Overview
Fort Collins is a city of about 170,000 in north central region of the western U.S. state of Colorado. The seat of Larimer County, the city lies 59 mi north of Denver on the Cache La Poudre River at the eastern edge of the Front Range foothills. Fort Collins is the home of Colorado State University and is a major research center.
9 sights · 11 things to do · 40 places to eat · 12 bars & cafés · 7 places to stay
Updated from Wikivoyage on 1 October 2026 · Something wrong or missing? Improve it on Wikivoyage
Best things about Fort Collins
Budweiser Events Center
At The Ranch features national acts and sports events. Several semi-professional sports teams call this center home including the Colorado Eagles (hockey), Colorado Chill (basketball), and the Colorado Ice (arena footbal…
Colorado State University
Internationally recognized faculty and a top-ranked University with a freshman to sophomore retention rate of 82%. Offers over 150 degree programs of study in 8 colleges: College of Agricultural Sciences, College of Appl…
Colorado State Rams
Colorado State sports, competing in 16 NCAA Division I sports (6 men's, 10 women's) in the Mountain West Conference. As with most major schools, the hot-button sports are football and men's basketball, with women's baske…
Fort Collins Museum of Discovery
Museum mostly about Fort Collins and Larimer county history and ecology. Features many interactive exhibits and some live animals. Also has a planetarium. Is a roughly 7-minute walk from the Downtown Transit Center. Ampl…
Fort Collins Municipal Railway Trolley Depot
The last vestige of Fort Collins' historic tram system. Runs down Mountain Avenue, and stops at City Park, Shields, Loomis, and Howes. There is car and bike parking at City Park, and on-street parking near the other stop…
Center for Fine Art Photography
Plan your trip
Best time to visit & weather
Most comfortable: May–Sep. Summer highs reach about 83°F; winter lows dip to about 17°F. Cold months (Dec) can bring snow and ice; check road conditions. Wettest: May and Jun. (climate data from nearby Wellington)
Blue bars: average daily high and low (°F). Purple columns: average monthly rain and melted snow (inches).
Getting there
- From you: to see whether to drive or fly, and how long it takes.
- CYS Cheyenne Regional Jerry Olson Field, Cheyenne — 42 mi away. Directions
- BJC Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport, Denver — 47 mi away. Directions
- DEN Denver International Airport, Denver — 55 mi away (major hub). Directions
The nearest train station is Denver Union Station, which can be accessed by Amtrak's California Zephyr.
Full “Get in” guide ↓Budget & where to stay
- Typical meal: about $8 per person at listed restaurants.
See the Sleep guide ↓ for places to stay.
Sample 3-day itinerary
Day 1
- Morning Colorado State University, Colorado State Rams, Fort Collins Municipal Railway Trolley Depot
- Lunch Cafe Bluebird
- Afternoon The Farm At Lee Martinez Park, Center for Fine Art Photography
- Dinner Lucile's
- Evening Mugs Old Town
Day 2
- Morning Rocky Mountain Adventures, A1 Wildwater
- Lunch Beau Jo's Fort Collins
- Afternoon Mountain Whitewater, Cache La Poudre River
- Dinner Silver Grill Cafe
- Evening The Forge Publick House
Day 3
- Morning Budweiser Events Center, Historic Old Town Fort Collins
- Lunch Matador Mexican Grill
- Afternoon Bike Parks and Trails
- Dinner China Wok
- Evening Old Chicago Pizza + Taproom
Stops are grouped by area so each day needs little backtracking. Check opening hours before you go.
Food for you
Cuisine (tap to filter)
What to ask about, for your diet
Diet labels come from each listing's description and cuisine; “likely” means the cuisine usually has good choices, not a promise. Check with the restaurant. Open the food finder
Photos
Map
Every listing with a location. Tap a pin for its Google Maps link.
Understand
Old Town is the downtown area of the city, centered on the cross-streets of College Avenue and Mountain Avenue. It is the historical beginnings of the town, with a vast variety of older buildings and historical monuments. Those seeking to visit architecture from the early 20th century should come to Fort Collins for its prime examples.
