36 Fun Things To Do In Fort Collins, Colorado (2024)

Fort Collins is a city in Colorado located along the Cache la Poudre River.

This city embraces its heritage in many ways, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the historic downtown area.

With over 100 art galleries, hundreds of different events per year, and miles of trails that bring people together you can be assured your trip here will be memorable.

It is a popular tourist destination.

But what exactly is Fort Collins known for?

One of the biggest things that the city is known for is craft beer.

It is actually known as Colorado’s Craft Beer Capital!

70% of Colorado’s craft beer comes from  Fort Collins.

You will get an opportunity to explore some of the top craft beer companies during your tour of the city.

Planning a Colorado trip? Make sure to take a look at our list of the top-rated resorts in Colorado.

Other things that make Fort Collins a popular tourist destination include its proximity to Colorado State University as well as the Rocky Mountains, which are some of Colorado’s most popular attractions.

We have compiled a list of 36 of the most popular things and places in this beautiful city.

With such a variety of activities available, Fort Collins and its surrounding areas are excellent places for visitors looking to enjoy nature with their family or friends.

Things To Do In Fort Collins:

1. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery

Rating: 4.7★

Entry tickets: Adults: $12.50, Children/Students: $9.50, Seniors: $9.50, Kids (0-2): Free

Address: 408 Mason Ct, Fort Collins, CO 80524

• It opens every Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm
• It was established in 2008

Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is a museum located in the city of Fort Collins, Colorado.

The museum’s mission is to inspire curiosity and discovery in all ages.

As a result, the museum features exhibits that explore the natural world, human history, and the local culture, as well as a unique collection of Fort Collins-area art.

Additionally, the museum is home to various activities, including hands-on science labs, interactive displays, and art galleries.

Some of its popular exhibits include Schatz Family Exploration Zone, Animal Encounters, Healthy Steps, Wild Lands & Wildlife, Animal Encounters, and Music & Sound Lab.

Wondering what to do in Fort Collins over the weekend?

Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is open during the weekend and makes for a perfect weekend plan for families with children.

It is children-friendly and will leave your little ones amazed and wanting more.

2. Horsetooth Mountain Open Space

Rating: 4.8★

Entry tickets: $9 per vehicle

Address: 6550 W County Rd 38 E, Fort Collins, CO 80526

• It is open daily for 24 hours
• It’ll take you at least 3 h 30 min to complete hiking its trails
• Allows camping

Horsetooth Mountain Open Space is a unique mountainous park in Fort Collins.

Firstly, the park has several different hiking trails and scenic overlooks.

Its trails are popular for mountain biking, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

It also includes a picnic area with grills and tables.

The park is home to Horsetooth Mountain and offers stunning views of the city below.

Moreover, there are about 29 miles of trails that wind through grassy meadows, lush forests, and over ridges.

Notably, the park is open from sunrise to sunset seven days a week.

Visitors can enjoy hiking or biking on some of the many trails throughout the area.

They can also just sit back and enjoy the view from one of the many scenic overlooks along the way.

Horsetooth Mountain Open Space is also an excellent place for people who just want to relax by themselves with a book or their dog!

3. Mountain Whitewater

Rating: 4.8★

Entry tickets: Adult (19-64): $125, Children (13-18): $99, Children (7-12): $62, Seniors (65-74): $111, Super Seniors (75+): FREE

Address: 1329 US-287, Fort Collins, CO 80524

• It offers rafting trips on Cache La Poudre River
• Provides dog pens for visitors who bring dogs along

Mountain Whitewater is a whitewater rafting adventure company in the Cache La Poudre River near Fort Collins.

The company offers guided trips on the wild and scenic Poudre River.

The trips include both half-day and full-day excursions and are available for everyone who wants to experience the river.

Outstandingly, the adventures are offered in state-of-the-art rafting equipment.

They are also conducted by friendly and knowledgeable guides who are always eager to answer questions and explain everything every step of the way.

To accommodate every guest, the adventures are offered in different levels, from easy to extreme.

In total, there are 6 levels and you can choose any depending on your fear level.

Easy level means that you will encounter few obstacles while Extreme level means you will be exploring deep waters.

