Whether you are a first-time visitor or a frequent guest, welcome to Fort Collins. No matter the length of your stay, you will soon realize why this city is a favorite among residents and visitors alike. Time and again, Fort Collins has been recognized as one of the best places in the US to live, work, retire, and cycle. In fact, National Geographic named it the fourth "Happiest City in the US" in 2017, and it's easy to see why.
With over 300 days of sunshine per year, abundant outdoor activities, and unique cultural events all year round, Fort Collins has something for everyone. The city boasts more than 600 restaurants, 20+ craft breweries, and more than 285 miles of biking and walking trails. Additionally, Fort Collins is home to Colorado State University, a top research institution in the country.
You can explore the pedestrian-friendly streets of Old Town, discover the newest stores and restaurants scattered throughout the city, take a leisurely stroll through CSU's beautiful tree-filled campus, or head to the foothills for an outdoor adventure. From performances at the renowned University Center for the Arts to leadership in clean energy and environmental science, the energy of CSU extends well beyond its campus.
Fort Collins is a city waiting for you to discover its magic.
F
ort Collins, established in 1864, is annually voted one of the country’s best places to live. Colorado State University, born just six years after the city was founded, has emerged as a top research university. Among the reasons both the city and CSU have become successful is their ongoing “town-gown” relationship.
A city of more than 170,000 residents, Fort Collins continues to be one of the nation’s most attractive cities in which to live. The state’s fourth-largest city is 65 miles north of Denver and situated at the base of the Rocky Mountain foothills of the northern Front Range. It is named for a short-lived military installation established in 1864 on the banks of the Cache la Poudre River, which flows through the city. The original fort site is now adjacent to the present historic “Old Town” portion of the city.
Regarded as one of the nation’s most livable cities, Fort Collins annually ranks among the leaders in surveys of health, fitness and wellness.
The city has also earned the reputation as an innovation hub by attracting entrepreneurs from across the nation to live and work locally.
Fort Collins enjoys a moderate, four-season climate with low humidity and more than 300 days of sunshine annually. The city boasts 600 acres of parks, 42,770 acres of natural areas, more than 285 miles of hiking and biking trails, a wealth of public golf courses, plus three public swimming pools, an ice rink and several community centers.
Old Town is a collection of 28 historic buildings that served as the inspiration for Disneyland’s Main Street USA. The city’s most recognizable feature is about a mile north of CSU’s main campus with easy access via the MAX line or Transfort bus service. Old Town features a vintage trolley, unique shopping and more than 80 restaurants and brewpubs as the city’s nightlife hub.
Colorado State University is at the heart of Fort Collins. We planted our roots in 1870 and have been a key part of this community ever since. Colorado State is home to about about 33,000 students and 7,600 employees. We have a variety of attractions and events that make our
campus a destination in itself. In fact, CSU has been recognized as one of the "Top Campuses Worth Traveling For" by TripAdvisor.
Whether you are interested in cheering on the Rams at Canvas Stadium, taking in a performance at the University Center for the Arts, visiting the beautiful Annual Flower Trial Gardens, strolling around our historic Oval, or exploring what the campus has to o er, we are determined to make your experience at Colorado State University memorable.
You don’t have to look very hard to find Colorado State University’s influence in Fort Collins.
CSU long has been the driving force behind the city’s growth and development. Not only is CSU the city’s largest employer, the university and its students are the primary economic and cultural players. It is a remarkable partnership more than 150 years in the making, and it has helped both thrive.
CSU’s influence in Fort Collins, however, goes much deeper than simple dollars. Look at the beaming faces of more than 3,000 kids every year as they receive their very own supply-filled backpack from CSU’s School is Cool program. Or watch students support their community through collecting food donations during the annual CANS Around the Oval celebration. Or feel the community spirit as friends and families gather during the summer for the Lagoon Concert Series.
CANS Around the Oval is a great example of CSU and its students taking action on the commitment to outreach through the university’s land-grant mission. Initiated in 1986, CANS Around the Oval has become the largest annual food and fund drive in Northern Colorado, collecting more than 2 million pounds of food and $320,000 for the Food Bank of Larimer County. In fall 2023, the event raised more $50,000 and collected more than 16,000 pounds of food.
Like Cans around the Oval, School is Cool is a uniquely CSU initiative that has become an invaluable asset for kids in Poudre School District. The employee-driven program, which began in 1991, provides grade-specific school supplies and new backpacks to PSD to distribute to students based on need. In 32 years, School is Cool has steadily grown and has provided more than 53,000 backpacks to the city’s kids.
for the students, staff and communities of each
Founded on the principle of outreach, the University proudly continues that tradition more than 154 years later and continues to explore new ways to strengthen its commitment to Fort
Colorado State University and the Poudre School District in Fort Collins have a long legacy of excellence in preparing students for academic, social and personal success. The recently formalized partnership agreement between CSU and PSD demonstrates the ongoing commitment of each organization to work together in good faith to provide diverse opportunities
Visit our newly renovated store to stock up on o cial CSU gear.
TThe CSU Bookstore returns all revenues to CSU for student programs and services.
+ CSU has been perennially highlighted in Princeton Review’s “The Best 398 Colleges,” including in 2024.
+ CSU was ranked as a top performer in several STARS categories: Research (No. 1, tie); Curriculum (No. 2); Campus Engagement (No. 3); Public Engagement (No. 3); Wellbeing and Work (No. 7)
he CSU community has been committed to improving lives for more than 154 years. Colorado State University is Colorado’s land-grant institution focused on access to higher education, research, engagement, service and inclusion. From advances in infectious disease research to animal cancer, our scientists are enhancing life-sustaining food production, bridging biomedical challenges with engineering solutions and creating innovative ways to advance the use of virtual reality. The CSU campus is recognized as one of the country’s most sustainable academic institutions and the top in sustainability curriculum. We invite you to discover Ram Country!
he first s hool to earn four platinu rankings from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education.
Students interested in attending CSU can tour campus virtually or register for a tour with our O ce of Admissions by going to:
admissions.colostate.edu
Visitors can explore the campus through self-guided tours or enjoy a scavenger hunt with your future Rams.
Summertime at CSU
Summers at CSU are a great time for visitors to experience campus and explore all that we have to o er – including concerts by the lagoon, movie nights at Canvas Stadium and special behind-the-scenes tours. No summertime visit to campus would be complete without visiting the Annual Flower Trial Gardens located just east of the main campus. The gardens consist of more than 1,000 di erent cultivars of annual bedding plants that are evaluated each year for performance under the unique Rocky Mountain environmental conditions.
Sunday: Closed
Monday - Friday: 7:45 am - 5:30 pm
Saturday: 10 am - 5 pm
At the heart of campus for 62 years, the Lory Student Center is recognized as one of the nation’s foremost student unions. From spectacular ballrooms with jaw-dropping views of the nearby foothills and the easygoing atmosphere of the Ramskeller Pub and microbrewery, to the aweinspiring LSC Theatre, the recently remodeled Aspen Grille and several welcoming lounges, the LSC is truly centered on students.
Sta and student ambassadors in the O ce of Admissions guide prospective students and families through all stages of the college search process. Resources and support are available to anyone interested in joining the Ram Family, whether they’re just starting their search or are ready to become Rams.
Here are just a few of the ways that prospective students can explore opportunities at Colorado State University.
Get the Latest Info
+ admissions.colostate.edu/subscribe
Sign up for more information about CSU’s academic programs, campus life, financial aid and scholarships, and the Fort Collins community. Admissions will send updates through email, mail, and text about the admissions process, including important dates and deadlines.
