Things To Do
in Severance

Severance is a small rural town in northeastern Colorado, set among expansive farmland and wide-open plains. It enjoys a tight-knit community feel with easy access to the surrounding towns of Windsor and Greeley. Visitors are drawn to farm-to-table dining, quiet scenic drives, and expansive skies that set a tranquil tone.

The town serves as a gateway to the Northern Colorado region while preserving a distinctly rural charm.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Nature's Beauty
morning
:

Start your trip with an invigorating hike at the nearby Severance Lake. Enjoy the sunrise illuminating the water while you breathe in the fresh mountain air. Don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the local wildlife as you navigate the picturesque trails.

afternoon
:

After your hike, head to a local café for a hearty lunch featuring fresh ingredients from the area. Enjoy the quaint atmosphere as you mingle with locals and other travelers. In the afternoon, consider a visit to the Severance Museum to learn about the rich history of the town.

evening
:

As the sun sets, grab dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that highlights seasonal dishes. Settle in for the night with some live music offered at a nearby venue or unwind under the stars at your accommodation. Enjoy the tranquility of Severance as the day comes to an end.

day 2
Arts and Culture Day
morning
:

Visit the local art gallery to explore the works of regional artists, showcasing the unique culture of Severance. Spend time engaging with the exhibits and perhaps even meet an artist in residence. This artistic encounter will give you a deeper appreciation for the community’s creativity.

afternoon
:

Take part in a workshop that teaches a new craft, from pottery to painting, led by local artisans. With your newfound skills, connect with fellow participants while creating a unique piece to remember your trip. For lunch, explore a food truck festival that features eclectic culinary offerings.

evening
:

Wrap up your cultural day with an outdoor film screening at a local park if scheduled, where you can enjoy classic films under the stars. Bring along a picnic blanket and some snacks for a cozy atmosphere. This casual evening activity allows you to relax and relish the community spirit.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🏠One-bedroom apartment (city center)$900-1,300
🚇Public transportation monthly pass$0-60
🛒Groceries for two people$300-450
🌐Internet in a home$40-70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, scenic countryside with easy access to larger towns
  • Strong farm-to-table dining options nearby
  • Friendly communities and ample opportunities for outdoor activities
  • Affordable overall cost of living compared to larger Colorado towns
  • Limited nightlife and few services within Severance itself
  • Weather can be variable; rural roads may be less maintained in winter
  • Public transportation options are limited locally, requiring a car
  • Healthcare facilities are concentrated in nearby cities, not in Severance itself

Places to Visit in Severance

Visit one of these nice places.

Sunset Ridge Farmlands

Open fields and gentle rolling hills that glow during golden hour, with long, unobstructed horizons ideal for landscapes.

Windsor Reservoir Overlook

Water reflections with mountain silhouettes and soft skies, a calm spot for tranquil horizon shots.

Grain Silos along County Roads

Iconic rural silhouettes—clustered silos against the prairie make striking compositions, especially at sunrise.

Historic Windmill near Severance

A classic rural feature that provides a nostalgic focal point in photos of town life and farming heritage.

Culinary Guide

Food in Severance

Severance sits in a farming-rich part of Colorado, where seasonal ingredients shape meals. Expect hearty, meat-forward, and farm-to-table options with plenty of corn, beef, and chiles on the menu. Local dining tends toward casual American cuisine, complemented by fresh produce and dairy from nearby farms. In nearby towns, you’ll find a broader mix of casual cafés, family restaurants, and simple bistro fare.

Severance Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Green Chile Stew

A comforting stew with pork or beef, green chiles, potatoes, and warming spices—common at local diners and farmside eateries.

Must-Try!

Colorado Bison Burger

Grass-fed bison patty with regional toppings on a crusty bun, a popular alternative to beef in many casual spots.

Cornbread with Local Honey

Sweet, crumbly cornbread drizzled with honey from nearby apiaries—great as a side with hearty entrées.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Greeley Farmers Market

Seasonal market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and prepared foods from regional growers and vendors.

