Fort Collins

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 miles (95 km) 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.

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.

Get in

By plane

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. Fares are suspended as of June 2023. Buses have bike racks.
  • The Poudre Express is a bus service operated by Greeley Evans Transit (GET), which conveniently connects Fort Collins to Greeley and . This bus service boasts of its 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. Furthermore, there is also a connection to Laramie.

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 if you attempt to schedule this on their website, it will not allow you to do so (as of June 2023). However, there is a throughway connection to Greeley. Nevertheless, it is likely more affordable and less strict on luggage sizes to use the Bustang North Line, which has a stop 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. The MAX route runs every 20 minutes. Buses do not operate on Sundays. All Transfort services free as of June 2023.

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, as bike trails often take more direct routes and are 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
  • 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. (updated Jun 2023)
  • 🌍 Budweiser Events Center, 5290 Arena Cir, Loveland, ☏ +1-970-619-4111. 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). (updated Sep 2023)
  • 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Colorado State University, ☏ +1 970-491-6444. 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Colorado State Rams, 951 W Plum St, ☏ +1 970-491-7267, . 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. Ticket prices vary by sport. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Fort Collins Museum of Discovery (FCMOD), 408 Mason Ct, ☏ +1 970-221-6738. Tu-Su 10AM-5PM, closed Monday. 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. $12.50 for adults, $9.50 for juniors (age 3-12), $9.50 for students (with ID), $9.50 for seniors, free for children (age 0-2). (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 The Farm At Lee Martinez Park, 600 N Sherwood St, ☏ +1 970-221-6665, . 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Fort Collins Municipal Railway Trolley Depot, 1501 W Oak St, ☏ +1 970 224-5372, . May-Sep: Saturdays, Sundays, & holidays | noon-5PM |. 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. Adults $2, seniors & children $1, under 3 free. Accepts cash, credit and debit card at the Trolley Depot in City Park. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Center for Fine Art Photography, 321 Maple St, ☏ +1 970-224-1010, . (updated Sep 2023)

Do
  • 🌍 Edora Pool Ice Center (EPIC), 1801 Riverside Ave, ☏ +1 970-221-6683. 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Horsetooth Reservoir, 4200 W County Rd 38 E, ☏ +1 970-498-5610. 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 New Belgium Brewing Company, 500 Linden St, ☏ +1 970-221-0524. 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Rocky Mountain Adventures, 1117 N U.S. Hwy 287, ☏ +1 970-493-4005, toll-free: +1-800-858-6808, . 8AM-6PM. 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • Cache La Poudre River, ☏ +1 970-232-3840, toll-free: +1-800-274-3678, . 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 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. (updated Sep 2023)

  • 🌍 Mountain Whitewater, 1329 N U.S. Hwy 287, ☏ +1 970-419-0917, toll-free: +1-888-855-8874, . 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 A1 Wildwater, 2801 N Shields St (the northwest corner of Shields and Highway 287, approximately 3 miles north of Old Town Fort Collins), ☏ +1 970-224-3379, toll-free: +1-800-369-4165, . 8AM-6PM. 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). (updated Sep 2023)