Dedicated Admissions Counselors
+ admissions.colostate.edu/find-your-counselor
CSU’s student-focused admissions counselors are excited to work with prospective students and their families to answer questions about Colorado State and the admissions process. Find your dedicated counselor at the link above and get the conversation started.
+ admissions.colostate.edu/visit-campus
A visit to campus is one of the best ways for students to determine if CSU is the right fit for them. The O ce of Admissions o ers a diverse range of programs to fit students' schedules and interests throughout the year.
Online Experiences
+ admissions.colostate.edu/visit-campus/#virtual
Want to learn more about CSU from the comfort of home? No problem. Take our virtual tour to experience 30+ spaces on campus and in Fort Collins or sign up for a webinar to learn more about admissions, student life, and more.
Find Your Major
+ csu.mymajors.com
Choosing a major is one of the most exciting and sometimes one of the most intimidating parts of starting your college career. You aren’t alone. Take a quick assessment to see which CSU majors might be a great fit for your future dreams and plans.
We're Here to Help
CSU Admissions sta are committed to helping students choose the right college year-round, and are ready to help at any point in the college search.
Colorado State University is represented in NCAA Division I competition by 16 sports programs, all dedicated to excellence both on and o the field of play. Encompassing more than 350 student-athletes, the Rams compete in the Mountain West conference, where they have won a combined 55 team conference championships.
In the classroom, Colorado State student-athletes maintain rigorous academic schedules and achieve at a rate higher than the general student body and in the upper tiers of their Mountain West peers. Colorado State is heavily represented on the league’s All-Academic team as well as the university’s President’s Lists and Athletic Director’s Honor Roll.
The guiding principles of the department also align with the university, Fort Collins and Northern Colorado. Colorado State Athletics mission is to:
The focus of any great trip to our campus in Fort Collins centers on athletic events, which generally run from late August to May — allowing Ram fans across the generations to gather in support of their teams.
The football team plays inside Canvas Stadium, one of America’s finest stadiums. The 36,500-seat stadium opened in 2017 and provides fans with an incredible game-day experience. Inside Moby Arena, men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball host Rams fans in one of the nation’s loudest arenas, with other sports in their own complexes around campus.
Tickets are available for the above four sports. All other sports are free for Rams fans to attend.
For information on tickets, go to: csurams.com/tickets
or call 1-800-491-RAMS (7267).
For game-day information, head to: csurams.com
or follow us on social media at @CSURams on X and Colorado State Rams on Facebook.
e phasi es o unity ser i e as a signifi ant aspe t of the student-athlete experience, so the surrounding community benefits in any ways fro a s thleti s.
Colorado State is where “nice to meet you” becomes lifelong friendships. It’s a zillion cups of co ee that add up to a major. It’s a group study session that starts in Morgan Library and ends in Old Town. It’s Moby Madness, Orange Outs, the Fight Song, and one very loud cannon. It’s where you became you and where we became Rams. Your CSU Alumni Association is here to keep you connected to the best of these traditions, to one another, and to continue to be a resource long after graduation.
Whether you’re looking to volunteer, reunite and reminisce with fellow Rams, or make your Game Day plans, the Alumni Association has you covered.
+ Year-round events for alumni, students, parents, and friends, from things like Alumni Nights Out, to online cooking classes, and more.
+ Nation-wide RAMeet Up gatherings bringing the green and gold together from coast to coast.
+ Coors Light Ram Walk Tailgates happening on campus prior to every home football game.
+ Volunteer opportunities, both in person and online.
+ Ram Networks to be a part of in more than 40 cities across the country – or start your own!
Passed down from generation to generation, our traditions bind us together as one Rams family and remind us of our Aggie roots. They ground us in our founding principles and create moments that become fond memories shared across generations. The Alumni Association is the proud keeper of some of our most treasured traditions at CSU:
+ CAM the Ram.
+ Paint the A.
+ The Old Main Bell.
+ Homecoming & Family Weekend.
+ Comatose, the ROTC cannon.
+ And more! Learn about our favorite traditions at:
alumni.colostate.edu/traditions
Tools and Resources to Meet You Where You Are
+ A library of career and professional development webinars covering topics that meet your learning and growth needs regardless of where life takes you.
+ One-to-one career coaching and career services tailored to your individual needs, and including things like resume and cover letter critique, job search strategy, career assessments, mock interviews and salary negotiation, and more.
+ Virtual and in-person professional development opportunities including career fairs, workshops, and more.
Membership sustains every program and event that connects our Rams community. It creates access by supporting scholarships, provides ongoing professional development and networking opportunities for alumni, preserves our CSU traditions, and unites us through our shared experiences. Most importantly, membership makes our CSU community stronger. Learn more about membership at alumni.colostate.edu/membership
Consider the Alumni Association your front porch back to campus–our doors are open, and we are eager to welcome you year-round. Located on the northeast corner of Canvas Stadium, the beautiful, 20,000-square-foot Iris & Michael Smith Alumni Center hosts some of the best things happening on campus.
C1870
Territorial Gov. Edward McCook signs a bill called the Morrill Act, establishing the Agricultural College of Colorado in Fort Collins
1884
First commencement
1916
The 1,177-acre CSU Mountain Campus, located 9,000 feet above sea level, is established as a field site for natural resource students
1957
Colorado A & M becomes Colorado State University
1970
ld ain the first lassroo building constructed on the Colorado Agricultural College a pus is destroyed by fire
1979
CSU opens the James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Currently ranked No. 2 best veterinary school in the U.S., it provides care for both small and large animals, and houses the world-renowned Flint Animal Cancer Center.
2015
be o es the world’s first university to earn a S.T.A.R.S. (Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System) Platinum rating for its sustainability programs
2017
CSU opens its new on-campus stadium, Canvas Stadium. The multi-purpose facility is home to the Iris & Michael Smith Alumni Center.
olorado State University’s roots go back to 1870, when the institution started as a small land-grant institution of higher education. Today it has evolved into a world-class research institution stretching five campuses, eight colleges and 55 academic departments. Landmarks throughout campus tell the Colorado State University story and traditions rich in history serve as steadfast reminders that at Colorado State, we are forever green and proud to be a CSU Ram.
The Fight Song
Fight on you stalwart Ram Team, On to the goal!
Tear the (Opponent's) line asunder, As down the field we thunder. Knights of the green and gold, Fight with all your might! Fight on you stalwart Ram Team, Fight! Fight! Fight!
Alma Mater
Hail to thee, our Alma Mater; Colorado State. Memories are everlasting of this place so great.
May thy Green and Gold unite us, loyal ever be.
Colorado State, our Alma Mater, Hail, all hail, to thee.
The Ram
CAM the Ram is the o cial mascot of Colorado State University. His name stands for Colorado Agricultural and Mechanical College (the university's former name). CAM is a Rambouillet ram and has his own troop of Ram Handlers to help him out.
The A
The “A” on the western hillside of Fort Collins is visible from most of campus. It stands for Aggie, CSU’s mascot when it was Colorado A&M. The “A” was constructed in 1923 and first white washed in 1924. To this day, the landmark is given a fresh coat of environmentally friendly white paint annually.
In 2006, Gov. Bill Owens signed a proclamation declaring April 18 as I Love CSU Day. I Love CSU Day is celebrated annually on the CSU campus and by alums world-wide.
The thunderous and often startling boom of cannon fire has been part of Aggie and Ram football game-day experience since 1920, making it one of our oldest traditions, and certainly our loudest. The current cannon, known as Comatose, is a 1918 ABS French 75 mounted on a 1941 retrofitted carriage. It was donated to CSU in 1952 by the 5th Army and has been in action ever since.
And that’s not all. After each time CSU scores, ROTC cadets do push-ups in the end zone. One push-up for each of the total points scored.
