Plan The Ultimate Day Trip to Downtown Fort Collins, Colorado
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Nestled beside the foothills of the picturesque Rocky Mountains, you will find one of my personal favorite towns within the continental U.S. Fort Collins, Colorado attracts both visitors and locals alike with its historic charm, vibrant energy, and unique offerings. Specifically, downtown Fort Collins is a lively district that perfectly embodies the essence of Colorado’s laid-back spirit while boasting a dynamic array of cuisine, shops, and attractions.
In this travel guide, I invite you to embark on the ultimate day trip to downtown Fort Collins, Colorado, where I will help you navigate through the bustling streets, uncover hidden gems, and sample as many local flavors as you can within 24-hours.
A Brief History of Fort Collins, Colorado
Downtown Fort Collins, Colorado offers a wide variety of attractions, drawing visitors from near and far with its rich blend of history and culture. Founded in the mid-1800s, Fort Collins initially served as a bustling trading post located along the Cache la Poudre River, evolving over the years into the flourishing Colorado town that many love today.
It’s enjoyable to simply wander through downtown Fort Collins and marvel at the timeless Victorian-era architecture and cobblestone streets. Landmarks such as the iconic Old Town Square, nestled at the heart of downtown, and Historic Fort Collins Trolley add to the area’s charm and character, providing visitors a glimpse into the city’s past.
How to Travel Around Downtown Fort Collins?
When spending the day in Fort Collins, driving may offer the most flexibility and convenience for visitors. However, you can easily navigate around the entire downtown area without a vehicle, as everywhere is extremely walkable. I would suggest parking your car along the street, in a public lot, or parking garage (fees may vary) for the day and exploring the city by foot.
If you want to make the most of your time in downtown Fort Collins, Colorado, I recommend you get an early start on the day. Parking options will be more plentiful in the morning as well. Ride-share apps, such as Uber and Lyft, are also readily available if you do not want to worry about the stress of public parking.
Popular Attractions in Downtown Fort Collins, Colorado
Listed below are a few main-stream recommendations for things to do and see in downtown Fort Collins, Colorado. With only one day in the city, you will need to prioritize which activities are most the important to you depending on your own interests. However, I can promise that Fort Collins has a little something for everybody.
Old Town Square
The historic Old Town Square undoubtedly stands as the heart of downtown Fort Collins, Colorado. A vibrant gathering place best-known for its energetic atmosphere, iconic architecture, and plethora of attractions. Visitors can enjoy live music on stage, savor a meal at one of the local eateries, browse through the unique shops, or simply relax near the artistic fountain and people-watch.
With a designated play area and irresistible splash pad, kids of all ages will enjoy spending time in Old Town Square. Here, they host events and entertainment suitable for families, such as musical performances, art festivals, and seasonal festivities. Around Christmastime, they set up an entire holiday village with an ice-skating rink at the center that feels like pure magic.
Check out all of the upcoming events happening at Old Town Square HERE.
Fort Collins Museum of Discovery
The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery offers an impressive range of exhibits and hands-on activities suitable for children of all ages. Some of which include, a music and sound lab, tiny tots’ science zone, and many other rotating exhibits that will keep your kids engaged for hours.
Providing a good blend of science, art, and local history, this museum also features interactive exhibits that teach you about the region’s cultural heritage. One of the stand out features is definitely the OtterBox Digital Dome Theater, where spectators can get lost in the wonders of space exploration during a show in Northern Colorado’s only 360° dome theater. Find out more about the current shows playing HERE.
Plan your visit by checking out the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery’s website HERE to pre-purchase tickets, see operating hours, and learn more about the current exhibits.
Historic Fort Collins Trolley
Step back in time aboard the Historic Fort Collins Trolley, which offers narrated tours through downtown, providing insight into the city’s architectural landmarks and colorful history. Not only is this a fun experience, it’s also educational and memorable for visitors and locals alike. Adults and kids can sit back, relax, and enjoy this scenic tour of downtown Fort Collins, Colorado.
The trolley runs between City Park and Old Town with a few stops along the way. Please note, it is only operational on the weekends from May through September (closes seasonally).
