Guidebook to Fort Collins, CO (thanks to VisitFtCollins.com)

Bryanne
Guidebook to Fort Collins, CO (thanks to VisitFtCollins.com)

Things to do

We offer whitewater rafting outings, kayaking classes and fly-fishing classes and guided outings.
11 locals recommend
Rocky Mountain Adventures
1117 US-287
11 locals recommend
We offer whitewater rafting outings, kayaking classes and fly-fishing classes and guided outings.
Lory State Park is a beautiful owned and operated park just west of Fort Collins and runs between Horsetooth Reservoir and the beautiful foothills. Enjoy over 26 miles of scenic trails with varying terrain from rolling valleys to mountainous hillsides. Popular activities in this park include short or long hikes, mountain bike rides, horseback rides and trail runs.
82 locals recommend
Lory State Park
708 Lodgepole Dr
82 locals recommend
Lory State Park is a beautiful owned and operated park just west of Fort Collins and runs between Horsetooth Reservoir and the beautiful foothills. Enjoy over 26 miles of scenic trails with varying terrain from rolling valleys to mountainous hillsides. Popular activities in this park include short or long hikes, mountain bike rides, horseback rides and trail runs.
Horsetooth Reservoir is one Colorado’s most scenic outdoor paradises located only minutes outside Fort Collins. The reservoir acquired its name from the unique rock formation that sits above the large body of water. The 6.5-mile-long reservoir is a favorite recreation spot for activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, stand up paddle boarding, water skiing, sailing and picnicking. There are many miles of trails surrounding the reservoir for mountain biking, horseback riding and hiking.
250 locals recommend
Horsetooth Reservoir
250 locals recommend
Horsetooth Reservoir is one Colorado’s most scenic outdoor paradises located only minutes outside Fort Collins. The reservoir acquired its name from the unique rock formation that sits above the large body of water. The 6.5-mile-long reservoir is a favorite recreation spot for activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, stand up paddle boarding, water skiing, sailing and picnicking. There are many miles of trails surrounding the reservoir for mountain biking, horseback riding and hiking.
One of Fort Collins’ oldest parks, City Park, is an iconic area of Fort Collins. It is one of the best places to enjoy a summer day with recreational activities, playgrounds galore, ball parks, a lake and a huge city pool! After a long day playing out in the sun make sure to cool off in the lake or pool! The pool has great water park features for the kids to enjoy as well.
51 locals recommend
City Park
51 locals recommend
One of Fort Collins’ oldest parks, City Park, is an iconic area of Fort Collins. It is one of the best places to enjoy a summer day with recreational activities, playgrounds galore, ball parks, a lake and a huge city pool! After a long day playing out in the sun make sure to cool off in the lake or pool! The pool has great water park features for the kids to enjoy as well.
A great family activity during snowy days in Fort Collins is sledding. There are several amazing sledding hills around Fort Collins that can provide fun for all ages. EPIC Center Directions: 1801 Riverside Ave, Fort Collins, CO
13 locals recommend
Edora Pool Ice Center (EPIC)
1801 Riverside Ave
13 locals recommend
A great family activity during snowy days in Fort Collins is sledding. There are several amazing sledding hills around Fort Collins that can provide fun for all ages. EPIC Center Directions: 1801 Riverside Ave, Fort Collins, CO
A great family activity during snowy days in Fort Collins is sledding. There are several amazing sledding hills around Fort Collins that can provide fun for all ages. Pineridge Natural Area (in designated area) Directions: County Rd 42C, Fort Collins, CO 80526
6 locals recommend
Pineridge Natural Area
6 locals recommend
A great family activity during snowy days in Fort Collins is sledding. There are several amazing sledding hills around Fort Collins that can provide fun for all ages. Pineridge Natural Area (in designated area) Directions: County Rd 42C, Fort Collins, CO 80526
Fort Collins brings you back to the time of tying up your laces and ice-skating on a lake. Enjoy natural ice-skating at City Park, where a safe skating area is designated during those extra chilly days. Sheldon Lake Directions: 1500 W. Mulberry St., Fort Collins, CO. 80521
Sheldon Lake
Fort Collins brings you back to the time of tying up your laces and ice-skating on a lake. Enjoy natural ice-skating at City Park, where a safe skating area is designated during those extra chilly days. Sheldon Lake Directions: 1500 W. Mulberry St., Fort Collins, CO. 80521
The Farm at Lee Martinez Park introduces kids to agricultural heritage by letting them meet farm animals up close; ponies are available for rides in the summer.
14 locals recommend
The Farm at Lee Martinez Park
600 N Sherwood St
14 locals recommend
The Farm at Lee Martinez Park introduces kids to agricultural heritage by letting them meet farm animals up close; ponies are available for rides in the summer.
The family amusement spot complete with mini golf, go-karts, laser tag, paddle boats, arcade games, and a full-service kitchen for refueling. Groups of all ages can enjoy Fort Fun.
14 locals recommend
Fort Fun
1513 E Mulberry St
14 locals recommend
The family amusement spot complete with mini golf, go-karts, laser tag, paddle boats, arcade games, and a full-service kitchen for refueling. Groups of all ages can enjoy Fort Fun.
For indoor excitement, experience the incredible hands-on exhibits at the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery. The museum blends science, history and culture into an interactive and engaging museum that literally offers the best of all worlds! With hands-on exhibits, a 42-foot long plesiosaur, a state-of-the-art Digital Dome that immerses you into the action, and a nationally recognized interactive music experience that lets you create and play music, the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is an experience not to be missed.
81 locals recommend
Fort Collins Museum of Discovery
408 Mason Ct
81 locals recommend
For indoor excitement, experience the incredible hands-on exhibits at the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery. The museum blends science, history and culture into an interactive and engaging museum that literally offers the best of all worlds! With hands-on exhibits, a 42-foot long plesiosaur, a state-of-the-art Digital Dome that immerses you into the action, and a nationally recognized interactive music experience that lets you create and play music, the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is an experience not to be missed.