The Border War featuring CSU and Wyoming is the longest continuous rivalry in each school’s history, dating back to 1899. Since 1968, the schools have battled for possession of the Bronze Boot traveling trophy. The bronzed battle boot was worn in Vietnam by veteran Dan Romero, a CSU professor of military science.
Around 1910, Colorado Agricultural College acquired a bell and installed it in the tower of Old Main, the center of student activity on campus at the time. The bell originally announced the start of classes each day, and later, its peals signified triumph on the football field. The bell stopped chiming around 1919, and its whereabouts were a mystery –until 2016, when it was anonymously returned to the CSU Alumni Association. Today the bell rings back tradition before home football games, celebrating graduation, and other momentous occasions on campus.
olorado State was founded in 1870, and there’s a tradition at CSU for students to complete a list of “70 Things To Do Before You Graduate.” We’ve condensed the list to 18 for visitors so you can join in the fun, and enjoy the sites and sounds of the Colorado State University campus.
the oldest buildings on campus.
2025
S
ince Colorado State University's founding in 1870, the university has grown from a single building on the outskirts of Fort Collins to three campuses serving the state, region, country, and world, educating nearly 60,000 students annually.
Here in Fort Collins, beyond the main campus, veterinary students gain hands-on experiences at the
world-renowned James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital; and to the north, the Powerhouse Energy Campus is home to cutting-edge research in all forms of energy. CSU students also have access to incredible learning opportunities at the Equine Teaching and Research Center on the 1,705-acre Foothills Campus, the 1,434-acre
agricultural campus, and the 1,177acre CSU Mountain Campus next to Rocky Mountain National Park. During your visit to campus, you can use CSU’s Around the Horn bus service, which offers free rides for students, employees and visitors to 15 stops throughout campus. For an in-person or virtual tour, go to:
The Oval’s elm-shaded paths provide a pleasant space for visitors and students alike to amble, study, or relax. During his long tenure (1909-40), President Charles A. Lory conceived the Oval to unify the CSU campus. Ringing the Oval are the university’s most historic buildings, including Ammons Hall (1921); the Institute for Learning and Teaching, formerly the Music Building (1927); the Weber Building (1922); the Statistics Building (1910); the Wagar Building (1939); the Administration Building (1924); Johnson Hall (1935); the Gibbons Building (1903); the Occupational Therapy Building (1919); Laurel Hall (1882); Guggenheim Hall (1910); and Danforth Chapel (1954).
This charming, classical-style building is home to the O ce of Admissions. It’s also the site of presentations to visitors and the starting point for student-led tours throughout the year.
The hub of campus life for more than 60 years, the Lory Student Center holds its place as one of the nation’s top student centers. From the signature ram head floating above the building’s spectacular two-story east entrance interior to the expanded Curfman Gallery, 21st Century Theatre, local and national food venues, and art paying tribute to the university’s pride and traditions, the LSC truly is a student-centered student center. Stop by the Information Desk for more information.
admissions.colostate.edu/visit-campus
Many students find this a pleasant place to linger and enjoy the view of the foothills; it is also the site of the University’s free summer Lagoon Concert Series. As you cross the Vietnam Memorial Bridge, think of Old Main, the first academic building on campus. After it burned down in 1970, some of its bricks were incorporated into the bridge.
Students can take advantage of the climbing wall and bouldering cave, extensive weight and cardio exercise equipment, aquatic center, basketball/volleyball courts, fitness studios, and an indoor track, as well as outdoor courts for basketball, volleyball, and inline hockey. Personal trainers are available to help build an individualized fitness regimen.
Dominating the Plaza, the Morgan Library houses more than 2 million books, journals, government documents, and other resources. The Electronic Information Center provides instructional labs, specialized assistive technology, public computer terminals, laptops that students can borrow, and the 24-hour study cube.
On the south side of Plum Street is Moby Arena, named for its resemblance to Herman Melville’s infamous whale. Moby is home to Rams volleyball, men’s and women’s basketball, and the Department of Health and Exercise Science. Connected to the arena on the west is the Thurman F. “Fum” McGraw Athletic Center.
Student health services are fully sta ed and equipped to provide comprehensive outpatient care and counseling for students.
The Richardson Design Center is a state-of-the-art facility for students and faculty in design programs across campus, including interior architecture and design, apparel and merchandising, landscape architecture, art, engineering, product development, entrepreneurship and construction management. The center houses design studios, fabrication/prototype/ideation labs, presentation spaces, and classrooms.
Laurel Village houses approximately 600 students, 400 in the College of Natural Sciences Residential Learning Community and 200 in the Year 2 @ CSU Community for returning students. The Pavilion, the 24/7 community building in the center of the village, is the first building on CSU’s main campus to receive LEED Platinum certification. The Pavilion features a katabatic tower, two-story living wall, a bike repair shop, a living slope, student research gallery, study spaces, and the Eco Leaders Sustainability Peer Education o ce.
This area is home to the Engineering and Honors Residential Learning Communities. It also features the award-winning Ram’s Horn Dining Center.
Canvas is CSU’s 41,000-capacity multipurpose on-campus stadium. The stadium’s design embraces Colorado’s natural beauty and visual connections to the Rocky Mountains from campus and ensures functionality for both game day and non-game day usage. The east side of the building includes the Iris & Michael Smith Alumni Center, general classroom space and the Collaborative for Student Achievement.
This world-class facility consolidates music, dance, and theatre programs into one exquisite performance and learning venue, along with the University Art Museum and the Avenir Museum of Design and Merchandising. The UCA is a regional cultural resource that includes concert and recital halls, theaters, museums and galleries, classrooms, o ces, and research facilities.
Stroll through fragrant gardens where the CSU Department of Horticulture tests more than 1,000 annual bedding plants under rugged Rocky Mountain conditions. Since 2007, new perennial varieties have also been tested for hardiness as well as beauty.
Around the HORN is a cross-campus shuttle system designed to help CSU students, faculty, sta , and visitors get across campus quickly and conveniently. HORN provides access to University Station, which supports MAX and FLEX routes, making it easy to travel to other parts of the city and regionally. The shuttle runs every twenty minutes from 7 AM – 6:40 PM during the academic year, and every 30 minutes during the summer.
Located about three miles west of CSU’s main campus, the Foothills Campus is home to programs in atmospheric science and equine science, and includes numerous labs and facilities where some of the university’s most important research takes place.
The James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital, at 300 W. Drake Road south of campus, is considered one of the finest veterinary hospitals in the world. It o ers both small and large animal care, and houses the renowned Flint Animal Cancer Center.
The Powerhouse Energy Campus is north of campus on the other side of Old Town Fort Collins at
430 N. College Ave. The Powerhouse contains the remodeled Engines and Energy Conversion Lab as well as 65,000 square feet of new o ce and research space for CSU’s cutting-edge research in all forms of energy. The facility itself is a testbed for energye cient features, such as specialized LED lighting, a rooftop solar array, and a cooling system that does not use traditional air conditioning. As a university, CSU strives to lead the way in creating eco-friendly campuses and is continually encouraging its students to care for the world around them. Through programs, research and initiatives, CSU has built a global reputation for being green. As a result, CSU is the only institution in the world to earn four Platinum ratings from the Association for Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education. CSU was also awarded No. 4 "Coolest School" by Sierra
Magazine's Green Ranking in 2018, is one of eight universities given a platinum bike friendly rating, and has LEED-certified classrooms, research spaces, and o ces.
CSU Mountain Campus
Located 50 miles west of Fort Collins, the 1,177-acre campus has been a field site for CSU’s natural resources students since 1916. At 9,000 feet above sea level, the breathtaking area is adjacent to Rocky Mountain National Park accessed via Poudre Canyon.
