Best Things To Do in Fort Collins, Colorado
Visit Fort Collins for outdoor adventures, craft breweries, and vibrant arts. Explore Horsetooth Reservoir, Old Town, and local breweries.
Fort Collins, Colorado, offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, the city is known for its scenic landscapes and outdoor activities. Horsetooth Reservoir is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and hiking.
The historic Old Town district boasts charming shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Craft beer enthusiasts will enjoy the city’s numerous breweries, making it a hub for beer tourism. Fort Collins’ thriving arts scene includes galleries, theaters, and music venues, providing diverse cultural experiences. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a culture seeker, Fort Collins has something for everyone.
Explore Old Town
Old Town Fort Collins is the heart of the city. It offers a blend of history and modern charm. This area is perfect for a day of exploration and fun.
Historic Architecture
Old Town features beautiful historic architecture. Many buildings date back to the late 1800s. Stroll around and admire the well-preserved structures. The area showcases a mix of styles, from Victorian to Art Deco.
One notable building is the Armstrong Hotel, a restored gem. Another must-see is the Old Firehouse, now a museum. These buildings offer a glimpse into the past.
Boutique Shopping
Old Town is a haven for boutique shopping. Small, unique stores line the streets. You can find one-of-a-kind items and gifts. Popular spots include Curiosities and Kansas City Kitty.
Local artisans showcase their work in many shops. From handmade jewelry to custom clothing, there’s something for everyone. Shopping here supports local businesses and artists.
| Shop Name | Specialty | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Curiosities | Vintage Finds | College Ave |
| Kansas City Kitty | Fashion Boutique | Pine St |
Credit: www.visitftcollins.com
Visit Colorado State University
Colorado State University (CSU) is a must-see in Fort Collins. The campus is full of life and history. You’ll find beautiful buildings and lush green spaces. CSU is a top destination for visitors.
Campus Tours
CSU offers guided tours of its stunning campus. These tours provide a look at student life and the university’s rich history. You can see famous landmarks and historic buildings.
| Tour Type | Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Walking Tour | 1 hour | Historic buildings, green spaces |
| Virtual Tour | 30 minutes | Interactive map, video highlights |
Csu Stadium
The CSU Stadium, known as Canvas Stadium, is a top spot. It’s home to the Rams football team. The stadium has state-of-the-art facilities and seats over 40,000 fans.
- Modern design and facilities
- Great view from any seat
- Hosts concerts and events too
Attending a game here is an exciting experience. The energy and spirit are contagious. Don’t miss a chance to visit this iconic stadium.
Hike Horsetooth Mountain
One of the best activities in Fort Collins is hiking Horsetooth Mountain. This mountain offers stunning views and exciting trails. It is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Scenic Trails
Horsetooth Mountain has many scenic trails. These trails vary in difficulty and length. They are great for both beginners and experienced hikers. Enjoy beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife along the way.
- West Ridge Trail: This trail offers panoramic views.
- Horsetooth Falls Trail: A shorter trail leading to a lovely waterfall.
- Horsetooth Rock Trail: This trail leads to the famous rock formation.
Horsetooth Rock
Horsetooth Rock is a must-see landmark. The rock is located at the summit of the mountain. The climb is challenging but rewarding. From the top, you can see the whole city of Fort Collins.
- Start your hike early in the morning.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes.
- Take breaks and enjoy the views.
| Trail Name | Difficulty | Length |
|---|---|---|
| West Ridge Trail | Moderate | 6 miles |
| Horsetooth Falls Trail | Easy | 2.5 miles |
| Horsetooth Rock Trail | Hard | 5.5 miles |
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Credit: www.tripsavvy.com
Discover Local Breweries
Fort Collins, Colorado, is a paradise for beer lovers. The city is known for its incredible local breweries. With a mix of established and new breweries, there is something for everyone.
Brewery Tours
Experience the magic of brewing with brewery tours. Many breweries in Fort Collins offer tours. You can see the brewing process up close.
- New Belgium Brewing: Offers daily tours with beer samples.
- Odell Brewing Company: Known for its educational tours.
- Horse & Dragon Brewing Company: Family-friendly tours available.
These tours give you insight into the craft of beer making. Learn about the ingredients and the brewing process. Discover what makes each brewery unique.
Craft Beer Tasting
Fort Collins is home to many craft beer styles. Craft beer tasting is a must-do activity. Each brewery offers a unique selection of beers.
| Brewery | Specialty Beers |
|---|---|
| Funkwerks | Saisons and sours |
| Equinox Brewing | Pale ales and IPAs |
| Snowbank Brewing | Experimental brews |
Enjoy tasting sessions and find your favorite beer style. Many breweries offer flights, allowing you to sample multiple beers. This way, you can enjoy a variety of flavors in one visit.
Fort Collins’ local breweries are a key part of its charm. Whether you enjoy tours or tastings, there’s something for every beer enthusiast.
Relax At The Gardens On Spring Creek
The Gardens on Spring Creek is a beautiful place in Fort Collins. It is perfect for a relaxing day. Enjoy the beauty of nature and take a break from your busy life.
Botanical Displays
The Gardens have many botanical displays. You will see colorful flowers and lush plants. Each display is carefully arranged. Walk through the Butterfly House and see butterflies fluttering around.
Explore the Rock Garden with its unique rocks and plants. There is also a Children’s Garden filled with fun plants and activities. The Garden of Eatin’ shows you how food plants grow.
| Display | Features |
|---|---|
| Butterfly House | Butterflies and colorful flowers |
| Rock Garden | Unique rocks and plants |
| Children’s Garden | Interactive plants and activities |
| Garden of Eatin’ | Food plants |
Family Activities
The Gardens on Spring Creek is great for families. There are many family activities to enjoy together. Kids can participate in hands-on gardening projects. They can learn how to plant and take care of plants.
