Football In Fort Collins: What To Do On Game Day

Our town comes alive with the buzz of college students, the sounds of football games, and the cooler weather that fall brings along. Here’s our itinerary for a perfect football-focused fall weekend in Fort Collins!

Start With Morning Brunch

Whether you’re up before dawn or roll out of bed closer to noon, downtown Fort Collins is here for both early risers and for those who like to take the morning a little slower. Our very own Ace Cafe is the perfect way to start your day – open Wednesday through Sunday with brunch served from 9:00am – 3:00pm.

Start with freshly brewed coffee or bottomless mimosas, then prepare for your big day out on the town with the Smothered Breakfast Burrito or the infamous “Wafnut” (waffle/donut) dish. Enjoy a morning on the patio under the shade trees while you dine (with the bonus of live tunes on the weekends), then gather your things for a tour of Downtown Fort Collins!

Exploring The CSU Campus

Whether you want to spend the day on campus or head down closer to game time, there are some things you shouldn’t miss!

Check out a complimentary bicycle from the front desk, then ride down to CSU’s Oval, a beloved landmark park with majestic trees surrounded by iconic historic buildings. Walk through campus past the Lory Student Center, then enjoy the wide-open, breathtaking view of the foothills and the famous “A” painted on the hillside.

After exploring CSU’s campus, you’ll likely work up an appetite. Just a short walk to the west end of campus is the Campus West Shops. You’ll find great choices such as pizza and subs at locally owned Krazy Karl’s Pizza, FoCo sushi at its best at Jaws Sushi, or try a handcrafted Aussie meat pie at the Waltzing Kangaroo.

If you’re visiting in early fall, be sure to stop at the beautiful CSU Trial Gardens for a visit – it’s a must-see in Fort Collins!

Gear Up For Football!

The CSU Rams home games are a city-wide affair, from tailgating to live music to specials around town to celebrate. The home game schedule is listed below, and there are themes for each game. Bonus – Wear your Green Rams gear on Fridays around town to show support for the Rams while getting discounts at participating local hot spots!

Take the Max (FREE on game days) to the Coors Light Game Day Ram Walk & Tailgate for a memorable pre-game experience. This free concert tailgate series starts four hours prior to kick-off and features live bands and beverages for purchase.

Home Games

9/10 vs Middle Tennessee @ 2:00pm – Season Opener

9/24 vs Sacramento State @ 2:00pm – Orange Out, Ag Day with 4-H, Spirit Day

10/15 vs Utah State @ 5:00pm – Homecoming & Family Weekend

10/22 vs Hawaii @ 2:00pm – Junior Rams Day, Commitment to Campus

11/12 vs Wyoming @ 5:00pm – Military Appreciation Day

11/25 vs New Mexico @ 1:30pm – Education Day, Senior Day, CSU Global & Online

View the full schedule here

Bonus Activities:

Take a Brewery Tour – It’s What We’re Known For! 

Stop by New Belgium Brewery or Odell Brewing Co. for a behind-the-scenes tour of the brewing process. Grab some complimentary beer or hang out on the front lawn for a comfy wind-down into your evening. Prefer sipping back on some other craft brews? There are loads of small, local breweries around town – just ask our front desk for some of our faves!

Enjoy a Drive Around the Choice City

It’s time for a drive to see the surrounding area. Head to the west side of Fort Collins to South Overland Trail, past the Holiday Twin Drive-In, and drive up to Horsetooth Reservoir. The views are spectacular whether you’re looking east over Fort Collins or west to the foothills. There are some easy hiking trails on both sides of the Reservoir so bring your sunscreen and water and enjoy the Colorado outdoors.