CSU Spur
Located in Denver, CSU Spur is a free learning destination that focuses on food, water, and health research, inviting the public to watch science happen in real time. The last of three buildings opened in January 2023, making the whole campus now available to visitors.
Students with strong character are well on their way to becoming tomorrow’s leaders. Encourage them to skip entry level and get the education and skills they need to succeed as Officers in the U.S. Army.
Find out more about leadership and scholarships at CSU Army ROTC by scanning the QR code or visiting our website at armyrotc.colostate.edu, or contacting the CSU Army ROTC Enrollment Advisor at 970-491-1640, or via email Army_ROTC_Enrollment_Advisor@colostate.edu
Why so Loved?
For one thing, the weather. Fort Collins boasts over 300 days of sunshine each year and almost 15 hours of sunlight in the summer. Falls are delightful with clear skies and cool evenings and winter may be cold and snowy one day and sunny and clear the next. March through May are typically the snowiest months.
Fort Collins Stats
+ Founded: Feb 12, 1883
+ Population: 169,249
+ Elevation: 5,003 feet
Temperature
+ Lowest recorded temperature: -41 °F
+ Highest recorded temperature: 102 °F
+ Average: 50.3 °F
+ Average snowfall: 48 inches
+ Craft breweries: 25+
+ Geese population: 60,000
+ Natural areas: 50
Parks
+ 966 acres of developed parks
+ 7 community parks
+ 43 neighborhood/pocket parks
+ 2,591 acres in Lory State Park
Home to
+ Colorado State University
+ James L. Voss Veterinary Hospital
ort Collins has earned several accolades as one of the best places to live in America, and it's no wonder why people fall in love with this city when they visit.
As the home of Colorado State University, Fort Collins attracts students, outdoor enthusiasts, and families looking to settle down. The apartments surrounding the university cater to student's needs, providing them with amenities such as spas, pools, and gyms, as well as the convenience of living near campus. Students can use an online rent and transportation calculator to estimate the costs of addresses in Larimer County. For more information, go to rent.colostate.edu
CSU o ers a range of on-campus housing options, including residence halls, university apartments, and Residential Learning Communities (RCLs) that integrate academic and social learning in residence hall settings. If you're in the market to buy a home, be prepared to spend a median price of $570,000 in Fort Collins in 2024.
+ Horsetooth Reservoir and Horsetooth Mountain Open Space
Fort Collins has received a lot of attention over the years. Most recently it was listed in U.S. News and World Report's "25 Top Places to Live." Other accolades include:
USA Today
+ No. 02 "Best U.S. Cycling Town"
+ No. 02 "Best Beer Scene in the nation"
Travelocity's Beer Tourism Index
+ No. 03 for "Top Small Metro Areas"
Outside Magazine
+ Best "Bike to Happy Hour Town"
+ One of 25 towns named Best Towns Ever
U.S. News and World Report
+ No. 10 "Best Place to Live for Quality of Life"
Downtown Fort Collins is a must-see destination for visitors to the city. Having inspired Disneyland's Main Street USA, it serves as the heart of the city, where history, culture, art, and business converge. The area is home to over 20 restored historic buildings along College Avenue, providing a glimpse into the town's past.
Downtown Fort Collins also boasts picturesque alleyways, upgraded into European-style walkways, adorned with artist murals, potted plants, and Tivoli lights. This makes strolling through Downtown a beautiful and immersive experience.
A shopper's paradise, Downtown has a variety of boutiques and sporting stores o ering the latest fashion trends and outdoor gear. If shopping isn't your thing, the area is also home to a diverse selection of bars, ranging from laidback speakeasies to lively college hangouts like Social and Trailhead Tavern.
Foodies and co ee lovers will also find plenty of options in Downtown Fort Collins, with unique dining destinations like Ginger and Baker, The Union Bar and Soda Fountain, and Brothers Bar and Grill. Those with a sweet tooth can indulge in ice cream, cookies, and chocolate at the many dessert shops in the area.
You'll find Downtown is Fort Collins' hub for events and entertainment, with monthly art walks, live music venues, and public art installations throughout the area. Visitors can also cool o in one of the splash parks, or play a round of mini-golf at Old Town Putt at The Exchange. Downtown is especially magical for the holidays when alleyways, sidewalks and tree tops are illuminated with thousands of low-energy and sustainable LED lights. The Downtown Holiday Lights display is every night from November to Valentine’s Day.
No matter what your interests are, Downtown Fort Collins o ers something for everyone, with plenty of reasons to come back and explore further.
just isn’t complete without a visit to Ginger and Baker, an historic, 100-year-old grain mill transformed into a hub for food and community. Stop by for a warm welcome along with breakfast, lunch, dinner, cocktails, cooking classes, shopping, patios and the best pie in town!
The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is just that little “extra”
Fort Collins Municipal Railway
+ fortcollinstrolley.org
1501 W. Oak St. | (970) 224-5372
The Birney Car 21 is a true piece of living history, and riding it o ers a unique and immersive way to experience Fort Collins' past. The streetcar line, which was originally built in 1919, was an important part of the Denver and Interurban Railroad's e orts to expand along Colorado's Front Range, and it played a significant role in the development of Fort Collins.
Today, visitors can step back in time and take a ride on the restored Birney Car 21, which is the only streetcar of its kind still operating in the western United States. The trolley runs on summer weekends and holidays from noon to 5 p.m., taking passengers on a three-mile ride down historic Mountain Avenue, which was once the heart of old Fort Collins. For the low cost of $2, you can indulge in a weekend of Fort Collins history. Immerse yourself in the backstory of the Fort Collins Municipal Railway as you embark on a scenic tour of Old Town Fort Collins.
Avery House Tours
+ poudrelandmarks.org/avery-house
328 W. Mountain Ave. | (970) 221-0533
Dive into Fort Collins’ history, and take a tour of the house as guides tell you the story of the Avery family.
1883 Waterworks
+ poudrelandmarks.org/water-works
2005 N. Overland Trail | (970) 221-0533
Located along the historic Overland Trail, open houses happen on selected Saturdays from May through October.
Farm at Lee Martinez Park
+ fcgov.com/recreation/the-farm-lee-martinez-park
600 N. Sherwood St. | (970) 221-6665
The Farm at Lee Martinez Park is an interactive and educational experience that o ers a fun-filled day out for families in Fort Collins. Since 1985, this farm has been a beloved part of the community, o ering visitors the chance to learn about farm animals and explore antique farm equipment while taking a journey through the history of Northern Colorado.
At the Farm at Lee Martinez Park, visitors of all ages can enjoy hands-on activities and interactive exhibits. Whether you're taking a hay ride through the farm or interacting with the many farm animals that call the park home, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Fort Collins Museum of Discovery
+ fcmod.org
408 Mason Court | (970) 221-6738
The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery provides visitors with immersive and hands-on exhibits on science, music, agriculture, astronomy, wildlands, and many more.
Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures
+ globalvillagemuseum.org
200 W. Mountain Ave. | (970) 221-4600
Learn about world cultures, people, art, and history as the Global Village Museum strives to celebrate and preserve the world's arts and cultures.
Whether you are enjoying a hike in the nearby mountains or a movie at Canvas Stadium, there are endless opportunities for families to create lasting memories in Fort Collins. The town's stunning weather and abundance of natural beauty make it an ideal place for families to settle down and call home. And with a variety of family-friendly activities happening year-round, there's never a shortage of things to do and see. Families can also enjoy a variety of outdoor acti ities su h as fishing a ping and aya ing as well as a range of cultural events and festivals that celebrate the town's unique history and character. More kid-friendly activities in Fort Collins at
fortcollins.kidcityguide.com
City Park Pool
+ fcgov.com/recreation/city-park-pool
1599 City Park Ave. | (970) 221-6363
The City Park Pool features kid-friendly water features, a 30-foot slide, a lazy river, geysers, and a wading pool, giving neighborhood kids the water park experience right in their backyard.