Hiking

Horsetooth Rock’s little brother known as Arthur’s Rock is the most popular hike in the park and it boasts magnificent views of Horsetooth Reservoir and Fort Collins from above. On a day that you’re looking for a challenging hike but don’t want to spend your whole day doing it, Arthur’s Rock is your trail. The first step to take before embarking on any outdoor adventure in Colorado is to be prepared. For trail conditions and messages about areas across the state, visit https://trails.colorado.gov/ or download the COTREX app.
7 locals recommend
Arthur's Rock Trail
Arthur's Rock Trail
7 locals recommend
Horsetooth Rock’s little brother known as Arthur’s Rock is the most popular hike in the park and it boasts magnificent views of Horsetooth Reservoir and Fort Collins from above. On a day that you’re looking for a challenging hike but don’t want to spend your whole day doing it, Arthur’s Rock is your trail. The first step to take before embarking on any outdoor adventure in Colorado is to be prepared. For trail conditions and messages about areas across the state, visit https://trails.colorado.gov/ or download the COTREX app.
Timber Trail is a moderate to difficult trail featuring 3.7 miles of beautiful views, pine forest landscape and the park’s six primitive backcountry sites. Also enjoy a group picnic area along the trail where you can fuel up with a packed lunch. The trail climbs steeply through grass and shrub lands before leveling off behind Arthur’s Rock. The first step to take before embarking on any outdoor adventure in Colorado is to be prepared. For trail conditions and messages about areas across the state, visit https://trails.colorado.gov/ or download the COTREX app.
Timber Trail
Timber Trail
Timber Trail is a moderate to difficult trail featuring 3.7 miles of beautiful views, pine forest landscape and the park’s six primitive backcountry sites. Also enjoy a group picnic area along the trail where you can fuel up with a packed lunch. The trail climbs steeply through grass and shrub lands before leveling off behind Arthur’s Rock. The first step to take before embarking on any outdoor adventure in Colorado is to be prepared. For trail conditions and messages about areas across the state, visit https://trails.colorado.gov/ or download the COTREX app.
West Gulch Nature Trail This 1.5-mile trail offers a self-guided nature tour through the grasslands, mountain shrub, and timber life zones. Learn about the wildflowers, steep rock walls and wetland vegetation that line Well Gulch Trail with stations along the way. This trail is perfect for those wishing to learn more about botany, geology and animal life in Lory State Park while being immersed in nature. The first step to take before embarking on any outdoor adventure in Colorado is to be prepared. For trail conditions and messages about areas across the state, visit https://trails.colorado.gov/ or download the COTREX app.
West Gulch
West Gulch Nature Trail This 1.5-mile trail offers a self-guided nature tour through the grasslands, mountain shrub, and timber life zones. Learn about the wildflowers, steep rock walls and wetland vegetation that line Well Gulch Trail with stations along the way. This trail is perfect for those wishing to learn more about botany, geology and animal life in Lory State Park while being immersed in nature. The first step to take before embarking on any outdoor adventure in Colorado is to be prepared. For trail conditions and messages about areas across the state, visit https://trails.colorado.gov/ or download the COTREX app.
Shoreline Trail is a comfortable one-mile hike that leads down to the edge of Horsetooth Reservoir. The red sandstone hogbacks offer a striking background to the grassy meadows where deer graze. Use this trail to access the coves and bays of Horsetooth Reservoir for a water adventure or enjoy it for an easy hiking or mountain biking adventure. The first step to take before embarking on any outdoor adventure in Colorado is to be prepared. For trail conditions and messages about areas across the state, visit https://trails.colorado.gov/ or download the COTREX app.
Shoreline Trail
Shoreline Trail
Shoreline Trail is a comfortable one-mile hike that leads down to the edge of Horsetooth Reservoir. The red sandstone hogbacks offer a striking background to the grassy meadows where deer graze. Use this trail to access the coves and bays of Horsetooth Reservoir for a water adventure or enjoy it for an easy hiking or mountain biking adventure. The first step to take before embarking on any outdoor adventure in Colorado is to be prepared. For trail conditions and messages about areas across the state, visit https://trails.colorado.gov/ or download the COTREX app.
Kimmons Trail is 1.1 miles and offers an easy to moderate hike with spectacular views of Horsetooth Reservoir and the eastern plains. If you’re looking to extend the hike/mountain bike adventure a little father, continue onto the connecting Timber or West Valley Trails. The first step to take before embarking on any outdoor adventure in Colorado is to be prepared. For trail conditions and messages about areas across the state, visit https://trails.colorado.gov/ or download the COTREX app.
Kimmons Trail
Kimmons Trail
Kimmons Trail is 1.1 miles and offers an easy to moderate hike with spectacular views of Horsetooth Reservoir and the eastern plains. If you’re looking to extend the hike/mountain bike adventure a little father, continue onto the connecting Timber or West Valley Trails. The first step to take before embarking on any outdoor adventure in Colorado is to be prepared. For trail conditions and messages about areas across the state, visit https://trails.colorado.gov/ or download the COTREX app.

