Fort Collins, CO, isn’t simply one other picturesque Colorado city—it’s a spot the place outside journey, craft beer, and a welcoming neighborhood come collectively to create an unforgettable expertise. Whether or not you’re on the lookout for your perpetually dwelling in College Park or the proper residence in Previous City, you’ll discover what you’re on the lookout for in Fort Collins. Learn and we’ll reply the age-old query, what’s Fort Collins identified for?
Fort Collins at a look
1. A craft beer capital
If Fort Collins had an official beverage, it might undoubtedly be craft beer. The town is a mecca for beer lovers, with dozens of breweries starting from small-batch taprooms to nationally acknowledged names.
“I could say a lot of different things about what makes Fort Collins unique but, in my opinion, one of my absolute favorite things about living here is that Fort Collins is renowned for its craft beer scene, making brewery hopping a must,” says Matt Shreffler of Rocky Mountain Scholar Media Corp.
“Little known fact: 70% of all of Colorado’s craft beer comes from Fort Collins, including industry giants like New Belgium and Odell. Exploring all of the breweries Fort Collins has to offer allows people to enjoy some amazing beer and experience the truly special atmospheres and food trucks that we as locals have come to love. This deep-rooted beer culture is a defining characteristic of Fort Collins.”
With native favorites like Funkwerks and Horse & Dragon including to the combo, Fort Collins’ beer scene is as numerous as it’s scrumptious.
2. The fantastic thing about the outside
One of many first issues many individuals consider when requested what Fort Collins is understood for, they consider nature. Nestled in opposition to the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Fort Collins is a paradise for outdoorsy sorts. Whether or not you favor mountain climbing, biking, or just soaking within the surroundings, you’ll discover loads of methods to get pleasure from nature right here.
Shay Riccio of Furbaby Images highlights a few of her favourite spots:
“Residing in Fort Collins is actually a pleasure. There’s at all times one thing to do, whether or not it’s exploring the charming retailers in Previous City, stress-free by the fountain within the sq. with my husband and our canine, or indulging in our favourite native bites—like pizza from The Nook Slice or the smoked ribs at MoJeaux Bar & Grill.“
“We love the city’s dog-friendly atmosphere, especially the Tour de Corgi parade in October. When we’re looking to unwind, nothing beats soaking in the beauty of Horsetooth Reservoir or enjoying the sunshine at Spring Canyon Park. With its mix of outdoor adventure, great food, and a welcoming community, Fort Collins is a truly special place to call home.”
3. A haven for gardeners
For those who’re on the lookout for a peaceable escape within the metropolis, the Colorado State College Flower Trial Gardens are a hidden gem. This beautiful assortment of flowers and crops is a tranquil setting to discover, chill out, and even choose up some gardening inspiration.
“One of the best things to do in Fort Collins is free!” says Cei Lambert of Meadowlark Tattoo Firm. “If you’re in town from April – November, go check out the Colorado State University Flower Trial Gardens. The gardens are located across from the University Center for the Arts and include a perennial garden. The gardens are rarely crowded and are open to the public as long as the growing season lasts. There are benches, shade trees, picnic spots, and arbors to explore along with detailed plaques for every plant so you can go home and plant your favorites!”
Lambert has a favourite strategy to benefit from the gardens: “I like to order takeout from Beijing Noodle on Shields and Prospect, then take my tasty Chinese food (don’t forget to add a tea egg!) to the gardens and have a picnic.”
4. A metropolis steeped in historical past
Fort Collins has a wealthy historical past relationship again to its days as a navy outpost within the 1800s. Historical past buffs can discover The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, which mixes interactive displays on science, music, and native historical past, providing a deep dive into the realm’s fascinating previous.
For a style of native heritage, take a ghost tour by way of Previous City, the place storytellers convey to life the legends of the town’s haunted previous. The Avery Home, a fantastically restored Victorian-era dwelling, affords one other glimpse into Fort Collins’ early days with guided excursions showcasing vintage furnishings and historic artifacts.
5. A thriving arts scene
Fort Collins has lengthy been a hotspot for artists and musicians, and the town’s inventive power is obvious in its many galleries, public artwork installations, and dwell music venues. The Lincoln Middle is a hub, internet hosting every thing from Broadway-style performances to ballet and comedy exhibits. In the meantime, smaller venues like The Armory and The Aggie Theatre hold the native music scene thriving, that includes each regional expertise and nationwide acts.
The town additionally embraces artwork in public areas, with murals adorning alleyways and sculptures dotting downtown. The Fort Collins Artwork Stroll, held on the primary Friday of every month, lets guests discover galleries and meet native artists whereas having fun with the energetic environment of Previous City.
6. The appeal of Previous City
If Fort Collins appears acquainted, it is likely to be as a result of Previous City served because the inspiration for Disneyland’s Principal Avenue, U.S.A. This historic downtown district is filled with distinctive retailers, native eating places, and energetic leisure. Whether or not you’re grabbing a espresso at Bean Cycle, catching dwell music at The Aggie Theatre, or exploring the weekend farmers’ market, Previous City is the guts of the town’s sturdy tradition.
