Are you planning a trip to Fort Collins and seeking the ultimate guide to make the most of your visit? Look no further! Discovering the “20 Best Things to Do in Fort Collins” promises an adventure-packed journey through this vibrant Colorado city. From its picturesque landscapes to its bustling cultural scene, Fort Collins offers an array of experiences for every traveler.
This comprehensive guide unveils the city’s hidden gems, must-visit attractions, and local favorites that capture the essence of Fort Collins. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast eager to explore its stunning outdoor spaces, a foodie craving culinary delights, or a history buff seeking to uncover the city’s rich heritage, this curated list has something for everyone.
Join us on a virtual tour as we delve into the top 20 experiences that showcase Fort Collins’ charm, allowing you to plan an unforgettable itinerary filled with excitement and exploration. Get ready to immerse yourself in the heart of this captivating city!
About Fort Collins
Fort Collins is a vibrant city in northern Colorado, nestled amidst the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. It is known for its craft breweries, scenic outdoor spaces, and thriving arts and culture scene. The city is home to Colorado State University, one of the largest universities in the state. Fort Collins is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with ample opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and camping.
The city is home to a number of breweries, including New Belgium Brewing Company, Odell Brewing Company, and Fat Tire Brewing Company. These breweries offer tours and tastings, allowing visitors to learn about the brewing process and sample some of the local beers.
Fort Collins is also home to a number of outdoor spaces, including Red Rocks Open Space, Horsetooth Mountain Park, and Lory State Park. These parks offer hiking trails, biking trails, and scenic views of the Rocky Mountains.
The city has a thriving arts and culture scene, with a number of museums, theaters, and art galleries. The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, the CSU Art Museum, and the Lincoln Center are just a few of the many cultural attractions in Fort Collins.
Fort Collins is a great place to visit for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. The city has something to offer everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts to art lovers.
What is Fort Collins known for?
Fort Collins, Colorado, is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, its abundance of outdoor activities, and its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Here are a few of the things that make Fort Collins so special:
- Craft beer: Fort Collins is home to over 20 breweries, making it the “Craft Beer Capital of Colorado.” Some of the most well-known breweries include New Belgium Brewing, Odell Brewing Co., and Fat Tire Brewing Company.
- Outdoor recreation: Fort Collins is located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. There are hiking and biking trails to suit all levels of experience, as well as opportunities for fishing, camping, and rock climbing.
- Arts and culture: Fort Collins has a thriving arts and culture scene, with a variety of museums, theaters, and art galleries to explore. The city also hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Fort Collins International Art Festival and the FoCoMX Music and Arts Festival.
- Food and drink: Fort Collins has a diverse culinary scene, with restaurants serving everything from farm-to-table cuisine to international fare. There are also a number of breweries, wineries, and distilleries in the area.
- Friendly atmosphere: Fort Collins is a friendly and welcoming city with a strong sense of community. Residents are known for their love of the outdoors and their passion for local businesses and events.
20 Best Things to Do in Fort Collins
Here are the top 20 things to do in Fort Collins in 2025:
1. Visit the New Belgium Brewery
The New Belgium Brewery is one of the most popular breweries in Fort Collins. The brewery offers a variety of tours, from a basic brewery tour to a more in-depth tour of the brewing process. Tours are available by reservation only and can be booked online or by calling the brewery.
New Belgium also offers a variety of tasting options, including a flight of their most popular beers, a tasting of their seasonal beers, and a tasting of their barrel-aged beers. Tastings are available on a walk-in basis.
The New Belgium Brewery is a great place to learn about the brewing process and sample some of the best beer in Fort Collins.
2. Hike in the Red Rocks Open Space
The Red Rocks Open Space is a beautiful area with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. There are a variety of hiking trails to choose from, so you can find one that’s right for your fitness level and interests.
This 2,000-acre park offers a variety of hiking trails, from easy to challenging. The most popular trail is the Red Rocks Trail, which winds its way through the red rock formations and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Other popular trails include the Elk Run Trail, which takes hikers to the top of Red Rock Mountain, and the Rainbow Trail, which offers views of the Cache La Poudre River. The Red Rocks Open Space is also a great place for rock climbing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.
The Red Rocks Open Space is a beautiful and popular destination, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.
3. Bike the Poudre Trail
The Poudre Trail is a paved bike path that follows the Poudre River. It’s a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the scenery.
This paved trail follows the river for 21 miles, offering stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and the surrounding countryside. The trail is mostly flat and easy to ride, making it a great option for families and cyclists of all levels of experience.
Along the way, you’ll pass through a variety of landscapes, including meadows, forests, and wetlands. You’ll also have the opportunity to stop and explore several parks and natural areas, such as the Poudre River Trail Ponds and the Maxwell Natural Area.