Biking

Biking is a great way to get to know Fort Collins. With relatively flat terrain, wide bike lanes, and trails that follow the Poudre River and Spring Creek, biking is a fun, healthy, and environmentally friendly way to recreate. Whether you’re exploring Fort Collins’ 285-plus miles of trails or biking in the mountains, climbing and ascending through the awe-inspiring landscape, you’ll understand why Fort Collins has been named a platinum level bike-friendly city.
Spring Creek Trail
Spring Creek Trail
Biking is a great way to get to know Fort Collins. With relatively flat terrain, wide bike lanes, and trails that follow the Poudre River and Spring Creek, biking is a fun, healthy, and environmentally friendly way to recreate. Whether you’re exploring Fort Collins’ 285-plus miles of trails or biking in the mountains, climbing and ascending through the awe-inspiring landscape, you’ll understand why Fort Collins has been named a platinum level bike-friendly city.
Biking is a great way to get to know Fort Collins. With relatively flat terrain, wide bike lanes, and trails that follow the Poudre River and Spring Creek, biking is a fun, healthy, and environmentally friendly way to recreate. Whether you’re exploring Fort Collins’ 285-plus miles of trails or biking in the mountains, climbing and ascending through the awe-inspiring landscape, you’ll understand why Fort Collins has been named a platinum level bike-friendly city.
82 locals recommend
Lory State Park
708 Lodgepole Dr
82 locals recommend
Biking is a great way to get to know Fort Collins. With relatively flat terrain, wide bike lanes, and trails that follow the Poudre River and Spring Creek, biking is a fun, healthy, and environmentally friendly way to recreate. Whether you’re exploring Fort Collins’ 285-plus miles of trails or biking in the mountains, climbing and ascending through the awe-inspiring landscape, you’ll understand why Fort Collins has been named a platinum level bike-friendly city.
Head five miles west to Lory State Park or Horsetooth Mountain Open Space to find mountain biking trails for all skill levels.
33 locals recommend
Horsetooth Mountain
33 locals recommend
Head five miles west to Lory State Park or Horsetooth Mountain Open Space to find mountain biking trails for all skill levels.

