nell hotel. Swedish chef Hakan Thörnström is collaborating with the Little Nell’s culinary director and wine director to create an indulgent menu that includes lobster panna cotta, smoked scallop tartare with Jerusalem artichoke, and charcoal-grilled, gratinated wagyu with Madeira sauce and parsley root purée. Feb. 22–24; reservation times vary; $145 per person, plus $100 for optional wine pairing

Read more at 5280.com

Related Links

If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

Search Homes in Colorado

Search Homes in North Carolina

Search Homes in Oklahoma

Search Homes in Oregon

Search homes in Minnesota

February in OKC

 
 

February is here, and it's the perfect time to fall in love with all things Oklahoma City. 

With exciting adventures happening all month, here are a few recommendations of ways to discover the Modern Frontier!

Valentine's Day Inspiration

Need help making those Valentine's Day plans? From indoor skiing, to building a terrarium, we've put together a full guide of unique ways to celebrate with your loved one in Oklahoma City. If you're looking for gift ideas, we have a curated list that your Valentine will love! And don't forget to book a night at one of the city's most romantic hotels.

Black History Month

Celebrate Black History Month in OKCExperience the Descendants of the Black 1000, occurring now through April 1, 2024, at the Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center. The exhibit features photographs, archival material and audio recordings, which tell the story of Oklahoma’s Black communities' historical movement to Canada to seek refuge. Foodies will love celebrating Black History Month with a friendly game of Black Restaurant Bingo! Participants can download the restaurant bingo card containing foodie squares and 1 freebie square situated on a 4 by 4 grid. Presented by the Oklahoma City Thunder, this is the perfect way to celebrate Black-owned restaurants during the month of February. Check out our two-Day Itinerary for exploring Black history and culture in OKC

Mark Your Calendars

Oklahoma City is filled with fun events this month! 

Looking for more cold-weather activities? Check out our Winter Guide to discover even more of this season's must-dos. 

Read more at VisitOKC.com

Related Links

If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

Search Homes in Colorado

Search Homes in North Carolina

Search Homes in Oklahoma

Search Homes in Oregon

Search homes in Minnesota

A Guide to Valentine's Day in Denver

 
 

'Tis the Season for Love & Romance

Valentine's Day is just Cupid's shot away - whether you love it or love to hate it, there are so many fun things for you to do in Denver for this holiday! If you want even more, you can find a full list of Valentine's Day events here.

Go Out To Dinner

It doesn't get more classic than dinner (well, maybe if you throw in a movie too, but that's so played out by now). Whether you want a quiet, candlelit dinner, are looking to spice things up with some live jazz, or want to keep it super lowkey at a casual spot, there are plenty of options to choose from.

  • The Boulders -  The Boulders at Black Canyon Inn is here to give you some amazing bang for your buck with its six-course meal priced at only $70 a person. The menu includes pan-roasted duck, filet, lobster, and more, so you can't go wrong with this one for a night out. Reserve here or call (970) 586-8113 to reserve.

  • Ironton Distillery -  If we had to bet, we'd say Cupid loves to throw back a cocktail or two, and our friends at Ironton Distillery think so too. That's why the team has put together a dinner and cocktail special that includes four full-sized cocktails along with three paired plates. Reserve now.

  • Corrida -  If an incredible dinner with an unforgettable view is what you're after, then Corrida is here to please. The four-course meal features dry-aged prime culotte, Berkshire pork belly, Valrhona chocolate tart, and more. Your date will remember this one for a while. Make a reservation here.

  • Citizen Rail - Tucked away off the tracks of Denver's Union Station, Citizen Rail makes for a cozy Valentine's Day dinner spot. The restaurant is hosting a special prix fixe, three-course Valentine's Day Dinner on February 14 for $115 a person. Guests will have the choice of Pan Seared Scallops, Petit Filet, Brown Butter Fried Cauliflower, Olive Oil Cake, and more! Reserve now.

  • Mercantile -  For lovers seeking a night out on the town, Mercantile offers a special five-course menu for $95 per person created by Chef Alex Siedel. The Valentine's menu will only be available on February 14, and reservations can be made here.

  • Panzano - Panzano will offer a special Chef’s tasting menu featuring five courses, which includes tortellini with reggiano ricotta filling, beef short rib with parsnip, chocolate pot de crème, and more for only $75 a person. Make your reservation on February 14 here.

