Explore the vibrant city of Fort Collins! Uncover its lively atmosphere, historic architecture, craft breweries, and diverse outdoor activities. Discover the charming Old Town, the natural beauty of Horsetooth Reservoir, and the enlightening Museum of Discovery.
Fort Collins Travel Guide
Fort Collins, situated in Northern Colorado, is a vibrant city known for its lively atmosphere, outdoor activities, craft breweries, and a strong sense of community.
Best Time to Visit:
Late Spring to Early Fall (May - October): Characterized by mild to warm temperatures and abundant sunshine, this period is ideal for exploring outdoor attractions and participating in various festivals and events the city has to offer.
May to June: Offers pleasant weather with fewer crowds, allowing for serene exploration of blooming gardens and outdoor trails.
July to August: Represents the peak of summer with the warmest conditions and numerous events, but also attracts the most tourists.
September to October: Brings cooler temperatures and colorful fall foliage, providing a picturesque environment with reduced tourist crowds.
Winter (November - April): Features colder temperatures and occasional snowfall, ideal for winter sports enthusiasts; however, outdoor attractions may be limited, and fewer events are scheduled during these months.
Transportation:
Getting to Fort Collins primarily involves flying into Denver International Airport (DEN) and then taking a car or a shuttle to Fort Collins. Here are detailed steps:
By Air:
Fly into Denver International Airport (DEN)
It’s the nearest major airport to Fort Collins.
From various cities around the world, many airlines operate flights to DEN.
From Denver International Airport to Fort Collins:
Rent a Car:
Car rental services are available at the airport from various providers such as Enterprise, Hertz, and Budget.
The drive to Fort Collins is approximately 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Airport Shuttle Service:
Several shuttle services operate between Denver International Airport and Fort Collins.
Companies like Green Ride or Groome Transportation offer shared rides and private services.
Booking in advance is recommended.
Attractions:
Old Town Historic District: A lively downtown area with historic architecture, unique shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, hosting numerous events and festivals throughout the year.
Horsetooth Reservoir: A scenic location offering boating, fishing, hiking, and camping with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Colorado State University: Home to beautiful campus grounds, museums, events, and the colorful CSU Flower Trial Garden.
Fort Collins Museum of Discovery: An interactive museum featuring a mix of science, history, and culture exhibits, ideal for families with children.
Cache la Poudre River: Known for its white-water rafting and kayaking opportunities, along with hiking trails and spots for fishing and camping.
Lory State Park: A diverse park offering trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, as well as areas for rock climbing and picnicking.
New Belgium Brewing Company: One of the many renowned breweries in Fort Collins offering tours and tastings, highlighting the city’s rich craft beer culture.
Foothills Trail: A picturesque trail ideal for hiking, running, or mountain biking, providing beautiful views of the city and the mountains.
The Gardens on Spring Creek: This is a botanic garden featuring a wide range of plant species, themed gardens, and educational programs.
Annual Flower Trial Garden: A garden at Colorado State University where you can see a variety of flowers, particularly during the blooming season.
Odell Brewing Company: Another renowned brewery known for its innovative and delicious craft beers and brewery tours.
Spring Canyon Community Park: A large park offering various amenities including playgrounds, dog parks, and hiking trails.
Soapstone Prairie Natural Area: A vast expanse offering trails and opportunities to view wildlife and learn about the area's archeological significance.
Fort Collins Trolley: A historic streetcar that offers a unique way to see the city and learn about its history.
The Avery House: A historic home that offers a glimpse into the life in Fort Collins during the late 19th century.
The Farm at Lee Martinez Park: An educational farm that provides an opportunity for children to learn about farm animals and agriculture.
Where to Stay:
When visiting Fort Collins, you might want to consider staying in areas that are central to attractions, dining options, and entertainment. Here are several areas you might find suitable:
Old Town Area:
Description: This is the heart of Fort Collins, known for its vibrant atmosphere, historic architecture, unique shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Benefits: Staying here will place you within walking distance of numerous attractions and will allow you to experience the lively atmosphere of Fort Collins to its fullest.
Campus West:
Description: Located near Colorado State University, this area is bustling with activity and offers various dining and entertainment options.
Benefits: Ideal for those visiting the university or those who enjoy a youthful, energetic atmosphere.
Midtown:
Description: This area is more residential but still offers a good selection of restaurants, shops, and accommodations.
Benefits: Suitable for those who prefer a quieter stay but still want access to city amenities.
Harmony Corridor:
Description: This area in the southern part of the city has a mix of residential, commercial, and retail spaces, including hotels and restaurants.
Benefits: Proximity to shopping centers and dining options make it a convenient area to stay, especially for those traveling by car.
Near the Foothills:
Description: Staying in accommodations near the foothills of the Rocky Mountains offers a more secluded and scenic experience.
Benefits: Ideal for nature lovers and those planning to explore the outdoor attractions around Fort Collins, like Horsetooth Reservoir and Lory State Park.
Conclusion:
Fort Collins is a lively city with a rich history and a strong sense of community, offering a myriad of activities, attractions, and dining options for visitors. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, Fort Collins has something to offer. Plan ahead, consider the weather, and most importantly, enjoy your time in this Colorado gem.
