Fort Collins, CO

Travel Guide

A colorful horse sculpture in a public square with storefronts in the background.
Two cyclists on a street with colorful flowers in the foreground and a historic building in the background.
A river flowing through a valley with rocky cliffs and dense vegetation on both sides.
A rock fountain with water spouting from it, a brick building with shops, and a clear blue sky.
A public square with a water fountain, brick pathways, and surrounding buildings.

Cycle your wayaround this thriving university town to discover northern Colorado’s famous localfood, beer and wine.

Visit Fort Collins to discover a downtownprecinct dotted with historic monuments, early 20th-century architecture andsome of the most cherished breweries in the U.S. Fort Collins is a tight-knitcommunity of 150,000 residents, centered on Colorado State University.

The town is regularly praised for itshigh quality of life and its picturesque gardens. Follow its winding networksof bike paths and sample delicious local produce. As you navigate the pavedroutes you’ll come across gourmet restaurants, boutique retail stores andmountainous landscapes surrounding the town.

Rent a bicycle from the Fort Collins bikelibrary, free of charge, to get around the city. Clever city planning meansthat cyclists have the right of way at most intersections. Biking is usuallythe fastest means of transportation for crossing the city. Those who don’tenjoy traveling on two wheels can use the convenient Fort Collins bus system.

Explore the downtown region on foot tosee why locals are so proud of their city. Outdoor restaurant patios areprevalent on the main streets, along with fresh produce stores and independentcultural institutions. Take the kids to theFort Collins Museum of Discovery. Spend time in scenic public spaces such as Old Town Square and Oak Street Plaza and see the campus of Colorado State University on aguided tour before you settle back with locals over a beer.

Colorado has long had a reputation for excellentbeer. Allow enough time to visit some of the craft breweries in town and samplethe local varieties. Try New Belgium Brewery’s Fat Tire, one of America’s mostpopular craft beers.

Cycle outside the city center to seeColorado’s rugged beauty. Go whitewater rafting through the Roosevelt NationalForest or mountain bike in Spring Canyon Park. Find tour guides and outdoor sports stores in the downtown areato prepare for your adventures.

Fort Collins is a laid-back townthroughout the year. For a relaxed visit, come during the holidays when bars,restaurants and cafés are much quieter with the university population reduced. Justa short drive from the Denver International Airport, the town can be reached bycar or bus.

Where to stay in Fort Collins

Find the best Fort Collins areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Fort Collins
Learn more about Fort Collins

Old Town West

If you're spending some time in Old Town West, Fort Collins Lincoln Center and Avery House are top sights worth seeing.

Old Town Fort Collins

Old Town Fort Collins is noteworthy for its historic sites, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Old Town Square and Fort Collins Museum & Discovery Science Center.

Downtown Fort Collins

If you're spending some time in Downtown Fort Collins, Old Town Square and Fort Collins Lincoln Center are top sights worth seeing.

Old Town North

Though Old Town North might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like New Belgium Brewing Company Headquarters and Fort Collins Museum of Discovery.

University Park

Though University Park might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Cache La Poudre River and Fort Collins Lincoln Center.

La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Fort Collins

La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Fort Collins

4 out of 5
3709 E Mulberry St Fort Collins CO
$76 nightly
The price is $79 total per night from Nov 1 to Nov 2
$79 total
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Fort Collins. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool ...
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Fort Collins
The Armstrong Hotel

The Armstrong Hotel

3 out of 5
259 S College Ave Fort Collins CO
Fully refundable
$113 nightly
The price is $129 total per night from Nov 15 to Nov 16
$129 total
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this spa hotel in Fort Collins. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and a nightclub. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (1,408 reviews)
"the staff very welcoming and very attentive and proactive, checking in on my stay."