The Colorado State University campus is right in the middle of the city, extending from Prospect Road on the South to Laurel Street on the north, and from Shields street on the west to College Avenue on the East. The university also has several other smaller campuses throughout the city. The big white "A" on the mountain west of town stands for Aggies, a relic from when CSU was Colorado Agricultural College.
- Fort Collins municipal website
Get in
By plane
- Denver International Airport is the closest international airport; several shuttle services to Fort Collins are available, such as Landline and Groome. Additionally, if your flight is during daylight hours, the cheapest way to get to the airport is Bustang + RTD's A Line train.
By bus
- Bustang is a state-wide bus service operated by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). The buses are new, clean, and punctual, offering affordable fares. Additionally, the buses are equipped with a bike rack, and passengers can bring bicycles at no extra charge. For only $10, the North Line provides a direct connection to Denver.
- Flex is a service run by Transfort that connects to Loveland, Berthoud, Longmont, and Boulder. Buses have bike racks. Fares are permanently suspended (November 2024) for the entire Transfort system, allowing for a particularly budget-conscious traveler to get between Denver or DIA and Fort Collins for only $10.50 via Boulder.
- The Poudre Express is a bus service operated by Greeley Evans Transit (GET), which conveniently connects Fort Collins to Greeley and Windsor. This bus service boasts modern and well-maintained vehicles, however, the buses do not run frequently and often experience delays, particularly during rush hour. Fares are reasonably priced at $1.25 for individuals who are 19 years old and above. Free wifi and bike racks on board.
- Greyhound Lines has connections with Denver and towards Salt Lake City, through Cheyenne. There is no direct service to Laramie, but it is accessible via Cheyenne.
By rail
The nearest train station is Denver Union Station, which can be accessed by Amtrak's California Zephyr.
Amtrak operates a throughway bus route from Denver through Fort Collins, but it only runs biweekly. It is likely more affordable and less strict on luggage sizes to use the Bustang North Line, which stops at Union Station in Denver.
Get around
By public transit
Public transit is provided by Transfort. Most routes run M-Sa 5AM to 8PM hourly, although some of the more popular routes have a frequency of every 30 minutes. (Nov 2024) The MAX route runs every 20 minutes, with the city experimenting with bringing 10-minute service back (Nov 2024). The city provides service until 10pm for the MAX (Nov 2024). Buses do not operate at all on Sundays. All Transfort services will remain free for the foreseeable future, as stated by the city in October 2024.
There are four main transit hubs in Fort Collins: the Downtown Transit Center, the CSU Transit Center, the South Transit Center, and the Harmony Transfer Center. The Downtown Transit Center and the South Transit Center are connected by the MAX BRT system. The CSU Transit Center is just a short walk from a MAX stop. The Harmony Transfer Center can be reached via Route 16 from the South Transit Center. The Poudre Express is available from both the CSU Transit Center and the Harmony Transfer Center. Flex services are offered from the Downtown Transit Center and the South Transit Center. Most intercity bus services, including Bustang, make stops at the Downtown Transit Center and the Harmony Transfer Center.
There is also a free, on-demand taxi service provided by the city on routes that have been suspended. Do not count on it if you need to be anywhere quickly. Taxis are often very late.
The "FoxTrot" service between Fort Collins and Loveland has been replaced by Flex.
By bicycle
Fort Collins is renowned for being incredibly bicycle-friendly according to US standards, boasting numerous paved trails and designated bike routes. Remarkably, bike lanes are found everywhere, including on the most uncomfortable arterial roads. In fact, biking can often be faster than driving, particularly during rush hour, but often bike trails often take less direct routes and aren't typically given priority at street crossings. To aid navigation, a bicycle map is available here.
There are many bike rental options in Fort Collins:
- Recycled Cycles rents bikes for $30/day.
- Guests at the Armstrong Hotel are provided free bikes to ride during their stay.
- Spin ride share e-bikes and scooters can be found all over the city.
- Many other bike shops such as The Gearage may also rent bikes.
The Fort Collins Bike Coop is likely the most affordable choice for both parts and repairs. This nonprofit charity is operated by volunteers, enabling them to offer significantly lower prices compared to other places. The mechanics are highly experienced and provide you with the opportunity to return to the shop and learn how to fix your bike while they work on it. Additionally, they have a vast selection of used parts.
