The 20 Must-Do Things in Fort Collins
Fort Collins isn’t just another Colorado town—it’s the kind of place that quietly captures you. Set against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, this city blends college-town energy, small-town warmth, and outdoor adventure into one unforgettable mix. Whether you’re here for a weekend or starting to picture yourself staying longer, Fort Collins has a way of making you feel at home fast.
From the smell of hops drifting from world-class breweries to the sound of live music echoing through Old Town’s brick-lined alleys, there’s always something happening. And when the sun hits the foothills just right, even a casual drive west feels like an event.
Below are 20 experiences every local and visitor should have in Fort Collins—the kind of things that define the city’s rhythm, flavor, and charm.
The 20 Must-Do Things in Fort Collins
1. Climb or visit Horsetooth Reservoir — the backdrop alone sells itself.
2. Explore the Cache la Poudre River Canyon — Colorado’s only nationally designated “Wild & Scenic” river.
3. Tour one (or multiple) of Fort Collins’ craft breweries — it’s a local signature.
4. Visit the container-style dining and craft-beverage scene at The Exchange in Old Town.
5. Wander through the Gardens on Spring Creek — and check out the butterfly house inside.
6. Catch a show or live music at Washington’s — part of the town’s rising arts and culture profile.
7. Stroll the CSU Flower Trial Garden at Colorado State University — beautiful, free, and educational.
8. Tour the historic Avery House — a local landmark with roots in Fort Collins’ early development.
9. Visit museums and art galleries around town — part of the city’s cultural layering.
10. Take a ride on the restored heritage trolley, Birney Car 21 — for a touch of local history.
11. Spend time in City Park — great for families, relaxing, lakeside scenery.
12. Hike to Greyrock and soak up the sweeping canyon views.
13. Hike Arthur’s Rock — shorter hike, big payoff views of the city and reservoir.
14. Visit the working farm at The Farm at Lee Martinez Park — especially for those with kids or family-friendly priorities.
15. Stroll across the iconic green space known as the Oval (Stanley L.) on the CSU campus.
16. Wander through Old Town Fort Collins — historic, walkable, full of character and local flavor.
17. Play one of the city’s “Pianos About Town” — public art meets spontaneous music.
18. Grab lunch or dinner from a food-truck or outdoor mobile eatery — the city supports a vibrant mobile food culture.
19. Explore Soapstone Prairie Natural Area — for wide-open prairie, archaeology and nature beyond the Foothills.
20. Check out a concert at Mishawaka Amphitheatre — live music in a spectacular outdoor setting.
There's something for eveyone - that's why our hearts are so full in this town!
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