  • The Post Chicken & Beer - For a casual holiday, skip the fancy tasting menu and head to The Post Chicken & Beer, where you’ll find Valentine’s specials sure to please. What’s more romantic than a heart-shaped box of hand-breaded chicken tenders? Pair it with The Post’s red velvet gooey butter cake for the ultimate feast.

  • The Velvet Cellar - The Velvet Cellar is hosting a two-night prix fixe celebration for Galentine’s Day and Valentine’s Day on February 13th and 14th from 4-9 PM. They will be offering a 4-course menu that is perfect for sharing with your loved ones or friends. Make a reservation.

  • Ultreia - This year, indulge in Valentine’s Day the week before, the weekend after, or on February 14th. Choose your favorites from the regular menus, or enjoy Valentine’s dishes specially crafted by the culinary teams for the occasion to create lasting memories with your loved one. Place your reservation here.

  • Apple Blossom - The team at Apple Blossom has prepared a romantic, four-course prix fixe menu at $75pp for Valentine's Day with specials including pan-seared crab cakes, roasted butternut squash soup, grilled strip steak, and white chocolate cheesecake, plus an optional wine pairing for only $35pp. Reservations can be made here.

  • Le French - This Valentine’s Day, treat your loved one to an elegant four-course dinner at either Le French location. On Wednesday, Feb. 14 from 4 to 9 p.m., guests can enjoy a specialty menu, available for $99 per person with an optional wine pairing. Lock in your reservation here.

Sip On Drinks

Sometimes, you want to keep it extra simple: just you and your partner, sitting across from one another, sharing a few drinks. Or maybe you want to cheers one or two before heading to dinner. Whatever your plans, these places should be part of them. Make sure to check out our Best Speakeasies Guide for even more ideas.

  • The Block Distilling Co. - On February 14, The Block Distilling Co. invites all Denver residents to swing by to enjoy one FREE cocktail from 3-10 pm. Yes, you read that right! While you're there, treat yourself to some oysters and try out The Block's new spirit, a Dry Pink Gin.

  • The Family Jones - Dubbed the “Best First Date Spot in Denver” by OpenTable, let love spark The Family Jones. Treat yourself and your lover to the Étouffant cocktail made with Ella Jones Colorado Straight Bourbon, pomegranate + raspberry syrup, creme de cacao, toasted almond bitters, chocolate demerara, espresso bean, and beet dust heart.

  • Alma Fonda Fina - Opened this December, Chef Johnny Curiel’s first solo venture oozes romantic charm with warm woods and textural finds from his home country of Mexico. For Valentine’s Day only, they are offering a curated chocolate and mezcal tasting as an after-meal add-on.

  • Flight Club - From the masterminds behind the thrilling ‘Social Darts®’ experience in downtown Denver, Flight Club is ‘Letting Love Fly’ this Valentine’s Day with a uniquely blended, pink-hued cocktail and packages tailor-made for group dates or Galentine's Day festivities. Make your reservations now.

  • Halcyon - Guests can “spill the tea” at Local Jones’ afternoon Galentine’s Tea from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Feb. 10-11. Beginning at $55, guests will enjoy tea service, as well as warm scones, house-made pastries, savory sandwiches and Champagne. Make your reservations here.

  • Poka Lola Social Club - Treat your Valentine, Galentine, or yourself at Poka Lola Social Club this February. Poka Lola is mixing up handcrafted “Oh La La” seasonal cocktails and hosting three events Poka Oh La La (Feb. 9 – 18), Lonely Hearts Night (Feb. 16), and Galentine’s Day (Feb. 17).

Make It An Experience

There's more to Valentine's Day than just dinner - or at least there can be if you want to make it an extra memorable time. You'll find many things to do around the city from small craft nights to whole markets to get you feeling the love.

  • Valentine's Bazaar - If you've been to a Denver BAZAAR event before, then you know just how fun they are. They always feature the best local vendors offering everything from handmade jewelry, home goods, unique art, plants, trendy fashion, and more. Pair that with bottomless mimosas and it's a date!

  • Denver Botanic Gardens - Valentine’s Day can be for the whole family too. Celebrate the flowers and plants used year-round as symbols of love at the Family Make and Take: Garden Valentine’s event at Denver Botanic Gardens. They supply the materials, you supply the imagination.

  • Que Bueno Suerte - Que Bueno Suerte is celebrating Valentine’s Day by hosting a Bachata Dance Party on Wednesday, Feb. 14. The party will begin at 8:30 p.m. with a free Bachata class and continue with a dance party and live DJ’s from 9:15 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. Cover is $10. 