4. Fort Collins Trolley

Rating: 4.7★

Entry tickets: Adults: $2, Seniors/Children: $1, Children (Under 3): Free

Address: 1501 W Oak St, Fort Collins, CO 80521

• It is considered a great summer experience
• Located inside Fort Collins City Park
• Operates on Saturdays and Sundays as well as on Holidays

Fort Collins Trolley is a historic electric public transportation system that offers trips around Old town Fort Collins.

It was restored back to its original 1919 look and design in 1977.

Today, visitors are invited to ride in the historic streetcars and railroads that were restored.

Additionally, the railroad runs for 1.5 miles, during which volunteers act as guides and tell riders the history of the railroad system in Fort Collins.

They also explain to visitors all about the history of Fort Collins and its attraction sites.

Notably, Fort Collins Trolley is open on weekends and holidays between May and September.

During the ride, you will see the scenic park and at the end of the ride, you can continue exploring the park.

Additionally, the park has picnic areas where you can relax and just take in the beauty around.

5. Avery House

Rating: 4.8★

Entry tickets: Adults: $6, Children: $4 (must be accompanied by an adult)

Address: 328 W Mountain Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80521

• It is open every Saturday and Sunday from 1 pm to 4 pm
• It is located close to hotels such as Edwards House and The Armstrong Hotel

Is Fort Collins worth visiting?

Yes, this beautiful city is worth visiting owing to its exciting attractions, one of them being historical sites.

Avery House is a historic house situated on a hill overlooking the city of Fort Collins and can be seen from many parts of town.

It was built in 1879 and is today a National Historic Place.

The two-story historic house features High Victorian Gothic architecture and is one of the few remaining such structures in Fort Collins.

Avery House was originally owned by Franklin Avery who founded The First National Bank.

He lived here with his wife too.

Today, the historic site is run by Poudre Landmarks Foundation, Inc., and aims to teach the public the history of Fort Collins.

Not only are the guides friendly but also knowledgeable.

They will answer all your questions about Fort Collins with patience and passion.

Apart from learning the city’s history, visitors will also learn the history of the Avery family and all its achievements.

You will also love seeing the charming Victorian House which has beautiful furnishings as well as art.

6. The Farm at Lee Martinez Park

Rating: 4.7★

Entry tickets: Guests (2 years and above): $4, Pony Rides: $6

Address: 600 N Sherwood St, Fort Collins, CO 80521

• It is open from Tuesday to Sunday
• It was established in 1985

The Farm at Lee Martinez Park is a family-friendly destination that offers visitors a fun and safe way to enjoy the outdoors.

It has a variety of educational opportunities for visitors including an outreach program for students and families that includes hands-on learning experiences with resident animals.

The farm is especially perfect for day visits.

It offers amenities such as birthday party rentals, pony rides, interactive family fun, Museum & The Farm Store, as well as hayrides.

Apart from interacting with animals, guests are also allowed to adopt a farm animal for a year.

Additionally, the farm offers interactive animal games for children between 2 and 7.

This makes The Farm at Lee Martinez Park one of the best things to do in Fort Collins with children.

7. The Center For Fine Art Photography

Rating: 4.3★

Entry tickets: Donations are encouraged

Address: 321 Maple Street, Fort Collins

• It features art by both local and international artists
• The center is highly praised for its friendly staff

The Center for Fine Art Photography is an organization dedicated to the advancement of the visual arts.

It hosts exhibitions of work by both local and international artists.

It also provides public outreach programs to schools and organizations seeking to improve their visual arts education.

In addition, the Center’s mission is to promote the appreciation and understanding of fine art photography through education, exhibitions, publications, and events.

It is committed to supporting emerging fine art photography artists through public exhibitions, educational programs, and workshops.

Guests are invited to explore the exhibitions and interact with artists.

There are solo exhibitions as well as group exhibitions.

In addition to exhibitions, the center showcases juried shows where participating artists present their work, and the best are awarded.

You will also find curated exhibitions.

8. Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures

Rating: 4.6★

Entry tickets: Adults: $5 Seniors/Students: $3 Children (4 – 12): $1 Children 3 & under: Free

Address: 200 W Mountain Ave # C, Fort Collins, CO 80521

• It opens every Tuesday to Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm
• It’s a wonderful place to visit with children

The Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures aims to preserve and educate visitors about the diversity of world arts and cultures.

It is located in downtown Fort Collins and offers visitors a wide range of activities and attractions.

The museum features over 200,000 cultural artifacts from around the world including ethnographic items, art, as well as archaeological objects.

The Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures takes guests through different historical periods through its exhibitions.

You will see techniques and materials that were used by different ancient cultures from various parts of the globe.

For example, one of its exhibitions showcases miniatures of farm scenes, gas stations, and stores.

Looking for walkable attractions in Fort Collins?

The Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures’ location in the heart of Old Town makes it one of the walkable attractions in the city.

It sits near other attractions, hence easy to get to by walking.

9. The Emporium

Rating: 4.3★

Address: 378 Walnut St, Fort Collins, CO 80524

• It is located in The Elizabeth Hotel
• It features a wine shop and a gourmet market

What are the most popular restaurants in Fort Collins?

The Emporium is a French-style restaurant that is one of the most popular restaurants in Fort collins.

It offers a wide range of delicious cuisine and top-notch wine.

It is one of the top places to eat in Fort Collins.

Some of its most popular dishes are wild mushrooms, bison short rib, as well as fresh fish.

Apart from serving top-notch cuisine, The Emporium also acts as a social hub that provides grounds for community gatherings as well as special events.

The beautiful restaurant sits in downtown Fort Collins on the ground floor of The Elizabeth Hotel.

The beautiful joint comes highly recommended as a perfect breakfast and lunch or dinner place.

In addition to enjoying a delicious meal, you can book your stay in the beautiful Elizabeth Hotel because its location makes it easy to explore attractions in Fort Collins.

10. Silver Grill Cafe

Rating: 4.6★

Address: 218 Walnut St, Fort Collins, CO 80524

• It is famous for its giant cinnamon buns
• This is the oldest cafe in Northern Colorado
• It is open 7 days a week from 7 am to 2 pm

Silver Grill Cafe is a local favorite.

Located in the heart of downtown Fort Collins, Silver Grill serves up delicious food and drinks to all of its patrons.

The restaurant offers a variety of menu items including burgers, sandwiches, salads, soups as well as its signature cinnamon buns.

The menu also includes breakfast options such as omelets and pancakes.

Guests can also order from their extensive coffee menu which includes specialty coffees like lattes and cappuccinos.

In addition to serving breakfast and lunch options on weekdays, Silver Grill also offers breakfast and lunch on weekends from 7:00 am – 2:00 pm.

Silver Grill Cafe prides itself on its customer service.

The staff is friendly and skilled at making sure everyone is satisfied with their food and drink.

11. Ginger and Baker

Rating: 4.4★

Address: 359 Linden St, Fort Collins, CO 80524

• It is open every Tuesday to Sunday from 7 am to 9 pm
• It offers takeout services too

Ginger and Baker is a cafe in Fort Collins that offers a pie bakery, event spaces, and a rooftop bar that serves delicious cocktails.

In addition, the cafe has a dog-friendly patio for visitors who would like to visit with their fur friends.

At the pie bakery, you will be served bread, pastries, and of course the famed pies, which come in over seven flavors.

Not only does the cafe serve pastries, but also other foods such as fried chicken, burgers, and steak.

Ginger and Baker is a farm-to-table cafe that assures visitors of fresh and delicious foods at all times.

Furthermore, the cafe offers cooking classes to interested visitors.

Outstandingly, it has a spacious indoor and outdoor space that visitors say is a plus.

12. Emmaline Lake Trail (#945)

Rating: 4.9★

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 299-175 W Co Rd 145 Campground, Bellvue, CO 80512

• It offers outstanding views of Emmaline Lake
• It is a dog-friendly trail

Known for its breathtaking views, Emmaline Lake Trail (#945) is one of the most exciting things to do in Fort Collins.

It is a great place for a hike with the family or a group of friends.

What peaks can you see from Emmaline Lake, Fort Collins?

The trail begins as an easy walk along the banks of the lake, with views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains.

You can see Comanche Peak, the northernmost peak of the Rockies, as well as the Mummy Range.

After about 0.3 miles you’ll pass through a gate and begin to climb steeply up wooded slopes to reach an overlook with views of Emmaline Lake.

3 miles in, you will come to Cirque Meadow, which is popular with hikers and backpackers.

The trail is also dog-friendly and your fur friends will love the hike as much as you.

Not only is it perfect for its great trail but also for its breathtaking landscape as well as surrounding vegetation.

In spring/summer, you will find wildflowers blooming while in fall, the leaves are changing color.

As a result, these are the best times to explore Emmaline Lake Trail (#945).

