Things to Do in Fort Collins

It's called the "Choice City" because it offers so many options for dining, activities and adventures. This Colorado city is rich with local craftsmanship from art and horticulture to breweries and bistros. Just 60 miles north of Denver, it’s got all the variety of the big city, with the hometown feel you’d expect from northern Colorado.

View Quirky Folk Art

Art doesn't have to be high-brow to be great. Farmer Bill Swets started creating creatures from discarded tractor parts, cars and other machinery in 1985. Now his "zoo" houses more than 160 metal sculptures. Subjects include a spider with a Volkswagen Beetle body, a dinosaur serving as the caddy for a metallic golfer and a “heavy metal” animal band. You’ll be amused and entertained as you wander along the wooded path through the collection. Find Swetsville Zoo near the Interstate 25 exit ramp on Harmony Road. Admission is free.

Smell the Flowers

Stop and smell the roses as you peruse through Colorado State University at the 2.9-acre Annual Flower Trial Garden. You’ll see over 1,000 varieties of annuals that are in testing phases for growth in the Rocky Mountain climate of Fort Collins. If you've ever wondered how to make a plant hardier, you'll find out here. Stroll through the gardens and compare one variety to another—beds are laid out by color and genus, so you can see the differences between each.

Cycling and Beer

Simultaneously experience two of the best things Fort Collins has to offer—beer and bike paths. The city has an extensive bike trail system that will wow you with its scenic beauty. Take a spin along the river on Fossil Creek Trail or breeze past the Colorado State University campus on the Mason Trail. Check out the Fort Collins Bike Library on Mason Street to get expert advice and more trail details. For a more structured adventure, schedule with Beer and Bike Tours. Choose the breweries you want to visit—options include New Belgium, Odell Brewing, Black Bottle Brewing and Coopersmith's—then stop at each for a tour and tasting. The pace is relaxed, and the terrain is easy.

Give Your Brain a Workout

Test your problem-solving skills with this unique attraction; at Enigma Escape Rooms, you’ll be locked inside a room with nine other people, and the only way out is to solve the clues hidden around the space. You'll have to work with your roommates to solve the mystery that will allow you to unlock the door, but you only have 60 minutes to succeed. If the idea of being locked inside makes you nervous, don't worry—staff members will keep a close eye on you in case of emergency. You’ll be asked to leave your purse, jacket and cellphone with the staff—no cheating!

Dine in Fort Collins

You’ll find a host of dining options in Fort Collins. Grab some breakfast at Snooze, a hip little diner with a comprehensive breakfast menu that takes inspiration from French techniques. They’ve also got an extensive selection of creative morning cocktails. For lunch, try a grilled cheese at The Fox and the Crow, a cheese shop and bistro that specializes in farmstead and artisan cheeses and meats. Dinner at Jay’s Bistro offers everything from bison to lamb chops, or try Blue Agave Grill for the best nachos and guacamole you've ever tasted.

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