See
See Historic Old Town Fort Collins
It has many shops and restaurants and an outdoor mall among historic buildings. Old Town is centered just east of College Avenue and between Mountain Avenue and Walnut Street. Parking on the street in Old Town can be difficult, but there are three city parking structures which offer parking for a quarter an hour. There is also secure bike parking in the garage on Mason Street and easy transit access with the MAX. Enjoy a locally brewed beer or lager at a restaurant in Old Town Square, and enjoy local music at The Aggie.
See Budweiser Events Center
At The Ranch features national acts and sports events. Several semi-professional sports teams call this center home including the Colorado Eagles (hockey), Colorado Chill (basketball), and the Colorado Ice (arena football).
See Breweries
Fort Collins features 5 local award-winning breweries plus an Anheuser Busch outpost (complete with Clydesdales). Visit New Belgium Brewing, Odell Brewing Company, Fort Collins Brewery, CooperSmith's Pub and Brewery, Big Horn Brewing, or Anheuser Busch any day of the week but Sunday.
See Colorado State University
Internationally recognized faculty and a top-ranked University with a freshman to sophomore retention rate of 82%. Offers over 150 degree programs of study in 8 colleges: College of Agricultural Sciences, College of Applied Human Sciences, College of Business, College of Engineering, College of Liberal Arts, Warner College of Natural Resources, College of Natural Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. Ranked in the Top Tier of public and private doctoral universities in the U.S. News and World Report rankings of America's Best Colleges and Universities.
See Colorado State Rams
Colorado State sports, competing in 16 NCAA Division I sports (6 men's, 10 women's) in the Mountain West Conference. As with most major schools, the hot-button sports are football and men's basketball, with women's basketball and women's volleyball also notably competitive. The main sports venues are on campus, most notably the fairly new football venue of Canvas Stadium and Moby Arena, home to basketball and volleyball.
See The Farm At Lee Martinez Park
A small zoo of sorts located in Lee Martinez park. Serves as kind of a children's museum about agriculture featuring many farm animals. Lots of parking for bikes and cars. About a 15-minute walk from the Downtown Transit Center or a 7-minute walk from the nearest bus stop.
See Fort Collins Municipal Railway Trolley Depot
The last vestige of Fort Collins' historic tram system. Runs down Mountain Avenue, and stops at City Park, Shields, Loomis, and Howes. There is car and bike parking at City Park, and on-street parking near the other stops but no dedicated bike parking. Easternmost stop is easily accessed from the MAX Mountain station, which also has bike parking.
Do
Do New Belgium Brewing Company
New Belgium Brewing offers a range of beloved beers including the popular Fat Tire, as well as lesser-known options like Abby, 1554, Blue Paddle, Sunshine Wheat, and a variety of seasonal brews and small-batch creations. The brewery provides both guided and self-guided tours, so be sure to arrive early for the guided ones as space is limited. During these tours, you will delve into the rich history of the brewery, learn about its commitment to sustainable practices through wind energy and recycled methane, and witness their unwavering dedication to social responsibility. They have set a remarkable example by prioritizing the well-being of both their employees and the community. Additionally, all visitors aged 21 and older can indulge in complimentary tastings.
Do Cache La Poudre River
The Cache La Poudre river flows from the canyon proper, several miles north, through town and offers excellent fly fishing for wild rainbow and brown trout. In town, quick fishing access is available starting from the crossing at North Shields and continuing through town. You can tube and swim at various locations in the river in town, though take great care. The river is MUCH more powerful than you might think. The current can easily trap you if you aren't careful. Every year there are stories of naïve people on the local news who drown in tubing accidents. There are even signs posted at many parts of the river that are particularly dangerous. Tubing and swimming can be done safely, but make sure you check with somebody experienced first. There is a paved trail called the Poudre trail that runs parallel to the river through much of town. The canyon itself can be reached by taking College Ave./Hwy 287 north out of town and turning onto Poudre Canyon/Hwy 14. Pressed between narrow canyon walls and fed by snow-melt, the water here is wilder and colder and swimming should be done with caution. Several companies offer whitewater rafting in the canyon and kayaks are a common sight. There are several hiking trails in the canyon, including Greyrock Trail, which takes you across the river via bridge into open pine forest and meadow. Wildlife are common, including deer, fox, rabbit and black bear, as well as the occasional mountain lion and many kinds of birds. Camping and summer cabins are available throughout the canyon. The Columbine Lodge, in the small community of Poudre Park, offers both as well as beach access (for campers and residents), a good supply of snacks, drinks and good company. Seasonally, a shuttle is available between the Lodge and nearby Mishawaka Amphitheatre, a lively local bar on the river that opened as a dance hall in 1916 and continues to attract various famous acts and music-lovers every year.
