Table Of Content
Excitedly Exploring Fort Collins, Colorado: The Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit
Are you planning a trip to Fort Collins, Colorado and wondering what to do and where to go? Look no further! Fort Collins is a vibrant city with plenty of activities and attractions for all ages and interests. From exploring the charming downtown to outdoor adventures and unique experiences, Fort Collins has something for everyone.
Exploring Downtown Fort Collins is a must-do activity. You can stroll along the picturesque streets, admire the historic buildings, and visit the local shops and restaurants. The city is home to many breweries, so beer lovers will enjoy a tour of the local breweries and trying some of the best craft beers in the country. If you’re looking for some entertainment and nightlife, Downtown Fort Collins has plenty of options, including live music venues, theaters, and bars.
Outdoor adventures are also a highlight of Fort Collins. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, including the Rocky Mountains and Horsetooth Reservoir. You can go hiking, biking, fishing, or kayaking, among other activities. Historical sites and museums are also worth a visit, as they offer a glimpse into the city’s past and culture. Food and drink are also an essential part of Fort Collins, with many farm-to-table restaurants and local specialties to try. Family fun activities and unique experiences are also available, making Fort Collins a perfect destination for a memorable vacation.
Key Takeaways
- Fort Collins, Colorado, offers a wide range of activities and attractions for all ages and interests.
- Exploring Downtown Fort Collins is a must-do activity, with its charming streets, historic buildings, local shops, and breweries.
- Outdoor adventures, historical sites and museums, food and drink, family fun activities, and unique experiences are all available in Fort Collins.
Exploring Downtown Fort Collins
If you’re looking for a fun and vibrant place to explore in Fort Collins, look no further than Downtown Fort Collins. This area is home to a plethora of shops, restaurants, and breweries, making it the perfect destination for a day of exploring.
Old Town Fort Collins
One of the highlights of Downtown Fort Collins is Old Town, a charming and historic district filled with unique boutiques and shops. You can spend hours wandering through the streets, admiring the historic architecture and browsing the many shops. Some of the must-visit stores in Old Town include The Cupboard, a gourmet kitchen store, and The Perennial Gardener, a shop specializing in plants and gardening supplies.
In addition to the shops, Old Town is also home to a variety of restaurants and breweries. You can grab a bite to eat at The Welsh Rabbit Cheese Bistro, a cozy eatery that specializes in cheese boards and wine, or at The Kitchen, a farm-to-table restaurant that serves up delicious seasonal dishes.
No visit to Old Town would be complete without a stop at the Old Town Square. This charming public space is surrounded by historic buildings and is home to a variety of events and festivals throughout the year. In the summer, you can catch a concert or movie in the square, while in the winter, you can enjoy ice skating on the outdoor rink.
Overall, Downtown Fort Collins is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun and vibrant place to explore in Colorado. With its charming Old Town district, unique shops and restaurants, and lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to spend a day or two.
Outdoor Adventures
If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure in Fort Collins, you’re in luck! There are plenty of activities to choose from that will get your adrenaline pumping and allow you to experience the beauty of the outdoors.
Hiking and Biking Trails
Fort Collins is home to some of the best hiking and biking trails in Colorado. You can explore the foothills by hiking the trails at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space or Horsetooth Rock. The trails offer stunning views of the mountains and the surrounding landscape. If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, head to Rocky Mountain National Park to explore some of the park’s many hiking trails.
For biking enthusiasts, there are plenty of trails to explore as well. The Poudre River Trail is a popular choice for cyclists, offering a scenic ride along the river. You can also explore the trails at Lory State Park or Horsetooth Mountain Open Space.
Water Activities
Fort Collins is also a great destination for water activities. The Poudre River is a popular spot for whitewater rafting, kayaking, and tubing. You can also head to Horsetooth Reservoir for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Camping and Wildlife
For those who want to spend a night under the stars, Fort Collins has plenty of camping options. You can camp at Horsetooth Reservoir or head to nearby national forests for a more rustic experience. While camping, keep an eye out for wildlife such as elk, deer, and bighorn sheep.
Whether you’re looking for a thrilling outdoor adventure or a peaceful hike through the mountains, Fort Collins has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the beauty of nature in this stunning Colorado city.
