One Perfect Day in Fort Collins: A Beer Lover’s Mountain Town Paradise

Nestled against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Fort Collins, Colorado, is a vibrant college town that seamlessly blends outdoor adventure, craft beer culture, and small-city charm. With its tree-lined streets, historic buildings, and bustling Old Town district, Fort Collins offers visitors a taste of Colorado’s famous laid-back lifestyle combined with a thriving arts and culinary scene. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a beer aficionado, or simply looking for a unique mountain town experience, Fort Collins has something for everyone. Here’s how to make the most of your one day in this captivating city.

Rise and Shine: Breakfast in Old Town

Start your day early to make the most of your time in Fort Collins. Head to Old Town, the city’s historic heart, where you’ll find a delightful array of breakfast options. For a true local experience, make your way to Lucile’s Creole Cafe, a beloved Fort Collins institution. Housed in a charming Victorian home, Lucile’s serves up hearty Creole-inspired breakfast dishes that will fuel you for the day ahead. Try their famous beignets, crispy and generously dusted with powdered sugar, or opt for the eggs Sardou, a New Orleans classic featuring poached eggs atop artichoke bottoms with creole hollandaise.

If you’re in the mood for something a bit more European, stroll over to La Creperie & French Bakery. This cozy spot offers authentic French crepes, both sweet and savory, along with freshly baked croissants and pain au chocolat. Pair your breakfast with a steaming cup of their rich French roast coffee, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a Parisian cafe.

Morning Adventure: Hiking Horsetooth Mountain

With breakfast under your belt, it’s time to embrace Fort Collins’ outdoor spirit. Just a short drive west of the city lies Horsetooth Mountain Open Space, a local favorite for hiking and mountain biking. The crown jewel of this area is Horsetooth Rock, a distinctive rock formation visible from much of Fort Collins.

For a moderate hike with spectacular views, take the Horsetooth Rock Trail. This 2.5-mile (one-way) trail offers a good workout and rewards hikers with panoramic vistas of the city, the surrounding foothills, and on clear days, the plains stretching eastward. The trail winds through pine and fir forests, offering shade on warmer days, and culminates in a scramble to the top of Horsetooth Rock itself.

If you’re looking for a shorter option, consider the 1.2-mile (one-way) Horsetooth Falls Trail. This easier hike leads to a scenic waterfall, which is particularly impressive in late spring when snowmelt swells the stream.

Remember to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the breathtaking views. The open space is also home to various wildlife, including mule deer and golden eagles, so keep your eyes peeled for some natural encounters.

Midday Refuel: Picnic by the Poudre

After your morning hike, head back into town and swing by one of Fort Collins’ excellent delis or sandwich shops to pick up a picnic lunch. Yampa Sandwich Company, located in Old Town, offers a variety of creative sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients. Try their Turkey Crunch, featuring house-roasted turkey, or the vegetarian-friendly Veggie the Works.

With your picnic in hand, make your way to the Cache la Poudre River, Colorado’s only nationally designated “Wild and Scenic” river. The Poudre Trail, a paved path that follows the river for miles, offers numerous spots to spread out a blanket and enjoy your lunch with a view. Find a shady spot near the water and relax to the sound of the rushing river while you refuel for the afternoon ahead.

If you’re visiting in the height of summer and feeling adventurous, consider renting a tube from a local outfitter and spending an hour floating down the Poudre. The gentle rapids offer a refreshing way to cool off and see the city from a different perspective.

Afternoon Delight: Craft Beer Tour

No visit to Fort Collins would be complete without diving into its world-renowned craft beer scene. The city boasts over 20 craft breweries and produces a staggering 70% of Colorado’s craft beer. After your morning of outdoor adventure, it’s time to responsibly sample some of the city’s liquid gold.

Start your brewery tour at New Belgium Brewing Company, one of the largest craft breweries in the world and a pioneer in sustainable brewing practices. While their famous Fat Tire Amber Ale put them on the map, don’t miss the chance to try some of their more experimental offerings in their tasting room. If you have time, take a tour of the facility to learn about their brewing process and eco-friendly initiatives.

Next, pedal your way (responsibly, of course) to Odell Brewing Company, another Fort Collins institution known for its innovative brews. Their spacious taproom and outdoor patio provide the perfect setting to sample their diverse lineup, from the crisp 90 Shilling Ale to bold IPAs and barrel-aged specialties.