Escape rooms

Buy

Old Town and Historic District

Eat

Budget
  • 🌍 Big City Burrito, 510 S College Ave (in Old Town), ☏ +1 970-482-3303, . 8AM-8PM. This place is a true Fort Collins institution. $6 per person. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 The Breakfast Club, 121 W Monroe Dr, ☏ +1 970-223-7193, . M-Sa 6AM-2PM, Su 7AM-1:30PM. Breakfast and lunch eatery. The breakfast burrito is available for $4-8. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Cafe Mexicali, 2925 S College Ave, ☏ +1 970-266-9292, fax: +1 970-266-9294. Winter: M-Th 8AM-9PM, summer M-Th 8AM-9:30PM, F Sa 8AM-10PM, Su 11AM-7PM. A local chain offers a variety of tacos, burritos, and other Mexican classics. Affordable for students. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Charco Broiler, 1716 E Mulberry St, ☏ +1 970-482-1472. M closed, Tu-Th 11AM-8PM, F 11AM-9PM, Sa 8:30 AM - 9 PM, Su 8:30AM-8PM. 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. $8 per person.. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 China Wok, 1514 E Harmony Rd # 6, ☏ +1 970-223-8867. Su 4:30-9PM, M-Th 11AM-9PM, F Sa 11AM-9:30PM. Typical Chinese fast–food. Inexpensive. Chinese takeout standards in a simple strip-mall location. $5 per person. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Cozzola's Pizza, 1112 Oakridge Dr #114, ☏ +1 970-229-5771, . Th-Tu 3-8PM, W closed. Pizza at a local chain, in a cozy setting adorned with wooden walls in the South area. $10 per person. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Los Tarascos Restaurant, 622 S College Ave, ☏ +1 970-416-0265, fax: +1 970-416 8455. Su-Th noon-9​PM, F Sa noon-10PM, M closed. Mexican food at a local establishment. $7 per person. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Matador Mexican Grill, 1823 E Harmony Rd (on the south side of town), ☏ +1 970-372-5876, . M-F 6:57AM-8:33PM, Sa Su 7:59AM-8:31PM. Great local burrito place with 41 bottles of beer every day. Created by two CSU graduates. $6 per person. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Pickle Barrel, 122 W Laurel St, ☏ +1 970-484-0235. 11AM-9PM. High quality subs at reasonable prices. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Pizza Casbah, 126 W Laurel St, ☏ +1 970-221-9144, . Su-Th 11AM -10PM, F Sa 11AM-11PM. 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. $4 per person. (updated Sep 2023)
  • Silver Mine Subs, Varies, check website, . This straightforward counter-serve chain specializes in serving hot and cold sandwiches, as well as chili, soups, and salads. $6 per person. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Taqueria Los Comales, 1094, 111 W Prospect Rd # A (near CSU), ☏ +1 970-407-9998, . M-Th 9:30AM-9PM, F 9:30AM-10PM, Sa 7:30AM-10PM, Su 7:30AM-8PM. Authentic Mexican cuisine at a local restaurant known for serving tacos and other classic Mexican dishes. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Teriyaki Wok Two, 829 S Shields St, ☏ +1 970-493-6718. M-Sa 10AM-9PM. Local chain, $6 per person. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Walrus Ice Cream, 125 W Mountain Ave (in Old Town), ☏ +1 970-482-5919, . M-Sa 11AM-10PM, Su noon-10PM. A wide variety of flavors, with options such as sundaes and floats, all priced at $3 per person. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Young's Café Vietnamese Cuisine, 3307 S College Ave (in Midtown across from the Foothills Fashion Mall), ☏ +1 970-223-8000, . Su M 11AM-9:30PM, Tu-Th 11AM-9:30PM, F Sa 11AM-10PM. Vietnamese. Local.This eatery has been serving Vietnamese and Chinese classics since 1987. $10 per person. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Yum Yum Social, 1300 W Elizabeth St (1 block West of CSU), ☏ +1 970-493-7937. M closed, Tu W 11AM-9PM, Th-Sa 11AM-10PM, Su noon-8PM. Lebanese and Mediterranean food, with a good selection of vegetarian options. Their gyros and rice are outstanding. Veggie and vegan preferences available. (updated Sep 2023)