Weld County Farmers Market (regional)

Seasonal market featuring local fruits, vegetables, honey, jams, and street-style bites from area producers.

Climate Guide

Weather

Severance experiences a semi-arid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm to hot with low humidity at times, winters are cold with potential snowfall, and spring and fall bring transitional weather with variable temperatures. Elevation around 4,500 feet above sea level means sun exposure can be strong, so pack sunscreen and layers year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Friendly Greetings

Polite hellos and small talk are common; a warm, casual demeanor goes a long way.

Photographing People

Ask for permission before photographing individuals or families, especially in rural or private settings.

Respect for Property

Stay on public roads and trails, and respect farm gates and private property.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety in Severance is typical of small towns: stay aware of weather alerts, especially during severe thunderstorms or winter storms. Use common-sense safety on rural roads and at night, keep valuables secure, and follow posted advisories in nearby parks and open spaces. In case of emergencies, know the location of the nearest hospital in Greeley or Windsor and have a plan for severe weather.

Tipping in Severance

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants and cafes, standard tipping is 15-20% of the bill before tax. Cash tips are appreciated, but credit card tips are common too. For casual service or quick bites, tipping is still welcomed.

Payment Methods

Most places accept cash and major credit/debit cards; some smaller shops may prefer cash. Digital wallets are increasingly common in towns near Severance.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Milder temperatures with green fields returning; watch for late-season storms and seasonal rain.

Summer

Warm days and cool evenings; expect afternoon thunderstorms and plenty of long daylight hours.

Fall

Crisp air and vibrant harvest colors; ideal for scenic drives and photography along country lanes.

Winter

Cold with occasional snow; shorter days, but quiet landscapes and clear skies for stargazing.

Nightlife Guide

Severance at Night

Severance itself has limited nightlife, reflecting its quiet rural character. In nearby Windsor, Greeley, and Fort Collins, you’ll find bars, casual breweries, live music venues, and seasonal events on weekends. Expect a low-key scene focused on socializing, local beer, and community gatherings rather than clubbing.

Hiking in Severance

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Soapstone Prairie Open Space

Dramatic prairie scenery with rolling terrains, wildlife, and seasonal wildflowers; great for longer hikes and photography.

Poudre River Trail (nearby sections)

Scenic multi-use trail along the river, offering flat to moderate terrain and river views.

Airports

How to reach Severance by plane.

Denver International Airport (DEN)

Major international hub located roughly 45-60 miles south-east of Severance; typically a 60-90 minute drive depending on traffic.

Fort Collins Loveland Airport (FNL)

Regional airport offering limited commercial service and general aviation, about 20-40 miles to the south-west.

Getting Around

Walkability

Severance is a small town with limited dense services; within the town center you can walk to basic amenities, but for many needs you’ll drive to Windsor or Greeley. The surrounding countryside is best explored by car or bike on designated routes and quiet rural roads.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many households are family-oriented with a strong emphasis on community events and local schools.

Young professionals

Some residents commute to nearby towns for work, contributing to a growing, young workforce in the region.

Retirees

A portion of residents enjoys a quieter lifestyle and participates in local clubs and activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

High school football

A fall-season favorite across the region with community support and local games.

Basketball

Popular year-round in local schools and community centers.

Hunting and fishing

Seasonal outdoor activities supported by public lands and nearby waters.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Severance is typically light, with occasional congestion on main routes during morning and evening commutes. Public transportation is limited locally, so most residents rely on cars. In the regional area, you may encounter more traffic on major routes toward Windsor, Greeley, and Fort Collins, especially during peak hours and event times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Severance.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Tip: seek dishes that feature seasonal vegetables, beans, and grains; ask for cheese or egg-free options; many places can adapt soups, salads, and sides to be vegetarian.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities are located in nearby Windsor, Greeley, and Fort Collins. Key options include regional clinics and hospitals in Greeley (with emergency services) and several urgent care centers in the surrounding towns. Severance itself does not host a hospital, so plan for occasional trips for more specialized care.

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