In the Neighborhood

If you’re traveling with kids, we suggest walking or biking to the Farm at Lee Martinez Park, then swimming at the outdoor pool and water park at City Park. While you’re at City Park, take in a Fort Collins Foxes baseball game (we’re happy to provide you with complimentary tickets), then take a break from the sun and head back to Old Town to check out the shops and restaurants. (We recommend Clothes Pony and Dandelion Toys for toys and clothing, and Snooze or Big Al’s for breakfast and lunch.) Or stop by Horsetooth Reservoir and have a picnic, then learn something new at the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery. The best way to end the day? With some delicious ice cream (Old Town is home to Walrus Ice Cream, Ben & Jerry’s, Churn, and Kilwin’s).

If you’re a history buff who enjoys leisurely biking, Fort Collins is your place. (It’s considered the 3rd most bike-friendly city in the US.) Start your day at the Silver Grill, the oldest restaurant in town. (Ask to be seated at the original diner counter, and carb up with a legendary cinnamon bun.) Check out a cruiser bike (we’re happy to supply one – no charge!) and ask us for a map of Old Town’s Ghost Signs and Old Neighborhood Markets. Stop by the Avery House for a guided tour of this restored Victorian home, then head to the Fort Collins Museum and explore current exhibits and the collection of historic cabins. End your day with a trip on the Fort Collins Municipal Railway Society’s fully restored original trolley.

Don’t know what to do, but don’t want to do too much? Head across the street to Jeju, and have some sushi and a refreshing drink while lounging on their sunny patio. Then, ask us for a complimentary cruiser bike (we’ve got maps, too) and take a tour of neighborhood’s tree-lined streets. Afterwards, scoot over to the Little Bird Bakeshop for a mid-afternoon coffee or snack. If you enjoy shopping, we recommend The Cupboard, The Perennial Gardener and Kansas City Kitty. Back at the Armstrong, borrow a puzzle to bring up to your room.

When you’re done with work for the day, pick up a map at the front desk and wind down with a brisk walk, run or bike ride along the Poudre River trail. Or head to The Old Town Athletic Club for an indoor workout or group class. Back at the hotel, visit Ace Gillett’s for cocktails and a bite, and listen to live music in a relaxed, lounge atmosphere. Or catch a late movie at the Lyric Cinema Café.

Want a night out to get a feel for Old Town Fort Collins? Top on our list: head down to Ace Gillett’s and order one of their phenomenal cocktails, or choose from an array of Fort Collins’ local brews while you enjoy the patio at Ace Café. Other great options? Take in a CSU home game or a music performance at Washington’s or the Aggie Theatre. The Lyric Theatre shows excellent independent films, Lincoln Center is a top performance hall, while Bas Bleu Theatre is a key Fort Collins destination for theatre. Last (but by no means least) head to one of FoCo’s dizzying array of festivals. Since sweets improve any evening’s end, we suggest you find just enough time for either a slice of pie at Ginger & Baker or a grown-up milkshake from Union Bar & Soda Fountain.

Fort Collins is only a short drive away from Poudre Canyon. There, you can go all-out with your favorite mountain sports, or take it easy with a drive along the winding Cache la Poudre river. Pick up a map and directions from the front desk, then grab a coffee and breakfast burrito from Mugs Coffee Lounge and stop by Jax Outdoor Gear to load up on last-minute gear and supplies. Go rafting with Rocky Mountain Adventures or take a fly-fishing trip with St. Peter’s Fly Shop. At the end of the day, catch a concert at Mishawaka Amphitheatre, right along the banks of the Poudre River. Return to Fort Collins and grab some late-night pizza at Slyce.

Fort Collins is well-known for its craft- and micro-breweries. To start your tour day, check out a cruiser bike (they’re complimentary) from the front desk and pick up a map to review over a hearty breakfast at Choice City Butcher & Deli. Next: beer time! We recommend the tasting rooms at New Belgium, Odell Brewing Company, Funkwerks, Horse & Dragon, and Equinox Brewing Company. Later, have dinner at Coopersmith’s, a FoCo original with a large patio and pool tables, as well as growlers for sale. (That’s six stops. Any more recommendations is probably irresponsible!)

Plan your next anniversary or other special occasion by booking a suite at the Armstrong and pairing it with a Romance Package. Settle into your room and relax in your bathtub, surrounded by rose petals. The package includes a martini glass filled with specialty chocolates, an assortment of bath products, and some extra relaxing touches throughout the room. Enjoy a couple’s massage downstairs at Amara Massage. Head down to Ace Gillett’s Lounge for a handcrafted cocktail and great local live music.