Tag: Things to do in Fort Collins

Best of NoCo is out!

The best of NoCo came out recently. Best of NoCo is presented by Style Magazine. Each and every year for the last twelve years this local magazine has done their readers choice awards. The magazine has over 290 categories and received over 245,000 votes this year for the best of in those categories. Reviewing the results, you can discover what local business, people and places took the top three in the 2025 Reader Choice Rest of NoCo contest. If you are wondering. Every vote is legitimate. They have a platform that uses a two factor authentication process to ensure that there are no bots or fake email addresses to skew the results. These are hard earned winners, who are loved by our community.

Best food and drink

The categories are broad and include food, drink services and great places to shop for almost anything from automobiles to women’s fashion. My favorite category every year is food and drink. Some of the winners in this category include Gib’s Bagels for best bagel. Nordy’s for best Bar-b-Que and Silver Grill for best breakfast and best cinnamon roll. Walrus Ice Cream has won the best ice cream every year sine this competition began. This year Josh and John’s came in second place. Both place are special in their own way. Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant has won best margarita every year since 2014. Just in case you would like to know who won best pizza, this year it is PizzaVino NoCo Italiano. They best out Krazy Karl.s Pizza. PizzaVine has multiple locations. My favorite location is in Jessup Farm off of Timberline Road.

Other categories

Food and drink are only one of the 290 categories in the competition. Some of the other categories include beauty, health and wellness, home and garden, pet, recreation and entertainment and retail (or as I would say, shopping.) Home and garden and retail are two of the larger categories in the competition. They include everything from the best roofing company, NoCo Roofing, to best handyman, flooring company, glass service and home remodeling. For the retail category you can learn which bookstore received the most votes and also which flower shop, furniture store and bike store, to name a few of the categories. Services are another big category. That includes mortgage lender, coming company and best insurance agent.

Vote next year

As you review the votes you may not agree with who is best and may feel like your favorite place was over looked and should be included. Remember, this is an annual event and there is always next year. You can vote and have your voice heard for the Best of NoCo.

Best Hikes Around Fort Collins

Hiking may not be on the top of your list of things to do this time of year. But, you can make plans for the next nice weather day. There are so many great open spaces and natural areas it is hard to pick the best hikes around Fort Collins. However, we did our best to come up with a comprehensive list that should have a little something for everyone. Whether you are just lacing up your hiking boots for the first time or you are a seasoned professional the Fort Collins area has hiking excursions perfect for you. Without further adieu let’s dive right in.

Best Hikes Around Fort Collins: Horsetooth Rock

Horsetooth Rock is a classic Fort Collins Hike. It is the one point that is easily identifiable from almost anywhere in town. Once you reach the peak you are able to take in so much of the front range it feels like you might as well be flying. 360 degree views are all yours if you are willing to brave the final rock scramble to the peak of Horsetooth Rock.

To get there take Harmony road in Fort Collins West until it turns into 38E. Continue West around Horsetooth Reservoir. Once around it is only a few more miles until you hit the Horsetooth Rock trailhead. Make sure to pay for a parks pass in order to park without being ticketed. Then follow the Horsetooth Rock Trail. It is well signed and hard to get lost as long as you stay on trail. This hike is a popular one so getting there early will always be your best bet.

Arthur’s Rock

Located in Lory State Park to the West of Fort Collins Arthurs Rock is another classic Fort Collins hike. Lory State Park is right on the outskirts of town and will take you about 20 minutes to get to from most places. Just follow CR 23 North along Horsetooth Reservoir. The turnoff for Lory is right after the final dam to the North. Stop by the gatehouse for a parks pass and then continue to the trailhead. This is another steep hike taking you up to some great vantage points that will allow you to see Fort Collins and many other neighboring towns and cities from up above. On a clear day from Arthur’s Rock visibility can be almost unlimited.

Best Hikes Around Fort Collins: Grey Rock

It only takes a short drive up the Poudre Canyon to reach the Grey Rock trail. With a large trailhead parking area it is pretty easy to find parking during slower times. However, weekends and holidays are very popular times for this hike. If you choose to do it during one of these times we recommend getting there early for the best parking opportunities. There is no pass required for parking and access. The trail to Grey Rock is a steep one that rewards you with some of the best views in Northern Colorado.

This was just a small selection of the amazing hikes we have around Fort Collins and in greater Northern Colorado. We are always happy to provide recommendations to folks. Whether you are new to the area or a seasoned local we probably have ideas for things you have never tried. Contact us and find out how we can help Fort Collins feel more like home.

What To Do This Weekend in Northern Colorado?

If you are trying to come up with something new and different to do this weekend.  What To Do This Weekend in Northern Colorado, here is an idea. 

Have you ever visited a Little Free Library?  

You may have one in your neighborhood. You can find them throughout Northern Colorado and the world.  The idea behind a Little Free Library is to expand access to books and inspire readers.  You can get a map, online, of the little libraries in your town and then start visiting them.  Each one is different. Some of the libraries focus on children’s books, others have more fiction than nonfiction and still others are a good mix of whatever you might like.  

