The 13 Best Restaurants in Fort Collins, CO
Fort Collins boasts a vibrant, diverse culinary scene—homegrown eateries, modern bistros, and some of the best breweries in the country. Whether you’re in the mood for something casual, creative, or chef-driven, the city has no shortage of incredible dining options. Here are 13 of our favorite restaurants in Fort Collins to eat, drink, and enjoy.
Rare Italian
A contemporary Italian restaurant known for handmade pastas, wood-fired dishes, and locally sourced ingredients. Standouts include the lobster fettuccine and pistachio-pesto gnocchi. Fantastic happy hour—cocktails, pizza, and charcuterie.
Music City Hot Chicken
Fort Collins’ Nashville-style hot chicken destination. Choose your heat level (from mild to “you've been warned”), and pair your sandwich or tenders with their legendary mac and cheese or coleslaw. Fun atmosphere and great staff.
Social
A lively, underground cocktail bar tucked into Old Town Square. Expect creative small plates, a buzzing vibe, and some of the best craft cocktails in the city. Perfect for date night or a night out with friends.
The Welsh Rabbit Cheese Bistro
A cozy, cheese-forward bistro offering artisan cheese boards, thoughtful wine pairings, and delicious sandwiches. A favorite for a relaxed lunch or a casual-but-special dinner.
The Colorado Room
A laid-back gastropub featuring burgers, loaded fries, and local brews. Their seasonal menu and farm-fresh ingredients take traditional pub food up a notch.
Restaurant 415
Located in a historic building downtown, Restaurant 415 serves an eclectic, vegetable-forward menu with Mediterranean touches. Creative cocktails and a warm, modern atmosphere make it a longtime local favorite.
The Kitchen
A farm-to-table staple with deep relationships with local farmers and ranchers. Expect fresh, seasonal dishes and a simple, elegant dining experience focused on sustainability.
Café Vino
European-inspired and effortlessly cozy, Café Vino offers a rotating menu built around local ingredients, handmade pasta, great wine, and a relaxed, timeless vibe. A Fort Collins classic for over a decade.
Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar
A seafood standout featuring an excellent raw bar, fresh oysters, sushi, and creative entrées. Known for a fantastic happy hour and a strong cocktail program.
Tasty Harmony
A colorful, plant-forward restaurant serving vegetarian and vegan dishes made with organic, locally sourced ingredients. Bright flavors and hearty portions.
Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant
A Fort Collins institution for over 30 years. Famous for sizzling fajitas, festive vibes, and hands-down the best margaritas in town.
Lucile’s Creole Café
New Orleans flavors in Northern Colorado. Come for the beignets, stay for the gumbo, jambalaya, and Cajun-style breakfasts. Cozy, warm, and always delicious.
Ginger and Baker
A one-of-a-kind culinary marketplace housed in a beautifully restored 1905 mill. Enjoy a full-service restaurant, pie bakery, coffee shop, market, and cooking classes—all under one roof.
Café de Bangkok
Authentic, comforting Thai food with dishes ranging from rich curries to flavorful stir-fries. Welcoming atmosphere and truly “real-deal” Thai cuisine.
A beer lover's guide to the best breweries in Fort Collins
A Beer Lover’s Guide to the Best Breweries in Fort Collins, CO
Fort Collins is known as the Napa Valley of Beer, and for good reason. With more than 20 breweries—many walkable from Downtown—you’ll find everything from award-winning IPAs to experimental sours, barrel-aged ales, and small-batch taprooms with a cult following. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a complete beer-focused vacation, Fort Collins is the perfect place to explore Colorado’s craft brewing scene.
Choose Where to Go
With so many breweries in close proximity, deciding where to start can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, most of the city’s top breweries are clustered around Downtown and the River District. The Fort Collins Brewery District Trail is an easy way to hit multiple breweries in one day—eight breweries located within about a mile of each other.
Explore Different Beer Styles
One of the best parts of brewery-hopping in Fort Collins is the variety. Local brewers constantly push boundaries with seasonal releases, small experimental batches, and creative collaborations. This is the place to try beer styles you might not drink every day—barrel-aged stouts, fruited sours, hazy IPAs, crisp lagers, farmhouse ales, and more.
Take a Guided Tour
Many Fort Collins breweries offer behind-the-scenes tours that walk you through the brewing process, ingredients, and house specialties. Some even offer themed tours, such as Sour Beers 101, IPA hop breakdowns, or barrel room tastings. These tours often fill up on weekends, so booking ahead is a smart move.
Plan Ahead
Breweries can get busy, especially on weekends and CSU game days. Check hours beforehand, and if you prefer a quieter atmosphere, consider visiting on a weekday. Many taprooms offer:
• Sunny outdoor patios
• Rotating food trucks
• Live music
• Dog-friendly spaces
Perfect for a laid-back afternoon or a casual night out.
