If you’re in Colorado spring staycation mode, there is no better (or closer) place to explore than Fort Collins! Make a day or weekend out of enjoying these adventures from our selection of themed happenings and activities that you can enjoy in Fort Collins.
Family Fun in Fort Collins, Colorado
Explorations in Fort Collins
- The well-preserved downtown Fort Collins district includes over twenty restored historical buildings that are part of both national and local designated historic districts. While wandering about downtown you’re likely to notice a strong resemblance to Disneyland’s Main Street USA: we’re proud to say that it is modeled after our own Downtown Fort Collins! The alleys have been upgraded into European-style walkways with potted flowers, beautiful murals, and Tivoli lights making the journey to the next place a beautiful experience of its own.
- The Exchange is a spacious and lively plaza on N. College that includes food, beverage, and dessert offerings that can all be enjoyed by the fire or inside of a heated tent. You can even play some putt-putt golf at Old Town Putt.
- The Museum of Discovery. Experience Northern Colorado’s most interactive and immersive museum, dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities to learn, reflect and have fun. From the awe-inspiring 360° OtterBox Digital Dome Theater to exhibits designed to spark curiosity, visit The Museum of Discovery for hands-on and collections-based explorations in science, history, and culture. Adventure awaits!
- Hiking: One of The City of Fort Collins’ many great points of pride is the Natural Areas. Check specific trail conditions here and head out to enjoy pristine nature while staying in town. For more mountainous hiking, make sure to visit Lory State Park’s 26+ hiking trails.
- The Poudre River Park located north of Old Town Fort Collins connects Downtown with the Poudre River. The park offers riverbank access, an overlook plaza, and a pedestrian bridge that leads to the Poudre Trail. Take a walk along the river and take in the sights and sounds of the treasured Poudre River. Address: 201 East Vine Drive, Fort Collins, CO 80524.
- Visit Horsetooth Rock: One of Colorado’s most scenic and Northern Colorado’s most iconic outdoor destinations is Horsetooth Reservoir, including Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. Pack a few snacks and hit the trails, or set up a spring picnic and enjoy the views seated from above.
- Old Firehouse Books is Northern Colorado’s largest independent bookstore and offers a wide selection of great reading options to pick out and take over next door to read at Happy Lucky’s Teahouse while sipping on tea. The west wall of Old Firehouse Books showcases a large, beautiful mural that offers a fantastic photo opportunity!
- Jessup Farm Artisan Village. Where Jessup Farms Artisan Village sits today is originally a 140-year-old farm. The beautifully restored buildings have been refurbished with care to maintain the charm of the original condition of the farm structures.
- Grab freshly roasted coffee and housemade pastries at Bindle
- Visit The Farmhouse for farm-to-fork lunch options and handcrafted cocktails
- Support Local Businesses.
- Find Handmade Artisan Goods at Makerfolk, Trimble Court Artisans, and Dandelion and Rust
- Unique Finds, Books, and Records at Firehouse Books, Little Horse Vintage, and All Sales Vinyl
- Find Stylin’ Vintage and Trendy Wearables at Akinz, Kansas City Kitty, Wear It Again Sam, Blue Harvest, Tula, Cira
- Shop the Flavors of Fort Collins: The Cupboard, Rocky Mountain Olive Oil, Old Town Spice Shop, Savory Spice Shop
Family-Friendly Eats in Fort Collins
-
Ginger and Baker Pies, comfort foods, and farm-fresh locally sourced ingredients served in a stunning newly renovated historical building are what you can expect from breakfast at the Ginger and Baker cafe.
-
The Silver Grill Cafe is the oldest restaurant in Northern Colorado, serving breakfast and lunch in the Fort Collins community since 1933 and with roots going all the way back to 1912. Enjoy traditional, hearty American breakfast fare, and treat yourself to a warm cinnamon roll after.
-
Avogadro’s Number. Enjoy lunch at Avogadro’s Number, or Avo’s as the locals call it, which offers vegetarian menu options as well as pizza, tempeh or beef burgers, and a variety of vegan and gluten-free choices.
- The Welsh Rabbit Cheese Shop and Bistro offer unique experiences highlighting the creative nature of the Fort Collins community. Linger in The Bistro to enjoy small bites, cheeses, charcuteries, wines, and beers, then make your way to the Cheese Shop to pick out cheese and other handcrafted bites to-go from the vast selection of artisan and farmstead offerings.
- Nuance Chocolate. A true bean-to-bar chocolate maker, Nuance Chocolate makes authentic, honest, spirited chocolate. Stop by for a sampler flight, a cup of French-style hot chocolate, or a box of truffles.
For additional information go to VisitFtCollins.com.
Author: Mile High Mamas
