You’ve likely heard of the stunning natural beauty of Colorado, but Fort Collins is a treasure worth exploring beyond the usual tourist trails.
Nestled in northern Colorado, this vibrant city offers an unbeatable blend of outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, and delicious food options. With Rocky Mountain National Park just an hour away, Fort Collins makes an ideal base for your next adventure.
Whether you’re a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, or a culture seeker, you’ll find plenty of things to do in this charming city. From exploring the historic Old Town to sampling the renowned craft beer scene, visit Fort Collins for a memorable experience.
Discovering Fort Collins: A Northern Colorado Gem
Fort Collins, a city that seamlessly blends outdoor recreation with urban charm, is a must-visit destination in northern Colorado. Located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions.
Getting to Fort Collins
Fort Collins is easily accessible by car, situated just 65 miles north of Denver along I-25. This makes it an ideal day trip or weekend destination. You can also reach Fort Collins from nearby cities like Cheyenne, Wyoming, via a straightforward drive south.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Fort Collins depends on your preferences. Summer (June-August) is perfect for outdoor activities, while fall offers stunning foliage with fewer crowds. Winter is great for skiing and cozy indoor attractions, and spring brings beautiful blooms.
| Season | Weather | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | Warm | Outdoor recreation |
| Fall | Mild | Foliage, fewer crowds |
| Winter | Cold | Skiing, indoor attractions |
| Spring | Mild | Blooms, pleasant temperatures |
With over 300 days of sunshine per year, you’re likely to have good weather no matter when you visit Fort Collins. Getting around the city is easy with options like the MAX bus system, bike rentals, or walking through the pedestrian-friendly downtown area.
Where to Stay in Fort Collins
Whether you’re looking for historic charm or modern comfort, Fort Collins has the perfect place to stay. You’ll find options ranging from historic boutique hotels to comfortable chain accommodations, ensuring that your visit is memorable.
The Armstrong Hotel
The Armstrong Hotel is a historic Fort Collins icon, full of character and charm in the heart of Downtown Fort Collins. With Mugs Coffee Lounge and Ace Gillett’s connected to the hotel, your stay is both convenient and enjoyable.
The Elizabeth Hotel
The Elizabeth Hotel, a Marriott Autograph Collection hotel, offers a unique experience with a music theme throughout the property. Enjoy record players in your room and borrow records and instruments, making it perfect for music lovers staying in downtown Fort Collins.
Fairfield Inn & Suites
For those seeking comfort and value, the Fairfield Inn & Suites offers spacious rooms, complimentary continental breakfast, and easy access to the interstate, making it ideal for travelers exploring beyond the city.
No matter where you choose to stay, Fort Collins’ compact layout means you’re never far from the city’s main attractions, dining options, and outdoor recreation opportunities, making your stay in Fort Collins truly unforgettable.
Exploring Old Town Fort Collins
As you step into Old Town Fort Collins, you’re transported to a charming era of historic significance and modern allure. This district is the cultural and historical heart of the city, featuring beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings that now house modern shops, restaurants, and galleries.
Historic Buildings and Architecture
The historic district boasts over twenty meticulously restored buildings that showcase the architectural styles popular during Fort Collins’ early development. You’ll notice the striking resemblance to Disneyland’s Main Street USA, as Walt Disney used Fort Collins’ downtown as inspiration for his theme park design.
The Exchange Plaza
Make time to explore The Exchange Plaza, a modern gathering place offering an open-air food hall experience with local eateries, craft beverages, and community events throughout the year. Enjoy your meal by the fire or inside a heated tent, making it a great place to experience the best of Fort Collins.
Coffee Culture: Best Cafes in Fort Collins
In Fort Collins, you’ll discover a thriving coffee scene that combines expertly crafted beverages with unique settings. The city boasts an impressive coffee culture where you’ll find numerous independent cafes serving top-notch coffee.
Top Coffee Shops
Some of the best coffee shops in Fort Collins include Starry Night Coffee Shop, known for its handcrafted drinks made with locally roasted beans and cozy vibes.
Harbinger Coffee
Harbinger Coffee offers incredible specialty drinks like iced horchata lattes and gluten-free treats, making it a great spot for those with dietary restrictions.
Bindle Coffee at Jessup Farm
Bindle Coffee at Jessup Farm provides freshly roasted coffee and housemade pastries in a beautifully restored farmhouse setting, offering a rustic coffee experience.
These local coffee shops not only serve as morning fuel stations but also as community gathering spots where you can connect with locals and experience Fort Collins’ welcoming atmosphere. Beyond these cafes, you’ll discover many other coffee options throughout downtown Fort Collins, each with their own unique approach to coffee making.
Fort Collins, Colorado: Best Things to Do for Foodies
Fort Collins has evolved into a vibrant food scene, with unique regional specialties and international cuisines. As a foodie, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
Culinary Delights
The city is renowned for its Colorado-style pizza, characterized by a thick, hand-rolled edge crust often brushed with honey. You can find this specialty at local favorites like Krazy Karl’s Pizza & Sports Pub and Beau Jo’s Colorado Style Pizza.