Mid-range
  • Austin's American Grill, See website for locations (in South and Old town). American cuisine, specifically excellent roasted chicken. Additionally, they have a wide selection of cocktails and desserts. $12 per person. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Avogadro's Number, 605 S Mason St, ☏ +1 970-493-5555, . M-F 11AM-9PM, Sa Su 9AM-9PM. 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Beau Jo's Fort Collins, 205 N College Ave (in Old Town), ☏ +1 970-498-8898, . Su-Th 11AM-9:30PM, F Sa 11AM-20PM; Happy Hour M-Th 3-6PM. 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Cafe Bluebird, 524 W Laurel St, ☏ +1 970-484-7755. M-F 6:30AM-2PM, Sa Su 7AM-2PM. Breakfast-for-lunch eatery that serves homestyle American breakfasts and lunches,offering outdoor seating. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Coopersmith's Pub & Brewing, 5 Old Town Square (in Old Town), ☏ +1 970-498-0483. Su-Th 11AM-9PM, F Sa 11AM-10PM. 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. $9 per person. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Domenic's Bistro and Wine Bar, 931 E Harmony Rd, ☏ +1 970-207-0411. Su 4-9PM, M-Th 11AM-9PM, F Sa 11AM-10PM. Mediterranean fusion cuisine specialized in gourmet pizzas, Italian-inspired dishes and cocktails. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Bistro Nautile (Fish), 150 W Oak St, ☏ +1 970-224-1188, . Lunch: Th-Sa 11AM-2PM; dinner: Tu-Sa 4-9PM, Su 4-8PM, closed M. French seafood. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Hunan of Fort Collins, 731 E Harmony Rd #300 (across the parking lot from Sam's Club, just off East Harmony Road between Boardwalk Drive and Lemay Avenue), ☏ +1 970-207-9000, . M-F 11AM-2PM, 4:30-9PM, Sa Su 11AM-9PM. Chinese cuisine; dishes such as Kung Pao chicken, egg rolls, and egg drop soup. Lunch specials available. from $10 to $15 per person. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Jim's Wings, 1205 W Elizabeth St # C (at Campus West), ☏ +1 970-493-1103. M-Sa 11AM-10PM, Su 11AM-9PM. Chicken wings and fried sides. $7 per person. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Lucile's, 400 S Meldrum St (in mid-town), ☏ +1 970-224-5464, . M-F 7AM-2PM, Sa Su 8AM-2PM. 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. $8 per person. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 The Moot House, 2626 S College Ave (in mid-town), ☏ +1 970-226-2121, . Saily 11AM-9PM. 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. $16 per person. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Mt. Everest Cafe, 1113 W Drake Rd, ☏ +1 970-223-8212. Tu-Su 11AM-2:30PM, 5-9PM; closed Mondays. A Nepalese Sherpa owned restaurant with a Mt. Everest theme. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Mt. Fuji, 4020 S College Ave #3064 (in the southern part of town), ☏ +1 970-223-5228. M-Sa 11AM-10PM, Su 4-10PM. Japanese local cuisine offering the widest variety of sushi in the area, in a casual setting adorned with a mural of Mt. Fuji. $25 per person. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Panino's Italian Restaurant, 310 W Prospect Rd (in Prospect Plaza Apartments), ☏ +1 970-498-8292, . F Sa 11AM-9:30PM, Su Tu-Th 11AM-9PM. 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Pho Duy, 902 W Drake Rd #1, ☏ +1 970-221-1664, . M-Sa 11AM-9PM, Su 1-9PM. 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Rainbow Restaurant Breakfast/Lunch Fort Collins, 212 W Laurel St, ☏ +1 970-221-2664, . W-M 8AM-2PM, Tu closed. 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant, 143 W Mountain Ave (in Old Town), ☏ +1 970-224-5428, . Su-W 11AM-10PM Th-Sa 11AM-11PM. 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Silver Grill Cafe, 218 Walnut St (in Old Town), ☏ +1 970-484-4656, . 7AM-2PM. A great breakfast and lunch restaurant, a pillar of Fort Collins, this local spot includes giant cinnamon buns. $10 per person. (updated Sep 2023)
  • Spoons, Soups, Salads & Sandwiches, Varies, check website. Soup and salad offered at a local chain in West and Old Town areas for only $7 per person. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Taj Mahal Restaurant, 148 W Oak St (in the Old Town area), ☏ +1 970-493-1105. Tu-Su 11:30AM-8:30PM, M closed. 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. $8 per person. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Thai Pepper, 109 E Laurel St, ☏ +1 970-221-3260. Tiny, laid-back eatery located near CSU with outdoor seating in warm weather. They serve hefty plates of Thai fare, including vegetarian options. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Tortilla Marissa's, 2635 S College Ave, ☏ +1 970-225-9222, . M-Sa 11AM-8:30PM, Su 11AM-8PM. A laid-back cantina offering Southwestern-influenced Mexican cuisine in a casual setting, complete with a covered patio. (updated Sep 2023)