13. New Belgium Brewing Company

Rating: 4.8★

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 500 Linden St, Fort Collins, CO 80524

• It opens daily from 12 noon to 8 pm
• It also offers takeout

The New Belgium Brewing Company is located in Fort Collins, Colorado.

It is one of the largest independent craft breweries in the United States.

New Belgium produces a wide variety of beers including Fat Tire Amber Ale, Ranger IPA, and Sunshine Wheat beer.

The company has also been known for its seasonal beers such as Pilsner and Seasonal offerings such as Abbey Belgian Style Ale.

It offers free daily tours of the brewhouse to visitors of all ages.

During the tour, visitors are offered free beer samples so they can have a taste of the best craft beer in the city.

14. Bee Family Centennial Farm Museum

Rating: 4.8★

Entry tickets: Adults: $8, Seniors (60+): $6 Children (3-12): $4, Children under 3: Free

Address: 4320 E Co Rd 58, Fort Collins, CO 80524

• It opens from May to October
• It is a child-friendly museum

Bee Family Centennial Farm Museum is a museum located in the city of Fort Collins.

It is a family-friendly museum with exhibits on local history and agriculture.

The museum also features live animals such as horses, lambs, chickens, and cows.

The Bee Family Centennial Farm Museum features an indoor exhibit area as well as an outdoor garden area with walking trails and native grasses.

Apart from interacting with live animals, visitors will also learn the history of these animals that lived here many years ago.

Children will be kept entertained with fun activities such as milking a wooden cow, pulling a horse-drawn plow, and grinding corn.

In addition, the museum also has a large children’s play area making it one of the top things to do in Fort Collins with children.

In general, the museum strives to preserve and promote the rich history of agriculture in Colorado.

It also celebrates the people who have shaped Colorado’s agricultural heritage.

15. Annual Flower Trial Gardens

Rating: 4.9★

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 1401 Remington St, Fort Collins, CO 80524

• It is open from May to October
• It is located inside the Colorado State University

The Annual Flower Trial Gardens is the perfect place to walk around and take in some fresh air.

Located inside Colorado State University, the beautiful garden displays over 1,000 types of flowers.

It is a test project by the university’s students and is done annually.

The garden is free to visit and visitors are encouraged to vote for their favorite flowers once they are done with the tour.

If you love nature, the Annual Flower Trial Gardens is undoubtedly a place you will want to spend some time during your visit to Fort Collins.

In addition, there is a shade nearby where you can relax and set up a picnic by the flowers.

What’s the best time to visit Fort Collins?

Even when temperatures are high, the humidity in Fort Collins stays comfortable all year round.

This makes the city an all-year-round destination.

Notably, the best time to visit the garden is between July and August when the flowers have bloomed magnificently.

16. Gardens on Spring Creek

Rating: 4.7★

Entry tickets: Adult: $11, Seniors (65+) / Military: $9, Children (2-17): $8, Students: $8

Address: 2145 Centre Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80526

• It sits on 18 acres of land and has been open since 2004
• It is a community botanic garden

The Gardens on Spring Creek is a beautiful park and nature center located in Fort Collins, Colorado.

It offers a variety of activities for the whole family, including educational programs, seasonal concerts, and festivals, as well as an array of classes for adults and children.

Since its inception, the garden has been teaching visitors and driving forth the importance of horticultural activities.

Visitors are treated to 12 acres of botanic beauty which includes plants and beautiful flowers.

Apart from botanic gardens, the attraction site is also home to thousands of butterflies.

It has a Butterfly House which boasts butterfly species such as tiger swallowtails, zebra longwings, monarch butterflies, painted ladies, as well as red admirals.

This is a beautiful attraction site in Fort Collins to spend your day learning about butterflies and pollination as well as taking in the beauty of nature.

17. Beer and Bike Tours

Rating: 4.7★

Entry tickets: From $75

Address: 1724 E Lincoln Ave Unit C, Fort Collins, CO 80524

• Visitors get an opportunity to sample different craft beers
• You must be 21 years old to sample the beer

Beer and Bike Tours is a fun way to spend an evening or weekend.

With beer tastings, food tastings, and activities like bike tours, you will have a great time learning about the different types of beers available in Fort Collins.

This tour is exactly as the name suggests; it involves cycling around Fort Collins and making brewery visits.

You can choose from one of its many tours or come up with your own idea.

