A Day of Art, Flavor & Fort Collins Charm
Itinerary
Discover the creative heart of Fort Collins with murals, museums, galleries, and iconic spots to eat and drink—all blending art, history, and culture in one walkable day.
8:00 am
Start Your Morning at A Local Landmark
Fuel up at the Silver Grill Cafe, famous since 1933 for its giant shareable cinnamon rolls, hearty plates, and welcoming, bustling vibe.
Wander Through Painted Alleys
Old Town Fort Collins is alive with color, starting with the iconic “Greetings From Fort Collins” mural —a bold backdrop that captures the city’s creative spirit. Nearby, vibrant abstract pieces along Linden and Pine streets showcase the eclectic range of local talent. Each wall feels like a doorway into a different story.
Artisan Alley and Trimble Court
Tucked into alleys like Artisan Alley and Trimble Court, you’ll discover hidden gems such as the “Bison Under the Moon” mural and a series of rotating works that turn ordinary walls into outdoor canvases. These narrow passageways feel like treasure hunts, rewarding curious wanderers with splashes of color that transform the urban landscape into a walkable gallery.
Local Artists Bring The Streets Alive
Beyond the walls, the city’s public art spreads across its sidewalks with the Pianos About Town project. Dozens of upright pianos, hand-painted by local artists, sit on corners and plazas waiting to be played. Whether it’s a spontaneous tune from a passerby or a child experimenting with keys, these pianos add sound to the color, turning Old Town into a living, breathing symphony of art.
1:00 pm
Midday Flavors in a Historic Mill
Housed in a restored 100-year-old grain mill, Ginger and Baker blends history with flavor. Upstairs at The Cache, enjoy refined Colorado cuisine with locally inspired dishes in an elegant setting.
Comfort Food Made Right
The Café offers a casual menu of hearty sandwiches, fresh salads, and comforting quiche in a bright, welcoming space. And of course, no visit is complete without a slice of their famous homemade pie—whether classic cherry, chocolate cream, or key lime, it’s a Fort Collins tradition.
3:00 pm
Immerse Yourself in Fort Collins' Art Galleries
Begin with the Fort Collins Museum of Art, housed in the city’s historic Post Office building. Its rotating exhibitions highlight both regional painters and nationally recognized artists, making it a cornerstone of the local arts scene. The setting itself, with its stately architecture, enhances the experience of exploring works that bridge the past and present.
Art + Culture at Colorado State
CSU offers its own cultural treasures. The Avenir Museum of Design and Merchandising is a hidden gem.
5:00 pm
Drinkable Art
In Fort Collins, cocktails and craft beer are more than drinks—they’re drinkable art. Local bartenders and brewers approach their creations with the same creativity as painters and musicians, layering flavors, textures, and presentation into experiences that delight the senses.
The Best Martini's in Town
At Elliot’s Martini Bar, bartenders craft martinis that push the boundaries of tradition—espresso martinis with a rich, velvety finish, fruit-forward blends that feel like summer in a glass, and inventive infusions that surprise with every sip. The setting is intimate yet lively, perfect for conversation or a relaxed pause before dinner.
Rotating Taps for All
Tap and Handle offers a completely different kind of indulgence with more than 70 rotating taps. The list changes daily, highlighting everything from local lagers and West Coast IPAs to bold sours and limited-release stouts.
7:00 pm
Savour The Flavors at Ace Gillett's
End your day at Ace Gillett’s, tucked beneath the historic Armstrong Hotel. This stylish lounge pairs speakeasy vibes with warm hospitality, offering handcrafted cocktails and small plates in an intimate setting.
Craft Cocktails at Ace
At Ace Gillett’s, cocktails are crafted with care and creativity. Classic recipes are given a modern twist, while seasonal drink specials showcase fresh ingredients and unexpected flavors that evolve with the changing seasons.
Seasonal Dishes for Every Palette
At Ace Gillett’s, the menu is designed for sharing, featuring seasonal plates that strike a balance between creativity and comfort.