The Colorado Room
The Colorado Room is a locally loved spot with a cozy vibe, offering famous “sammies,” sweet potato fries, and garlic aioli dip. Their menu showcases local comfort food with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
Dining Options for All
Fort Collins excels at accommodating food allergies and preferences, with abundant gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options throughout the city. Many restaurants in downtown Fort Collins feature outdoor patios where you can enjoy your meal while people-watching.
Outdoor Adventures at Horsetooth Reservoir
Just a short drive from Fort Collins, Horsetooth Reservoir is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. This 1,900-acre reservoir is surrounded by stunning rock formations and forested hills, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational activities.
Hiking Trails and Viewpoints
Horsetooth Reservoir is surrounded by a network of trails, including the popular Horsetooth Rock Trail, which rewards hikers with panoramic views of the Front Range and plains. You can enjoy a leisurely walk or challenge yourself with a more strenuous hike, taking in the breathtaking views along the way.
Water Recreation Options
The reservoir offers a variety of water-based activities, including swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, and boating. You can rent equipment if needed, making it easy to enjoy your preferred outdoor activity on the water. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Horsetooth Reservoir is the perfect spot to create lasting memories.
With its diverse offerings, Horsetooth Reservoir is an ideal destination for a day trip or a longer visit, providing a unique experience in the heart of nature. Plan to spend at least half a day exploring the reservoir’s shoreline and enjoying the surrounding beauty.
Day Trip to Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is just a short drive from Fort Collins, making it an ideal day trip destination. The scenic drive through Cache la Poudre Canyon offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and winding mountain roads.
Scenic Drive from Fort Collins
The drive from Fort Collins to Rocky Mountain National Park is an attraction in itself. You’ll pass through canyons, enjoy rushing rivers, and take in breathtaking vistas that serve as a perfect prelude to the park’s grandeur.
Tips for Visiting the Park
To make the most of your visit, plan to arrive at the park before 9:00 a.m. to avoid timed-entry reservations. Even if you’re not an avid hiker, the park’s scenic overlooks and accessible areas allow you to experience the majestic beauty of the Rockies.
America the Beautiful Pass
Consider purchasing the America the Beautiful Pass for $80 if you plan to visit other national parks within the year. This pass provides significant savings over individual entrance fees and covers entry to all U.S. national parks for a full year.
Remember to check the weather forecast before your visit and dress in layers, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
Hidden Gems: Gardens and Natural Areas
Discover the lesser-known natural areas and gardens that make Fort Collins a unique destination. Beyond the well-known attractions, Fort Collins harbors several hidden gems that offer tranquil escapes from the busier tourist spots.
Colorado State University Perennial Gardens
The Colorado State University Perennial Gardens showcase stunning floral displays throughout the growing season. This peaceful place allows you to wander among ivy-covered arches and meticulously maintained plant collections.
Poudre River Whitewater Park
The Poudre River Whitewater Park offers a unique way to experience the Cache la Poudre River. With riverbank access, an overlook plaza, and a pedestrian bridge leading to the Poudre Trail, it’s a great spot for recreation and reflection.
Exploring Fort Collins’ Liquid Arts Scene
Fort Collins is renowned for its vibrant Liquid Arts scene, a testament to the city’s innovative spirit. The city’s Liquid Arts scene is a treasure trove of craft breweries, distilleries, and more, offering a unique experience for visitors.
Craft Breweries
With over 20 craft breweries within city limits, Fort Collins offers a diverse range of beer options, from Belgian-inspired ales to experimental sours. Many of these breweries are located in Downtown Fort Collins, making it easy to embark on a self-guided walking tour.
Small-Batch Distilleries
Fort Collins is also home to a growing number of small-batch distilleries, where locals craft distinctive spirits using local ingredients and traditional techniques. Visitors can explore these distilleries as part of a walking tour or tour that combines cycling with responsible sampling.
Cultural Attractions in Fort Collins
From interactive museums to historic houses, Fort Collins offers a wealth of cultural attractions to explore. You can start your day with breakfast at Little Bird Cafe or Ginger and Baker before heading out to discover the city’s rich cultural scene.
Immersive Experiences at the Museum of Discovery
The Museum of Discovery is a must-visit, featuring interactive exhibits that cater to all ages. You can explore everything from music and sound to regional wildlife and scientific phenomena in engaging, hands-on ways. Don’t miss the OtterBox Digital Dome Theater, which presents immersive films and planetarium shows.
Historic Charm of the Avery House
For a glimpse into Fort Collins’ past, visit the historic Avery House, an elegant 1879 home that showcases the lifestyle of one of the city’s founding families through period furnishings and architecture. The house is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is available for tours on Saturdays and Sundays.
Many of these cultural attractions offer special events throughout the year, from rotating exhibits at the Museum of Discovery to holiday-themed tours of the Avery House during winter months. You can enjoy a day out in Old Town Fort Collins, admiring the well-preserved 19th-century buildings while learning about the city’s evolution.
Conclusion: Why Fort Collins Should Be Your Next Destination
From outdoor enthusiasts to foodies, Fort Collins has something for everyone in this northern Colorado city. You’ll be welcomed by friendly locals eager to share their favorite spots, from hidden gems to popular eateries like Ginger and Baker.
Whether you stay in downtown Fort Collins or explore Old Town, you’ll find diverse experiences that make Fort Collins an ideal destination. Plan your visit to Fort Collins today and enjoy dinner at one of the many great restaurants, making memories that will last a lifetime.
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