Families can join a garden tour to learn more about the plants. You can also enjoy a picnic in the gardens. There are many picnic spots with beautiful views. Don’t miss the seasonal events like the Harvest Festival and Winter Lights.
- Hands-on gardening projects
- Garden tours
- Picnic spots with views
- Seasonal events
Relaxing at the Gardens on Spring Creek is a wonderful experience. It is a place where nature and family fun come together.
Enjoy The Poudre River
The Poudre River is a gem in Fort Collins, Colorado. It offers outdoor fun for everyone. From thrilling kayaking adventures to relaxing riverfront picnics, there’s something for all.
Kayaking Adventures
Kayaking on the Poudre River is an exciting activity. The river has calm and fast sections. Beginners can enjoy the gentle parts. Experienced kayakers will love the rapids.
You can rent a kayak from local shops. Some places offer guided tours. These tours are great for learning and exploring. Always wear a life jacket. Safety is very important.
Riverfront Picnics
Riverfront picnics are perfect for a sunny day. Many spots along the river are ideal for picnicking. Bring a blanket, some food, and enjoy the view.
Families love these picnic spots. Kids can play and explore nature. You might see birds, fish, and other wildlife. It’s a peaceful and fun experience for everyone.
Below is a table of some popular picnic spots along the Poudre River:
| Picnic Spot | Features |
|---|---|
| Lions Park | Playground, restrooms, picnic tables |
| Legacy Park | Open fields, river access, walking trails |
| Lee Martinez Park | Farm animals, playground, river views |
Enjoying the Poudre River offers many activities. Whether you like adventure or relaxation, the river has it all. Plan your visit and create wonderful memories.
Art And Culture
Fort Collins, Colorado, is a vibrant city bursting with art and culture. The city offers a variety of enriching experiences for art lovers and culture enthusiasts. From mesmerizing art galleries to captivating live performances, Fort Collins has it all.
Art Galleries
Fort Collins is home to several art galleries that showcase diverse works. These galleries feature local artists as well as international talents. One must-visit is the Fort Collins Museum of Art, located in a historic post office building. It offers rotating exhibits and educational programs.
Another popular spot is the Trimble Court Artisans, a co-op gallery. Here, you can find unique handmade items such as pottery, jewelry, and textiles. It’s a great place to buy a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
| Gallery Name | Location | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Fort Collins Museum of Art | 201 S College Ave | Rotating Exhibits |
| Trimble Court Artisans | 118 Trimble Ct | Handmade Items |
Live Performances
The city also boasts a rich array of live performances. You can catch a show at the Lincoln Center, which hosts theater, dance, and music performances. It’s one of the largest cultural hubs in the region.
For a more intimate setting, visit Bas Bleu Theatre. This venue is known for its thought-provoking plays and community events. They offer a mix of classic and contemporary works.
- Lincoln Center: Located at 417 W Magnolia St, offers diverse performances.
- Bas Bleu Theatre: Located at 401 Pine St, known for intimate and impactful plays.
Both venues provide exceptional experiences that are sure to enrich your cultural understanding of Fort Collins.
Attend Local Festivals
Fort Collins, Colorado, bursts with vibrant local festivals throughout the year. These events showcase the city’s cultural diversity and community spirit. Attending local festivals is a must for any visitor.
Seasonal Events
Fort Collins hosts a variety of seasonal events that cater to all ages. In the spring, the Flower Festival brings the community together with beautiful blooms. Summer highlights include the Independence Day Parade with fireworks and festivities. During autumn, the Harvest Festival offers pumpkin patches and hayrides. Winter is magical with the Holiday Lights Celebration.
| Season | Event | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Flower Festival | Flower displays, garden tours |
| Summer | Independence Day Parade | Fireworks, live music |
| Autumn | Harvest Festival | Pumpkin patches, hayrides |
| Winter | Holiday Lights Celebration | Light displays, holiday markets |
Food And Music
The local festivals in Fort Collins are a feast for the senses. Foodies will love the food trucks and stalls offering local delights. Music lovers can enjoy live performances from local bands. The Taste of Fort Collins is a favorite, featuring local restaurants and live music. The Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest offers an eclectic mix of artists and genres.
- Taste of Fort Collins: Food trucks, local restaurants, live music
- Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest: Local bands, various music genres
- Oktoberfest: German food, beer gardens, traditional music
These festivals provide a unique way to experience the local culture. They are perfect for families, friends, and solo travelers. Enjoy the best of Fort Collins through its lively festivals.
Credit: fortcollins.kidcityguide.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Top Attractions In Fort Collins?
Fort Collins offers diverse attractions, including the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, Horsetooth Reservoir, and the historic Old Town. These spots provide fun activities, scenic views, and cultural experiences.
Where Can You Go Hiking In Fort Collins?
Horsetooth Mountain Open Space and Lory State Park are popular hiking destinations in Fort Collins. Both offer scenic trails, wildlife viewing, and breathtaking views.
Is Fort Collins Family-friendly?
Yes, Fort Collins is very family-friendly. The city has numerous parks, museums, and family-oriented activities. The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery and the Gardens on Spring Creek are great for families.
What Are The Best Breweries In Fort Collins?
Fort Collins is known for its craft breweries. New Belgium Brewing, Odell Brewing Company, and Funkwerks are among the top choices. Each offers unique beers and tasting experiences.
Conclusion
Fort Collins, Colorado, offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. From outdoor activities to cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone. Plan your visit to Fort Collins and discover its charm. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a history buff, this vibrant city won’t disappoint.
Enjoy your trip to Fort Collins!