They offer a full range of beer companies to choose from including local breweries such as New Belgium Brewing Company and Odell Brewing Company.

Fort Collins is one of the original craft beer towns in Colorado, thus this tour will take you through the history of craft beer.

The tour guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and experienced in the world of craft brewing.

18. Fort Fun

Rating: 4.7★

Entry tickets: All Day Fun Pass: $25.99, Fun Pass + Go Karts: $33.99

Address: 1513 E Mulberry St, Fort Collins, CO 80524

• It is a recreational Center and amusement park
• It opens daily from 10 am to 10 pm

Another popular place to visit in Fort Collins with children is Fort Fun.

It offers year-round fun for adults and children.

The amusement park also prides itself in being the premier entertainment hub in Northern Colorado.

Some of the exciting activities offered are Mini Golf, Go-Karts, Escape Rooms, Arcade games, Laser Tag, Giant Slide, and Bumper.

Fort Fun in Fort Collins is a great place for people who like to play games and have fun with their friends.

There are several places where you can buy food from different vendors, such as hot dogs and hamburgers.

If you want more food than what they sell at their stand, then you can always go into one of their stores and buy some snacks or drinks that they sell there as well!

19. Nuance Chocolate

Rating: 4.8★

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 214 Pine St, Fort Collins, CO 80524

• It offers a ‘sip and smell’ chocolate experience
• The owner is very hospitable and knowledgeable

Nuance Chocolate is a chocolate shop and cafe located in Fort Collins, CO.

The shop sources the best ingredients from around the world and creates chocolate products that are not only delicious but also ethical and sustainable.

It provides visitors with a unique experience of fine chocolate, one that you will want to repeat over and over again.

Not only is the chocolate delicious but also of high quality.

You will be welcomed by friendly staff whose main aim is to make you feel welcome and loved.

Notably, their menu is diverse and filled with delightful chocolate treats that every member of your group or family will enjoy.

In addition to the delightful chocolate treats, the space decor and aroma are also part of the charm.

Nuance Chocolate is certainly one of the most popular things to do in Fort Collins.

20. Downtown Fort Collins

Rating: 4.7★

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 19 Old Town Square Suite #230, Fort Collins, CO 80524

• It is located in Old Town Square
• It offers tons of shopping and dining options

Downtown Fort Collins is a great place to visit and spend time.

The area has many things to offer such as great shopping, fine dining, live music, and nightlife.

Additionally, there are also lots of activities to participate in and enjoy.

The area is home to the Colorado State University and the historic Old Town Square.

These two areas are known for their historic buildings and vibrant nightlife.

The Old Town Square is home to many restaurants, bars, and hotels that provide excellent service for visitors who want to enjoy Fort Collins’ nightlife scene.

It is also home to an incredible number of festivals throughout the year.

These events include everything from concerts to flea markets and more.

Not only does this make it easy for visitors to get around town but it also gives them plenty of options when it comes time for entertainment!

21. Walrus Ice Cream

Rating: 4.6★

Address: 125 W Mountain Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80524

• It opens daily from Monday to Sunday
• It was established in 1987

With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Walrus Ice Cream is a family-owned business that has been making ice cream and frozen yogurt in Fort Collins since 1987.

They’re committed to making their customers happy by providing high-quality products at affordable prices.

The ice cream shop is located on Mountain Avenue in Fort Collins.

It offers a wide variety of flavors to meet your every need.

Whether you’re looking for a simple vanilla cone or something more adventurous like rolled ice cream, you will certainly find it here.

Furthermore, their unique flavors are made with only the best ingredients and are available year-round.

In total, Walrus Ice Cream offers 29 ever-changing flavors every day.

Apart from the delicious ice cream flavors, you will also love the shop’s decor and ambiance.

22. Majestic Mountains Scenic Rides

Rating: 5.0★

Entry tickets: Depends on the tour of choice

Address: 408 Skyway Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80525

• It is open every Monday to Saturday from 8.30 am to 6.30 pm
• It offers unforgettable tours of Cache la Poudre Canyon

Majestic Mountains Scenic Rides offers a variety of thrilling tours and attractions that will keep you on the edge of your seat for hours!

It is open year-round and takes pride in offering visitors the best customer service experience possible.

To begin with, visitors are taken on an unforgettable ride to see the breathtaking Rocky Mountains.