Stay Downtown to Walk, Bike, or Ride-Share
Most of the city’s best breweries are located near Downtown Fort Collins. Staying nearby makes it easy to walk, bike, scooter, or grab a quick ride-share between taprooms. You’ll also be steps from restaurants, shops, and nightlife—ideal for making the most of your visit.
Make It a Full Fort Collins Experience
Beyond beer, Fort Collins offers easy access to the outdoors—hiking, biking, river walks, Horsetooth Reservoir, and the foothills of the Rockies. You’re also minutes from the picturesque Colorado State University campus and Old Town’s charming historic district. Mix a brewery tour with local exploration and you’ll get an authentic feel for what makes Fort Collins special.
And of course—share your brewery finds on social media and tag your favorites. It’s a fun way to document your trip and support the local craft community.
Our Favorite Fort Collins Breweries
New Belgium Brewing
The iconic creator of Fat Tire and a pioneer in American craft beer. Large patio, tours, and consistently great seasonal releases.
Odell Brewing Co.
Beloved for IPA varieties, pilot batches, and a huge family-friendly patio. A must-visit for first-timers.
Purpose Brewing & Cellars
Small-batch, experimental, and flavor-driven. Each week brings new brews crafted with creativity and precision.
Black Bottle Brewery
Eclectic tap list with bold, unique beers. Great for adventurous drinkers and those seeking something different.
Horse & Dragon Brewing Company
Family-owned and community-focused with standout IPAs, ambers, and seasonal specialties.
Zwei Brewing Co.
A German-inspired brewery known for clean lagers, crisp pilsners, and balanced European styles.
Gilded Goat Brewing Company
Smooth, malty beers and a cozy taproom with views of the brewhouse. Great year-round options.
Maxline Brewing
Known for smooth ale varieties, live music, trivia, and a welcoming neighborhood feel.
The Best Hikes Near Fort Collins, CO (Local Trail Guide)
Fort Collins is a hiker’s paradise—sunny skies, endless foothills, and quick access to some of Colorado’s most iconic trails. Whether you want a family-friendly stroll to a waterfall or a summit-style challenge with sweeping mountain views, you’ll find it all within two hours of town. Here are five of our favorite hikes near Fort Collins.
Greyrock Trail (Poudre Canyon)
Distance: 7.4 miles
Elevation Gain: ~2,000 ft
Difficulty: Hard
Greyrock is a classic Northern Colorado hike and a rite of passage for locals. The climb is steep and rugged, but the payoff is huge: panoramic views of the entire Poudre Canyon and surrounding peaks. Expect rock scrambling near the summit and incredible photo spots at the top.
Arthur’s Rock Trail (Lory State Park)
Distance: 3.4 miles
Elevation Gain: ~900 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
A shorter, scenic hike with a big reward. Arthur’s Rock winds through shady forest before opening up to views overlooking Fort Collins, Horsetooth Reservoir, and the foothills. It’s the perfect half-day hike—challenging but accessible, and a local favorite for sunset.
Horsetooth Falls Trail (Horsetooth Mountain Open Space)
Distance: 2.3 miles
Elevation Gain: ~250 ft
Difficulty: Easy
Family-friendly and consistently popular, Horsetooth Falls offers a mellow trail that leads to a small but beautiful seasonal waterfall. This is an ideal hike for kids, beginners, visiting friends, or anyone looking for a quick adventure close to town.
Mount Audubon Trail (Indian Peaks Wilderness)
Distance: 8.3 miles
Elevation Gain: ~2,800 ft
Difficulty: Hard
If alpine views are what you’re after, Mount Audubon delivers. This high-elevation summit features classic Colorado scenery—glacial basins, wildflowers, big peaks, and sweeping ridgeline views. It’s challenging, exposed, and absolutely worth the climb on a clear day.
Chasm Lake Trail (Rocky Mountain National Park)
Distance: 8.5 miles
Elevation Gain: ~2,700 ft
Difficulty: Hard
One of the most stunning hikes in the region. Chasm Lake sits beneath the sheer walls of Longs Peak, one of Colorado’s famous 14ers. The trail is steep and rocky with breathtaking views of Longs Peak, Mount Meeker, and the surrounding alpine terrain. Best for experienced hikers.
Why Fort Collins is a Perfect Hiking Basecamp
With easy access to the foothills, the Poudre Canyon, Rocky Mountain National Park, and Indian Peaks, Fort Collins makes an ideal home base for outdoor lovers. Mix in breweries, great restaurants, CSU’s campus, and sunny Colorado weather, and you’ve got everything you need for an unforgettable adventure.
And after a big hike?
There’s no better reward than a cold beer at one of Fort Collins’ amazing breweries.
Rafting, Kayaking & SUP: A Guide to Fort Collins’ Best Water Adventures
Rafting, Kayaking & SUP: A Guide to Fort Collins’ Best Water Adventures
Just 20 minutes outside Fort Collins, the Cache la Poudre River offers some of the best rafting, kayaking, and SUP opportunities in Colorado. With roadside access, incredible canyon scenery, and options for every skill level, the Poudre is a true water-sports paradise. If you're looking for an unforgettable outdoor experience during your Fort Collins visit, start here.
