Frisco, Colorado is one of Colorado’s underrated ski destinations located in the heart of Summit County. It has its origins as a mining town during the Gold Rush area. Tourists can learn about the town’s past by exploring the Frisco Historic Park and Museum as well as other attractions in downtown.
Frisco is very popular for its winter activities, including top notch skiing and snowboarding at the nearby world class ski resorts like Breckenridge Ski Resort and Copper Mountain. During summer, visitors can have fun hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and boating on Lake Dillon.
Here is an ultimate guide to the best attractions in Frisco, Colorado.
Best Things to do in Frisco, Colorado
There is no shortage of things to do in Frisco for the whole family.
Visitors can explore the town’s charming Main Street – check out the art galleries, cafes, and boutique shops.
When you have had your fill of the town, take advantage of the area’s world-class skiing, hiking, and mountain biking.
Here are the best things to do in Frisco, Colorado.
Explore the charms of Frisco Main Street
Frisco Main Street is a blend of historic charm and modern attractions that will keep visitors engaged throughout their visit.
Its roots date back to the late 19th century, when Frisco served as a vital hub for the mining industry.
This rich history is reflected in the well-preserved Victorian architecture that lines the street, a tangible reminder of the town’s past.
Explore the Frisco Historic Park, located right off Frisco Main Street.
Here you can see a collection of historic buildings that provide a glimpse into the life of miners and early settlers.
Besides its historical appeal, Main Street is also a thriving commercial avenue.
It is filled with a variety of boutique shops where you can find everything from handmade crafts to outdoor gear.
The assortment of eateries range from cozy cafes to fine dining restaurants, offering a diverse culinary experience.
Art lovers can visit the local galleries showcasing work from regional and national artists.
Moreover, the street regularly hosts events and festivals which are great fun.
Learn about the town’s history at Frisco Historic Park and Museum
Visitors can discover Frisco’s Past at the Frisco Historic Park and Museum.
Located in the town center, the Frisco Historic Park and Museum is the perfect spot to delve deep into Frisco’s rich mining history.
This park is home to a collection of preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, each offering a unique glimpse into the past.
The museum itself houses an extensive range of exhibits showcasing artifacts from Frisco’s gold and silver mining era.
The exhibits are designed to educate visitors about the town’s history and the lifestyle of its early residents.
Visitors can view the original mining tools, historical photographs, and even old mining maps.
A prominent feature of the park is the old schoolhouse which, much like the other historic buildings, has been preserved and restored to its original condition.
Inside, you can explore classrooms furnished with period-specific pieces, providing a realistic depiction of the schooling experience during that era.
The park also features a log chapel and a jail, both dating back to the 1800s, further adding to the historical ambiance.
Walking through these buildings feels like stepping back in time!
Rent a boat at Frisco Bay Marina
At the beautiful Frisco Bay Marina, visitors can rent a variety of watercraft to enjoy their time on the stunning Lake Dillon.
Outdoorsy visitors can rent kayaks and standup paddleboards for having some fun water adventures.
Large families or those seeking a more relaxed pace can rent powerboats and pontoon boats.
The Frisco marina also offers guided sailing tours and lessons for those interested in learning the art of sailing.
While on the water, guests can soak up the breathtaking scenery surrounding Lake Dillon, including the majestic Rocky Mountains and lush green landscapes.
The lake is also an excellent spot for fishing, with the possibility of catching trout and other local fish species.
For those who prefer dry land, the marina offers a sandy Colorado beach where visitors can relax and soak up the Colorado sun, or have a picnic while watching the boats go by.
The marina’s Island Grill restaurant is another highlight, offering a range of dishes and drinks with a spectacular view of the lake.
Have a delicious brunch at Butterhorn Bakery & Cafe
Just off Main Street Frisco, you will find the popular Butterhorn Bakery & Cafe.
This eatery has been a staple of Frisco’s dining scene since 1975.
Famed for its homey atmosphere and its mouthwatering menu, it is one of the best breakfast and brunch spots in town.
