Fort Collins offers a vibrant and diverse entertainment scene, blending small-town charm with big-city amenities. Whether you enjoy live music, craft beer, theater, fine dining, or outdoor festivals, this city has something for everyone.
The historic Old Town district is the heart of Fort Collins’ nightlife and cultural scene. With locally owned boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants, it's a go-to destination for an evening out. The city also boasts over 20 craft breweries, including the famous New Belgium Brewing Company and Odell Brewing Co. Each summer, the Colorado Brewers’ Festival brings the community together to sample top-tier beers from across the state.
For music lovers, Fort Collins features a thriving live music scene. Venues like The Armory, Washington’s, and The Aggie Theatre regularly host performances by local and national acts. The annual Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest showcases incredible live music throughout the city, while the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheatre is just a short drive away.
Theater and arts enthusiasts will enjoy everything from Broadway-style shows at The Lincoln Center to smaller productions by local theater groups. Cultural attractions like art galleries and the Museum of Discovery offer engaging experiences for all ages. Year-round events include film festivals, art walks, and interactive exhibits that showcase the city’s creative spirit.
Dining in Fort Collins is a treat in itself, featuring award-winning restaurants, food trucks, and farm-to-table eateries. From fine dining to casual cafes, the city emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and authentic flavors. Don’t miss the Fort Collins Foodie Walk—a self-guided tour highlighting the best of the city’s culinary scene.
Sports fans and outdoor enthusiasts are also well-served. Enjoy college athletics at Colorado State University or catch professional games in nearby Denver, home to the Broncos (NFL), Nuggets (NBA), Rockies (MLB), and Avalanche (NHL).
Whether you're relaxing at a local brewery, dancing at a concert, or exploring the local arts, Fort Collins delivers a dynamic entertainment experience that ensures you’ll never run out of things to do.
Fort Collins is an outdoor lover’s paradise, offering year-round recreation set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. With 300 days of sunshine and easy access to scenic landscapes, the city provides endless opportunities for hiking, biking, skiing, water sports, and more.
For hikers and trail runners, Horsetooth Mountain Open Space is a local favorite with 29 miles of trails, panoramic views, and the iconic Horsetooth Rock summit. Nearby Lory State Park and Roosevelt National Forest offer additional trails for all levels, from casual walks to challenging backcountry routes.
Cyclists will love Fort Collins, one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country, with over 285 miles of dedicated bike lanes and trails. The Poudre River Trail offers a scenic, paved ride connecting parks, breweries, and nature preserves. For mountain biking, hit the Blue Sky Trail or head to Curt Gowdy State Park across the Wyoming border for world-class singletrack.
Water enthusiasts can explore the Cache la Poudre River—Colorado’s only designated Wild & Scenic River—perfect for whitewater rafting, kayaking, and fly fishing. Horsetooth Reservoir, just minutes from downtown, is ideal for stand-up paddleboarding, boating, swimming, fishing, and sailing against a stunning alpine backdrop.
In winter, Fort Collins serves as a gateway to premier skiing and snowboarding. Resorts like Steamboat, Vail, Breckenridge, and Aspen offer everything from beginner slopes to expert terrain. Eldora Mountain Resort, just a short drive away, is a great option for quick trips.
Wildlife lovers and photographers can explore diverse ecosystems surrounding the city. Rocky Mountain National Park, only an hour away, is home to elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and black bears. For birdwatching, Soapstone Prairie Natural Area features bald eagles, prairie falcons, and the rare black-footed ferret.
Whether you're scaling a mountain, paddling a river, or watching a sunset over the foothills, Fort Collins offers an unparalleled outdoor lifestyle that makes it easy to stay active, explore nature, and embrace adventure.
Fort Collins offers a wide variety of recreational activities designed to keep residents active, engaged, and connected to the community. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly parks, fitness centers, or organized sports leagues, the city provides opportunities for all ages and interests.
For fitness lovers, Fort Collins features several top-tier recreation centers, including Edora Pool Ice Center (EPIC), which houses an Olympic-sized swimming pool, ice skating rink, and full-service fitness facilities. Mulberry Pool and the Northside Aztlan Community Center also offer group fitness classes, weight training, and aquatics programs.
Sports enthusiasts can enjoy a network of well-maintained parks, sports complexes, and community leagues. Popular options include soccer, basketball, and softball for both youth and adults, along with tennis and pickleball courts located throughout the city. Golfers can tee off at scenic public courses like Collindale Golf Course, Southridge Golf Club, and the award-winning Highland Meadows Golf Course.
Families will appreciate the abundance of playgrounds, splash pads, and interactive activity centers. The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery provides hands-on science exhibits, while The Gardens on Spring Creek features botanical displays and family-friendly programming. Seasonal festivals, outdoor movie nights, and farmers’ markets further enrich the city’s vibrant recreational life.
With its abundant recreational amenities, Fort Collins makes it easy to stay fit, have fun, and connect with others—all while enjoying the city’s stunning natural surroundings.