To ensure a seat on this nostalgic journey, I would advise you to check the trolley’s schedule and purchase tickets in advance by visiting the Fort Collins Trolley’s website HERE.
The Lincoln Center
The Lincoln Center is a cultural gem nestled within downtown Fort Collins that hosts a variety of performing arts events. Some of which include theatrical shows, musical concerts, and dance performances.
The wide range of events and activities hosted at the Lincoln Center throughout the year, cater to diverse interests and age groups, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. By attending a show, you are helping to support the arts and local community.
Visitors can check out The Lincoln Center’s website HERE to preview upcoming shows and ticket availability.
Top-Rated Dining
Downtown Fort Collins, Colorado offers an extremely diverse and delectable culinary scene, featuring everything from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants and everything in between. If you are a foodie, you will really appreciate what Foco brings to the table, both literally and figuratively.
For a complete culinary guide of Fort Collins, be sure to check out my post detailing the 35 Best Restaurants in Fort Collins, Colorado (From a Local). Listed below are some of my personal favorites, if you plan to dine in downtown Fort Collins, Colorado.
Breakfast & Brunch Bites
Lunchtime Eateries
Dinner Destinations
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
Best Spots to Enjoy a Drink
Did you know that Fort Collins has been nicknamed “The Napa Valley of Beer”? Home to more than 20 craft breweries, this town is well-known for its thriving brewery scene. However, beer is definitely not the only type of drink on the menu.
A variety of other venues specialize in cider, wine, spirits, and creatively crafted cocktails. Below are some highly recommended spots for beverage enthusiasts to check out in downtown Fort Collins, Colorado.
Craft Breweries
Cideries
Distilleries
Wineries
Cocktail Bars & Lounges
✅Old Town Brewery & Distillery Tour
Learn all about the brewing and distilling process with this one of a kind “back of house” tour. Departing from Old Town Square, a knowledgeable guide will take you to CopperMuse Distillery, CooperSmith’s Pub & Brewing, and Blanchard Family Wines, allowing guests to experience a little taste of everything.
This tour lasts approximately 2 hours and drinks are not included with your ticket, however, there are special drink deals offered to tour participants.
Click HERE to book your Old Town Brewery and Distillery Tour!
✅Wine Tasting & Charcuterie Experience
Fun fact about Blanchard Family Wines, it’s a dual-state winery that produces varietals from both its Colorado and California locations.
Here, they offer a unique tasting experience where guests can choose four wines to try, paired with a local cheese plate, while learning all about the differences between their winery’s two regions.
Click HERE to book your Wine Tasting Experience at Blanchard Family Wines!
Shopping in Downtown Fort Collins
A collection of specialty stores, chic boutiques, and artistic galleries make up the diverse shopping scene found in downtown Fort Collins, Colorado. I highly suggest taking some time during the day to wander along the cobblestone streets and pop into any stores that catch your eye.
Refer to my categorized list below for a handful of shops to check out. I can ensure there is something in Foco for every individual taste and interest. You may even want to purchase a memento to remember your incredible day trip to Fort Collins.
Specialty Shops & Boutiques
- Blue Harvest Apparel
- Trendy women’s clothing, accessories, and home goods.
- The Cupboard
- Cookware, kitchen gadgets, gourmet food, and specialty ingredients.
- Bookstore On The Square
- Independent bookstore with a diverse selection of books.
- Kansas City Kitty
- Affordable women’s clothing, accessories, and unique gifts.
- Clothes Pony & Dandelion Toys
- Children’s clothing, toys, books, and gifts.
- Old Town Spice Shop
- Exotic spices, aromatic herbs, and specialty blends.
Artisanal Markets & Galleries
- Trimble Court Artisans
- Hand-crafted jewelry, ceramics, and paintings by local artists.
- Walnut Creek
- Upcycled furniture, vintage home decor, consignment clothing, and handmade goods.
- Old Town Art & Framery
- Custom framing, fine art, and prints by regional artists.
- Dandelions & Rust A Colorado Mercantile
- Artisanal goods, vintage finds, and apparel from more than 40 local vendors.
