Where is Fraser Colorado?
Fraser, Colorado is a town located in Grand County, Colorado. It’s an hour and a half northwest of Denver and neighbors Winter Park, CO. Fraser is often a more cost-effective choice than living in Winter Park, but residents can still take advantage of all the world-class amenities and activities that Grand County has to offer!
Fraser is slowly becoming one of the hidden gems for Colorado ski towns due to its fantastic location near to Denver and world class skiing.
History of Fraser, Colorado
Far more than just a ski town, Fraser actually has a fascinating history. From the humble beginnings of a female pioneer physician who may or may not be the inspiration for Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman to being the site of a German POW camp from 1945-1946, Fraser has a lot of stories and character in its framework. It’s also growing in popularity for young families, turning into a bustling mountain community with plenty to see and do.
In fact, the 200 German POW who were shipped over from Italy in 1945 were charmed by the hospitality and beauty of Fraser, Colorado just as much as its residents still are today! Letters from the prisoners who worked in a lumber camp supplying much-needed materials to the Allies spoke of the good, understanding people they met in Fraser and what it was like to learn about the freedom of the United States during their prison sentence.
You can learn about the fascinating history of this sleepy town from the photos and memorabilia on display in the Fraser Visitor Center. In addition, the Grand County Museum in Sulphur Springs has more artifacts to educate residents and visitors on Fraser, CO.
Restaurants in Fraser
Fraser boasts several delicious restaurants and cafes for a variety of palates. Here is a snapshot of the three best places to grab a bite, according to Fraser visitors and residents alike:
Foundry Cinema & Bowl– For food and entertainment, the place to be in Fraser is the Foundry. Not only is there delicious wood-fired pizza, but you can do a round of bowling and watch a movie in the process!
Sharky’s Eatery– Sharky’s Eatery is a hidden gem in the valley. This tiny eatery serves breakfast and lunch, and offers gluten-free bread and vegetarian options. This gluten-free capability means that the delicious breakfast dishes that Sharky’s is known for- eggs benedict, french toast, pancakes and more- can be made for gluten sensitive folks.
Elevation Pizza– Elevation Pizza is a small pizza eatery that offers thoughtful pizza creations. Although seating is sparse, service is quick and the menu will keep you coming back for more! Here’s an insider tip: Order the Adam Bomb pizza- pepperonis, hatch green chilies, cream cheese, mozzarella, and fresh red sauce. Everyone raves about it!
Crooked Creek Saloon– The Crooked Creek Saloon is a casual American pub and eatery with the typical fare- ribs, wings, and burgers with thoughtful – and flavorful!- twists! For example, the burgers are served on sumptuous baked challah rolls rather than typical buns. This Fraser staple is a popular hangout spot for its residents and tourists passing through in ski season. Make sure to try the pepper soup and the sweet potato fries- they’re crowd favorites!
Things to Do in Fraser
Fraser is a wonderful place for people who love the outdoors. Whether you appreciate hiking, trail riding or snow sports like skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing, there’s something to do. Here are our favorites places to hang out in Fraser:
Winter Park Resort
Winter Park Resort is just south of Fraser, and offers nearly 150 runs of all skill levels during the winter season. The town of Winter Park also offers several nightspots, shopping locations and restaurants as well as a spa in the resort.
Colorado Adventure Park
Colorado Adventure Park offers wintry fun for the whole family, including tubing and Snowscoot rentals. Beer and wine are available from the concessions, as well as smores kits to toast when you’re warming up later!
Hideaway Park
Hideaway Park is a central park to Winter Park, and a fantastic place to take the kids. There is a climbing wall, a spacious skate park and plenty of walking trails. In the winter, the park offers a sledding hill with free sleds available to go down the hill with.
Why Fraser?
Fraser is the perfect spot to live for young families and outdoor enthusiasts. It has a lower cost of living than nearby Winter Park and other resort communities, while still having access to the world-class ski resort and village activities.
Furthermore, Fraser is only an hour and a half from bustling Denver and perfectly situated between the urban cityscape and the many rich outdoor experiences unique to Colorado. The population of this hidden mountain gem continues to climb, as more and more people discover this unique Colorado treasure.
If Fraser has piqued your interest, learn more about homes for sale in Fraser Colorado.