The Poudre Trail is a great way to enjoy the beauty of Fort Collins and get some exercise. So grab your bike and hit the trail!
4. Visit the CSU Art Museum
The museum is located on the campus of Colorado State University and is free to the public. The museum is open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 PM on Sunday.
The museum’s collection includes a variety of works of art from around the world. Some of the highlights of the collection include a painting by Vincent van Gogh, a sculpture by Auguste Rodin, and a print by Andy Warhol.
The museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions focus on a variety of artists and art movements. The CSU Art Museum is a great place to learn about art and to see some of the most important works of art in the world.
In addition to its permanent collection, the CSU Art Museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions focus on a variety of artists and art movements. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs, such as lectures, workshops, and tours.
5. Explore the Old Town Fort Collins Historic District
This district is home to a variety of brick-lined streets, historic buildings, and shops. You’ll find everything from antique stores and art galleries to restaurants and bars.
The district is also home to a number of historical landmarks, such as the Armstrong Hotel, which was built in 1885, and the Iris and Michael Smith Foundation, which is housed in a former Victorian mansion.
The Old Town Fort Collins Historic District is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening. Take a stroll down the streets, do some shopping, and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants. You’re sure to have a memorable experience.
6. Go for a swim in the Cache La Poudre River
The Cache La Poudre River is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and rafting. This scenic river offers a variety of swimming holes, from calm and shallow to deep and challenging. The water is cool and refreshing, making it a perfect way to beat the heat on a hot day.
Some of the most popular swimming holes include the Poudre Ponds, which are located near the Poudre Trail, and the Maxwell Natural Area, which is located upstream from the city.
The Cache La Poudre River is also a great place to go fishing, kayaking, and rafting. So be sure to pack your sunscreen, your swimsuit, and your sense of adventure!
7. Take a scenic drive on the Peak-to-Peak Highway
The Peak-to-Peak Highway is a scenic drive that winds through the mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
This 46-mile highway winds its way through the mountains, offering breathtaking views of the peaks, valleys, and forests. The highway is also home to a number of scenic overlooks, where you can stop and take in the views.
Some of the most popular overlooks include the Guanella Pass Overlook, which offers panoramic views of the Continental Divide, and the Mount Evans Lookout, which offers views of Mount Evans, the highest peak in Colorado.
The Peak-to-Peak Highway is a great way to experience the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. So grab your camera, and your picnic basket, and enjoy the ride!
8. Visit the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery
This museum offers a variety of exhibits on a wide range of topics, including dinosaurs, fossils, animals, and plants. The museum also has a planetarium, where you can learn about the stars and planets.
One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is the dinosaur exhibit, which features the skeletons of a variety of dinosaurs, including a Tyrannosaurus rex and a Triceratops. The museum also has a live animal exhibit, where you can see animals from around the world, such as snakes, lizards, and turtles.
The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is a great place to learn about science and natural history. It is also a fun place to spend an afternoon with the family. The museum is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 PM Monday through Saturday and from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday.
The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is located at 902 N. College Ave., Fort Collins, CO 80524. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $6 for children ages 3–17. Children under 3 are free.
The museum is also available for group tours, which must be booked in advance. For more information, please call (970) 221-6220 or visit the museum’s website at www.fcmod.org.
9. See a show at the Lincoln Center
The Lincoln Center is a performing arts center that hosts a variety of events, including concerts, plays, and dance performances. The center is located in the heart of Fort Collins and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
The Lincoln Center offers a variety of performances throughout the year, so there is sure to be something for everyone. Some of the most popular performers include the Colorado Symphony Orchestra, the Fort Collins Children’s Theatre, and the Fort Collins Dance Theatre.
The Lincoln Center is also a great place to rent a venue for a special event. The center has a variety of rooms and spaces that can be rented for weddings, parties, and corporate events.
The Lincoln Center is a great place to experience the arts and culture of Fort Collins. So be sure to check out the schedule and see what shows are playing!
10. Visit the Fort Collins Municipal Rose Garden
The Fort Collins Municipal Rose Garden is home to over 2,500 roses of all different varieties. The garden is located in City Park and is open to the public from sunrise to sunset.
The roses in the garden are in bloom from early June to late September. The garden is also a popular spot for weddings, photo shoots, and picnics.
The Fort Collins Municipal Rose Garden is a great place to enjoy the beauty of nature. So be sure to check it out!
Here are some additional details about the Fort Collins Municipal Rose Garden:
- Address: 1521 W. Rampart St., Fort Collins, CO 80526
- Phone: (970) 221-6665
- Website: https://www.fcgov.com/recreation/contact-us
The garden is open from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week. Admission is free.
The Fort Collins Municipal Rose Garden is a great place to learn about roses and enjoy their beauty. It is also a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
11. Go stargazing at Lory State Park
Lory State Park is located just west of Fort Collins and is a popular destination for stargazing. The park offers a number of unobstructed views of the night sky, making it a perfect place to see the stars, planets, and constellations.