Family-Friendly Areas & Attractions
Fort Collins offers a plethora of family-friendly activities guaranteed to spark joy and create lasting memories for both children and parents alike. The attractions listed below provide a good mix of education, entertainment, and outdoor fun, making them ideal for families visiting downtown Fort Collins.
Located in Downtown Fort Collins, Colorado
- Fort Collins Museum of Discovery (mentioned above)
- Hands-on exhibits and interactive experiences that help bring science and history to life.
- Old Town Square (mentioned above)
- An outdoor space featuring a kid and dog-friendly splash pad, children’s play area, outdoor seating, and performance stage, hosting everything from live music to outdoor movie nights. Check out the upcoming seasonal events happening in Old Town Square HERE.
- Fort Collins Trolley (mentioned above)
- All aboard the historic Fort Collins Trolley that travels from the Trolley Depot in City Park to Old Town and back. Please note that the trolley only runs seasonally (May-September) so check the website HERE to verify the current schedule and fare beforehand.
Only a 5-Minute Drive from Downtown
- The Farm at Lee Martinez Park
- Interact with a variety of farm animals, enjoy a pony ride, and learn about farming and agriculture.
- Fort Collins City Park
- Plenty of green space for kids to run around, play sports, or picnic. City Park also features a large playground, public pool (seasonal), and a scenic, paved walking trail around Sheldon Lake.
- The Gardens on Spring Creek
- Botanical gardens showcasing native Colorado plantings, a tropical butterfly house, and an interactive Children’s Garden. The Gardens on Spring Creek also offers a variety of family-friendly programs throughout the year. Look at their event calendar HERE.
Outdoor Activities & Recreation
One of the main reasons people are drawn to visit Colorado is to experience the great outdoors in some capacity. Although you may not think that outdoor recreation can fit into your downtown Fort Collins day trip itinerary, I’m here to tell you about several great options, ranging from adventure to relaxation.
Adventurous Activities
- Bike Riding
- Fort Collins an extremely bike-friendly city with an extensive network of trails that pass right through downtown, such as the Poudre Trail that follows along the Cache la Poudre River.
- Kayaking & Tubing (seasonal)
- During warmer months, you can rent kayaks and tubes from local outfitters and float down the Cache la Poudre Rivier.
- Walking Trails
- Fort Collins is home to an abundance of “natural areas” that offer an escape from the city and scenic views. Gustav Swanson Natural Area and River’s Edge Natural Area are only a short stroll away from the heart of downtown.
Leisurely Recreation
- Picnicking in the Park
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in Library Park, located in downtown Fort Collins, Colorado. This small yet scenic park features a public library, playground, and a few historical landmarks dating back to the 19th century.
- Farmers’ Market (seasonal)
- Browse the farmers’ market held in downtown Fort Collins, where you can support local vendors and farmers. Open from 10AM-2PM on Sundays (May-Nov) and Wednesdays (June-Sept) in the Ace Hardware Parking Lot.
- Patio Dining
- Dine al fresco at one of the many outdoor patios that can be found in downtown Fort Collins. Check out my related post 35 Best Restaurants in Fort Collins, Colorado (From a Local) for the top spots to enjoy a delicious meal while soaking up some sunshine.
- Outdoor Concerts (seasonal)
- If you’re a music lover, you must attend one of the various outdoor concerts or music festivals held in downtown Fort Collins during the warmer months of the year. One popular example is the Thursday Night Live concert series that takes place in Old Town Square. Many of the restaurants and breweries also feature local bands and musicians.
Entertainment & Nightlife in Downtown Fort Collins, Colorado
When the sun goes down, Fort Collins comes alive with an array of nightlife and entertainment options. From live music venues to comedy clubs, everybody can find something to suit their taste within this dynamic city.
Live Music Venues
- Aggie Theatre
- A historic music hall hosting a diverse range of bands and performers plus a full bar. Check out their upcoming line up HERE.
- Magic Rat Live Music
- The main entrance to Magic Rat Live Music can be found on the first floor of The Elizabeth Hotel next to the front desk. Light bites and libations compliment the live musical performances. Refer to their events calendar HERE.
