Things to See in Fort Collins, Colorado (Besides the Breweries!)
256 South. Downtown Lodging . Established 1923.
Our 20+ microbreweries definitely draw a crowd to Fort Collins each year, but there’s much more to see and do here!
Here’s a list that will help you take in the top sights around Fort Collins (even if you’re not a brewery person!) Each destination is just a short walk or drive from our hotel in Downtown Fort Collins, Colorado.
Top Spots in Fort Collins (That Aren’t Breweries!)
Horsetooth Rock
Museum of Discovery
Old Town Square
Gardens on Spring Creek
Trial Gardens
Museum of Art Fort Collins
The Armstrong Hotel
Avenir Museum of Design
Reservoir Ridge Natural Trail
City Park
Horsetooth Rock
There’s no better place to view the grandeur of our city than from atop Horsetooth Rock. This “horse tooth” shaped rock rises 7,259 feet above Fort Collins, and is an excellent day hike for those wanting to experience the great outdoors. There are over 29 miles of hiking trails here, and plenty of deer, elk, eagles, chipmunks and other wildlife to see.
Local Tips:
Daily permit fee: $9.00 | Things to bring: Water, Sunscreen, Hiking boots, Camera, Extra clothing for inclement weather | Best day to hike: Tuesday-Thursday (weekends can get a little crowded!)
Fort Collins Museum of Discovery
Whether you have kids or are a kid at heart, the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is a must-see attraction in Fort Collins! This museum is packed with fun exhibits, activities, and interactive games for young and old alike and is open to the public Wednesday through Sunday from 10AM to 5PM.
Local Tips:
Open Hours: 10AM to 5PM | Best time to visit: Wednesday – Friday (weekends can get a little crowded!)
Old Town Square
Many of our guests are partial to trekking around Old Town…and for good reason! Old Town Square itself houses several of our favorite restaurants as well as shopping, souvenirs and many other local businesses we love. The splash pad in the center of Old Town Square is also a great spot for the kiddos to cool off, with jumping, splashing, colorful fountains running all summer.
Local Tips:
View Event Information | Best time to visit: Anytime! The square is a lively place both on weekdays and weekends.
Gardens on Spring Creek
One of the best ways to experience the outdoors in Fort Collins is to visit the Gardens on Spring Creek! This community botanic garden sits on 18 acres of land just south of Coloroado State University and provides our community with all things gardening. They also have a butterfly pavilion as well!
Local Tips:
View Event Information | Open Hours: Every day from 10AM to 5PM (last ticket call is 4PM) | Best time to visit: Anytime! Weekends can get busy in the summer though, so head down early!
Fort Collins Museum of Art
If you only have a few hours to meander through Old Town, why not visit the Fort Collins Museum of Art? This wonderful place is located just down the street from the hotel in the historic 1911 Post Office Building, and houses artworks from local artists and beyond!
Local Tips:
View Event Information | Open Hours: Wednesday – Friday 10AM to 5PM. Saturday and Sunday 12PM to 5PM. Closed Monday and Tuesdays | Best time to visit: Anytime! The Art Museum recommends a reservation due to Covid policies, but welcome walkins as well.
The Armstrong Hotel
Our hotel is a great spot to stop and enjoy an afternoon or evening in Fort Collins – just ask our guests! The hotel itself was built in 1923 and has a wonderful history (part of which is recorded around the property!) Come spend a weekend with us and enjoy brunch, cocktails, live music or all three at Ace Gillett’s Supper Club and Lounge.
Local Tips:
View Our Rooms | Best time to visit: Anytime! Weekends can get busy in the summer though, so book your room early!
Avenir Museum of Design
View one of the best collections of textiles, dress, and interior furnishings in Colorado at the Avenir Museum of Design. This collection has been a part of Colorado State University’s archive of teaching materials in the 1950’s. It has grown quite large and has now become a big part of Fort Collins’ sightseeing attractions.
Local Tips:
Learn More | Best time to visit: Currently the exhibit is closed for Spring 2021, but we’re hopeful it will reopen to the public by summer! For now, you can view the exhibit online.
Reservoir Ridge Natural Trail
You can’t visit Fort Collins without seeing more of the outdoors. Take the whole family to Reservoir Ridge Trail and enjoy a day hiking around this natural area. Just a short drive north from Old Town, this trail connects both Horsetooth Reservoir and the foothills around it with both flatland trail and rocky terrain.
Local Tips:
Daily permit fee: None! | Things to bring: Water, Sunscreen, Hiking boots, Camera, Extra clothing for inclement weather | Best day to hike: Tuesday-Thursday (weekends can get a little crowded!)
City Park
Last but not least on our list is one of the best places to spend an entire day in Fort Collins. City Park is home to several sport fields, our beloved City Park Playground and City Park Pool! This is a great spot to plan a picnic, take the kids swimming, or join a pickup game of dodgeball.
Local Tips:
Best time to visit: Anytime!
Looking to plan a trip to Fort Collins? Check out our guide to the Best Parks and Outdoor Spaces in Fort Collins!