These mountains offer one of the most beautiful views not only in Fort Collins but also in the entire state of Colorado.

In addition, visitors are also treated to a tour of Cache la Poudre river canyon and Peak Highway.

The company owner has over 25 years of experience in Fort Collins and thus knows all the best places to tour.

If I were you I wouldn’t miss the chance to go skiing, check the best Colorado Ski Resorts with rates and reviews.

23. Holiday Twin Drive-In Theater

Rating: 4.7★

Entry tickets: Depends on what’s showing

Address: 2206 S Overland Trail, Fort Collins, CO 80526

• It is an old-school drive-in movie theater
• The theater is children-friendly as well as dog-friendly
• Opens every day during the operating season

Holiday Twin Drive-In Theater is a seasonal outdoor theater offering both modern and classic films.

If you are looking for a fun family-friendly movie theater in Fort Collins, then this is it.

On arrival, the friendly staff will direct you to a parking spot depending on the size of your car.

For example, big cars take back rows while small cars occupy the front rows.

In addition, visitors are not allowed to sit on the roof of their cars.

This is put in place to ensure that even those at the back can clearly view the screen.

If you would like some food, there is a concession stand where various types of food and drinks are served.

The outdoor theater does not allow food and drinks from outside.

You can bring your fur friend along as long as he remains on a leash.

Apart from movies, Holiday Twin Drive-In Theater also hosts fun summer concerts where music and food are served in plenty.

The outdoor theater remains one of the fun things to do in Fort Collins.

24. Coyote Ridge Natural Area

Rating: 4.7★

Entry tickets: Free

Address: Spring Mesa Rd, Fort Collins, CO 80526

• It opens daily from 5 am to 11 pm
• This is the best place to see coyotes
• The site is a member of the Foothills Natural Areas

Coyote Ridge Natural Area, Fort Collins is a great place for hiking and picnicking.

The park is located about 10 miles east of the city center and offers a variety of trails for hikers of all levels.

The park includes picnic areas and restrooms, as well as a nature center with displays of local flora and fauna.

It also has a special exhibit area that features hands-on activities related to the natural history of the area.

In addition to hiking, the park also offers activities such as mountain biking and horseback riding for all skill levels.

The natural area includes over three miles of hiking trails and offers visitors a chance to enjoy the outdoors, whether they are hiking or just taking in the scenery.

Significantly, parking is free, something that visitors of the park really appreciate.

Most visitors also recommend the park for a morning run because it offers one of the most beautiful sunrise views.

25. Totally 80’s Pizza & Museum

Rating: 4.7★

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 2567 S Shields St Unit 4C, Fort Collins, CO 80526

• It is famous for being the world’s only 1980s museum
• It opens daily from Monday to Sunday

Totally 80’s Pizza & Museum is a tribute to the 1980s, with games, music, movies, and food.

There is no admission fee to visit Totally 80’s.

The museum is open every day of the year except for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Additionally, the museum has special events throughout the year including a birthday party room, movie night, and video game tournaments.

Notably, it has the largest collection of memorabilia from 1980s pop culture.

The funky pizza joint serves mouthwatering food such as pizzas, kids’ food, salads, chicken, as well as vegetarian meals.

26. Magic Rat Live Music

Rating: 4.5★

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 111 Chestnut St, Fort Collins, CO 80524

• Visitors must be at least 21 years old
• It is a live music venue
• It is open every Wednesday to Saturday from 5 pm to 10 pm

Want to know why Fort Collins is called Choice City?

This is because it offers diversity when it comes to things to do as well as dining options.

One of the most unique things to do here is Magic Rat Live Music.

Magic Rat Live Music is a great live music venue in Fort Collins.

It’s where you can go to see your favorite band perform.

It is a place that has been around for many years and has become one of the most popular places to go for live music in Fort Collins.

The main thing that sets Magic Rat Live Music venue apart from other venues around town is that it offers free admission during every show!

This means that no matter what kind of music you like or what kind of band you’re looking forward to seeing perform at this venue, you can go see them without having to pay any money at all!

Furthermore, the location is central and conveniently located, which makes it easy to get to.

No matter what kind of music you’re into, Magic Rat Live Music has something for everyone.

27. The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show

Rating: 4.2★

Entry tickets: From $69.95

Address: 425 W Prospect Rd, Fort Collins, CO 80526

• Enjoy a meal and solve a murder
• Delicious dinner is served during the show

The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show is an interactive dinner show that features a murder mystery dinner show, live-action comedy, and interactive games.

