24 Hours in Fort Collins: Breaking Down the Perfect Day in Town
So, you're making a one day stop in Fort Collins. What are some things you have to see when you're traveling through? Here's the perfect breakdown of must-sees if you only have 24 hours in Fort Collins, Colo.
8 a.m. - Coffee at Alley Cat Café
If you want to experience the unique, eclectic Fort Collins vibe, start the day off at Alley Cat. Tucked away in a little alley right off College and Laurel, this spot has been my favorite for the last five years I've lived in Colorado. Grab a coffee and get ready for a quiet morning walk through Old Town to grab some breakfast.
9 a.m. - Breakfast at Silver Grill Cafe
This one's a given. As one of the most longstanding restaurants in Fort Collins, Silver Grill Cafe is also known for its world-class cinnamon rolls. And rightly so, have you seen those things?! It's a great early morning spot, or an amazing place to grab brunch, just make sure you beat the crowd that always seems to be there.
Lucky for you, you'll have a chance to walk off that massive cinnamon roll.
11 a.m. - Hike up to Horsetooth Falls
I am by no means a fast walker when it comes to hiking. I peg it as enjoying the scenery, but I really just like to take my time. The Horsetooth Falls loop is beautiful, and if you time it just right, you'll get to the falls right when it gets hot.
It's only about a three mile hike, but I love to break it up with a stop for lunch at the falls. If you plan it right, you can grab a lunch, throw it in your backpack, and you're off. My favorite place to grab lunch to go for a hike is Yampa Sandwich Company in Old Town.
1 p.m. - Paddleboarding at Horsetooth
If you're in Fort Collins in the summer, hands down my favorite activity is paddleboarding on the reservoir. After a hike, it's the perfect way to wind down and cool down for the afternoon.
SUP paddleboarding has amazing deals at the reservoir for summer paddleboarding. All you have to do is rent boards by the hour and out you go! There's a sweet little cove just out from the docking point where you can pull your oar up and lay out on the water.
3 p.m. - Ice Cream in The Exchange
A little pre-dinner dessert never hurt anyone, right? I always loved Old Town Square, but the addition of The Exchange was a summer game changer in Fort Collins. And Churn Ice Cream? You can't miss it.
The giant ice cream bucket in the middle of The Exchange is a hot spot for people escaping the summer sun for a scoop or two. Plus, Old Town Putt is a nice way to escape the heat for a little as well.
4 p.m. - New Belgium Brewery Tour
When in Fort Collins, one must do a beer tasting. Sorry, I don't make the rules. Now, New Belgium isn't the only brewery option you have in town, but it's definitely my favorite so far. Plus, it's dog friendly! Who doesn't love that?
5:30 p.m. - Dinner at Illegal Pete's or The Cache
If you're in the mood for fast Mexican food, Illegal Pete's is my go-to summer dinner spot. Two words: rooftop patio. Now that the heat is subsiding slightly, this gives you an incredible view of the foothills and Old Town as you sit on the roof enjoying your dinner.
If you're looking for something a little fancier, The Cache has seating that feels like you're outside and boy does it make you feel fancy. Right next to Ginger and Baker, The Cache has an incredible location on the east side of Old Town.
7 p.m. - Drinks at Social
Anyone who knows me knows I'm obsessed with this place. The basement speakeasy has the best ambience and the bar is incredible. The drinks at Social are amazing, and they're all about the experience behind the drinks as well.
They just added a top floor because of how popular they've gotten. They don't take reservations, so make sure you get there with plenty of time.
8:30 p.m. - Catch a show at The Comedy Fort
If you've still got some energy left in you and you're in the mood for a laugh, catch an act or two at The Comedy Fort.
You might catch an improv night, or you might catch an act right before they make it big! A nice, relaxed end to a perfect Fort Collins day.
10 p.m. - Grab a room at The Elizabeth Hotel
If you want to stay in town and close to Old Town, grab a room or suite at The Elizabeth Hotel right off Old Town. The hotel has found the perfect way to blend music, art and design and combine it with modern and elegant details.
This hotel is at the top of my list for my next staycation.
Enjoy your day in Fort Collins! I may be a little biased, but it's a great place to be.
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