For a more intimate experience, make your way to Equinox Brewing, a smaller operation with a cozy taproom and a constantly rotating selection of unique beers. Their outdoor beer garden is a lovely spot to relax and compare notes on your tasting adventure so far.

If you’re still thirsty for more, consider stops at Funkwerks for Belgian-inspired brews, or Horse & Dragon Brewing Company for their award-winning milk stout. Remember to pace yourself and stay hydrated between tastings.

For those who prefer a guided experience, several companies offer brewery tours that provide transportation between locations, allowing you to relax and learn from knowledgeable guides without worrying about driving.

Evening Entertainment: Dinner and a Show

As the sun begins to set, it’s time to experience Fort Collins’ vibrant dining and entertainment scene. For dinner, head to The Regional, a farm-to-table restaurant that showcases the best of Colorado’s local produce and meats. Their menu changes seasonally, but you can always expect creative dishes that highlight the flavors of the region. Try their Colorado lamb if it’s available, or opt for one of their inventive vegetarian options.

If you’re in the mood for something more casual, check out Ginger and Baker. Housed in a beautifully restored 100-year-old grain mill, this multi-concept space includes a cafe, market, and rooftop bar. Their pot pies are a local favorite, and don’t leave without trying a slice of their famous pie for dessert.

After dinner, immerse yourself in Fort Collins’ lively arts scene. If you’re lucky enough to be in town on a night when there’s a show at the historic Aggie Theatre, grab tickets for a concert. This venue has been a staple of Fort Collins’ music scene for decades and hosts a diverse array of local and touring acts.

For a more intimate musical experience, head to The Armory, a beautifully renovated 1907 building that now serves as a state-of-the-art music venue. With its excellent acoustics and cozy atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to discover new artists or enjoy established favorites in a unique setting.

If you prefer a theatrical experience, check the schedule at OpenStage Theatre & Company, Fort Collins’ premier professional theatre troupe. Their performances, ranging from classic plays to contemporary works, showcase the depth of local talent in the city.

Late Night: Old Town Nightcap

As your perfect day in Fort Collins draws to a close, take a leisurely stroll through Old Town. The streets, lined with twinkling lights and historic buildings, take on a magical quality at night. For a final nightcap, duck into Social, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar known for its creative mixology. Their skilled bartenders can whip up classic cocktails or invent something new based on your preferences.

If you’re still in a beer mood, end your night at Cooperation Taphouse, where you can sample from a rotating selection of 20 taps featuring beers from across Colorado and beyond. Their knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect brew to cap off your Fort Collins adventure.

Where to Stay

While this itinerary focuses on a single day in Fort Collins, you’ll likely want to spend the night to fully enjoy all the city has to offer. For a unique experience, book a room at The Elizabeth Hotel, a music-themed boutique hotel in the heart of Old Town. Each room comes with a record player and a curated selection of vinyl, allowing you to continue your musical journey into the night.

For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Armstrong Hotel, a historic property that blends vintage charm with modern amenities. Their lobby cat, Oreo, has become something of a local celebrity and adds an extra touch of homey comfort to your stay.

Getting Around

Fort Collins is known for its bike-friendly infrastructure, boasting over 285 miles of bike lanes and trails. Many hotels offer bike rentals, or you can pick up a bike from one of the city’s bike share programs. This not only provides a fun and eco-friendly way to explore but also allows you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture.

For longer distances or if you prefer not to bike, Fort Collins has an efficient public bus system, as well as numerous rideshare and taxi options.

Seasonal Considerations

While this itinerary can be enjoyed year-round, Fort Collins offers unique experiences in each season. Summer brings outdoor concerts and festivals, while fall paints the surrounding foothills in vibrant colors. Winter offers opportunities for nearby skiing and snowshoeing, and spring sees the city come alive with blooming flowers and renewed energy.

No matter when you visit, Fort Collins’ combination of outdoor beauty, craft beer culture, and small-city charm ensures a memorable experience. From sunrise hikes to sunset pints, a day in Fort Collins offers a perfect taste of Colorado’s famous quality of life. So lace up your hiking boots, grab a bike, and get ready to explore one of America’s most livable (and visitable) cities. Your Fort Collins adventure awaits!