Fort Collins ColoradoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Fort Collins, Colorado.
1. Totally 80's Pizza & Museum
NOSTALGIC FOOD AND MEMORABILIA
Totally 80's Pizza & Museum offers visitors a unique dining experience combined with a trip down memory lane through its extensive collection of 1980s memorabilia. The attraction has earned a stellar 4.8 rating from visitors who appreciate both the food and the nostalgic atmosphere. Guests can enjoy pizza while surrounded by artifacts from one of America's most iconic decades.
2. New Belgium Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER PIONEER
New Belgium Brewing Company stands as one of Fort Collins' most popular attractions with a remarkable 4.8 rating from over 1,200 visitors. The brewery offers tours that showcase their sustainable brewing practices and innovative craft beer production. Visitors can sample a variety of acclaimed beers in the tasting room while learning about the company's fascinating history and brewing philosophy.
3. Cache La Poudre River
SCENIC NATURAL WATERWAY
Cache La Poudre River provides a stunning natural escape with opportunities for rafting, fishing, and riverside hiking. The river has earned a 4.8 rating from visitors who appreciate its scenic beauty and recreational offerings. Its waters flow through dramatic canyons and peaceful valleys, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking natural beauty near Fort Collins.
4. Annual Flower Trial Garden
BOTANICAL DISPLAY GARDEN
The Annual Flower Trial Garden showcases a spectacular array of flowers and plants in a beautifully maintained setting. With a 4.8 rating from visitors, this botanical attraction offers a peaceful retreat and photographic paradise in the heart of Fort Collins. The garden serves as both a research facility for Colorado State University and a public space where visitors can enjoy seasonal blooms and gardening inspiration.
5. Horsetooth Mountain Open Space
HIKING AND OUTDOOR RECREATION
Horsetooth Mountain Open Space offers over 29 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The area has earned a 4.7 rating from outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate its accessibility and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing opportunities while exploring diverse ecosystems ranging from grasslands to pine forests.
6. Odell Brewing Company
INNOVATIVE CRAFT BREWERY
Odell Brewing Company delights visitors with its innovative craft beers and welcoming taproom atmosphere. The brewery has earned a 4.6 rating from over 500 reviewers who appreciate both the quality of the beer and the facility tour experience. Guests can enjoy year-round favorites and seasonal specialties while relaxing in the brewery's indoor space or outdoor beer garden.
7. Fort Collins Municipal Railway
HISTORIC TROLLEY RIDES
The Fort Collins Municipal Railway offers visitors a chance to experience the city's history aboard restored vintage trolley cars. With a perfect 4.8 rating, this attraction provides a nostalgic journey along Mountain Avenue while volunteer conductors share stories about Fort Collins' past. The trolley operates seasonally, taking passengers on a charming ride that connects the present day with the city's transportation heritage.
8. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery
INTERACTIVE SCIENCE AND HISTORY
The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery combines natural history, cultural heritage, and interactive science education in one engaging facility. The museum earned a 4.5 rating from visitors who enjoy its blend of regional history exhibits and hands-on science activities for all ages. Children and adults alike can explore everything from Fort Collins' pioneer days to cutting-edge scientific concepts through innovative displays and experiments.
9. Horsetooth Reservoir
SCENIC WATER RECREATION
Horsetooth Reservoir offers a stunning outdoor paradise just minutes from Fort Collins' Old Town, with opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking. The reservoir is beloved by locals for its breathtaking scenery and diverse recreational activities throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy the perfect spot to experience Colorado's natural beauty while engaging in water sports or simply relaxing on the shore.
10. Old Town Fort Collins
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN DISTRICT
Old Town Fort Collins preserves 28 original historic buildings that transport visitors back to the 19th century pioneer era. Today, these beautiful brick structures house delightful cafes, art galleries, and boutique stores, creating one of the city's most walkable and charming districts. With over 80 restaurants in the area, Old Town serves as the cultural and culinary heart of Fort Collins.
11. Lory State Park
DIVERSE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Lory State Park offers outdoor enthusiasts a variety of recreational opportunities including hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding. The park features diverse landscapes from grassy meadows to challenging rocky terrain with spectacular views of the nearby Horsetooth Reservoir. Visitors can explore over 26 miles of trails while enjoying the natural beauty and wildlife of this pristine Colorado state park.
12. The Gardens on Spring Creek
BOTANICAL GARDENS EXPERIENCE
The Gardens on Spring Creek provides a stunning 18-acre botanical garden experience featuring themed gardens, educational programs, and seasonal events. Visitors can explore everything from native prairie landscapes to meticulously maintained ornamental gardens throughout the year. The facility serves as both a community garden resource and a peaceful retreat where people can connect with nature and horticultural beauty.
13. The Exchange
MODERN FOOD AND ENTERTAINMENT
The Exchange offers a contemporary outdoor plaza with shipping container architecture housing various food vendors, craft breweries, and retail shops. This innovative community gathering space features communal seating areas where visitors can enjoy diverse culinary offerings and local beverages. The venue regularly hosts events and live music, creating a vibrant atmosphere that showcases Fort Collins' modern creative culture.
14. Global Village Museum
INTERNATIONAL CULTURAL ARTIFACTS
The Global Village Museum showcases folk art, crafts, and cultural artifacts from around the world through both permanent and rotating international exhibits. Visitors can explore the rich diversity of global cultures through carefully curated displays that highlight traditional craftsmanship and cultural heritage. The museum offers educational programs and special events that promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation within the Fort Collins community.
15. Jessup Farm Artisan Village
HISTORIC FARM CREATIVE COMMUNITY
Jessup Farm Artisan Village transforms a historic farm property into a charming collection of shops, eateries, and creative businesses. Visitors can explore renovated barns and farmhouses that now house artisanal food producers, craft coffee roasters, boutiques, and other local merchants. The village combines agricultural heritage with contemporary craftsmanship to create a unique shopping and dining destination that reflects Fort Collins' creative spirit.