Golf

18-hole course. Didn’t bring your clubs? No worries. Each clubhouse rents a full range of equipment. The best part: if you’re visiting during the winter months and the fairways are clear of snow, you’re free to tee off. In Fort Collins, the links are open year-round and most days are sunny enough that only a bad shank into the water can spoil your game!
Collindale Golf Course
1441 E Horsetooth Rd
18-hole course. Didn’t bring your clubs? No worries. Each clubhouse rents a full range of equipment. The best part: if you’re visiting during the winter months and the fairways are clear of snow, you’re free to tee off. In Fort Collins, the links are open year-round and most days are sunny enough that only a bad shank into the water can spoil your game!
18 hole course. Didn’t bring your clubs? No worries. Each clubhouse rents a full range of equipment. The best part: if you’re visiting during the winter months and the fairways are clear of snow, you’re free to tee off. In Fort Collins, the links are open year-round and most days are sunny enough that only a bad shank into the water can spoil your game!
Southridge Golf Club
5750 S Lemay Ave
18 hole course. Didn’t bring your clubs? No worries. Each clubhouse rents a full range of equipment. The best part: if you’re visiting during the winter months and the fairways are clear of snow, you’re free to tee off. In Fort Collins, the links are open year-round and most days are sunny enough that only a bad shank into the water can spoil your game!
9 hole course. Didn’t bring your clubs? No worries. Each clubhouse rents a full range of equipment. The best part: if you’re visiting during the winter months and the fairways are clear of snow, you’re free to tee off. In Fort Collins, the links are open year-round and most days are sunny enough that only a bad shank into the water can spoil your game!
6 locals recommend
City Park Nine Golf Course
411 S Bryan Ave
6 locals recommend
9 hole course. Didn’t bring your clubs? No worries. Each clubhouse rents a full range of equipment. The best part: if you’re visiting during the winter months and the fairways are clear of snow, you’re free to tee off. In Fort Collins, the links are open year-round and most days are sunny enough that only a bad shank into the water can spoil your game!
Nestled in the corner of Old Town's The Exchange, Old Town Putt offers visitors a unique, challenging way to spend an afternoon or night out in Fort Collins. Not only do we have a 9-hole indoor mini golf course to play on, but our full bar, outdoor patio and wide range of games round out the fun.
Old Town Putt
244 N College Ave
Nestled in the corner of Old Town's The Exchange, Old Town Putt offers visitors a unique, challenging way to spend an afternoon or night out in Fort Collins. Not only do we have a 9-hole indoor mini golf course to play on, but our full bar, outdoor patio and wide range of games round out the fun.

Shopping

Historic Old Town offers a unique shopping experience where you’ll find one-of-a-kind treasures around every corner. The sportsman will gawk over the latest equipment and gear for endless outdoor adventure. The antique enthusiast, serious collector, or novice will enjoy sifting through flea markets and antique shops. As many locals will tell you, art enhances our lives and plays a large role in the community. Our galleries offer a variety of styles – contemporary, realistic, and even rock-and-roll history. Fashionistas will find chic, trendy, and classic attire in boutiques and vintage shops.
54 locals recommend
Old Town
54 locals recommend
Historic Old Town offers a unique shopping experience where you’ll find one-of-a-kind treasures around every corner. The sportsman will gawk over the latest equipment and gear for endless outdoor adventure. The antique enthusiast, serious collector, or novice will enjoy sifting through flea markets and antique shops. As many locals will tell you, art enhances our lives and plays a large role in the community. Our galleries offer a variety of styles – contemporary, realistic, and even rock-and-roll history. Fashionistas will find chic, trendy, and classic attire in boutiques and vintage shops.
The Foothills Mall has all the amenities of big city shopping and national department stores. And, let’s not forget to honor our roots – several western wear shops are scattered throughout town with authentic cowboy boots, hats, and even bolo ties for those finer occasions.
22 locals recommend
Foothills Mall (Main) station
22 locals recommend
The Foothills Mall has all the amenities of big city shopping and national department stores. And, let’s not forget to honor our roots – several western wear shops are scattered throughout town with authentic cowboy boots, hats, and even bolo ties for those finer occasions.

