Welcome to Fort Collins, Colorado – a city filled with captivating attractions, exciting activities, hidden gems, and fantastic scenic views. This Fort Collins travel guide presents the top 10 things to do that will make your vacation memorable. Get ready to discover Fort Collins attractions, activities, points of interest, and sightseeing that demand a must-see place in your itinerary.
You can find everything from thrilling outdoor adventures to intriguing history-rich experiences in Fort Collins. Explore picturesque Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, discover the charming Old Town, taste the best beers in town with brewery tours, and much more. Whether you’re with friends, family, or solo, Fort Collins has something in store for everyone.
In the upcoming sections, we’ll give you a detailed insight into the top 10 things to do in Fort Collins, Colorado – the best places to visit, eat, explore, and have fun. You won’t want to miss out on the best things to do in Fort Collins, and we’re here to ensure that you don’t.
Visit Horsetooth Mountain Open Space
Experience the natural beauty of Fort Collins at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. This stunning attraction offers a variety of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. The area is located west of town and features over 2,700 acres of rugged terrain. Hike or bike the trails and take in the panoramic views of the mountains and reservoir that surround the area. The park is open dawn to dusk and is a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat from city life.
Trails at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space
| Trail Name | Distance |
|---|---|
| Horsetooth Falls | 2.2 miles |
| Arthur’s Rock | 3.4 miles |
| Tower Road | 4.3 miles |
| Soderberg | 5.5 miles |
Horsetooth Mountain Open Space offers a variety of trails for hikers and mountain bikers of all skill levels. The Horsetooth Falls trail is a moderate hike that leads to a scenic waterfall. Arthur’s Rock trail is a bit more challenging, but offers stunning views of the Front Range. For those looking to explore further, Tower Road and Soderberg trails offer longer routes with more elevation gain.
Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply looking for a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the scenery, Horsetooth Mountain Open Space is a must-visit destination when in Fort Collins.
Explore Old Town Fort Collins
Step into the past and experience the unique charm of Old Town Fort Collins. As you wander through the streets, you’ll be transported to a different time with the beautifully preserved historic buildings lining the streets.
But Old Town isn’t just a blast from the past. It’s also a hub of activity with a variety of shops, restaurants, and nightlife options. Take a stroll and discover hidden gems within the area’s diverse shopping scene, from boutiques to vintage shops.
For foodies, Old Town has an impressive culinary scene with a range of options. Whether you’re in the mood for classic American fare or international cuisine, you’re sure to find something to delight your taste buds.
And don’t forget to experience the local nightlife. From cozy bars to live music venues, Old Town has something to offer for all interests and preferences.
Tour New Belgium Brewing Company
Fort Collins is renowned for its craft beer scene. To experience the best of Fort Collins breweries, a tour of the famous New Belgium Brewing Company should not be missed. The brewery houses a state-of-the-art facility and offers top-rated brewery tours that take you through the brewing process from start to finish. Learn about the company’s history and its commitment to sustainability while sampling their signature beers, including the popular Fat Tire, Ranger IPA, and Voodoo Ranger.
During the tour, you can see the brewery’s impressive barrel aging process and experience the lively atmosphere of the tasting room. As one of the largest craft brewers in the United States, New Belgium Brewing Company has become a hallmark of the Fort Collins beer culture, and its contributions to the community have played a vital role in developing the region’s reputation as a hub for craft brewing.
New Belgium Brewing Company Tour Table
| Tour Details | Price | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Tour | $12 | 90 minutes |
| Beer & Cheese Pairing Tour | $30 | 2 hours |
| Clips & Beer Tour | $25 | 90 minutes |
Advance booking is recommended as the tours can get fully booked quickly. Don’t forget to bring a valid ID, as everyone on the tour must be over 21 years old. After the tour, grab a bite at their food truck or explore the brewery’s shop for souvenirs.
Discover the Gardens on Spring Creek
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Gardens on Spring Creek. This Fort Collins botanical garden is a true oasis in the heart of the city, featuring 18 acres of meticulously landscaped gardens and natural areas for visitors to explore.
Stroll through enchanting gardens, which showcase a diverse selection of native and adapted plants that thrive in Colorado’s challenging climate. Discover themed areas such as the rock garden, herb garden, and wetland area that represents the earthen landscape of the South Platte River Basin.
