Fort Collins, Colorado Travel Guide

Fort Collins, Colorado: A perfect blend of history, adventure, and craft beer culture nestled against the Rocky Mountains.

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Nestled against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Fort Collins is a vibrant city known for its rich history, outdoor adventures, and thriving craft beer scene. This picturesque city offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and excitement. Stroll through the historic Old Town, where beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings house an array of shops, restaurants, and galleries. The lively atmosphere is perfect for a leisurely day of exploration. Don't miss the chance to visit the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, which offers interactive exhibits that capture the spirit of the city and its surroundings. For nature enthusiasts, Fort Collins is a gateway to outdoor activities. The Cache la Poudre River provides excellent opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and scenic picnics. Hiking and biking trails abound, with Horsetooth Mountain offering stunning views of the city and beyond. The city's parks and natural areas are perfect for family outings or a peaceful retreat. Beer lovers will delight in Fort Collins' status as a craft beer capital. With over 20 local breweries, including the famous New Belgium Brewing Company, there's no shortage of unique brews to sample. Many breweries offer tours and tastings, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process. Whether you're exploring the charming downtown, embarking on outdoor adventures, or savoring the local flavors, Fort Collins is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Fort Collins.

Visit Old Town Square during the evenings for live music and vibrant nightlife.
Rent a bike to explore the city's extensive network of bike-friendly paths and trails.
Check out the seasonal events and festivals, such as the Colorado Brewers' Festival and Tour de Fat.
Make time to visit Horsetooth Reservoir for stunning views and water activities.
Try local eateries for farm-to-table dining experiences that showcase regional ingredients.

Explore Fort Collins: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Fort Collins

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CSU Annual Flower Trial Gardens

Explore the vibrant CSU Annual Flower Trial Gardens in Fort Collins, a colorful showcase of floral beauty and innovative gardening techniques.

4.9

The Farm At Lee Martinez Park

Discover the joys of rural life at The Farm At Lee Martinez Park, where family-friendly fun meets educational experiences in a beautiful setting.

4.7

Museum of Art Fort Collins

Explore contemporary art and creative exhibitions at the Museum of Art Fort Collins, a cultural haven in the heart of Colorado.

4.4

Beaver Meadows Visitor Center

Your adventure starts here! Discover Rocky Mountain National Park at this iconic visitor center near Estes Park, Colorado.

4.6

Best landmarks in Fort Collins

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Fort Fun

Experience the thrill of family fun at Fort Fun, an amusement center in Fort Collins, Colorado, featuring rides, games, and endless entertainment for all ages.

4.4

Horsetooth Mountain Open Space

Explore the scenic trails and breathtaking landscapes of Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Fort Collins, Colorado.

4.8

Spring Canyon Park

Explore the natural beauty of Spring Canyon Park, a serene oasis in Fort Collins, perfect for family outings, hiking, and outdoor relaxation.

4.8

The Armstrong Hotel

Experience the perfect blend of historic charm and modern luxury at The Armstrong Hotel in the heart of Fort Collins, Colorado.

4.6

Best restaurants in Fort Collins

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Lucile's

Experience authentic Cajun and Creole breakfast dishes at Lucile's in Fort Collins—where flavor meets tradition.

4.7

Silver Grill Cafe

Discover the heart of Fort Collins at Silver Grill Cafe - your go-to spot for delicious breakfasts and inviting brunches.

4.6

Blue Agave Grill

Discover vibrant Mexican cuisine at Blue Agave Grill in Fort Collins - where authentic flavors meet lively ambiance.

4.5

Rodizio Grill Brazilian Steakhouse Fort Collins

Indulge in authentic Brazilian cuisine at Rodizio Grill in Fort Collins – a true meat lover's paradise!

4.7

Best bars in Fort Collins

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Social

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Social, a beloved bar in Fort Collins offering craft cocktails, local brews, and live music in a lively atmosphere.

4.8

The Mayor of Old Town

Experience the heart of Fort Collins at The Mayor of Old Town, where craft brews and American bites create the perfect gathering spot.

4.6

Union Bar & Soda Fountain

Experience the unique blend of classic American bar culture and nostalgic soda fountain delights at Union Bar & Soda Fountain in Fort Collins.

4.5

The Whisk(e)y

Explore a world of fine spirits at The Whisk(e)y, Fort Collins' ultimate bar and lounge experience for whiskey lovers and socialites alike.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Fort Collins

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The Whisk(e)y

Experience the best of Fort Collins nightlife at The Whisk(e)y, where an extensive whiskey selection meets a vibrant atmosphere.

4.6

Ace Gillett's Lounge

Discover the lively Ace Gillett's Lounge in Fort Collins, where exquisite cocktails, delicious cuisine, and live music come together for an unforgettable night.

4.6

Bondi Beach Bar and Grill

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bondi Beach Bar and Grill, a unique blend of dining, dancing, and sports in Fort Collins, Colorado.

3.6

The R Bar and Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The R Bar and Lounge in Fort Collins, where great drinks, karaoke, and fun await.

4.5

Best shops in Fort Collins

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Old Town Square

Discover the vibrant charm of Old Town Square in Fort Collins, a delightful shopping mall and tourist attraction filled with unique shops and dining options.

4.7

Front Range Village

Discover the best of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Front Range Village, a vibrant hub in Fort Collins, Colorado.

4.3

The Dam Store

Discover unique gifts and local crafts at The Dam Store in Loveland, Colorado, perfect for capturing the spirit of your visit.

4.6

JAX Fort Collins Farm & Ranch

Explore JAX Fort Collins Farm & Ranch, a vibrant hub for western apparel, farm equipment, and local goods in the heart of Fort Collins.

4.4

Explore Fort Collins on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Fort Collins, mapped for you.