Do Bike Parks and Trails
There is an extensive set of biking/walking trails throughout town. The Poudre Trail follows the Poudre River from Bellvue, through Fort Collins, to CSU's Environmental Learning Center. It is fully paved and extends all the way to Greeley, although there is a significant gap in the trail between Fort Collins and Windsor. However, from Windsor, the trail becomes paved again and continues to Greeley. The Spring Creek Trail runs alongside the Spring Creek, from where it meets the Poudre River westward to Spring Canyon Park. Spring Canyon Park also includes a bike park. Another paved trail is the Fossil Creek Trail, which starts at the edge of Loveland's trail network and connects to the Power Trail in the east. Additionally, the Power Trail and the Mason Trail are paved routes that run north/south along Timberline and College, respectively. These trails provide low-stress cycling options. Heading north from Spring Canyon Park towards Bellvue, there is an extensive collection of mountain bike trails on the hogback, which forms the eastern side of Horsetooth Reservoir. Lory State Park, located on the northwest side of Horsetooth Reservoir, features a small bike park with various challenging elements such as jumps, a pump track, jump runs, and a wooden trials track. For adventurous mountain bikers, it is possible to ride from Bellvue through Lory State Park, along the western side of the reservoir, and onto the challenging Blue Sky Trail, leading to Loveland. However, it is worth noting that the Blue Sky Trail is highly technical. If you lack confidence in riding a bike up staircases, it is recommended to tackle the trail from north to south. Be prepared to allocate twice the amount of time you anticipate needing and be ready to walk your bike if necessary.
Do Mountain Whitewater
Rafting adventures on the Cache La Poudre River near Estes Park, Colorado. Mountain Whitewater Descents has a special use permit from the Roosevelt National Forest. The guidelines ensure low river use, allowing the Poudre to provide an exceptional wilderness rafting experience.
Do A1 Wildwater
Northern Colorado's oldest outfitter offers free wetsuit use and paddle jackets. They provide mild to wild rafting trips suitable for beginners and advanced whitewater enthusiasts. The facility offers parking, restrooms, picnic areas, game areas, a food court, a retail store, a photo area, and guides. They offer a variety of trips, including a wild & scenic half-day trip, a family half-day trip, and a full-day trip. Their store is located at the northwest corner of Shields St and Hwy 287 (College Ave).
Escape rooms
Buy
Old Town and Historic District
Eat
Budget
Eat Big City Burrito
This place is a true Fort Collins institution.
Eat The Breakfast Club
Breakfast and lunch eatery. The breakfast burrito is available for $4-8.
Eat Cafe Mexicali
A local chain offers a variety of tacos, burritos, and other Mexican classics. Affordable for students.
Eat Charco Broiler
American-style steakhouse. They serve a variety of dishes, including steaks, burgers, pasta, and seafood, set in a ranch house ambiance with western-themed accents.
Eat China Wok
Typical Chinese fast–food. Inexpensive. Chinese takeout standards in a simple strip-mall location.
Eat Cozzola's Pizza
Pizza at a local chain, in a cozy setting adorned with wooden walls in the South area.
Eat Los Tarascos Restaurant
Mexican food at a local establishment.
Eat Matador Mexican Grill
Great local burrito place with 41 bottles of beer every day. Created by two CSU graduates.
Eat Pickle Barrel
High quality subs at reasonable prices.
Eat Pizza Casbah
A hole-in-the-wall pizza place, known for its gigantic slices which should be folded in half for proper consumption. East Coast-style pies and slices, along with homemade sauces and wings.