The park is also home to a number of hiking trails, which you can take to find even more secluded viewing spots.
Lory State Park is a great place to experience the beauty of the night sky. So be sure to pack a blanket, your binoculars, and your sense of wonder!
Here are some additional tips for stargazing at Lory State Park:
- Check the weather forecast: Make sure the night sky is clear.
- Choose a dark location. Avoid areas with light pollution.
- Bring binoculars or a telescope. This will help you see the stars in more detail.
- Be patient. It may take some time for your eyes to adjust to the darkness.
- Dress warmly: It can get cold at night in the mountains.
12. Take a brewery tour
Fort Collins is known as the “Craft Beer Capital of Colorado,” so it’s no surprise that there are plenty of breweries to choose from when it comes to taking a brewery tour. Here are a few of the most popular breweries in Fort Collins that offer tours:
- New Belgium Brewing Company is one of the most popular breweries in the country, and their tour is a must-do for any beer lover. The tour takes you through the entire brewing process, from grain to glass, and includes a tasting of several of their most popular beers.
- Odell Brewing Company is another Fort Collins staple, and their tour is a great way to learn about the history of the brewery and how they make their award-winning beers. The tour includes a tasting of several of their most popular beers, as well as a behind-the-scenes look at their bottling and canning lines.
- Horse & Dragon Brewing Company is a smaller, family-owned brewery that is known for its commitment to sustainability. Their tour is a great way to learn about their brewing process and how they are working to reduce their environmental impact.
- Funkwerks is a brewery that specializes in sour and wild ales. Their tour is a great way to learn about these unique styles of beer and how they are made. The tour includes a tasting of several of their most popular beers as well as a behind-the-scenes look at their fermentation and conditioning processes.
- Zwei Brewing Company is a brewery that is known for its German-style beers. Their tour is a great way to learn about the history of German brewing and how they are making authentic German-style beers in Fort Collins. The tour includes a tasting of several of their most popular beers, as well as a behind-the-scenes look at their brewing process.
13. Visit the CSU Botanic Gardens
The CSU Botanic Gardens are located at 1401 Remington St, Fort Collins, CO 80524, USA. They are open to the public from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday and from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free.
The gardens are home to a variety of plants, including flowers, trees, shrubs, and herbs. There are also several gardens that are dedicated to specific types of plants, such as a rose garden, a butterfly garden, and a herb garden.
The gardens are a great place to learn about plants and to enjoy the outdoors. There are also a number of educational programs and events offered throughout the year.
14. Go for a hike in the Rocky Mountain National Park
Here are 5 of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, along with their difficulty levels:
- Emerald Lake Trail: Moderate
Located along Bear Lake Road, this hike is considered one of the best in Rocky Mountain National Park. The trail takes you past Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, and finally Emerald Lake, which is a beautiful and popular spot for swimming and fishing.
- Sky Pond via Glacier Gorge Trail – Hard
This strenuous hike is worth the effort, as it rewards you with stunning views of Sky Pond, one of the most scenic alpine lakes in the park. The trail is steep and challenging in some sections, but the views are worth the climb.
- Chasm Lake – Hard
Another challenging but rewarding hike, Chasm Lake takes you through alpine meadows and past waterfalls to a stunning glacial lake. The hike is about 8 miles long and gains over 3,000 feet of elevation, so it is not for the faint of heart.
- Mills Lake and Black Lake via Glacier Gorge Trail – Moderate
This moderate hike takes you through a beautiful valley to two stunning alpine lakes. The trail is about 5 miles long and gains about 1,500 feet of elevation.
These are just a few of the many great hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. With so many trails to choose from, you are sure to find one that is perfect for you.
15. Visit the Estes Park Aerial Tramway
The Estes Park Aerial Tramway is a must-do for any visitor to Estes Park, Colorado. The tramway takes you on a scenic ride up Prospect Mountain, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. The tramway is open from late May to early September and is a great way to see the mountains without having to hike.
The tram ride is about 5 minutes long and gains over 3,500 feet in elevation. At the top of Prospect Mountain, there are a number of things to see and do, including:
- Take in the views: The views from the top of Prospect Mountain are truly stunning. You can see for miles in all directions, and on a clear day, you can even see the Continental Divide.
- Visit the gift shop: The gift shop at the top of Prospect Mountain is a great place to find souvenirs for your trip. There are a variety of items to choose from, including postcards, t-shirts, and jewelry.
- Grab a snack: There is a snack bar at the top of Prospect Mountain where you can grab a quick snack or drink. The snack bar offers a variety of items, including hot dogs, hamburgers, and ice cream.
- Feed the chipmunks: There is a large population of chipmunks at the top of Prospect Mountain. You can buy peanuts from the snack bar and feed the chipmunks by hand.
