Fort Collins, nestled at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, is a vibrant city with a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Once a small trading post, it has transformed into a thriving hub of culture, education, and outdoor recreation.
1. The Annual Tour de Fat
In April, Fort Collins comes alive with the Tour de Fat, an exuberant bike parade and festival that celebrates cycling, music, and all things fat. Join thousands of costumed riders for a leisurely 13-mile ride, enjoy live music, sample local craft beers, and indulge in a variety of food vendors. The event raises funds for local bike advocacy organizations, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.
2. Majestic Mountain Views
Nestled at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Fort Collins offers breathtaking views of the Front Range. Embark on a hike in Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, just a few minutes from downtown. Ascend to the summit of Horsetooth Rock for panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains, foothills, and city. Explore the Poudre Canyon, a scenic river valley with towering canyon walls, cascading waterfalls, and verdant forests.
3. Abundant Recreation
Fort Collins is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The city boasts over 250 miles of paved and unpaved trails, making it easy to walk, run, or bike through scenic parks and natural areas. Along the Cache la Poudre River, you can kayak, paddleboard, or fly fish in pristine waters. Horsetooth Reservoir offers swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities, while nearby Carter Lake is a popular spot for wakeboarding and waterskiing.
4. Craft Beer Capital of Colorado
Fort Collins prides itself as the Craft Beer Capital of Colorado, with a thriving craft brewing scene. Visit some of the local breweries, such as New Belgium Brewing, Odell Brewing Company, and Funkwerks, to sample their diverse range of craft beers. Take a brewery tour to learn about the brewing process and enjoy tastings. Attend a beer festival or participate in the Fort Collins Ale Trail, where you can collect stamps at participating breweries.
5. Old Town Charm
Fort Collins’ Old Town is a charming historic district that retains its 19th-century character. Stroll along brick-paved streets lined with restored Victorian buildings housing unique shops, boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. Visit the Fort Collins Museum to learn about the city’s history and discover its intriguing artifacts. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride down Mountain Avenue for a memorable experience.
6. Vibrant Arts Scene
Fort Collins is home to a thriving arts scene. Visit the Lincoln Center, a performing arts complex featuring plays, concerts, and dance performances throughout the year. Explore the Fort Collins Museum of Contemporary Art (FMCMA), which showcases rotating exhibits of contemporary art from local, national, and international artists. Attend a First Friday Art Walk in Old Town, where you can meet local artists and browse their works in various galleries and studios.
7. Unique Gardens and Horticulture
Fort Collins is known for its beautiful gardens and horticulture. Visit the Gardens on Spring Creek, a 200-acre botanical garden with diverse plant collections, including native plants, perennials, and roses. Walk through the CSU Trial Gardens, operated by Colorado State University, to see experimental plant varieties and cutting-edge horticultural research. Attend the Fort Collins Flower Trial, an annual event showcasing a wide variety of annual flowers and plants.
8″>Colorado State University
Colorado State University (CSU), a leading research and educational institution, is located in Fort Collins. Visit the CSU campus to admire its Victorian architecture, lush green spaces, and state-of-the-art facilities. Attend a sporting event at Moby Arena or Canvas Stadium to cheer for the CSU Rams. Explore the Museum of Natural History, which houses a diverse collection of fossils, minerals, and wildlife exhibits.
Cultures, Best Months to Visit, Transportation, Local Food, Best Hotels, Conclusion
Fort Collins welcomes a diverse population, creating a vibrant and inclusive city. The best months to visit Fort Collins are April through October, offering warm and pleasant weather for outdoor activities. The city is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane through the Fort Collins-Loveland Municipal Airport (FNL).
Fort Collins boasts a culinary scene that reflects its diverse population. Savor locally sourced and sustainable dishes at The Regional or indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine at La Fiesta. For a sweet treat, visit Old Town Churn or Sweetheart Donuts.
Fort Collins offers a range of accommodations, including charming boutique hotels like the Armstrong Hotel and modern chain hotels like the Embassy Suites by Hilton Fort Collins. Whether you prefer a luxurious stay or a budget-friendly option, you’ll find something to suit your needs.
Fort Collins is a welcoming city with something to offer everyone. From its vibrant events and outdoor recreation to its charming historic district and thriving arts scene, there’s always something to discover in this exceptional city at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