Breweries

McClellan's is a brewery in Fort Collins that turns its focus to “creamier, smoother” European cask-style ales. These non-carbonated ales are “similar to nitrogen fed beer” like Guinness. (1035 South Taft Hill Rd.)
McClellan's Brewing Company
1035 S Taft Hill Rd
McClellan's is a brewery in Fort Collins that turns its focus to “creamier, smoother” European cask-style ales. These non-carbonated ales are “similar to nitrogen fed beer” like Guinness. (1035 South Taft Hill Rd.)
Anheuser Busch Tour Center and Biergarten Embark on a comprehensive tour of the Budweiser brewing and bottling process, visit the world-famous Clydesdale horses, pick up some souvenirs in the extensive gift shop and take a little time to lounge in the outdoor Biergarten. (2351 Busch Dr. – North of Fort Collins)
Anheuser Busch
3823 Mountain Vista Dr
Anheuser Busch Tour Center and Biergarten Embark on a comprehensive tour of the Budweiser brewing and bottling process, visit the world-famous Clydesdale horses, pick up some souvenirs in the extensive gift shop and take a little time to lounge in the outdoor Biergarten. (2351 Busch Dr. – North of Fort Collins)
This brewery is a place where home brewing turned successful brewery with beers like “Hipster” and “The Last Unicorn” making this taproom a midtown hub of great tastes and cool culture. Offering a wide selection of seasonal and cellar beers as well as four flagship brews, Black Bottle has something for everyone. (1611 South College Ave. #1609)
21 locals recommend
Black Bottle Brewery
1611 S College Ave
21 locals recommend
This brewery is a place where home brewing turned successful brewery with beers like “Hipster” and “The Last Unicorn” making this taproom a midtown hub of great tastes and cool culture. Offering a wide selection of seasonal and cellar beers as well as four flagship brews, Black Bottle has something for everyone. (1611 South College Ave. #1609)
C.B. & Potts has been a Colorado Front Range tradition since 1974. Featuring quality food, award winning beverages and medal-winning craft-brewed ales and lagers in a casual family-friendly atmosphere with two locations in Fort Collins. (1441 Horsetooth Rd. & 195 E Foothills Pkwy,)
C.B. & Potts
1441 E Horsetooth Rd
C.B. & Potts has been a Colorado Front Range tradition since 1974. Featuring quality food, award winning beverages and medal-winning craft-brewed ales and lagers in a casual family-friendly atmosphere with two locations in Fort Collins. (1441 Horsetooth Rd. & 195 E Foothills Pkwy,)
This is the perfect place for a bite to eat with your brews. CooperSmith’s is the longest operating brewery in Fort Collins, opening just two weeks before Odell Brewing Co., Nov. 1989, and is an anchor business in historic downtown. Their specialty beers such as Albert Damm Bitter and Punjabi India Ale are served in the English tradition, dispensed from hand-drawn “Beer Engines” that pull in nitrogen from the atmosphere to give the beer a nice creamy head. (#5 Old Town Square)
51 locals recommend
Coopersmith's Pub & Brewing
5 Old Town Square
51 locals recommend
This is the perfect place for a bite to eat with your brews. CooperSmith’s is the longest operating brewery in Fort Collins, opening just two weeks before Odell Brewing Co., Nov. 1989, and is an anchor business in historic downtown. Their specialty beers such as Albert Damm Bitter and Punjabi India Ale are served in the English tradition, dispensed from hand-drawn “Beer Engines” that pull in nitrogen from the atmosphere to give the beer a nice creamy head. (#5 Old Town Square)
Horse and Dragon is a local Fort Collins’ favorite that includes a skilled master brewer and owners with years of beer industry experience. Their motto is: work & family, hops & malt, Horse & Dragon. They craft high-quality, great-tasting beers sustainably while building community in the heart of Northern Colorado. (124 Racquette Dr.)
23 locals recommend
Horse & Dragon Brewing Company, Craft Brewery
124 Racquette Dr
23 locals recommend
Horse and Dragon is a local Fort Collins’ favorite that includes a skilled master brewer and owners with years of beer industry experience. Their motto is: work & family, hops & malt, Horse & Dragon. They craft high-quality, great-tasting beers sustainably while building community in the heart of Northern Colorado. (124 Racquette Dr.)
Former 1933 Brewing owners, Zach and Laura Wilson, Purpose Brewing paired with longtime New Belgium brewmaster Peter Bouckaert and his wife Frezi to launch Purpose Brewing and Cellars. Purpose has introduced a new concept to the Fort Collins brewing scene where beers change weekly and are never repeated. “We believe that everything in life has a purpose. Our purpose is to use a thoughtful, artistic, collaborative and authentic approach to craft one-of-a-kind coffees and beers. Our mission at Purpose Brewing and Cellars is to inspire creativity, promote craftsmanship, and support our local community.” (4025 S Mason St Unit C)
Purpose Brewing and Cellars
4025 South Mason Street
Former 1933 Brewing owners, Zach and Laura Wilson, Purpose Brewing paired with longtime New Belgium brewmaster Peter Bouckaert and his wife Frezi to launch Purpose Brewing and Cellars. Purpose has introduced a new concept to the Fort Collins brewing scene where beers change weekly and are never repeated. “We believe that everything in life has a purpose. Our purpose is to use a thoughtful, artistic, collaborative and authentic approach to craft one-of-a-kind coffees and beers. Our mission at Purpose Brewing and Cellars is to inspire creativity, promote craftsmanship, and support our local community.” (4025 S Mason St Unit C)
Zwei is focused on German beers and the great heritage of Old World brewing. These ideals and passions have helped inspire their flagship beer line as well as their rotating taps. Embracing key German styles have led to lots of exciting beers at Zwei Brewing. (4612 South Mason St. #120)
13 locals recommend
Zwei Brewing
4612 S Mason St
13 locals recommend
Zwei is focused on German beers and the great heritage of Old World brewing. These ideals and passions have helped inspire their flagship beer line as well as their rotating taps. Embracing key German styles have led to lots of exciting beers at Zwei Brewing. (4612 South Mason St. #120)