Historical Sites and Museums
If you are interested in history, Fort Collins has several museums and historical sites that are worth visiting. Here are some of the best ones:
Fort Collins Museum of Discovery
The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is a great place to learn about the history of Fort Collins and the surrounding area. The museum has a variety of exhibits that cover everything from the region’s natural history to its cultural heritage. You can explore interactive displays, take part in hands-on activities, and learn about the science behind the exhibits. The museum also has a planetarium that offers shows on a variety of topics, including astronomy and space exploration.
Avery House
The Avery House is a historic home that was built in 1879 by Franklin Avery, one of the founders of Fort Collins. The house has been beautifully restored to its original condition and is now open to the public for tours. You can learn about the history of the Avery family and the early days of Fort Collins as you explore the house and its grounds. The Avery House is a great place to get a glimpse of what life was like in Fort Collins in the late 19th century.
Global Village Museum of Arts
The Global Village Museum of Arts is a unique museum that celebrates the art and culture of different countries and regions around the world. The museum has a variety of exhibits that showcase traditional art forms, such as textiles, pottery, and sculpture, from places like Africa, Asia, and the Americas. You can learn about the history and cultural significance of these art forms as you explore the exhibits. The museum also hosts events and workshops that allow visitors to learn more about different cultures and art forms.
Whether you are interested in history, art, or science, Fort Collins has a museum or historical site that will appeal to you. These are just a few of the many great options available in the city.
Entertainment and Nightlife
If you are looking for a fun night out in Fort Collins, you won’t be disappointed. From live music to arcade games, there is something for everyone.
Live Music and Performances
Fort Collins is known for its vibrant music scene, and there are plenty of venues to catch a live performance. One of the best places to see live music is Magic Rat Live Music. This intimate venue has a great atmosphere and hosts a variety of local and national acts. Check out their calendar to see who’s playing.
Arcade and Games
If you’re looking for a fun way to spend an evening, head to one of Fort Collins’ many arcade and game venues. One popular spot is The Summit, which features a variety of arcade games, laser tag, and mini golf. They also have a full bar and restaurant, so you can grab a bite to eat while you play.
Another great option is Pinball Jones, which has two locations in Fort Collins. They have a huge selection of pinball machines and other arcade games, as well as a full bar. It’s a great place to hang out with friends and challenge each other to some friendly competition.
No matter what your idea of a fun night out is, Fort Collins has something to offer. Whether you’re into live music or arcade games, you’re sure to have a great time.
Food and Drink
When it comes to food and drink, Fort Collins has a lot to offer. From local restaurants to craft beer and breweries, you won’t be disappointed with the options available.
Local Restaurants
Fort Collins has a wide range of restaurants to choose from, offering everything from pizza to burgers. If you’re looking for a classic American burger joint, check out Big Al’s Burgers and Dogs. Their burgers are made fresh daily and are sure to satisfy your cravings. For a more upscale dining experience, head to The Kitchen, which serves farm-to-table cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.
If you’re a foodie looking for a unique experience, consider taking a food tour. Local Table Tours offers a variety of tours that showcase the best of Fort Collins’ food scene, including a Craft Beer and Food Pairing Tour and a Fort Collins Foodie Walk.
Craft Beer and Breweries
Fort Collins is known for its craft beer scene, and for good reason. With over 20 breweries in the area, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Some of the most popular breweries include New Belgium Brewing Company, Odell Brewing Company, and Equinox Brewing. Each brewery has its own unique atmosphere and selection of beers, so be sure to visit a few to find your favorites.
In addition to the breweries, Fort Collins also hosts a number of beer festivals throughout the year, including the Colorado Brewers’ Festival and the Tour de Fat. These festivals are a great way to sample a variety of beers and enjoy live music and entertainment.
Overall, Fort Collins is a food and drink lover’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for a casual burger joint or a sophisticated dining experience, or you’re a craft beer enthusiast, you’re sure to find something that suits your tastes.
Family Fun Activities
If you’re looking for family-friendly activities in Fort Collins, you’re in luck! There are plenty of options to keep everyone entertained. Here are a few must-visit places:
Gardens on Spring Creek
The Gardens on Spring Creek is a beautiful botanical garden that is perfect for families. Kids will love exploring the gardens, which feature a variety of plants, flowers, and trees. There are also several interactive exhibits, including a butterfly house, where you can see these beautiful creatures up close. The gardens also offer a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, classes, and workshops.