Pool
+ fcgov.com/recreation/mulberrypool
424 W. Mulberry St. | (970) 221-6657
Includes an interactive play area with slides and water features, a seven-person spa, a diving board, and a 25-yard pool.
Edora Pool Ice Center
+ fcgov.com/recreation/epic
1801 Riverside Ave. (970) 221-6683
The region’s premier ice and aquatics facility. EPIC serves the entire community with a variety of ice skating and aquatics programs, classes, events, and activities.
City Park Nine
411 S. Bryan Ave. | (970) 221-6650
The City Park Nine o ers enjoyment for all ages and is considered one of the best ninehole golf courses in the region.
1441 E. Horsetooth Road | (970) 221-6651
Home to the local U.S. Open Qualifying. The course spans 190 acres.
Southridge
5750 S. Lemay Ave. (970) 416-2828
The 128-acre course has the Fossil and Mail Creeks flowing through as well as diverse elevations and fairways.
Mountain Vista Greens
2808 NE Frontage Road | (970) 482-4847
Full-length, nine-hole golf course nestled alongside Boxelder Creek.
ACTIVITIES FOR ALL
Fort Collins is a city that truly comes alive with the sound of music and theater. With a variety of venues and events throughout the year, there's always something new and exciting to discover. For fans of theater, the Bas Bleu Theatre Company and the University Center for the Arts are must-visit destinations. These venues showcase some of the best local productions, featuring talented actors and musicians from the Fort Collins community. For a more unique live music experience, the famous Mishawaka Amphitheater in the Poudre Canyon is a must-see. In the summertime, Fort Collins is also home to a number of free outdoor concerts and festivals, providing music lovers of all ages with a chance to experience the vibrant local music scene.
Music Magic Rat
+ theelizabethcolorado.com/magicratlivemusic
111 Chestnut St. | (970) 493-4120
Located in the charming downtown Elizabeth Hotel, The Magic Rat features both name artists and local late-night jam sessions, all in a vibrant atmosphere.
Mishawaka Amphitheatre
+ themishawaka.com
13714 Poudre Canyon Road | (970) 482-4420
An iconic riverfront music venue and restaurant located in the beautiful Poudre Canyon.
The Lyric + lyriccinema.com
1209 N. College Ave. | (970) 429-6767
Watch your favorite cult classic, attend open mic night or catch the latest movie releases all in one spot.
The Armory + armoryfoco.com
314 E. Mountain Ave. (970) 232-9525
The historic Fort Collins armory features local and national performers and acoustic acts in an intimate state-of-the-art venue.
Classical Opera Fort Collins
+ operafortcollins.com (970) 482-0220
Fort Collins Symphony
+ fcsymphony.org
141 S. College Ave. | (970) 482-4823
Bas Bleu Theatre Company
+ basbleu.org
401 Pine St. | (970) 298-8949
The place for bold, innovative, and adventurous theatrical performances in an intimate setting.
University Center for the Arts
+ uca.colostate.edu
1400 Remington St. (970) 491-5529
The world-class University Center for the Arts, just east of the main CSU campus, houses the School of Music, Theatre, and Dance, the Gregory Allicar Museum of Art, and the Avenir Museum of Design and Merchandising, The center hosts more than 250 performances and exhibitions annually featuring student and professional productions of music, dance, and theater that range from the classical to avant-garde.
Lincoln Center + lctix.com
417 W. Magnolia St. | (970) 221-6703
Situated in the heart of Fort Collins, the Lincoln Center is the premiere multi-venue performing and visual arts center in Northern Colorado.
In Fort Collins, you can easily immerse yourself in a thriving arts community through the many galleries, theaters, and public art displays located downtown. But your opportunities to appreciate visual arts extend beyond these venues. Colorado State University, community museums, galleries, and co-ops all welcome visitors.
The Fort Collins Museum of Art and Art Center of Fort Collins o er a diverse series of ongoing exhibitions, community events, and educational programs for both children and adults. Housed in the historic 1911 Post O ce Building, the museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, and you can check moafc.org for their hours and featured exhibitions.
The vibrant art community in Historic Downtown Fort Collins is home to Art Walk, a monthly self-guided walking tour that celebrates creativity, culture, and community. Each month, artists are featured, showcasing a spectrum of artistic styles from fine to funky to entertain and engage people of all ages, interests, and backgrounds. For a list of businesses and artists, you can go to:
downtownfortcollins.com/experience/itineraries/first-friday-art-walk
Fort Collins is a city that can be likened to one large art gallery waiting to be explored. As you stroll around town, keep your eyes peeled for artwork displayed in the most unexpected places. Thanks to the community's dedication to Art in Public Places and the skillful work of local artists, Fort Collins is home to a multitude of stunning art projects that can be seen throughout the city – in parks, on street corners, buildings, bridges, and even in alleyways.
Pianos Around Town
Pianos Around Town places pianos painted by local artists around town just waiting to be played and enjoyed. Take a seat and play a tune.
Transformer Cabinet Murals
The Transformer Cabinet Mural Project features bright, active murals painted on Fort Collins utility equipment.
Avenir Museum of Design and Merchandising
+ avenir.colostate.edu
216 E. Lake St. | (970) 491-1983
Blue Moose Art Gallery
+ bluemooseartgallery.com
4032 S. College Ave. | (970) 825-5704
Clara Hatton Gallery: Visual Arts Building
+ hatton.colostate.edu
Colorado State University, off Pitkin St.
Fort Collins Museum of Art
+ moafc.org
201 S. College Ave. | (970) 482-2787
Gregory Allicar Museum of Art
+ artmuseum.colostate.edu
1400 Remington St. | (970) 491-1989
Trimble Court Artisans Co-op
+ trimblecourt.com
118 Trimble Ct. | (970) 221-0051
Fort Collins boasts over 966 acres of developed parks, composed of seven community parks and 43 neighborhood/pocket parks. Additionally, the city's trail system is extensive, with over 45 miles of well-maintained paved trails that interconnect throughout the community. Fort Collins' parks and trail system are world-class, featuring amenities suitable for all ages, including recreational facilities and inspirational playgrounds.
City Park
1500 W. Mulberry St.
Includes all you need for a perfect day in the park: Sheldon Lake at City Park, an outdoor pool, tennis courts, playgrounds, a pottery studio, basketball courts, and paddle boats.
Edora Park
1420 E. Stuart St.
Edora Park is the place to be when you want to have an active day. Equipped with playgrounds, an 18-hole disc golf course, tennis courts, horseshoe pits, skate park, ice skating, and swimming.
Fossil Creek Park
5821 S. Lemay Ave.
Take your dog and get social at the Fossil Creek dog park. If the dog park isn’t your scene, Fossil Creek has something for everyone, a roller-hockey rink, basketball courts, interactive water features, and a prehistoric themed playground.
Rolland Moore Park
2201 S. Shields St.
Take the family on a day of fun right in town. Rolland Moore Park has everything a family needs, a playground, picnic shelters, racquetball courts, basketball courts, and tennis courts.
Spring Canyon Park
2626 W. Horsetooth Road
With a playground that is universally accessible for children of all abilities,
the Spring Canyon Park is great for everyone. Take a ride on the mountain biking trails during the day and spend the night playing ball with the lighted ball fields.