  • Get A Custom Valentine's Day Message From Andy Frasco - You know and love him from Andy Frasco & The U.N., now you can get to know him as your personal cupid. Let Andy woo the love of your life for some brownie points this year. No promises that your crush won't fall for Andy instead, though.

  • Talnua Distillery - Take a trip to Vegas without even having to step onto a plane. Talnua Distillery is turning into a Chapel of Love featuring Vegas Valentine's cocktails, boozy chocolates, and even an ordained Elvis to officiate your wedding, vow renewals, commitment ceremony, or just to shoot the shit with.

  • Oakwell Beer Spa - Beer can be romantic, especially when it involves a relaxing day spa. That's exactly what you'll find at The Beer Spa, which combines the spa experience with craft beer. The Valentine's Day package will get you a 90-minute session in a romantic Beer Therapy Room, a bottle of French sparkling wine, a charcuterie box paired with chocolate-covered strawberries, and more! Reserve here.

  • Go To A Concert - You didn't think we wouldn't mention live music now, did ya? Sure, it's not the most conducive for a conversation, but you can't beat a night out dancing to your favorite tunes with your favorite person.

Read more at Do303.com

Related Links

If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

Search Homes in Colorado

Search Homes in North Carolina

Search Homes in Oklahoma

Search Homes in Oregon

Search homes in Minnesota

The Best Things to do in Bend For February

 
 

If there’s snow in the mountains and heart-shaped cutouts in shop windows, it must be February in Bend. 

It’s a month filled with wintery fun and fireside snuggles, with Valentine’s Day landing right in the middle like a bright cupid’s arrow. There’s love in the air, along with that crisp winter chill.

Wondering what to do, see, eat, or drink this February in Bend? Here’s what’s happening in this itty-bitty month packed with lotsa heart and soul.

Love is in the air

I’ll admit up front that I perhaps put overemphasis on the love aspect of our shortest month. Blame Visit Bend’s use of a tourism blogger who’s also a USA Today bestselling romance author. Guess I’m wired to see love all around?

In 13+ years of this blog, I’ve rounded up wintery ways to show your love, some fabulous Valentine’s dates, and Valentine’s gifts to exchange besides germs (it was pandemic times, what can I say?)

I guarantee I’ll never run out of romance-inspired blog ideas, but my author career has little to do with it. There’s simply something magical in Bend each February. 

Bend restaurants bust out specialty menus filled with comfort food and prix fixe dinners designed for romantic dates. Tour companies like Wanderlust bust out Valentine’s packages (and I’m still all heart-eyed over a coworker’s Wanderlust snowshoe wedding last year). Out at Juniper Preserve, try the one-of-a-kind experience of a romantic dinner in a lava tube cave.

Why not embrace February as a chance to show your sweetheart how much you care?

Book a couples’ massage day at a Bend day spa. Take a romantic twirl together with a skate date at The Pavilion’s ice rink. Pick a Bend Sno-Park and make snow angels together. Heck, go the freebie route and use a fingertip to draw a heart in frost on your honey’s car window.

No sweetie in your arms this year? Show your love for Bend’s wild places when you practice Leave No Trace principles while exploring outdoors.

If Rover’s the love of your life, spread the love from him to Bend pet stores with a visit to Bendy Dog or Bend Pet Express for a fresh bag of treats and a blingy new collar.

There’s enough love in Bend to leave you dizzy. Spread some around this February!

Squeeze in some snow play

Mt. Bachelor boasts one of the longest ski seasons in North America, spanning from November through the end of May (weather permitting).

But don’t get cocky thinking you’ve still got half a season left.

March and April get busy with crowds of spring breakers flocking from around the Pacific Northwest. While May can bring epic bluebird days, it can also bring naked ski slopes if it’s not a great snow year.

You never know what you’ll get, so February’s a great time to get serious about booking your winter trip. Schedule some ski lessons or that sled dog ride you’ve been dreaming of.

Plan ahead by buying tickets for Winter Pridefest before midnight on February 1. That’s how you score the best price for this amazing event happening March 7-10.

If snowmobiling’s on your bucket list, now’s the best time to book that grand adventure. Add it to a romantic winter getaway complete with a couples’ cross country ski outing or a snowshoeing trip to a snuggly, cozy warming hut.

We’re back to romance again, aren’t we?

Embrace your love of beer

Fans of beer-centric events like Bend Brewfest and Bend Ale Trail Month may not know of February’s lesser-known beer celebration.