Fort Fun
Fort Fun is a family entertainment center that has something for everyone. Kids will love the go-karts, mini golf, and arcade games, while parents can enjoy a relaxing round of mini golf or a game of laser tag. There are also several water slides and a lazy river, perfect for hot summer days. And if you’re feeling hungry, be sure to stop by Walrus Ice Cream, which is located on-site.
Butterfly House
The Butterfly House is a must-visit attraction for families in Fort Collins. This indoor exhibit features hundreds of butterflies from around the world, as well as other insects and arachnids. Kids will love learning about the different species and watching the butterflies flutter around them. The Butterfly House also offers educational programs and workshops for kids of all ages.
No matter what your family’s interests are, there’s something for everyone in Fort Collins. Be sure to check out these family-friendly attractions for a fun-filled day!
Unique Experiences
Looking for something out of the ordinary to do in Fort Collins? Check out these unique experiences that you won’t find anywhere else!
Ghost Tours
If you’re a fan of the paranormal, you won’t want to miss the chance to go on a ghost tour in Fort Collins. These tours take you to some of the city’s most haunted locations and give you a chance to learn about the history and legends surrounding them. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, these tours are sure to give you a spine-tingling experience.
One popular option is the Fort Collins Ghost Tour, which takes you through Old Town and other historic areas of the city. You’ll hear stories of murders, suicides, and other tragedies that have left their mark on the area. Another option is the Haunted Pub Tour, which combines ghost stories with stops at some of Fort Collins’ best bars and breweries.
Magic Bus Tours
Want to explore Fort Collins in a unique way? Hop on a Magic Bus Tour! These psychedelic buses take you on a journey through the city, with stops at some of the most interesting and offbeat locations around.
One popular option is the Puzzle Room Tour, which takes you to a series of escape rooms and puzzle rooms around Fort Collins. You’ll have to use your wits and teamwork to solve the puzzles and escape before time runs out. Another option is the Mural Tour, which takes you to some of the city’s most vibrant and colorful murals. You’ll learn about the artists behind the murals and the stories they tell.
No matter which Magic Bus Tour you choose, you’re sure to have a fun and memorable experience exploring Fort Collins in a new way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top attractions in Fort Collins?
Fort Collins is home to a variety of popular attractions that you won’t want to miss. Some of the top attractions in the area include the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, the Gardens on Spring Creek, and the New Belgium Brewing Company. The museum offers a range of interactive exhibits and displays, while the Gardens on Spring Creek is a beautiful botanical garden that’s perfect for a relaxing stroll. And of course, the New Belgium Brewing Company is a must-visit for beer lovers.
What are some unique things to do in Fort Collins?
If you’re looking for something a little different, Fort Collins has plenty of unique activities to offer. You can take a ghost tour of the city, explore the local street art scene, or even take a cheese-making class. For a truly unique experience, consider visiting the Swetsville Zoo, a quirky outdoor sculpture park filled with whimsical animal sculptures made from recycled materials.
What are the best outdoor activities in Fort Collins?
Fort Collins is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, so it’s no surprise that there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. You can go hiking or mountain biking in the nearby foothills, or take a scenic drive through Poudre Canyon. If you’re looking for water-based activities, consider kayaking or rafting on the Cache la Poudre River, or fishing at Horsetooth Reservoir.
What are some family-friendly activities in Fort Collins?
Fort Collins is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that kids of all ages will enjoy. The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is a popular choice, as is the Gardens on Spring Creek. Other family-friendly options include the Fort Fun amusement park, the Farm at Lee Martinez Park, and the Swetsville Zoo.
What are some upcoming events in Fort Collins?
Fort Collins is home to a variety of events throughout the year, so there’s always something going on. Some of the upcoming events to look out for include the Colorado Brewers’ Festival, the Taste of Fort Collins, and the Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest music festival.
What are some hidden gems to explore in Fort Collins?
If you’re looking to get off the beaten path, Fort Collins has plenty of hidden gems to discover. You can explore the local art scene at the Art Lab Fort Collins, or take a tour of the historic Avery House. For a unique shopping experience, check out the Old Town Spice Shop, which offers a wide variety of exotic spices and seasonings.