Twin Silo Park
Ziegler and Kechter Roads
One of Fort Collins newest parks spanning 54 acres. The Twin Silo Park includes a dog park, a BMX park, pickleball courts, and a playground with the tallest slide in Fort Collins.
Skate Parks
Edora Skateboard Park
1420 E. Stuart St.
The 17,500-square-foot concrete facility has snake runs, bowls, ramps, and rails, everything a skater needs right in one spot.
Fossil Creek Skateboard Park
5821 S. Lemay St.
This 15,000-square-foot urban obstacle skateboard park o ers a variety of steps and ramps, making this skatepark the perfect place for skaters of all levels.
Old Fort Collins Heritage Park
112 E. Willow St.
The Old Fort Collins Heritage Park features a combination of transition and street obstacles as well as a smaller version of the “China Bank."
Public Gardens
CSU Annual Flower Trial Gardens
1401 Remington St. | (970) 491-7179
These research and display gardens consist of more than 1,000 di erent cultivars of annual bedding plants. Varieties are grouped by genus, arranged by color and grown in rows, side-by-side creating a brilliant display of flowers.
Spring Creek
Community Gardens
+ fcgov.com/gardens
2145 Centre Ave.
Situated on an 18-acre site along the Spring Creek corridor, the Gardens on Spring Creek is the community botanical garden of Fort Collins. The Gardens host community events and activities throughout the year.
The City of Fort Collins has conserved valued land providing the community with 52 natural areas and 114 miles of trail encompassing more than 42,700 acres. These special places such as foothills and plains, ranches and farmlands, wetlands, rivers, and ponds, are where you can experience firsthand the natural and cultural treasures of Fort Collins.
Before you go, check trail and parking conditions at
+ fcgov.com/naturalareas/status
Fossil Creek Park
5821 S. Lemay Ave.
Soft Gold Park
520 Hickory St.
Spring Canyon
2626 W. Horsetooth Road
Twin Silo Park
Ziegler and Kechter Roads
The busiest times at natural areas are weekends, 9 a.m. through 5 p.m., so try visiting earlier or later, or on weekday mornings for the best chance at parking. To avoid a parking ticket, only park in designated spaces. Full list of natural areas
+ fcgov.com/naturalareas
ort Collins o ers a diverse range of shopping and dining options, catering to both popular chain stores and local merchants. Visitors can explore the indoor and outdoor options available along College Avenue and the five-mile Harmony corridor. With an array of unique shops that are exclusive to Fort Collins, shoppers can experience the excitement of discovering one-of-a-kind treasures.
A place filled with craft retailers and artisan food and beverages, the Exchange is the perfect fusion of family-friendly leisure and liveliness.
An indoor-outdoor shopping and dining experience. O ering retail spaces from your favorite department store to unique boutiques.
The Jessup Farm Artisan Village brings to life the farmstead of one of Fort Collins’ early settlers with unique dining and shopping.
Off-Leash Dog Parks
Both Colorado State University and the City of Fort Collins have achieved Platinum-level status as Bicycle Friendly Community. The university campus provides over 18,000 bicycle parking spaces, separated bicycle trails, and three underpasses leading onto campus, with clear wayfinding to assist visitors. Beyond campus, visitors can explore miles of trails that wind through the city and surrounding outdoor areas. Spin bike-share bicycles are also available to rent through the Spin app, making it easy for visitors to explore the community on two wheels.
Didn’t Bring a Bike?
No bike, no problem. Residents, students and visitors can borrow a bike from the Fort Collins Bike Share program. Experience Fort Collins and the trails on one of the shared e-bike and e-scooter stations around town. To reserve and start using bike share download the Spin app.
In-Town Bike Trails
If you want to see more of the city via bicycle or are new to biking, Fort Collins has some amazing trails that are easy to ride with beautiful views along the way.
Fort Collins has more than 285 miles of biking trails and a variety of self-guided tours such as the “Bike the Sites” collection, which includes the Brewery Tour, Environmental Learning Tour, and the Historic Homes Tour. Fort Collins also has fi e i eway Bingo Challenges. When completed, you’ll be able to expertly navigate Fort Collins’ extensive bikeway network!
F ort Collins has a lot to o er, one of which is getting outside and back into nature. With hundreds of miles of trails, it’s easy to find a hike for both novice and experienced hikers. With Lory State Park and Horsetooth Reservoir just a short drive from town, there are plenty of opportunities. For hiking trails in the park, visitors will need to purchase a day pass upon arrival to the trailheads. For hikes near the reservoir, look for pay-to-park kiosks in the lots with some free lots along the way.
The Power Trail begins at Edora Park in east Fort Collins and continues south to Golden Meadows Park, north of Harmony Road for more than three miles. This scenic trail runs along the historic Union Pacific Railroad.
This scenic trail stretches from Overland Trail at Lyons Park to East Drake Road at the Environmental Learning Center along the Cache la Poudre River. This trail is expected to expand toward I-25 over the next several years.
Mason Trail
This trail is best if you are looking for a safe way to navigate Fort Collins on your bike without encountering motorists. Running through the CSU campus and almost four miles from Prospect Road to south of Harmony Road, this is a great option for those who prefer to bike instead of drive.
The paved Fossil Creek Trails take riders on a scenic route on the south side of Fort Collins, passing by the Cathy Fromme Prairie Natural Area where you can see many di erent types of birds and other wildlife. Along the way riders will be able to access picnic areas, play areas, and other recreational amenities.
Spring Creek Trail
7.8 miles
This trail stretches from West Drake Road and meanders along the edge of Spring Creek for more than six miles until its confluence with the Cache la Poudre River, at which point the Spring Creek Trail connects with the Poudre Trail.
The people of Fort Collins have a passion for outdoor exploration and play, as it is a fundamental aspect of our lifestyle. No matter the season, there are always plenty of great destinations near Fort Collins that are perfect for outdoor adventures.
These destinations offer a variety of scenic trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, as well as rock climbing and bouldering routes. Visitors can also enjoy backcountry camping and picnicking in these areas.
Gateway Natural Area
+ fcgov.com/naturalareas/ finder/gateway
5216 Poudre Canyon Highway (970) 407-1106
The kind of place you will want to bring your family for a day in the mountains. Gateway Natural Area is where the North Fork of the Poudre River joins the main Poudre River and features hiking trails, a designated launch area for kayaks and canoes, fishing, picnic tables with grills, informational kiosks, and a natural playground.
Horsetooth Reservoir and Mountain Park
+ larimer.gov/naturalresources/ parks/horsetooth-reservoir
(970) 679-4554
A 6.5-mile-long reservoir, surrounded by over 2,000 acres of public land and more than 25 miles of non-motorized recreational trails. Lakeside camping
enjoying the
at the South Bay Campground, boating, wake boarding/water skiing, fishing, swimming, hiking, and bicycling.
Lory State Park
+ cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/lory (970) 493-1623
Eleven miles from Fort Collins, you can explore wide open scenic terrain in an adventurous landscape, with 26 miles of scenic trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. There are also rock climbing and bouldering routes, backcountry camping, and picnicking.
The Cache La Poudre-North Park Scenic Byway is recognized as one of Colorado’s premier scenic highways. To get there take U.S. Highway 287 north to Colorado Highway 14. The Cache La Poudre is Colorado’s only designated “Wild and Scenic” river.
Rocky Mountain National Park + nps.gov/romo (970) 586-1206
Just 35 miles southwest of Fort Collins, Rocky Mountain National Park’s 415 square miles encompass majestic mountains, tundra wildflowers, abundant wildlife, and over 300 miles of hiking trails. Enjoy Trail Ridge Road (the highest paved road in the U.S.), which crests over 12,000 feet, including many overlooks to experience the subalpine and alpine worlds.