Reviewed on Oct 16, 2026

The Armstrong Hotel
Hilton Fort Collins

Hilton Fort Collins

4 out of 5
425 West Prospect Road Fort Collins CO
$114 nightly
The price is $130 total per night from Oct 26 to Oct 27
$130 total
Oct 26 - Oct 27
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Fort Collins. Enjoy breakfast (surcharge), a fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful ...
Hilton Fort Collins
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Flats

The Flats

3 out of 5
229 West Mulberry Street Fort Collins CO
Stay at this apartment in Fort Collins. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and Netflix. Popular attractions Fort Collins Lincoln Center and Global Village Museum of ...
The Flats
Private luxury 1 bedroom just blocks from CSU campus

Private luxury 1 bedroom just blocks from CSU campus

Fort Collins CO
Stay at this apartment in Fort Collins. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Canvas Stadium and Gardens on Spring Creek are located ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (70 reviews)
"Very clean and in a cute neighborhood!"

Reviewed on Oct 1, 2026

Private luxury 1 bedroom just blocks from CSU campus
Cozy, Comfortable Cottage Old Town Fort Collins

Cozy, Comfortable Cottage Old Town Fort Collins

Fort Collins CO
Stay at this vacation home in Fort Collins. Enjoy laundry facilities, cable/satellite TV service, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Roaring Creek ...
Cozy, Comfortable Cottage Old Town Fort Collins
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Fort Collins attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is Fort Collins worth visiting?
Fort Collins is worth visiting for its standout attractions like Colorado State University and Old Town Square. Travelers can also explore distinct areas such as Old Town West, and enjoy a diverse food scene with Latin American and Asian dining options.
When is the best time to visit Fort Collins?
The best time to visit Fort Collins is from May through September, when the weather is pleasant for enjoying outdoor activities. For travelers seeking fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of November through February are a good option, offering cooler temperatures and opportunities for winter experiences.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Fort Collins?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Fort Collins depend on what you want to see:

  • Old Town West offers cultural attractions like the Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures, the Fort Collins Lincoln Center, and the historic Avery House.

What is Fort Collins known for?
Fort Collins, known as 'Ft Collins', is a riverside city on the Cache la Poudre River. It is home to Colorado State University, Old Town Square, and Canvas Stadium. Named after William O. Collins, the city also has a Latin American food culture that travelers can enjoy.
What is a good itinerary length for Fort Collins?
A good itinerary length for Fort Collins is two to three days to explore Old Town Square, take a brewery tour, and wander through Old Town West. For an extended stay of four to five days, you can also visit Colorado State University or Canvas Stadium, and enjoy the diverse Latin American, Asian, and Italian cuisines. See Fort Collins Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Fort Collins?
Fort Collins offers a mix of historic charm, local brews, and unique tours for travelers to enjoy:

  • Take a brewery tour in a vintage safari vehicle.
  • Play a city game in Fort Collins' Old Town and River District.
  • Go on a Fort Collins ghost tour.
  • Discover the city's history on an early settlement tour.
  • Visit Canvas Stadium.

How do I plan a trip to Fort Collins?
To plan your trip to Fort Collins, search for places to stay, especially in Old Town West. Book flights, rental cars, and activities like a Brewery Tour or a Fort Collins Ghost Tour in advance. Remember to pair outdoor plans with indoor backups for weather flexibility, and explore attractions like Colorado State University and Old Town Square.
What cuisines can you find in Fort Collins?
In Fort Collins you can find Mexican cuisine, with popular dishes like tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. Travelers also have options for Asian flavors, including Japanese, Chinese, and Thai dishes, as well as Italian favorites like pasta and pizza. You can also explore North American Cajun Creole and European Mediterranean or French options.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Fort Collins?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Fort Collins by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Fort Collins with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Fort Collins trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Fort Collins?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Fort Collins can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Fort Collins trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Fort Collins trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Fort Collins trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Fort Collins trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Fort Collins?
If it's your first trip to Fort Collins, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Fort Collins hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Fort Collins hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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