This unique experience is perfect for anyone who loves mystery and suspense, but also wants to be entertained.

The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show will keep you guessing until the end.

In addition, the show allows guests to explore the world of detective fiction entertainingly.

Each performance will include songs, games, audience participation, and more!

You will be part of the show as you help solve clues and identify suspects.

Moreover, you can make it a night out with friends or bring your family to enjoy this unique experience together.

Apart from the usual performances, the organizers also host murder mystery parties for birthdays, anniversaries, corporate events, as well as fundraisers.

28. The Lincoln Center

Rating: 4.7★

Entry tickets: Depends on the event showing

Address: 417 W Magnolia St, Fort Collins, CO 80521

• It was opened in 1978
• It is a performance and visual arts center

The Lincoln Center is a modern, open-air performing arts center located in Downtown Fort Collins, Colorado.

The center houses three performance spaces and a two-story educational and administrative facility.

It served as the home of the Fort Collins Symphony Orchestra.

In addition to hosting performances by the symphony, other groups may use the venue for private events.

The Lincoln Center also hosts shows such as LC LIVE which includes National Geographic Live, Classical Convergence, Showstoppers, Anything Goes, Laugh Riot as well as Dance.

Moreover, the center is also home to the Lincoln Center’s Art Gallery, which hosts about 12 events every year.

If you are looking for a place you can visit as a family, The Lincoln Center is one of the best things to do in Fort Collins.

29. FoCo Cafe

Rating: 4.8★

Address: 225 Maple St, Fort Collins, CO 80521

• It opens every Monday to Friday from 11 am to 2 pm
• It encourages donations that benefit people who cannot afford meals

FoCo Cafe or Feeding Our Community Ourselves, Inc. is not your usual cafe.

It is a non-profit organization that provides emergency nutritious meals to people in need in Fort Collins.

They prepare food using sustainably grown locally-sourced ingredients.

It provides access to fresh, healthy, and local food for community members.

By providing a safe place for people to come together and eat in a welcoming atmosphere, the cafe strengthens community relationships by building trust and encouraging social interaction.

It operates on a pay-what-you-can basis.

When you pay more, the extra amount is paid forward to the next person who orders a meal but does not have enough to pay.

Eating here means you will not only be enjoying a delicious meal but also giving back to the community of Fort Collins.

If you are into charity work, then this is the best cafe for you to dine in during your visit to Fort Collins.

30. Cache La Poudre River National Heritage Area

Rating: 5★

Entry tickets: Free except for camping

Address: 3745 E Prospect Rd, Fort Collins, CO 80525

• It protects the famous Cache la Poudre River
• Explore breathtaking landscapes and historic sites

The Cache La Poudre River National Heritage Area is an area of public land in northern Colorado where the Cache La Poudre River flows into the South Platte River.

The area includes the river and its tributaries, as well as scenic landscapes and cultural heritage sites.

Significantly, Cache la Poudre River is famous for serving thousands of people with water for various uses such as irrigation, industrial use, drinking, and bathing.

Its purpose is to protect the natural, cultural, and historic resources of the area.

Some of the historic sites protected here are, archeological sites and rock art, prehistoric sites, historic frontier forts, as well as ranching and farming history.

You can visit the area to learn its importance as well as its rich history.

As an added advantage, you will also enjoy the scenic views including that of Cache la Poudre River.

31. Horse and Dragon Brewing Company

Rating: 4.8★

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 124 Racquette Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80524

• This is a family-owned brewery
• Visitors are offered free tours of the brewery
• It opens daily

Horse and Dragon Brewing Company is a small craft beer brewery in Fort Collins that invites visitors to sample beer.

Fort Collins is renowned for being one of the pioneers of craft beer in the state of Colorado.

Thus, you cannot visit the city and not explore one of the breweries located here.

Tours are free and visitors are served sample beers.

If you like what you find, the brewery has an indoor and outdoor seating area where you can relax and order more craft beer.

Visitors love the brewery for its friendly staff, great atmosphere, in addition to great beer.

32. Fort Collins City Park

Rating: 4.7★

Entry tickets: Adult (18-59 years): $7, Youth (2-17 years): $6

Address: 1500 W Mulberry St, Fort Collins, CO 80521

• It has a lake and public pool
• It is children-friendly

Fort Collins City Park is a beautiful public park in Fort Collins, Colorado.