Fort Collins sits approximately 5,000 feet above sea level, so visitors should take some precautions. There’s less oxygen at high altitude, so take it easy and remember to drink plenty of water. If you’re going to be outdoors, remember to apply sunscreen. Skin burns easily in the thin air.
Fort Collins boasts not only nationally beloved breweries like New Belgium and Odell but also a vibrant craft beer scene beyond them, with over 20+ local craft breweries to explore. Beer aficionados from all over come to sample their favorite brews at these homegrown establishments, many of which o er outdoor patios, live music, games, food trucks, and kid-friendly areas. For a unique taste experience and an opportunity to learn about the craft brewing process, consider taking a brewery tour. If you're looking for a more active experience, join in on the Tour de Fat hosted by New Belgium Brewing Company. Whether you prefer an active or more laid-back approach to brewery visits, Fort Collins' breweries have something for everyone.
3581 E. Harmony Road (970) 286-2076
Equinox Brewery
+ equinoxbrewing.com
133 Remington St. (970) 484-1368
Funkwerks Brewery + funkwerks.com 1900 E. Lincoln Ave. (970) 482-3865 Gilded Goat Brewing Company
+ gildedgoatbrewing.com 3500 S. College Ave. (970) 825-7192
hellobrewco.com 405 Linden St. (970) 792-9862
& Dragon Brewing
horseanddragonbrewing.com
124 Racquette Drive (970) 631-8038
Intersect Brewing
+ intersectbrewing.com
2160 W. Drake Road (970) 682-2041
Jessup Farm Barrel House
+ jessupfarmbarrelhouse.com
1921 Jessup Drive (970) 568-8345
Maxline Brewing
+ maxlinebrewing.com
2724 McClelland Drive (970) 286-2855
Mythmaker Brewing
+ mythmakerbrewing.com
1035 S. Taft Hill Road (970) 666-4418
New Belgium Brewery
+ newbelgium.com
500 Linden St. (970) 221-0524
Obstacle Brewing
+ obstaclebrewing.com
4613 S. Mason St. (970) 672-8496
Odell Brewing Co.
+ odells.com
800 E. Lincoln Ave. (970) 498-9070
Peculier Ales
+ peculierales.com
1831 E. Mulberry St. (970) 661-2144
Prost Brewing Co.
+ prostbrewing.com
1510 S. College Ave. (970) 484-2421
Purpose Brewing
+ purposebrewing.com
4025 S. Mason St. (970) 377-4107
Rally King Brewing
+ rallykingbrewing.com
1624 S. Lemay Ave. (970) 568-8936
Ramskeller Brewery, CSU
+ lsc.colostate.edu/ dining/ramskeller
CSU Lory Student Center (970) 491-3903
Snowbank Brewing
+ snowbank.beer
225 N. Lemay Ave., Suite 1 (970) 999-5658
Stodgy Brewing Company
+ stodgybrewing.com
1802 Laporte Ave. (970) 232-9702
SweetWater Brewing
+ sweetwaterbrew.com
1020 E. Lincoln Ave. (970) 658-3894
Zwei Brewing
+ zweibrewing.com
4612 S. Mason St., #120 (970) 223-2482
CopperMuse Distillery
+ coppermuse.com
244 N. College Ave. (970) 999-6016
Elevation 5003
+ elevation5003.com
2601 S. Lemay Ave. (970) 568-8356
Feisty Spirits + feistyspirits.com
1708 E. Lincoln Ave. (970) 444-2386
Mobb Mountain
+ mobbmountain.com
400 Linden St. (970) 689-3887
NoCo Distillery
+ nocodistillery.com
328 Link Lane (970) 414 7188
Scrumpy’s Hard Cider
+ scrumpys.net
215 N. College Ave. (970) 682-1944
B
est of CSU is a list of Fort Collins favorites as voted on by the CSU and Fort Collins communities. For more than 30 years, CSU has picked its favorite places to eat, drink and play. If you’re looking for a business endorsed by the residents, check out the list below of 2023–2024 Best of CSU winners. See features on the individual winners in the print edition at collegian.com/best-of-csu.
Food
Best Pizza
+ Krazy Karl's
+ Cosmo's Pizza
+ Beau Jo's
Best Italian Food
+ Rainbow Restaurant and Cafe Bluebird (Tied)
+ Mug's
Best Donuts
+ LaMar's Donuts
+ FOCO DOCO
+ Mr. Yo's Donuts
Best Burger
+ Big Al's Burgers & Dogs
+ Bad Daddy's Burger Bar
+ STUFT A Burger Bar
Best Sandwich
+ Cheba Hut
+ Pickle Barrel
+ Rare Italian
+ Nick's Resturant & Bar
+ Panino's Italian Resturant
Best Wings
+ Jim's Wings
+ Wing Shack
+ Buffalo Wild Wings
Best Fried Chicken
+ Music City Hot Chicken
+ Raising Cane's
+ Comet Chicken
Best Burrito
+ Cafe Mexicali
+ Big City Burrito
+ Consuelo's Express
> > > > > >
Best Taco
+ Fuzzy's Taco
+ Torchy's Tacos
+ Vatos Tacos and Tequila
Best Mexican Food
+ Cafe Mexicali
+ Blue Agave Grill
+ The Rio Grande Mexican Resturant
Best Sushi
+ Jaws Sushi
+ Sushi Jeju
+ Mt. Fuji
Best Asian Food
+ Young's Cafe
+ Lulu Asian Bistro
+ Cafe De Bangkok
Best Vegetarian
+ Avogadro's Number
+ Rainbow Restaurant
+ Tasty Harmony
Best Place to
Take Parents
+ Ginger & Baker
+ Coopersmith's Pub & Brewing
+ Union Bar and Soda Fountain
Best Ice Cream
+ Walrus Ice Cream
+ Old Town Churn
+ Ben & Jerry's
Best Goodies
+ Mary's Mountain Cookies
+ Insomnia Cookies
+ Kilwin's Chocolate and Ice Cream
+ Yampa Sandwich Company
Best Study Spot
+ Morgan Library
+ Behavioral Science Building
+ The Oval
Best Apartment
+ Ram's Village
+ Aggie Village
+ Union
Best Food Delivery
+ DoorDash
+ GrubHub
Best Happy Hour
+ Road 34
+ Fuzzy's Tacos
+ The Colorado Room
Best Marg
+ The Rio Grande
+ Fuzzy's Tacos
+ Nosh Delievery
Best College
+ College of Liberal Arts
+ College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences
+ College of Natural Resources
Entertainment
Best Place to Have Fun
+ The Lyric
+ Pinball Jones
+ Blue Agave
Best Brewery
+ New Belgium Brewing
+ Odell Brewing Co.