- Armory FoCo
- At this intimate music venue, it’s guaranteed there are no bad seats in the house. The quality of acoustics is also unmatched. Plan your future visit HERE.
- Washington’s
- This concert hall is owned by the Bohemian Foundation, as is the Armory FoCo above. It offers both arena-style floor seating and balcony seating. Take a look at the upcoming headliners HERE.
Comedy Clubs
- The Comedy Fort
- If you like to laugh (I mean, who doesn’t), you need to visit The Comedy Fort. This comedy club features popular and local comedians, improv performances, and open mic nights. Visit their website HERE to view all future headliners and events.
Downtown Fort Collins Upcoming Events
Downtown Fort Collins is often abuzz with excitement for upcoming events that cater to a variety of ages and interests. Keep an eye out for popular happenings like the First Friday Art Walk, Fort Collins Foodie Walk, Thursday Night Live concert series, and the Old Town holiday lights display, that truly bring the community together year-round.
Plan ahead by visiting the Downtown Fort Collins Upcoming Events Calendar HERE.
When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Fort Collins?
Fort Collins welcomes visitors throughout the entire year, with each season presenting its own list of potential pros and cons to consider when planning your next day trip. Whatever the season, Fort Collins promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Spring
Pros:
- Least crowded season
- Vibrant flowers in bloom
- Patio dining is open
Cons:
- Chance of unpredictable weather
- Outdoor recreational activities may be limited
- Seasonal allergies
Summer
Pros:
- Outdoor activities galore
- Constant local festivals and events
- Farmers’ markets in full-swing
Cons:
- Peak season / more crowded
- Hotter temperatures
- Difficulty parking downtown
Fall
Pros:
- Stunning fall foliage
- Harvest festivals
- Idyllic weather
Cons:
- Crowded during seasonal events
- Higher accommodation costs during seasonal events
- Limited outdoor dining
Winter
Pros:
- Old Town transforms into a “winter wonderland” with thousands of holiday lights
- Winter festivals, holiday markets, and ice-skating
- Endless options for outdoor winter recreation nearby: skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing
Cons:
- Crowded during seasonal events
- Colder temperatures
- Seasonal closures / reduced business hours
Useful Tips When Visiting Downtown Fort Collins
Before venturing out to explore the buzzing streets of downtown Fort Collins, Colorado, consider these invaluable tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. From navigating busy crowds to staying hydrated and informed, these insights will help you make the most of your time spent in this Colorado town.
- Plan for Public Parking
- Street parking in Old Town tends to fill up fairly quick on the weekends, but there are ample parking garages and lots located right off the main drag. As noted above, I recommend parking in one spot for the day and exploring downtown by foot or bike.
- Check the Weather
- Colorado can be known to have unpredictable weather, especially during transitional seasons. It’s best to check beforehand and be prepared.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes
- If exploring downtown Fort Collins via foot, it’s in your best interest to wear comfortable shoes for the day, as you will likely do a lot of walking throughout its charming streets.
- Look Up Hours of Operation
- Note the opening and closing times for the various attractions, shops, and restaurants that you are interested in hitting, as they may vary throughout the week.
- Review Upcoming Events Calendar
- Definitely check out the city’s Upcoming Events Calendar for festivals, live music, and any other special events that may be happening during your visit.
- Start Your Day Early
- In order to maximize your allotted time and make the most of your visit, plan on kicking the day off with breakfast at one of my suggestions above or listed in my post, 35 Best Restaurants in Fort Collins, Colorado (From a Local).
- Safety First
- Be aware of surroundings, especially during crowded events or late-night ventures. Adhere to pedestrian walk signals when crossing the street.
Conclusion
I hope that the details provided in my travel guide above not only encourages, but helps you to plan your own unforgettable day trip to downtown Fort Collins, Colorado. A city that offers the perfect blend of exploration, dining, shopping, and outdoor recreation that you can experience within a single day.
As always, I hope that you continue to Seek Out Serenity in your life!