It is located in the middle of the City with city streets surrounding it.

The park was first established in 1912 as a picnic area for residents of Fort Collins and soon became an events venue.

Furthermore, the park has undergone multiple renovations since its inception and now features many different types of recreational activities.

Some of the activities are baseball, soccer, tennis courts, basketball courts, playgrounds, picnic areas as well as hiking trails.

Wondering if Fort Collins is family-friendly?

Notably, Fort Collins City Park offers activities that are suitable for visitors of all ages making it one of the most fun things to do in Fort Collins for both adults and children.

33. OpenStage Theatre & Company

Rating: 4.9★

Entry tickets: Depends on the show 

Address: 720 E Vine Dr, Fort Collins, CO 80524

• It is an entertainment venue
• You will watch a variety of exciting shows

If you love theater, then OpenStage Theatre & Company should not miss your list of places to visit in Fort Collins.

It is a recreational and entertainment venue that hosts theater performances as well as other exciting live performances.

The company is famous because it has some of the best actors and actresses in the area.

They also offer classes for children so that they can learn about acting and how it can be an important part of their lives.

It is a large theater that offers spacious seating with plenty of room left over for more people if needed.

This makes it perfect for any event whether small or large!

If you want to see some great plays or just enjoy a night out with friends then this is definitely one place that you should go to!

34. Lory State Park

Rating: 4.8★

Entry tickets: Guests: $4, Vehicle: $9

Address: 708 Lodgepole Dr, Bellvue, CO 80512

• It opens daily from 5 am to 9 pm
• The park is spread across 2,492 acres of land
• It’s set along the scenic Rocky Mountains

When you go to Lory State Park, Fort Collins, you will find a beautiful place that is perfect for your next vacation.

It is one of the leading things to do near Fort Collins.

The park has many things to offer and it is a great place to get out of the city and into nature.

Lory State Park is a great place to spend the day with family, friends, and the whole gang.

The park’s activities are sure to keep you occupied all day long.

There are plenty of playgrounds, picnic areas, and hiking trails to explore.

And don’t forget about the swimming areas!

Moreover, it has several picnic areas with tables and grills that make it easy for visitors to bring their own private parties or get together with family and friends.

In addition to hiking, the park offers a variety of activities such as horseback riding, fishing, boating, and camping.

Planning a trip to other parts of Colorado soon? You’ll love our lists detailing the best things to do in Boulder, CO and fun things to do in Denver, CO!

35. Spring Canyon Community Park

Rating: 4.8★

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 3156 S Overland Trail, Fort Collins, CO 80526

• It is set on 100 acres of land
• It is children-friendly and pet-friendly

How many parks are in Fort Collins?

Fort Collins boasts over 900 acres of developed parks.

In total, the city has 7 community parks and 46 neighborhood parks.

Spring Canyon Community Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Fort Collins where you can enjoy nature, relax, and get away from the city.

The park has a small lake, trails for hiking or biking, and plenty of picnic areas.

It’s also one of the few parks in Fort Collins that has bathrooms with running water.

If you’re into wildlife, Spring Canyon Community Park has various species.

You can see birds like Canada geese and mallard ducks or maybe even an elk!

The small forest surrounding Spring Canyon Community Park is beautiful with lots of pine trees and wildflowers growing everywhere.

If you want to see some amazing views, head up to the top of one of the hills at the back of the park.

You’ll be able to see all around Fort Collins and beyond!

Apart from the scenic view, the park has a splash park and a large playground for children.

36. Swetsville Zoo

Rating: 4.7★

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 4801 E Harmony Rd, Fort Collins, CO 80528

• You will see all types of animal sculptures
• Bill Swets built the sculptures

Swetsville Zoo is a roadside attraction with over 180 animal sculptures that were built by Bill Swets.

He welded all the sculptures using car parts, farm machinery, and scrap metals.

The zoo sits along Cache la Poudre River and is an interesting attraction for both adults and children.

Admission is free, however, the park appreciates donations to help support the park’s programming and maintenance costs.

Swetsville Zoo is a perfect visit for when you want to have a relaxed tour.

You can enjoy a simple walk around the park or set up a picnic in the park.

Either way, you will love this little park.

If you love art, this is certainly an attraction site worth checking out.