+ Ramskeller Brewhouse
Best Lunch
+ Spoons and Panda Express (Tied)
+ Ramskeller Pub & Grill
+ Garbanzo
Best Coffee
+ Morgan's Grind
+ Sweet Temptations
+ Sweet Sinsations
+ Chipper's Lanes
Best Live Music
+ The Aggie
+ Mishawaka
+ The Lyric
Best College Bar
+ Lucky Joe's
+ Road 34
+ Trailhead Tavern
Best Liquor Store
+ Wilbur's Total Beverage
+Campus West Liquor
+ Mulberry MAX
Best Smoke Shop
+ Kind Creations
+ Up N Smoke
+ Smokey Monkey
Best Dispensary
+ LivWell
Best Dining Hall
Best Drunchies
+ Green Dragon
+ Organic Alternatives
+ Foundry
+ Rams Horn
+ Durrell
+ D.P Dough
+ Krazy Karl's
+ Cheba Hut
>
AUGUST 2–6
Larimer County Fair and Rodeo
+ treventscomplex.com/events /larimer-county-fair
Front Range Wine Festival
+ frontrangewinefestival.com
Main Park, Windsor
AUGUST 19
Fall Classes Begin
Colorado State University
AUGUST 24
CSU Volleyball Home Opener
+ csurams.com/sports/ womens-volleyball
Moby Arena
CSU vs. Creighton
AUGUST 23-24
Realities Ride & Rally
+ realitiesforchildren.com
AUGUST 24
Tour De Fat
+ newbelgium.com
New Belgium Brewing Company
SEPTEMBER 7
Ag Day & CSU Rams Football Home Opener
+ csurams.com/sports/ football/schedule
Canvas Stadium, CSU vs. Northern Colorado
SEPTEMBER 6-8
Goodguys 24th Colorado Nationals Car Show
+ good-guys.com/cn-participator
The Ranch Event Complex
OCTOBER 5
Tour De Corgi
+ tourdecorgi.org
+ fortcollinspeachfestival.com
Civic Center Park and Old Town Fort Collins
OCTOBER 24-26
CSU Homecoming & Family Weekend
+ homecoming.colostate.edu
CSU vs. New Mexico
NOVEMBER 1
Downtown Holiday Lighting Ceremony
+ downtownfortcollins.com/event/ downtown-holiday-lights
Downtown Fort Collins
NOVEMBER 1 – FEBRUARY 14
Downtown Holiday Lights
Downtown Fort Colllins
DECEMBER 6–24
Garden of Lights
+ fcgov.com/gardens/garden-of-lights
The Gardens on Spring Creek
DECEMBER 13
CSU Fall Commencement
APRIL 2
ACT Human Rights Film Festival
+ actfilmfest.colostate.edu
Lory Student Center Theatre, CSU
MAY 16
CSU Spring Commencement
+ commencement.colostate.edu
Colorado State University
Check websites for up-todate calendar of events:
+ visitfortcollins.com
+ colostate.edu/events
Lagoon Summer Concert Series
+ June 12: Graham Good & The Painters
Fort Collins is a vibrant music community that comes alive in summer with a host of venues featuring free, live concerts. Fun for all ages and sounds from all genres, summer time is a time to grab a blanket, gather the group and enjoy outdoor tunes while taking in the scenic surroundings of picturesque Fort Collins.
+ June 19: The Reminders
+ June 26: That Eighties Band
+ July 10: Pandas & People
+ July 17: Pink Hawks
+ July 24: Alysia Kraft With Special Guests
Live at the Gardens Summer Concert Series
+ June 29: The Guess Who
+ July 20: Béla Fleck, Zakir Hussain, and Edgar Meyer
+ Aug. 3: Ben Folds & The Fort Collins Symphony
+ Aug. 10: Bruce Hornsby & The Noisemakers
Bohemian NightsThursday Night Live
+ May 30: Bonnie and Taylor Sims Band
+ June 6: Ritmo Cascabel
+ June 13: Casey James Prestwood
+ June 20: Lulada Club
+ June 27: 2MX2
+ July 11: Minori
+ July 11: Nattali Rize
+ July 18: Chain Station
+ July 25: The Charities
+ July 25: The McCharmlys
+ Aug. 1: Heavy Diamond Ring
+ Aug. 8: Takuya Kuroda
+ Aug. 8: Atomga
+ Aug. 22: Kayla Marque
+ Aug. 29: Paa Kow
+ Sept. 5: Lady Denim
Friday Night Music Series:
+ June 14: Cheeseballs
+ June 21: Neverland
+ June 28: Maroon Vibes
+ July 5: Carnaval
+ July 12: Alex Lucero Band
+ July 19: Daze On The Green
+ July 26: Pop Fiction
+ Aug. 2: Soul Kiss
+ Aug. 9: Ragdolls
+ Aug. 16: The Hitmen
Live on the Patio:
Sunday Summer Series at the Mishawaka
+ themishawaka.com/ sunday-summer-series
Mishawaka Outdoor Stage Sundays, 1-4 p.m.
Free but RSVP to guarantee a seat on the complimentary shuttle service from Fort Collins. Sit outside and enjoy the beautiful views of the Poudre Canyon.
+ June 9: Katya Grasso & The Soft Spokes
+ June 16: Michael Morrow & The Culprits
+ June 30: Bro Short
+ July 7: Knuckleball
+ July 14: Amber Baack
New Belgium Friday Live Music Series
+ newbelgium.com/visit/fort-collins/
New Belgium Brewery Fridays, 5-7 p.m., Free
Music on the Lawn at Foothills
+ shopfoothills.com/events
Foothills Mall, 215 E. Foothills Parkway Fridays, 6 p.m., Free
+ June 14: Dancing in the Streets Motown
+ June 21: Colorado Swing
+ June 28: Elegant Plums
+ July 5: Dragondeer
+ July 12: Aquiles & the Latin Groove
+ July 19: El Loco Fandango
+ July 26: The Max Mackey Band
+ Aug. 2: Pamlico Sound
+ Aug. 9: Last Men on Earth
+ Aug. 16: Sqwerv
+ Aug. 23: Dave Beegle
+ Aug. 30: Blue Dogs
+ Sept. 6: Dzirae Gold
Lincoln Center Children’s Concert Series
+ lctix.com/season-packages-bun dles/childrens-summer-series
+ odellbrewing.com/ locations/fortcollins
Odell Brewing Company Wednesdays, 5-7
Lincoln Center, 417 W. Magnolia Thursdays, 10 a.m., Free
+ June 13: Arcinda
+ June 20: Colorado Keys
+ June 27: Dr. Noize
+ July 11: Huitzilopochtli
+ July 18: Rocky Mountain Puppets: Expedition Underground
There are easily hundreds of things to do in and around Fort Collins. It’s why the city is recognized nationally, year after year. To keep things simple, here is a list of our top ten.
06
Stroll Old Town Fort Collins
With more than 28 historical buildings and hundreds of shops and eateries, it’s the heart of Fort Collins.
Bike or Walk the Poudre River Trail
Or any trail. There are more than 285 miles of trails scattered throughout the city. 03
Enjoy a Microbrew
Catch a drink at one of the city's 24+ breweries and outdoor beer gardens.
Admire the Flowers at CSU’s Trial Gardens
Garden enthusiasts will love the free perennial garden just east of the CSU campus. Featuring hundreds of varieties of test plants and “tried and true” perennials.
Search for Famous Faces in Jazz Alley
Fort Collins is home to beautifully painted alleyways and Jazz Alley is just one. “Hidden” o Mountain Avenue and Walnut Street, the alley mural features a local artists rendition of famous people throughout history.
Hike to the Top of Horsetooth Rock
A visible Fort Collins landmark, Horsetooth Rock is a 2.5 mile trail to the top of the 7,259-foot peak overlooking Fort Collins and the foothills.
07
Take in the Scenic Cache la Poudre River
As Colorado’s only nationally designated “wild and scenic” river, the Poudre is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
08
Jam at an Outdoor Concert
Fort Collins’ thriving music scene comes alive in the summer with free nightly outdoor concerts.
09 Visit the Colorado State University Campus
Founded in 1870 and home to the Rams, CSU is at the heart of Fort Collins.
10
See a Movie at the Holiday Twin Drive-In
One of only a few left in the country, the Holiday Twin features outdoor movies April through October.
Whatever it is.
Whether you’re in goblin mode or beast mode, in your ramen era or fancyramen-with-a-soft-boiled-egg era, Canvas will be right there with you. Visit our Lory Student Center branch today.