Eat Silver Mine Subs
This straightforward counter-serve chain specializes in serving hot and cold sandwiches, as well as chili, soups, and salads.
Eat Taqueria Los Comales
Authentic Mexican cuisine at a local restaurant known for serving tacos and other classic Mexican dishes.
Eat Teriyaki Wok Two
Local chain, $6 per person.
Eat Walrus Ice Cream
A wide variety of flavors, with options such as sundaes and floats, all priced at $3 per person.
Eat Young's Café Vietnamese Cuisine
Vietnamese. Local.This eatery has been serving Vietnamese and Chinese classics since 1987.
Eat Yum Yum Social
Lebanese and Mediterranean food, with a good selection of vegetarian options. Their gyros and rice are outstanding. Veggie and vegan preferences available.
Mid-range
Eat Austin's American Grill
American cuisine, specifically excellent roasted chicken. Additionally, they have a wide selection of cocktails and desserts.
Eat Avogadro's Number
American. Try the tempeh burger. Local, near CSU. The mostly veggie menu at this live-music hot spot/eatery includes pizza and tempeh or beef burgers.
Eat Beau Jo's Fort Collins
A regional chain that specializes in Colorado-style, thick-crust pizza with various sauces, along with calzones and pasta. They also offer a daily lunch buffet.
Eat Cafe Bluebird
Breakfast-for-lunch eatery that serves homestyle American breakfasts and lunches,offering outdoor seating.
Eat Coopersmith's Pub & Brewing
This local pub food spot features a pool hall. It is a big, buzzy mainstay where you can enjoy billiards and patios. Classic tavern fare and a wide selection of beers.
Eat Domenic's Bistro and Wine Bar
Mediterranean fusion cuisine specialized in gourmet pizzas, Italian-inspired dishes and cocktails.
Eat Bistro Nautile (Fish)
French seafood.
Eat Hunan of Fort Collins
Chinese cuisine; dishes such as Kung Pao chicken, egg rolls, and egg drop soup. Lunch specials available.
Eat Jim's Wings
Chicken wings and fried sides.
Eat Lucile's
Cajun breakfast and lunch; be prepared to wait for around 30 minutes on the weekends. Part of a small chain eatery that specializes in crafting Cajun-Creole breakfasts and lunches.
Eat The Moot House
Local English-style restaurant that offers English and American cuisine, along with a salad bar. The restaurant serves modern variations of traditional English pub food, accompanied by local craft beers. The dining area features fireplaces.
Eat Mt. Everest Cafe
A Nepalese Sherpa owned restaurant with a Mt. Everest theme.
Eat Mt. Fuji
Japanese local cuisine offering the widest variety of sushi in the area, in a casual setting adorned with a mural of Mt. Fuji.
Eat Panino's Italian Restaurant
This restaurant specializes in panino sandwiches and also offers various options like salads, pasta, and pizza. Although it can get crowded during lunchtime. Additionally, they have a full bar. This branch is part of a casual chain that provides Italian dishes and allows you to build your own panini.
Eat Pho Duy
Located in mid-town, local pho restaurant offering a relaxed Vietnamese dining experience at an affordable price of $7 per person. Their menu features a variety of pho options with different meats, along with vermicelli bowls and rice dishes.
Eat Rainbow Restaurant Breakfast/Lunch Fort Collins
Breakfast and lunch are served, specializing in vegetarian cuisine with meat substitutions available. Additionally, outdoor seating is offered for those who prefer to dine al fresco.
Eat Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant
This vibrant Mexican venue is famous and wildly popular for its margaritas. It is recommended to arrive early and experience their festive interior while indulging in generous plates of classic Mexican fare.
Eat Silver Grill Cafe
A great breakfast and lunch restaurant, a pillar of Fort Collins, this local spot includes giant cinnamon buns.
Eat Spoons, Soups, Salads & Sandwiches
Soup and salad offered at a local chain in West and Old Town areas for only $7 per person.
Eat Taj Mahal Restaurant
Offers a fine lunch buffet and a regular dinner menu. Indian dishes in addition to a lunch buffet, all in a bright and simple space adorned with colorful hanging artwork.