Fort Collins Essentials

Fort Collins is located in northern Colorado and is easily accessible by air, road, and rail. The nearest major airport is Denver International Airport (DIA), approximately 70 miles south of Fort Collins. From DIA, you can rent a car, take a shuttle service, or use ride-sharing apps to reach Fort Collins. Interstate 25 is the main highway connecting Fort Collins to Denver and other major cities. Amtrak also provides train services to nearby Denver, with connecting bus services to Fort Collins.
Fort Collins offers various transportation options. The city is bike-friendly with extensive bike lanes and trails. Transfort, the local bus service, provides an efficient and affordable way to navigate the city, including the MAX Bus Rapid Transit system. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available. For those preferring to drive, car rentals are readily available. Additionally, many attractions in downtown Fort Collins are within walking distance.
The official currency in Fort Collins, as in the rest of the United States, is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city, and most establishments accept contactless payments via mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Wallet. It's always a good idea to carry a small amount of cash for use in smaller establishments or in case of emergencies.
Fort Collins is generally considered a safe city for tourists. However, like any urban area, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas, and be cautious of your surroundings. While Fort Collins does not have any specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is best to stay vigilant in crowded places and keep personal belongings secure.
In the event of an emergency in Fort Collins, dial 911 for immediate assistance for police, fire, or medical emergencies. The city has several hospitals and urgent care centers, including Poudre Valley Hospital, which offers comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are also widely available for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Casual and outdoor attire is common. Avoid overly formal clothing unless attending a specific event. Religion: Fort Collins is diverse and accepting of various religious practices. Respect places of worship by dressing modestly and being quiet. Public Transport: Do respect other passengers and keep noise levels down. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile or handshake. Fort Collins residents are known for being friendly and welcoming. Eating & Drinking: Do try local craft beers, as Fort Collins is famous for its breweries. Don’t forget to tip service staff, as tipping is customary in the U.S.
To experience Fort Collins like a local, visit the Old Town area, which features historic buildings, shops, and restaurants. Enjoy a bike ride along the Poudre River Trail or explore the natural beauty of Horsetooth Reservoir. Attend local events like the Fort Collins Farmers' Market or live music at a local venue. Engage with residents, as they are often eager to share their love for the city and offer recommendations.

When is the best time to visit Fort Collins?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Fort Collins

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Fort Collins. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [hahw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yah]
- YesYep
  [yep]
- NoNope
  [nohp]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/noh prah-blum]
- Thank youThanks
  [th-anks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [pahr-dn me/my bad]
- How are you?Howdy, how are ya?
  [hahw-dee, how ahr yah?]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [gud. yoo?]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [yah speak ing-glish?]
- I don't understandI'm lost
  [ahm lost]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLet me see the menu, please
  [let mee see the menu, pleez]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [ah dohnt eet meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'll settle up, please
  [ahll set-ul up, pleez]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [ahm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [ahm sik]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [ah wanna buy]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just brow-zing]
- How much is it?How much?
  [hahw much?]
- That's too expensiveThat's steep
  [thats steep]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya do better on the price?
  [can yah doh bet-er on the price?]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats the time?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
- Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [ten thur-tee]
- MorningMorning
  [morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yest-er-day]
- TodayToday
  [toh-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [tom-or-row]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [for]
- 5Five
  [fahyv]
- 6Six
  [siks]
- 7Seven
  [sev-uhn]
- 8Eight
  [ayt]
- 9Nine
  [nahn]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats the address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me (on the map)?
  [can yah show me (on the map)]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [ah ticket (to)]

History of Fort Collins

Fort Collins was established as a military outpost of the United States Army in 1864. Named after Lt. Col. William O. Collins, the fort was originally built to protect settlers from Native American tribes during the Indian Wars. The original site was located near the Cache la Poudre River, but was later moved to its current location due to flooding.
The Cache la Poudre River is a significant natural landmark in Fort Collins. The river's name, which translates to 'hide the powder' in French, is a nod to French trappers who hid gunpowder along its banks in the early 19th century. The river has been central to the city's agricultural development and remains a popular site for outdoor activities.
The arrival of the Colorado Central Railroad in 1877 was a transformative event for Fort Collins. The railroad connected the city to Denver and Cheyenne, facilitating trade and boosting economic growth. This pivotal development spurred population growth and laid the foundation for Fort Collins' future prosperity.
Fort Collins has a rich agricultural history, with sugar beets being one of the primary crops in the early 20th century. The Great Western Sugar Company established a factory in the city in 1903, which attracted a diverse workforce, including German-Russian immigrants. Agriculture continues to play a significant role in the local economy.
Colorado State University (CSU) was established in 1870 as the Colorado Agricultural College. It has since grown into a major research university with a strong emphasis on agricultural sciences, veterinary medicine, and engineering. CSU has had a profound impact on the culture and economy of Fort Collins, attracting students and professionals from around the world.
Fort Collins experienced Prohibition from 1896 to 1969, longer than the national Prohibition era. This period shaped the city's social and economic landscape. After Prohibition ended, Fort Collins emerged as a hub for craft brewing, home to well-known breweries such as New Belgium Brewing Company and Odell Brewing Company, making it a significant player in the craft beer industry.
Fort Collins is renowned for its commitment to historic preservation, particularly in the Old Town district. Many buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries have been meticulously restored, creating a vibrant area filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Old Town Fort Collins is a testament to the city's dedication to preserving its rich historical heritage.
Fort Collins is known for its environmental initiatives and commitment to sustainability. The city has implemented numerous programs aimed at reducing carbon emissions, promoting renewable energy, and conserving natural resources. Fort Collins' efforts in environmental stewardship have earned it recognition as one of the greenest cities in the United States.