- Hike: There are a number of hiking trails at the top of Prospect Mountain. The trails range in difficulty from easy to challenging, so there is something for everyone.
The Estes Park Aerial Tramway is a great way to experience the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. So be sure to add it to your itinerary when you visit Estes Park!
16. Go for a whitewater rafting trip
Whitewater rafting is a popular activity in Fort Collins, Colorado, and for good reason. The Cache La Poudre River offers a variety of rapids, from Class II to Class IV, making it a great place to experience the thrill of whitewater rafting.
There are a number of different rafting companies that offer trips on the Cache La Poudre River. These companies provide all the equipment you need, including rafts, life jackets, and paddles. They also provide experienced guides who will help you navigate the rapids and ensure your safety.
The best time to go whitewater rafting on the Cache La Poudre River is during the spring runoff, when the water levels are high. However, there are also rafting trips available throughout the summer and fall.
Whitewater rafting is a great way to get some exercise, enjoy the outdoors, and experience the thrill of the rapids. So if you’re looking for an exciting activity to do in Fort Collins, be sure to check out whitewater rafting!
17. Go horseback riding
Horseback riding is a great way to explore the natural beauty of Fort Collins, Colorado. There are a number of stables in the area that offer guided trail rides, lessons, and even overnight camping trips.
Guided trail rides are a great option for beginners or riders who want to experience the thrill of riding without having to worry about navigating the trails. There are a variety of different trails to choose from, so you can find one that is the right level of difficulty for you.
Lessons are a great way to learn the basics of horseback riding, such as how to mount and dismount, how to steer, and how to control your horse’s speed. Lessons are available for all levels of experience, from beginners to advanced riders.
Overnight camping trips are a great way to experience the outdoors and bond with your horse. These trips typically include guided trail rides, meals, and camping accommodations.
No matter what your experience level, horseback riding is a great way to enjoy the beauty of Fort Collins. So be sure to check out one of the many stables in the area and saddle up for an adventure!
18. Visit the Fort Collins Farmers Market
The Fort Collins Farmers Market is a vibrant and lively place to find fresh, locally-grown produce, artisan crafts, and delicious food. Held every Saturday morning from May to October, the market is a great way to support local businesses and enjoy the best that Fort Collins has to offer.
If you’re looking for fresh produce, you’ll find a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs, all grown within a few hours of Fort Collins. You can also find locally-made cheese, bread, honey, and other treats.
In addition to food, the Fort Collins Farmers Market also features a variety of artisan crafts, including pottery, jewelry, and clothing. You’re sure to find something unique and special to take home with you.
And of course, no farmers market would be complete without plenty of food options. You can find everything from fresh-made pizza and sandwiches to tacos and burritos. There are also plenty of sweet treats available, such as ice cream, pastries, and fresh-baked pies.
The Fort Collins Farmers Market is a great place to spend a Saturday morning. You can find everything you need for a delicious and healthy meal, and you can also support local businesses and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
19. Visit the Foothills Museum of Natural History
The museum has a variety of exhibits on a wide range of topics, including dinosaurs, fossils, animals, and plants. There are also a number of interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn about the natural world in a fun and engaging way.
One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is the dinosaur exhibit, which features skeletons of a variety of dinosaurs, including a Tyrannosaurus rex and a Triceratops. The museum also has a live animal exhibit, where visitors can see animals from around the world, such as snakes, lizards, and turtles.
The museum is located at 114 N. College Ave., Fort Collins, CO 80524. Admission is $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, and $4 for children ages 3-17. Children under 3 are free.
The Foothills Museum of Natural History is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Tuesday through Saturday and from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Sunday.
The museum is also available for group tours, which must be booked in advance. For more information, please call (970) 221-6665 or visit the museum’s website at www.foothillsmuseum.org.
20. Go for a picnic in City Park
City Park is a great place to go for a picnic in Fort Collins, Colorado. The park is located in the heart of the city and offers a variety of amenities, including picnic tables, grills, and playgrounds.
There is also a large pond in the park, which is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
City Park is a popular spot for picnics, so it is best to go during the week or early in the morning on weekends to avoid crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fort Collins is known for its craft breweries, its outdoor recreation opportunities, and its vibrant arts and culture scene.
There are many things to do in Fort Collins for free, such as visiting the New Belgium Brewery, hiking in the Red Rocks Open Space, and biking the Poudre Trail.
Fort Collins has a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, but some of the most popular include The Gnarly Carrot, The Yurt, and Avogadro’s Number.
There are many things to do in Fort Collins with kids, such as visiting the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, exploring the Old Town Fort Collins Historic District, and swimming in the Cache La Poudre River.
Conclusion
Fort Collins is a vibrant and exciting city with something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, arts and culture, or food and drink, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in Fort Collins.