Eat Thai Pepper
Tiny, laid-back eatery located near CSU with outdoor seating in warm weather. They serve hefty plates of Thai fare, including vegetarian options.
Eat Tortilla Marissa's
A laid-back cantina offering Southwestern-influenced Mexican cuisine in a casual setting, complete with a covered patio.
Splurge
Eat Pulcinella Pizzeria & Wine Bar
Pizza, although it can be fairly pricey. It is a cozy, traditional cafe that serves Neapolitan-style pies and has a selection of Italian wines.
Eat Sonny Lubick's Steakhouse
A great restaurant owned by the former CSU football coach. High-end steaks and seafood with classic accompaniments in a warm brick, leather and wood interior.
Drink
As a college town, Fort Collins has a very active nightlife with a wide variety of options, ranging from friendly corner pubs to hip hop dance clubs. Old Town is particularly lively on weekends, but even on weeknights, there is always something happening. Additionally, Campus West, the second, smaller cluster of bars in Fort Collins, still offers a lot of entertainment options.
Bars
Drink Surfside 7
Great dive bar with killer jukebox and cheap drinks.
Drink The Forge Publick House
A unique high-end beer bar is tucked into an inviting alley, creating a warm and unpretentious ambiance.
Drink The Coast
Visit the bar that offers the latest last call time.
Drink Lucky Joe's Sidewalk Saloon
A unique establishment, this self-described cowboy and Irish bar astoundingly finds a way to make their unconventional blend work. Offering complimentary peanuts, it presents an upbeat atmosphere that combines the charm of an Irish bar with the ambiance of a western saloon. Live music performances, a patio, delicious pub grub, and enticing happy-hour specials further enhance the experience.
Drink Old Chicago Pizza + Taproom
Chain restaurant that has a bar and pool hall section staying open until 2AM. It is a family-friendly establishment offering Italian dishes and a wide selection of beers.
Drink Road 34 Deli & Tavern
Bike shop by day, bar by night. It has a pretty mellow atmosphere but is a mainstay in Campus West. This hip bar and bike shop offers hearty sandwiches, over 30 taps, and pool tables amidst vintage bicycle decor.
Drink Tony's Bar & Rooftop
This is a great spot to grab a beer or hang out all evening. The bar on the main level has been nicely remodeled. They also have a roof-top patio that is wonderful during the summer and remains open year-round. It's a sizable hangout with patio seating, TVs, and billiards, offering bar favorites in an industrial space.
Drink Town Pump
A hole in the wall pub that has managed to survive for over 100 years, making it the oldest establishment in Fort Collins.
Cafes
Drink Alleycat Coffee House
Coffee house. Excellent coffee and chai. Open 24 hours. Chill, always-open coffee & tea spot that earns buzz for its sandwiches, breakfasts & free WiFi.
Drink The Bean Cycle
Located in Old Town. An excellent coffee shop and independent bookstore. They roast their own organic, fair trade coffee. WiFi is available. Espresso drinks, tea, and chai are brewed in a hip storefront space with art and funky furnishings.
Drink Mugs Old Town
The café offers a fantastic menu to complement its superb coffee and coffee drinks while promoting a strong sense of community through sourcing local and organic ingredients.
Drink Momo Lolo Coffee Shop
Delightful local coffee shop that offers a variety of beverages such as coffee, espresso, teas, and chai. Additionally, they host live local music events on specified days each month.
Sleep
Go next
- Cheyenne, capital of Wyoming, is just across the border from Fort Collins, home of the world's largest outdoor rodeo
- The small community of Poudre Park offers some great panoramic views and mountainous quietude.
Nearby
Wellington
City / town · 53 listings · 9 mi away
Loveland
City / town · 35 listings · 12 mi away
Poudre Park
City / town · 4 listings · 14 mi away
Berthoud
City / town · 3 listings · 19 mi away
Greeley
City / town · 21 listings · 22 mi away
Lyons
City / town · 27 mi away
Estes Park
City / town · 47 listings · 27 mi away
Longmont
City / town · 11 listings · 29 mi away
My experience
Write about your trip here. Notes save automatically in this browser as you type; back them up from My journal.