Food scene

Along with fantastic live music, this offbeat eatery near Colorado State University’s campus serves up a robust menu with lots of stellar vegetarian (and meat) offerings, including sammys, salads and pizzas. Every Tuesday, you can score two-for-one tempeh burgers, a three decades-old tradition (did you know the organic tempeh is even made in-house?).
41 locals recommend
Avogadro's Number
605 S Mason St
41 locals recommend
Along with fantastic live music, this offbeat eatery near Colorado State University’s campus serves up a robust menu with lots of stellar vegetarian (and meat) offerings, including sammys, salads and pizzas. Every Tuesday, you can score two-for-one tempeh burgers, a three decades-old tradition (did you know the organic tempeh is even made in-house?).
An institution among current and former Colorado State University students, the B&B Pickle Barrel celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. The East Coast deli serves truly excellent sandwiches along with homemade soups and tasty bakery items. If you’re not sure which Sammy to order (34 options can be daunting – we get it) you can’t go wrong with the Funky Punky, Toonces or the Garden of Eden.
16 locals recommend
Pickle Barrel
122 W Laurel St
16 locals recommend
An institution among current and former Colorado State University students, the B&B Pickle Barrel celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. The East Coast deli serves truly excellent sandwiches along with homemade soups and tasty bakery items. If you’re not sure which Sammy to order (34 options can be daunting – we get it) you can’t go wrong with the Funky Punky, Toonces or the Garden of Eden.
This Old Town landmark is Fort Collins’ oldest brewpub and a pioneer in the city’s world-famous craft brew culture. Choose from more than a dozen beers on tap, all brewed in-house, before tucking into a hearty meal. From fish and chips to chicken pot pies, Parmesan artichoke dip to Highland cottage pie, the pub fare favorites are sure to satisfy.
51 locals recommend
Coopersmith's Pub & Brewing
5 Old Town Square
51 locals recommend
This Old Town landmark is Fort Collins’ oldest brewpub and a pioneer in the city’s world-famous craft brew culture. Choose from more than a dozen beers on tap, all brewed in-house, before tucking into a hearty meal. From fish and chips to chicken pot pies, Parmesan artichoke dip to Highland cottage pie, the pub fare favorites are sure to satisfy.
The sushi tastes as good as the names are clever at this intimate Fort Collins sushi haven. You can’t go wrong with the Salmon L. Jackson Roll, Electric Sasquatch Catfish Roll or the Scallopeno roll, though it’s the spicy-sweet Buddha Roll, with tempura shrimp, cream cheese, cucumber, Sriracha and eel sauce, that we may or may not daydream about on the regular.
16 locals recommend
JAWS sushi
1205 W Elizabeth St
16 locals recommend
The sushi tastes as good as the names are clever at this intimate Fort Collins sushi haven. You can’t go wrong with the Salmon L. Jackson Roll, Electric Sasquatch Catfish Roll or the Scallopeno roll, though it’s the spicy-sweet Buddha Roll, with tempura shrimp, cream cheese, cucumber, Sriracha and eel sauce, that we may or may not daydream about on the regular.
Hunting for authentic homestyle Italian fare and New York-style pizza? Turn to Nick’s Italian. If you love animals that oink, come on Saturday night for the porchetta — pork belly rolled up with pork shoulder and slow-roasted for 14 hours. If pasta is your pleasure, the decadent bucatini carbonara, with bacon, mint and Pecorino cheese, is killer, as is the ricotta gnocchi with meat sauce. On the pizza side, the wild mushroom with herbed goat cheese, Brussels sprouts and black truffle oil is umami heaven.
24 locals recommend
Nick's Italian
1100 S College Ave
24 locals recommend
Hunting for authentic homestyle Italian fare and New York-style pizza? Turn to Nick’s Italian. If you love animals that oink, come on Saturday night for the porchetta — pork belly rolled up with pork shoulder and slow-roasted for 14 hours. If pasta is your pleasure, the decadent bucatini carbonara, with bacon, mint and Pecorino cheese, is killer, as is the ricotta gnocchi with meat sauce. On the pizza side, the wild mushroom with herbed goat cheese, Brussels sprouts and black truffle oil is umami heaven.