Rafting the Poudre River
For adrenaline seekers, rafting the Cache la Poudre River is a must. Colorado’s only designated Wild & Scenic River, the Poudre offers everything from beginner Class II rapids to thrilling Class V runs. Half-day and full-day trips are available throughout the summer, and experienced guides make it approachable for both first-timers and seasoned rafters.
Other rafting options within driving distance include the Big Thompson River and sections of the Colorado River, but nothing beats the access, beauty, and excitement of the Poudre.
Our Pick for Guides: Mountain Whitewater
Mountain Whitewater is our favorite outfitter for Poudre trips. They offer beginner-friendly runs, high-adventure options, and incredibly knowledgeable guides. After your trip, relax at Paddler’s Pub—a laid-back spot with a great patio, cold drinks, and classic pub food. Perfect end to a day on the river.
Kayaking the Poudre Canyon
The Poudre is one of the finest roadside kayaking rivers in the country. With easy access points and a wide range of difficulty levels, it’s a whitewater playground.
Popular sections include:
• Class V: Poudre Narrows
• Class IV: Upper Mishawaka
• Class III: Lower Mishawaka, Poudre Park
• Class II: Filter Plant
Kayakers love the Poudre for its reliable flows, clean lines, varied features, and stunning canyon scenery. Whether you're dialing in play moves or running technical drops, there's a stretch for every paddler.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) Near Fort Collins
SUP is one of the most relaxing ways to get on the water, and the Fort Collins area has several great spots for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Horsetooth Reservoir
Just west of town, Horsetooth offers calm coves, scenic cliffs, and plenty of space to explore. It’s the go-to spot for paddleboarders.
Boyd Lake
Located south of Loveland, Boyd Lake provides smooth water, mountain views, and a wide open feel—perfect for learning or cruising.
Tips for a Safe Day on the Water
For rafting, kayaking, or SUP, a few smart steps go a long way:
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Always wear a properly fitted PFD (life jacket)
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Check water levels and weather conditions
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Know your limits and choose appropriate sections
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Bring water, sunscreen, and secure footwear
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Tell someone your plan and expected return time
Experience the Best of Fort Collins Outdoors
Whether you're charging rapids, carving lines in the canyon, or cruising across a glassy reservoir on a paddleboard, Fort Collins offers unforgettable ways to enjoy Colorado’s rivers and lakes. And when you're done adventuring? Reward yourself with a cold drink at one of Fort Collins’ great breweries—because nothing pairs better with river days than a local craft beer.
Top 10 Fort Collins Events
Fort Collins, Colorado is a vibrant city that offers an array of activities and events that can be enjoyed by both tourists and locals alike. Whether you're interested in live music, festivals, sports, or beer, Fort Collins has something for everyone. In this post, we have compiled a list of the ten best events you can attend in Fort Collins to get a taste of its diverse culture.
1. Tour de Fat
This bike parade and craft beer festival is organized by New Belgium Brewing every year, and it attracts thousands of participants and attendees. The event features musical performances, beer tastings, and a bike parade with riders in creative costumes. Wild and fun event!
Bring the Kiddos! Here are the 8 best things to do for families in Fort Collins
Fort Collins is a family-friendly city with plenty of things to do for all ages. Whether you want to explore nature, discover local history, or enjoy some outdoor activities, there is something for everyone in this vibrant community. Here are our top picks for the eight best things for families to do in Fort Collins:
- Visit the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery. The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is a great place for kids of all ages to learn about science and history. The museum has interactive exhibits on a variety of topics, including dinosaurs, space, and the human body. There is also a planetarium and an outdoor science park.
- Go hiking or biking at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. Horsetooth Mountain Open Space is a beautiful park with miles of hiking and biking trails. There are also several playgrounds and picnic areas.
- Visit the Gardens on Spring Creek. The Gardens on Spring Creek is a botanical garden with over 100 acres of gardens, trails, and meadows. There is also a greenhouse, a butterfly house, and a children's garden.
- Take a walk through Old Town Fort Collins. Old Town Fort Collins is a charming historic district with shops, restaurants, and art galleries. There is also a farmers market every Saturday.
- Visit New Belgium Brewing Company. New Belgium Brewing Company is a popular brewery that offers tours and tastings. There is also a restaurant and a beer garden.
- Go to a CSU Rams football game. The CSU Rams are the college football team for Colorado State University. The team plays its home games at Sonny Lubick Field at Hughes Stadium.
- See a show at the Lincoln Center. The Lincoln Center is a performing arts center that hosts a variety of shows, including plays, musicals, and concerts.
- Go ice skating at the Edora Pool and Ice Center. The Edora Pool and Ice Center is an indoor ice skating rink and swimming pool. There are also several other family-friendly activities available, such as a climbing wall and a ropes course.
These are just a few of the many things you can do with your family in Fort Collins. With its beautiful scenery, the abundance of activities, and friendly people, Fort Collins is a great place for the whole crew!