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Home rule city and seat of Larimer County, Colorado, United States
Photo: Citycommunications at English Wikipedia, CC BY 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
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.
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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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
FCMOD
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. Ample car and bike parking.
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.
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.
EPIC
The Edora Pool and Ice Center (EPIC) includes a large public pool and ice rink. The Spring Creek and Power trails pass by it and are easily accessible by bike. It is a 7-15 minute walk from the nearest bus stops, depending on which bus you take.
Come and enjoy climbing, boating, hiking, bouldering, and mountain biking in this area (please note: a season or day pass is required). Biking up to the reservoir can be quite a challenging yet incredible experience.
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.
RMA offers whitewater rafting trips, kayaking lessons, and fly-fishing clinics in the summer, as well as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trips in the winter. This is great for the traveler with an adventurous streak.
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.
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.
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.
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).
Offering 2 themed rooms, this venue has guests try to solve puzzles in a race against the clock.
This place is a true Fort Collins institution.
Breakfast and lunch eatery. The breakfast burrito is available for $4-8.
A local chain offers a variety of tacos, burritos, and other Mexican classics. Affordable for students.
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.
Typical Chinese fast–food. Inexpensive. Chinese takeout standards in a simple strip-mall location.
Pizza at a local chain, in a cozy setting adorned with wooden walls in the South area.
Mexican food at a local establishment.
Great local burrito place with 41 bottles of beer every day. Created by two CSU graduates.
High quality subs at reasonable prices.
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.
This straightforward counter-serve chain specializes in serving hot and cold sandwiches, as well as chili, soups, and salads.
Authentic Mexican cuisine at a local restaurant known for serving tacos and other classic Mexican dishes.
Local chain, $6 per person.
A wide variety of flavors, with options such as sundaes and floats, all priced at $3 per person.
Vietnamese. Local.This eatery has been serving Vietnamese and Chinese classics since 1987.
Lebanese and Mediterranean food, with a good selection of vegetarian options. Their gyros and rice are outstanding. Veggie and vegan preferences available.
American cuisine, specifically excellent roasted chicken. Additionally, they have a wide selection of cocktails and desserts.
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.
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.
Breakfast-for-lunch eatery that serves homestyle American breakfasts and lunches,offering outdoor seating.
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.
Mediterranean fusion cuisine specialized in gourmet pizzas, Italian-inspired dishes and cocktails.
Fish
French seafood.
Chinese cuisine; dishes such as Kung Pao chicken, egg rolls, and egg drop soup. Lunch specials available.
Chicken wings and fried sides.
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.
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.
A Nepalese Sherpa owned restaurant with a Mt. Everest theme.
Japanese local cuisine offering the widest variety of sushi in the area, in a casual setting adorned with a mural of Mt. Fuji.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A great breakfast and lunch restaurant, a pillar of Fort Collins, this local spot includes giant cinnamon buns.
Soup and salad offered at a local chain in West and Old Town areas for only $7 per person.
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.
Tiny, laid-back eatery located near CSU with outdoor seating in warm weather. They serve hefty plates of Thai fare, including vegetarian options.
A laid-back cantina offering Southwestern-influenced Mexican cuisine in a casual setting, complete with a covered patio.
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.
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.
Great dive bar with killer jukebox and cheap drinks.
A unique high-end beer bar is tucked into an inviting alley, creating a warm and unpretentious ambiance.
Visit the bar that offers the latest last call time.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A hole in the wall pub that has managed to survive for over 100 years, making it the oldest establishment in Fort Collins.
Coffee house. Excellent coffee and chai. Open 24 hours. Chill, always-open coffee & tea spot that earns buzz for its sandwiches, breakfasts & free WiFi.
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.
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.
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.
Located downtown, this boutique hotel offers 37 eclectic rooms.
Free wifi, hot buffet breakfast, and heated pool and hot tub.
Indoor pool. Provides free shuttle service to nearby businesses M-F.
The Fort Collins Marriott has 229 renovated rooms and 16,154 sq. ft. of meeting space equipped with high speed internet access and wireless capabilities.
Near student housing and the railroad.
All suites. Pets allowed.
Toy store.
Opened in 1972, the store in Fort Collins is the oldest and best-known store. It spans over 6,000 square feet and offers a wide range of items for your kitchen.
Gift shop.
A boutique body care store with an intimate massage and fitness facility downstairs.
Gift shop.
Home goods store.
Offers contemporary women's clothing.
Women's clothing store and boutique. Local vendors sell jewelry, purses, and more.
By bus
By rail
The nearest train station is Denver Union Station, which can be accessed by Amtrak's California Zephyr.
By bicycle
Fort Collins is renowned for being incredibly bicycle-friendly according to US standards, boasting numerous paved trails and designated bike routes.
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