Craving a taste of Italy? At RARE Italian, you can come close without the hassle of a 5,600-mile journey. Tuck into oven-baked beef and pork meatballs with crispy polenta or a thick bone-in pork chop with pomegranate glaze. The house-aged steaks are divine but even the RARE burger is tops — dry-aged house-ground burger on a potato bun with homemade mayo, arugula, tomato and red onion. Just don’t forget the truffle fries. Sit at the communal table for a chance to score some new pals.
26 locals recommend
RARE Italian
101 S College Ave
26 locals recommend
Craving a taste of Italy? At RARE Italian, you can come close without the hassle of a 5,600-mile journey. Tuck into oven-baked beef and pork meatballs with crispy polenta or a thick bone-in pork chop with pomegranate glaze. The house-aged steaks are divine but even the RARE burger is tops — dry-aged house-ground burger on a potato bun with homemade mayo, arugula, tomato and red onion. Just don’t forget the truffle fries. Sit at the communal table for a chance to score some new pals.
Simply called The Rio by many, the original Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant (there are now seven in Colorado if you haven’t been keeping up) is located in the heart of Old Town. Start with the classic Rio Marg, which quite simply makes the world a better place. No matter your preference — rocks, frozen or fruit (mango, strawberry or manberry) — it comes with a smile. As for dinner, fajitas, tacos, enchiladas, burritos, tostados and nachos — all the usual suspects are here and ready to make your tummy happy, but it’s the smoked chicken flautas that really make us swoon.
72 locals recommend
Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant
143 S College Ave
72 locals recommend
Simply called The Rio by many, the original Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant (there are now seven in Colorado if you haven’t been keeping up) is located in the heart of Old Town. Start with the classic Rio Marg, which quite simply makes the world a better place. No matter your preference — rocks, frozen or fruit (mango, strawberry or manberry) — it comes with a smile. As for dinner, fajitas, tacos, enchiladas, burritos, tostados and nachos — all the usual suspects are here and ready to make your tummy happy, but it’s the smoked chicken flautas that really make us swoon.
Looking for a little history lesson along with a homemade cinnamon roll the size of your face? As Northern Colorado’s oldest restaurant, the Silver Grill has been serving breakfast and lunch in its current location since 1933. From benedicts to breakfast burritos, Reuben sandwiches to chicken fried steak, this always-busy diner serves up the classics and more.
60 locals recommend
Silver Grill Cafe
218 Walnut St
60 locals recommend
Looking for a little history lesson along with a homemade cinnamon roll the size of your face? As Northern Colorado’s oldest restaurant, the Silver Grill has been serving breakfast and lunch in its current location since 1933. From benedicts to breakfast burritos, Reuben sandwiches to chicken fried steak, this always-busy diner serves up the classics and more.
The buzzy new Emporium Kitchen & Wine Market, located inside the buzzy new Elizabeth Hotel, feels a bit European though it’s Colorado through and through. Thanks to locally-sourced, high-quality ingredients, much of the menu has been getting high praise from diners. Try the housemade kielbasa, steak tartare, bison bourguignone or elk wellington, unless you’re a vegetarian. Then you’ll want to steer toward the mushroom flatbread or the decadent Hazel Dell Mushroom soup.
13 locals recommend
Emporium Kitchen and Wine Market
378 Walnut St
13 locals recommend
The buzzy new Emporium Kitchen & Wine Market, located inside the buzzy new Elizabeth Hotel, feels a bit European though it’s Colorado through and through. Thanks to locally-sourced, high-quality ingredients, much of the menu has been getting high praise from diners. Try the housemade kielbasa, steak tartare, bison bourguignone or elk wellington, unless you’re a vegetarian. Then you’ll want to steer toward the mushroom flatbread or the decadent Hazel Dell Mushroom soup.