But Zwickelmania and its assortment of tours, tastings, and prizes is one of my favorite beer events of the year. 

Sponsored by the Oregon Brewers Guild, it’s typically split into two weekends, with Portland peeps getting their own event a week before Bend’s breweries throw open their doors for throngs of beer fans. It’s a more intimate event than you’ll find at some of those bigger shindigs, with a chance to chat with brewers and sample seasonal beers. Some even offer kiddie games and other family fun.

Can’t make it out that weekend? February’s still a great time to sample all those hearty winter ales and thick porters along the Bend Ale Trail. With summer’s crowds a distant memory, you’ll have an easier time finding tables or fireside sipping spots at your favorite Bend brewery.

They’re playing our song

Considering the size of this shortest month, February sure brings a lot to the table for Bend’s music front.

One of my favorite musical events kicks off when Bend A Cappella Fest takes the stage. It’s the Northwest’s only festival focusing on masterclasses, a cappella performances, and camaraderie. Each year’s lineup is different, but you’ll almost always see names you recognize from shows like Pitch Perfect or The Sing-Off. Grab tickets early, since this one tends to sell out.

Speaking of tickets getting snapped up fast, it pays to plan ahead for Jazz at the Oxford. This seasonal series spans November through March, and many snows sell out quickly. Take a look at what’s on tap for February, then cross your fingers you snag seats for a show at this uber-cool series.

While you’re feeling classy, browse the schedule for Central Oregon Symphony. Winter concerts range from brass musicians to string shows and more. Tickets often sell for tiny prices at modest venues like local high schools.

If opera’s your jam, it’s worth a look at what’s happening with Opera Bend.
Pro tip: By the time February hits, Hayden Homes Amphitheater has usually announced about a dozen summer concerts, with more on the way. Watch closely, as popular acts sell out in minutes. Make sure you’re on their email list so you don’t miss any concert announcements. Then plan to pounce fast when you see one you like.

Bust out those boots

It’s not all snow and ice when you head for Bend in winter. You’ll find plenty of inspiring winter hikes from Sawyer Park to the Tam a Lau Trail to good ol’ Pilot Butte.

We’re still a few months out from snow gates opening at popular spots like Tumalo Falls, the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, and Newberry National Volcanic Monument, but why miss the chance to explore in uniquely wintery ways?

Book a fat bike tour with Cog Wild for the thrill of cycling on snow. If that’s not your scene, find plenty of snow-free routes on the Cascades Gravel Scenic Bikeway.

Take a chance on only-in-winter adventures like snowshoeing or ice skating, then wrap things up with some fireside suds at your favorite Bend brewery.

Cheers to this short but oh-so-sweet month in Bend!

Read more at VisitBend.com

Related Links

If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

Search Homes in Colorado

Search Homes in North Carolina

Search Homes in Oklahoma

Search Homes in Oregon

Search homes in Minnesota

Plan Your Next Romantic Date in Fort Collins

 
 

It’s hard to believe it’s almost Valentine’s Day here in Fort Collins.

Whether you're embarking on a staycation or enjoying a leisurely getaway to Fort Collins with a special someone, we've curated the most enchanting recommendations to help you make the most of your romantic date and immerse yourselves in the delightful moments of life in our city.

Searching for overnight accommodations? Make sure to check out our local lodging options here as well as specials and packages offered at boutique hotels such as The Elizabeth Hotel, Edwards House Inn, and The Armstrong Hotel
 

ENJOY A ROMANTIC SUNSET

Commence your romantic evening by capturing the beauty of a Fort Collins sunset. Here are some recommendations for prime locations to witness a breathtaking sunset in and around the city:

  • Horsetooth Reservoir Sunset: Head to the classic spot of nearby Horsetooth Reservoir, renowned for its exceptional views. Experience the romance as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vanilla and orange cream hues that gracefully meld into the reservoir against the backdrop of the western mountains.

  • The View from The Sunset Lounge: Elevate your sunset experience at The Sunset Lounge, a chic rooftop venue offering unmatched vistas of Downtown Fort Collins. This sophisticated spot provides the perfect setting to relax and enjoy the spectacle of the sun setting over the cityscape.

 

INDULGE IN A DELICIOUS DINNER 

Immerse yourself in an extraordinary dining experience with an array of charming dinner options throughout Fort Collins. We've handpicked the following suggestions for their distinctive cozy atmospheres and romantically lit settings:

  • Rare Italian: Known for its exquisite handmade pasta and locally sourced, gourmet steaks, Rare Italian elevates flavors through a unique dry-aging technique. The dimly lit interior creates a captivating atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner experience on your special date night.