The gardens also offer a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year, including classes, workshops, and tours, making it the perfect destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to unwind in a serene natural environment.
“The Gardens on Spring Creek showcases the beauty of Colorado’s native flora and offers visitors a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.”
Experience the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery
If you’re looking for a unique and educational experience during your trip to Fort Collins, look no further than the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery. This fascinating museum is dedicated to showcasing the history and science of the region, with interactive exhibits and hands-on learning experiences for visitors of all ages.
Learn about the area’s rich history, from the Native American tribes who first inhabited the land to the explorers who helped shape the city into what it is today. Explore exhibits on the region’s geology and ecology, and discover the various animal species that call it home.
One of the most popular attractions at the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is the Digital Dome Theater, which offers immersive shows on a variety of topics, from astronomy to deep-sea exploration. The museum also offers a range of educational programs and events throughout the year, so be sure to check their website for the latest schedule.
Whether you’re a history buff or a science enthusiast, the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is a must-see destination during your visit to the city. Don’t miss the chance to explore this incredible institution and dive into the fascinating world of Fort Collins history and science.
Visit the Colorado State University Campus
Colorado State University (CSU) is a renowned public research university located in Fort Collins. A visit to the Fort Collins university is a fantastic way to experience the lively college-town atmosphere and explore the campus’s stunning grounds.
Take a stroll around the beautiful campus, adorned with lush greenery and impressive architecture. The university’s diverse student body is comprised of over 34,000 students from all around the country, who maintain an active campus community year-round.
If you’re lucky, you may be able to catch a sporting event or cheer on the CSU Rams. The university’s sports teams are competitive and participate in various leagues at both the national and local levels.
While on campus, you can explore the various museums and galleries, such as the Gregory Allicar Museum of Art featuring world-renowned artwork or the Carnegie Center for Creativity and Innovation hosting student-led exhibitions. There’s something for everyone at Colorado State University.
CSU Quick Facts
| Established | 1870 |
|---|---|
| Location | Fort Collins, Colorado |
| Student Population | 34,166 (Fall 2020 enrollment) |
| Academic Programs | Over 350 degree programs across 8 colleges |
| Notable Alumni | Temple Grandin, James Franco, Amy Van Dyken, and more |
Whether you’re an aspiring student or just looking for a fun visit, Colorado State University is a must-see attraction in Fort Collins.
Enjoy Outdoor Recreation at Cache La Poudre River
If you love the great outdoors, you won’t want to miss a visit to Cache La Poudre River in Fort Collins. Known for its scenic beauty, the river is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as whitewater rafting, fishing, and kayaking.
Thrill-seekers can challenge themselves to a whitewater rafting adventure on the river’s rapids, which range in difficulty from Class II to Class IV. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, fishing and kayaking are great ways to enjoy the tranquility of the river’s calm waters.
Along the riverbank, there are plenty of spots to relax, have a picnic, or take in the beautiful views. The Cache La Poudre River is also a great place to explore on foot, with several hiking trails in the area.
Explore the Fort Collins Brewery Trail
Do you love craft beer? Then you’ll definitely want to check out the Fort Collins Brewery Trail! This collection of local breweries offers a unique experience of tasting different beers and learning about the art of brewing.
The Fort Collins Brewery Trail includes some of the best breweries in the area, such as:
| Brewery | Description |
|---|---|
| New Belgium Brewing Company | The famous New Belgium Brewing Company offers tours of their facility, allowing visitors to learn about the brewing process and sample their beers. |
| Odell Brewing Company | Odell Brewing Company provides a friendly atmosphere to enjoy their beers and learn about how they’re made, with live music events in their outdoor area. |
| Equinox Brewing | Equinox Brewing has a rotating tap list of over 20 beers, from traditional IPAs to sour beers and barleywines. |
Be sure to plan your own brewery tour at your own pace, so that you can enjoy every sip of Fort Collins beer.
Conclusion
Congratulations! Now that you have explored the top 10 things to do in Fort Collins, Colorado, you have discovered all the amazing activities that this vibrant city has to offer. From hiking through Horsetooth Mountain Open Space to indulging in the unique brewery experiences offered by New Belgium Brewing Company, you are sure to have an unforgettable time.
So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Fort Collins today and discover the beauty and excitement of this charming city for yourself. With its plethora of attractions and activities, Fort Collins is the perfect destination for your next adventure.
