Things To Do
in Fort Collins
Fort Collins sits at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains along the Cache la Poudre River, known for its lively Old Town and thriving craft-beer scene. The city blends outdoor adventure with a welcoming college-town vibe, thanks to Colorado State University and its student energy. Its bike-friendly streets, parks, and trails make it easy to explore on foot or two wheels.
Year-round, Fort Collins offers cultural events, farmers' markets, and scenic day trips into the Front Range.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Silver Grill Cafe, known for its famous cinnamon rolls. After indulging, take a leisurely stroll around the charming Old Town Square, where you can admire the historic architecture and vibrant shops. Don’t forget to stop by the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery to learn about the city’s rich history and culture.
For lunch, head to the nearby Odell Brewing Company for some craft beer and a unique food truck experience. Afterward, explore the local art scene by visiting the Fort Collins Art Museum, featuring contemporary exhibitions and installations. Wrap up your afternoon by biking along the Cache la Poudre River on the scenic Poudre Trail.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar, where you can savor fresh seafood in a lively atmosphere. After dinner, take a stroll along the Riverwalk at the Cache la Poudre River, watching the sunset paint the sky. End your evening with a visit to the historic Lincoln Center for a live performance or concert.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local favorite, The Breakfast Club, known for its extensive menu of morning delights. After breakfast, head out to the Lory State Park for a guided nature walk, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of Colorado’s diverse landscapes. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife like deer and various bird species along the trails.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park, surrounded by stunning views and the sounds of nature. After lunch, take some time to hike the scenic trails, such as the Arthur’s Rock Trail, which offers breathtaking panoramas of the foothills. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning vistas.
Return to the city and dine at The Farm at Lee Martinez Park, a farm-to-table restaurant offering seasonal dishes. After dinner, consider visiting the local outdoor farmers' market, where you can shop for fresh produce, artisan goods, and handmade crafts. Conclude your evening with a relaxing walk along the river, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $90-150 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-5 |
| 🛒Grocery basket (weekly) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant craft beer scene
- Excellent access to outdoor recreation and parks
- Walkable downtown with Old Town charm
- Strong university-town energy and family-friendly activities
- Can get crowded during peak tourist seasons
- Prices can be higher in peak season and near campus events
Places to Visit in Fort Collins
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful brick streets and charming storefronts are ideal for street photography and golden-hour shots.
Panoramic valley views and reflective water scenes, particularly stunning at sunrise or sunset.
Willow-lined river paths offering long-exposure opportunities and wildlife shots.
Iconic campus greenspace with historic buildings and seasonal blooms.
Foothill trails and ridge views overlooking Horsetooth Reservoir and the Front Range.
Food in Fort Collins
Fort Collins Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A mild-to-spicy green chile stew or sauce served over burritos, burgers, or bowls across Fort Collins.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught trout prepared with local herbs, commonly featured at riverside restaurants.
A hearty, lean burger sourced from local farms, a regional favorite among carnivores.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market in downtown Fort Collins offering produce, prepared foods, and local crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Fort Collins residents are known for friendliness; a brief greeting and polite conversation are common.
Yield to uphill hikers; keep voices down on trails; leash dogs where required; pack out trash.
Stay on designated trails and avoid feeding wildlife.
Safety
Tipping in Fort Collins
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurant service typically 15-20% before tax. Bartenders: $1-2 per drink. Round up for casual service or high-quality hospitality.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted. Mobile wallets and contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Hydration, sunscreen, and shade are essential; expect festival crowds in peak months.
Mild temperatures with vibrant foliage—perfect for hikes and patio dining; layers recommended.
Cold snaps and light snow are common; packing layers and waterproof footwear helps in town and on nearby trails.
Variable weather with rain showers and budding greenery; great for photography and outdoor exploration.
Fort Collins at Night
Hiking in Fort Collins
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep climbs and panoramic Front Range views near Fort Collins.
Ridge trails with sweeping vistas of the Front Range.
Moderate hikes with views of Horsetooth Reservoir.
Scenic canyon routes with river scenery and forested hikes.
Airports
How to reach Fort Collins by plane.
A small regional airport just north of Fort Collins serving general aviation and limited commercial flights.
Major international hub about 65 miles southeast with wide flight options and rental-car access.
Nearby option in Wyoming about 90 miles away for regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Colorado State University contributes a sizable student population that shapes culture and the economy.
Many family-friendly neighborhoods, parks, and community events.
A growing tech and craft-beverage scene attracts professionals to stay locally.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Autumn staple with campus tailgates and Canvas Stadium matchups.
Core local activity with city bike routes and nearby mountain trails.
Accessible day trips at Devil's Backbone, Horsetooth, and Lory State Park.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fort Collins.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Fort Collins offers abundant vegetarian and plant-forward options with farm-to-table sourcing; look for seasonal veggie dishes and customizable bowls.