  • Sonny Lubick Steakhouse: Descend a flight of stairs into an intimate haven where you can savor a menu featuring delectable options such as a succulent bone-in ribeye, tenderloin medallions, or sea scallops nestled on a bed of sweet potato mash and shaved brussel sprouts.

  • Domenic's Bistro and Wine Bar: Nestled in south Fort Collins, Domenic's is an upscale eatery ideal for special occasions like a romantic date night. Indulge in delightful Italian-inspired entrees paired with creative cocktails in an ambiance that exudes sophistication.

 TREAT YOURSELVES TO TASTEFUL COCKTAILS

After your delightful dinner, indulge in expertly crafted cocktails or refreshing mocktails as Fort Collins showcases its prowess in liquid art through a diverse array of bars and lounges:

  • Ace Gillett’s: Leave the day's cares behind and retreat to a cosmopolitan lounge reminiscent of renowned New York jazz clubs. Treat yourself to gourmet small plates, specialty handcrafted cocktails, and the allure of live music in this sophisticated setting.

  • Social: Transport your love to a bygone era resonating with the vibrant sounds of big band, jazz, blues, and swing. Descend the stairs in Old Town Square to immerse yourself in the captivating world of this classic Fort Collins speakeasy.

  • The Sunset Lounge: Revel in the finest drinks with an unparalleled rooftop view high above Downtown Fort Collins at The Sunset Lounge. The live jazz performances every Wednesday through Saturday from 8 - 10 p.m. add to the relaxed and sophisticated ambiance, creating a perfect setting for your evening.

  • Elliot’s Martini Bar: Embrace a lively and upbeat atmosphere designed to foster connection and playfulness at Elliot’s. And, of course, the libations are sure to delight your senses.

 

BONDING ACTIVITIES FOR TWO

 EXPERIENCE A LIVE SHOW 

Fort Collins boasts a vibrant scene of music, theater, and comedy. The Lincoln Center stands out as a hub for diverse entertainment, hosting a variety of shows ranging from musicians and inspirational speakers to theatrical and dance performances. Meanwhile, The Fort Collins Symphony consistently delivers captivating orchestral music experiences.

For theater enthusiasts, Bas Bleu Theater and OpenStage Theatre & Company consistently present outstanding performances throughout the year, ensuring a rich cultural calendar. And if you're in the mood for laughter, be sure to check out The Comedy Fort, where nationally renowned comedians take the stage, turning the club into a haven of uproarious amusement.

If a concert is your ideal date, then dance your heart out with your date at our fabulous local music venues like Washington's, The Armory, and The Aggie Theater.

 LEARN A NEW SKILL TOGETHER

Cooking: Local legend Ginger and Baker’s Teaching Kitchen offers cooking classes that can teach you how to make their classic pot pies and so much more. See their full class schedule here

  • Pottery: Learn how to create a handcrafted treasure when you join a pottery class at Smokestack Pottery.

  • Art: Sign up for an art class at Blue Moose Art Gallery, ranging from watercolor painting to quilting to photography.

 

GET PLAYFUL

If you're inclined towards lively competition and classic arcade games, Pinball Jones offers a nostalgic experience with favorites like pinball, Pac-Man, car racing, air hockey, skeeball, and more!

For those who prefer the combination of bowling and live music, make a date at 830 North. Experience Live on The Lanes, 830 North's live music concert series where you can enjoy live performances while having the option to bowl. Check out their calendar here and secure your tickets for an entertaining night out.

 

ESCAPE TO SOMEWHERE SECRET 

Working together to solve a puzzle and “the greatest mystery in Fort Collins” found inside a local escape room is a sure way to bond. Challenge yourself at The Fort Collins Escape Room or The Somewhat Secret Escape Room, the highest-rated escape room in Colorado! Take the challenge and participate in this unique adventure with your partner for an unforgettable date night.

 

STROLL AROUND DOWNTOWN FORT COLLINS

Last but not least, simply stroll the streets and colorful alleys of our romantic Old Town. Explore the charm of Downtown Fort Collins, where an abundance of boutique shops and adorable cafes await your discovery, making it the perfect romantic conclusion to your ideal date.

Read more at VisitFTCollins.com

Related Links

If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

Search Homes in Colorado

Search Homes in North Carolina

Search Homes in Oklahoma

Search Homes in Oregon

Search homes in Minnesota