For elevated — and healthy! — farm fare, look no further than The Farmhouse at Jessup Farm. From truffle parm Brussels sprouts to green chile mac & cheese, brown buttered salmon to fried chicken done right (brined and buttermilk!), the chefs here pride themselves on seasonal menus and from-scratch cooking. Behind the 133-year-old building, catch a glimpse of the backyard chicken coop.
22 locals recommend
The Farmhouse at Jessup Farm
1957 Jessup Dr
22 locals recommend
For elevated — and healthy! — farm fare, look no further than The Farmhouse at Jessup Farm. From truffle parm Brussels sprouts to green chile mac & cheese, brown buttered salmon to fried chicken done right (brined and buttermilk!), the chefs here pride themselves on seasonal menus and from-scratch cooking. Behind the 133-year-old building, catch a glimpse of the backyard chicken coop.
Fort Collins’ midtown cheese shop and bistro, has a new location with double the space to accommodate guests. The popular spot sells farmstead and artisan cheeses and meats from five to 5,000 miles away and even has a monthly cheese club. Duck in for a quick sandwich or small plate. The Figgy Piggy, with prosciutto di Parma, whipped goat cheese, mixed greens and fig spread layered on a homemade baguette, is a sweet-and-salty masterpiece. Or try the lovely Ploughman’s Lunch — cheddar, blue and goat’s cheese alongside pâté, a small green salad and crostini.
11 locals recommend
Star of India
2900 Harvard Street
11 locals recommend
Fort Collins’ midtown cheese shop and bistro, has a new location with double the space to accommodate guests. The popular spot sells farmstead and artisan cheeses and meats from five to 5,000 miles away and even has a monthly cheese club. Duck in for a quick sandwich or small plate. The Figgy Piggy, with prosciutto di Parma, whipped goat cheese, mixed greens and fig spread layered on a homemade baguette, is a sweet-and-salty masterpiece. Or try the lovely Ploughman’s Lunch — cheddar, blue and goat’s cheese alongside pâté, a small green salad and crostini.
This much-anticipated River District addition is modeled after the eateries the owners experienced during their childhoods — namely diners and soda fountains. Think comfort food classics, like Monte Cristo sammys, biscuit pot pies, cheesesteaks and more. Along with boozy milkshakes and plenty of beer offerings, the under-21 crowd will dig egg creams and phosphate sodas come March, when it’s slated to open.
20 locals recommend
Union Bar & Soda Fountain
250 Jefferson St
20 locals recommend
This much-anticipated River District addition is modeled after the eateries the owners experienced during their childhoods — namely diners and soda fountains. Think comfort food classics, like Monte Cristo sammys, biscuit pot pies, cheesesteaks and more. Along with boozy milkshakes and plenty of beer offerings, the under-21 crowd will dig egg creams and phosphate sodas come March, when it’s slated to open.
For tried and true Australian fare — including from-scratch meat pies, vegetable pies and dessert pies — head to the Waltzing Kangaroo. This endearing, family-run business serves up fresh-baked, hand-held delicacies. From the classic steak and gravy to the more unique Thai green curry chicken, each pie is rife with slow-cooked, tender meat served in a handmade shortcrust and puff pastry shell. Plus where else can you score the ever-popular Australian side dish, mushy peas, in town? This place is legit. Snag an egg custard tart for dessert.
7 locals recommend
Waltzing Kangaroo
1109 W Elizabeth St
7 locals recommend
For tried and true Australian fare — including from-scratch meat pies, vegetable pies and dessert pies — head to the Waltzing Kangaroo. This endearing, family-run business serves up fresh-baked, hand-held delicacies. From the classic steak and gravy to the more unique Thai green curry chicken, each pie is rife with slow-cooked, tender meat served in a handmade shortcrust and puff pastry shell. Plus where else can you score the ever-popular Australian side dish, mushy peas, in town? This place is legit. Snag an egg custard tart for dessert.