Splurge

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
  • 🌍 Surfside 7, 238 Linden St, ☏ +1 970-221-4281, . 3PM-2AM. Great dive bar with killer jukebox and cheap drinks. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 The Forge Publick House, 255 Old Firehouse Alley, ☏ +1 970-682-2578, . Su-Tu 2-10PM, W-Sa 2PM-midnight. A unique high-end beer bar is tucked into an inviting alley, creating a warm and unpretentious ambiance. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 The Coast, 254 Linden St, ☏ +1 970-682-2022. 6PM-2AM. Visit the bar that offers the latest last call time. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Lucky Joe's Sidewalk Saloon, 25 Old Town Square, ☏ +1 970-493-2213. 11AM-2AM. 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Old Chicago Pizza + Taproom, 4709 S Timberline Rd, ☏ +1 970-207-9456. 11AM-2AM. 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Road 34 Deli & Tavern, 1213 W Elizabeth St, ☏ +1 970-221-3434. 11AM-2AM. 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Tony's Bar & Rooftop, 224 S College Ave, ☏ +1 970-484-6969, . M-F 10:30AM-2AM, Sa Su 9:30AM-2AM. This is a great spot to grab a beer or hang out all evening. The bar on the main level has recently 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Town Pump, 124 N College Ave, ☏ +1 970-493-4404, . A hole in the wall pub that has managed to survive for over 100 years, making it the oldest establishment in Fort Collins. (updated Sep 2023)

Cafes
  • 🌍 Alleycat Coffee House, 120 W Laurel St, ☏ +1 970-495-0123. 7AM-midnight. Coffee house. Excellent coffee and chai. Open 24 hours. Chill, always-open coffee & tea spot that earns buzz for its sandwiches, breakfasts & free WiFi. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 The Bean Cycle, 144 N College Ave, ☏ +1 970-221-2964, . 7AM-7PM. 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Mugs Old Town, 261 S College Ave, ☏ +1 970-472-6847. 6AM-7AM, 2-6PM. 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. (updated Sep 2023)
  • 🌍 Momo Lolo Coffee Shop, 1129 W Elizabeth St (corner of Elizabeth and Shields - across from Qdoba), ☏ +1 970-484-0705, . 6:30AM-6PM. 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. (updated Sep 2023)

Sleep

Connect

Free

The local ISP Front Range Internet, Inc. (FRII) has introduced a Wireless Mesh which includes most of Old Town. Users may have an unlimited number of 30-minute sessions each day, with a few ads in between sessions.

  • Mugs Coffee Lounge has two locations. The shops at College & Olive are open daily 6AM-1AM; wireless is also accessible from outdoor tables. Timberline between Harmony & Horsetooth (on E side of Timberline N of Caribou), M-Th 6AM-10PM, F-Su 6AM-6PM. The Timberline location has extremely uncomfortable seating, the others have comfy chairs.
  • McDonald's Cafe on West Elizabeth west of Shields Street.
  • Everyday Joe's Coffee House, 144 S. Mason, between Oak and Mountain. M-F 7AM-10PM, Sa 6-10PM.
  • Alley Cat Coffee House. Alley Cat is a 24-hour coffeehouse and cafe in the alley just west of College Avenue and north of Laurel.
  • Genoa's Coffee and Wine. Daily 7AM-9PM. Nice coffee house with some good snacks, a few beers, and a good selection of wines. At the corner of Drake and Timberline, near King Soopers.
  • The Bean Cycle on College has free WiFi. They are on College in the old-town area.
  • Dazbog Coffee Harmony & McMurray. Open 5:30AM to 10PM 7 days a week.
  • Fedex Kinkos 130 West Olive Street.
  • Fedex Kinko's Fort Collins Campus West 1113-1117 West Elizabeth.
  • SportsCaster Bar & Grill, 165 E Boardwalk Dr.(behind 1st National Bank).
  • The UPS Store #4655 at 1281 E Magnolia St.
  • The UPS Store #2011 at 1015 S Taft Hill Rd.
  • The UPS Store #2718 at 2601 S Lemay.
  • Fedex Kinko's 226 East Harmony Road.
  • Buffalo Wild Wings just east of College on Harmony works.
  • Panera Bread on College just south of Horsetooth has good wireless (though with a captive portal), and food and coffee beverages. Often crowded during lunch, especially on the weekends.
  • Cafe Mexicali has free WiFi.

Not free
  • McDonald's on the west side of College Ave. north of Drake offers 1 hr of free access with a purchase, or $2.95/hr otherwise.
  • Barnes & Noble 4045 S College
  • T-Mobile East Harmony Rd 238 East Harmony Rd

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.
Routes through Fort Collins
Casper ← Cheyenne ←  N  S  → Loveland → Denver
Rawlins ← Laramie ←  N  S  → Loveland → Denver
Jct ← Poudre Park ←  W  E  → Jct N S → Sterling


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