Butterhorn Bakery & Cafe takes pride in its freshly baked goods, prepared every morning.
Their signature butterhorn pastries are a must-try, boasting a delicate, flaky crust and a sweet, buttery filling that melts in your mouth.
Alongside these pastries, they offer an extensive menu – from hearty, American-style breakfast and brunch dishes like eggs benedict to lighter fare like fresh salads and sandwiches.
Their drink menu has a variety of specialty coffees and teas.
Their locally roasted coffee is the perfect start to your day of adventures in Frisco.
Check out the breweries in Frisco
Frisco, Colorado has a robust craft brewing scene.
The city offering beer enthusiasts a chance to taste locally brewed ales, lagers, stouts, and sours.
HighSide Brewing
One of the most popular destinations is HighSide Brewing, conveniently located on Frisco’s Main Street.
HighSide offers a wide range of beers, from classic IPAs and lagers to experimental brews, all crafted with an emphasis on quality and flavor.
The brewery also offers a food menu, featuring comfort foods that perfectly pair with their brews.
Their rooftop deck provides stunning views of the Tenmile Range, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy a pint.
Outer Range Brewing Company
Just a stone’s throw away is Outer Range Brewing Co., a brewery known for its focus on two styles: Belgian and IPA.
They believe in brewing beers that inspire them, and that passion is evident in every pint.
The taproom has a friendly, inviting vibe, and they often host food trucks, making it easy to grab a bite to pair with your beer.
Frisco’s Brewpub Scene
In addition to these breweries, several local restaurants and pubs offer a selection of local and regional craft beers.
You can explore the diverse brews of Colorado’s High Country.
Remember to always drink responsibly and consider using local transportation or designated drivers when planning your brewery hopping adventure in Frisco.
Enjoy the hiking trails in the Tenmile Range
Hiking enthusiasts visiting Frisco will be thrilled with the multitude of trails available in the Tenmile Range.
These trails offer a range of difficulty levels and breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty.
Mount Royal Trail
Mount Royal Trail is an accessible hike that begins right in downtown Frisco.
The trail is about 2 miles long and is a steady uphill climb.
Once at the top, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of Frisco, Dillon Reservoir, and the surrounding mountains.
Peaks Trail
For a longer and more challenging hike, the Peaks Trail is a fantastic option.
This trail is approximately 8 miles in length and travels between Frisco and Breckenridge.
It features a variety of terrain and passes through beautiful forests, offering stunning views of the Tenmile Range peaks.
Mohawk Lakes Trail
Mohawk Lakes Trail is a rewarding hike situated just south of Frisco.
This 6.7-mile trek will lead you past multiple lakes and waterfalls, providing plenty of photographic moments.
It ends with a spectacular view of the Continental Divide from the Upper Mohawk Lake.
Wheeler National Recreation Trail
For those seeking a strenuous, high altitude experience, the Wheeler National Recreation Trail provides a challenge.
The trail climbs over 3,000 feet, crossing the Tenmile Range at Wheeler Pass.
It’s a long, strenuous hike but the views of the surrounding peaks and valleys are worth every step.
Rainbow Lake Hike
For a shorter, more family-friendly option, the Rainbow Lake Trail is ideal.
This 3.2 mile hike offers panoramic views of Frisco and Dillon Reservoir while taking you past beautiful forests and tranquil lakes.
The trail ends at Rainbow Lake where visitors can take some time to picnic or enjoy a refreshing swim.
Each of these hikes offers a unique way to experience the beauty of the Tenmile Range and the surrounding area.
Remember to bring plenty of water, wear appropriate footwear, and check the weather before you head out.
Enjoy the serene beauty of Frisco’s hiking trails!
Explore the miles of trails at Frisco Adventure Park
The Frisco Adventure Park is a must-visit attraction for anyone looking to enjoy outdoor fun in Frisco.
The park is home to a variety of activities suitable for visitors of all ages and skill levels.
In winter, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland, offering thrilling pursuits such as tubing, skiing, and snowboarding.
The dedicated beginner ski/ride hill is an ideal spot for those just starting out or looking to hone their skills.
The terrain park is designed specifically for snowboarders and freeskiers.
The park also features a disc golf course, a skate park, athletic fields, and nature trails.
Mountain bike at Frisco Bike Park
In the summer, the Frisco Adventure Park morphs into a haven for biking enthusiasts.
The bike park boasts features for all, from pump tracks for beginners to slopestyle terrain for more advanced riders.
For those who enjoy a leisurely bike ride, the Peninsula Recreation Area located at the park offers miles of shoreline paths that provide stunning views of Lake Dillon.
The well-marked biking trails also provide access to several other parks in the area.
Go skiing at Frisco Nordic Center
The Frisco Nordic Center is one of the best things to do in Frisco in winter.
This center is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting world-class cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails.
The center features several miles of meticulously groomed trails that meander through dense forests, open meadows, and frozen lakes, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
For beginners, the center offers professional instruction in both classic and skate skiing techniques.
Rentals of high-quality equipment, including skis, boots, poles, and snowshoes, are available at the Nordic Center.
The snowshoe trails are a great way to explore the area for families.
The Frisco Nordic Center also hosts a variety of winter events and races, catering to athletes of all skill levels.
After a day of activity in the winter wonderland, visitors can relax and warm up in the cozy day lodge, which serves hot drinks and snacks.
With its excellent facilities and stunning natural surroundings, the Frisco Nordic Center is a must-visit destination for winter sports enthusiasts visiting Frisco, Colorado.
Attempt the Ten Mile Canyon National Recreation Trail
The Ten Mile Canyon National Recreation Trail invites visitors to experience the natural beauty of Frisco in a truly unique way.
This scenic trail, renowned for its breathtaking views, stretches out over 14.6 miles.
It offers both beginner and seasoned hikers an opportunity to appreciate the stunning Colorado landscape.
The trail follows the path of the Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad.
It takes hikers through the Ten Mile Canyon, providing awe-inspiring views of snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and crystal clear streams.
For those on bikes, the trail offers a fun ride with a steady, gentle climb.
The trail has plenty of spots to rest and capture memorable photos.
In the winter months, the trail is popular with cross-country skiers and snowshoers.
Along the way, numerous historical markers shed light on the area’s rich mining heritage.
The Ten Mile Canyon National Recreation Trail in Frisco is a great way to enjoy Colorado’s natural landscape.
Enjoy fishing at Dillon Reservoir
Dillon Reservoir, popularly known as Lake Dillon, is another must-visit attraction in Frisco.
The lake offers an array of activities that are great for spending a whole day.
Start your day with a peaceful morning on the waters, fishing for trout and other local species.
The reservoir waters have abundant fish and it’s a favorite spot for local anglers.
You can either fish from the shore or rent a boat from the Frisco Bay Marina.
Once you’ve had your fill of fishing, engage in some water sports.
The lake’s calm and clear water makes it an ideal venue for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing.
For adrenaline seekers, you can rent powerboats and speed across the lake, feeling the cool mountain breeze on your face.
After a morning of water activities, head over to the Frisco Bay Marina for some lunch.
The Marina’s Island Grill offers a delightful range of dishes and drinks.
You can enjoy a meal while taking in the spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding Rocky Mountains.
Hiking near Lake Dillon
In the afternoon, hike around Dillon Reservoir’s perimeter.
The Dillon Reservoir Recreation Path is a paved trail that encircles the lake, offering panoramic views of the water and mountains.
Along the way, you can spot a variety of wildlife and birds, adding an element of nature-watching to your walk.
As the day draws to a close, settle down on the marina’s sandy beach for a colorful sunset.
Frisco, CO still exudes a strong sense of its heritage in its rustic architecture and local legends.
We recommend taking 2 to 3 days while visiting Frisco to see everything that the town has to offer.
It makes a great spring vacation destination or day trip in Colorado.
What are your favorite things to do in Frisco, Colorado? Let us know below.