What To Do This Weekend in Northern Colorado? Take A Book Leave A Book

An image of a dragon themed little library to illustrate the idea of What To Do This Weekend in Northern Colorado?

If you have a book that you have already read, take it with you.  You can take a book from the little library or share a book.  You do not have to share a book to take a book, but it is better if you do.  Enjoy the book that you take, and then drop it off at the little library that you took it from or another one. On average one book is shared at each Little Free Library each day! Be a regular visitor to the little library.  See if you can find the little library in Fort Collins that has a Dragon theme.  

How to Find A Little Library

Wondering What To Do This Weekend in Northern Colorado? Check out a little library like the one pictured here.

The first Little Free Library was built and put into use in 2009.  There are now over 150,000 little libraries, in over 110 countries.  Moreover, not all little libraries are registered with the Little Library Foundation so that number is probably much higher.  After finding and visiting some of the Little Free Libraries you may become inspired to build your own Little Free Library and place it in your neighborhood.  There is a website that you can visit that features a  how to video.  Go to:  littlefreelibrary.org/start/ You can make your own or buy a kit and to make your library.  Additionally, do not forget to register at the website for the Little Free Library.  You will also need to add some books.  You are inspiring readers and expanding access to books.  

What To Do This Weekend in Northern Colorado? There is always so much to do in our area, but taking a break and enjoying books is not a bad way to spend an hour or so.  Still looking for ideas contact us for a free tour of the area or personalized recommendations based on your interests.

Northern Colorado Day Trip Ideas

Even with so much to do in and around Fort Collins you might be running low on ideas. If you are ready to venture out for the day we have put together a short list of Northern Colorado day trip Ideas to inspire your next journey.

Day Trip to Estes Park

Estes Park is a can’t miss destination if you are thinking about a day trip near Northern Colorado. The charming town is filled with small shops and great restaurants. Additionally, you can even combine your trip with a stop off at the well known Rocky Mountain National Park that is just outside of town. Parking can be a little hard to come by on weekends during the warmer seasons. So come prepared to drive around a little bit before getting to embark on your adventure. If you don’t want to mess with crowds just plan to visit on a weekday or in the off season.

An Image of Estes Park demonstrating Northern Colorado Day Trip Ideas

Northern Colorado Day Trip Ideas: Across the Peak to Peak Highway

If you have already done Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park you might have overlooked the Peak to Peak highway. This recognized Scenic Byway connects the points between Estes Park and Blackhawk. The drive alone takes about three hours. In addition, there are multiple pull offs and scenic overlooks along the way. To truly see and enjoy all the Peak to Peak has to offer would take the better part of a day. This means that you could connect it with the Estes Park and Blackhawk day trip suggestions in this post to make a long weekend of adventure.

Enjoy an Afternoon Drive up the Poudre Canyon

If you have lived in Northern Colorado for any length of time you have probably heard of the Poudre Canyon. However, how far up the canyon have you driven? Have you made it all the way to Cameron Pass? If not a trip up the Poudre Canyon should be on your list of day trips. Simply gas up the car in Fort Collins and wind your way up Highway 14. You can pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic at one of the scenic overlooks. Additionally, you can always stop off for a bite to eat in Rustic which is about an hour up the Canyon. If you can’t wait that long there is also the restaurant at Mishawaka. Either way make sure to take in the sites and sounds of our own Wild and Scenic River.

An image of the Poudre Canyon demonstrating Northern Colorado Day Trip Ideas

Northern Colorado Day Trip Ideas: Black Hawk Casinos

Black Hawk is only about an hour and a half drive away from Fort Collins. At that distance it is a simple proposition to head up in the morning spend the afternoon at the casinos and drive home in time for a late dinner. Having too much fun? Not to worry, many of the casinos have affordable hotel rooms if you have to spend the night.

We hope this brief article helps you pick your adventure with a few Northern Colorado day trip ideas. Contact us if you need more local recommendations.

Best Coffee Shops in Fort Collins

With our readers in mind we have compiled a list of the best coffee shops in Fort Collins. With any town there are a variety of coffee shops to choose from. For instance you can go with a tried and true chain like Starbucks. Doing so allows you to know that you will receive roughly the same quality product and experience regardless of location. However, the small one offs or mom and pop shops with a couple of locations are often where the heart of a community exists. We have a number of coffee shops that are close to our hearts here in Fort Collins. Whether you are looking for a quick drive through or somewhere to work on your newest novel there should be something on this list for you.

The Human Bean

A picture of the human bean demonstrating Best Coffee Shops in Fort Collins

One of our favorites. The Human Bean has a variety of Northern Colorado locations to choose from. They offer a fast drive through experience. The Human Bean also carries a vast array of to go breakfast food options for anyone in a rush in the morning. These include several gluten free choices for the gluten sensitive among us. With friendly staff and amazing coffee The Human Bean is a can’t miss coffee shop in Fort Collins.

Best Coffee Shops in Fort Collins: Alley Cat

Located on Laurel just across the street from Colorado State University, Alley Cat is a coffee shop well known and loved by our local students. The free wifi is something that really appeals to the student population. However, this isn’t to say that you have to be a student to enjoy its lively atmosphere. This is because everyone is welcome to grab a coffee at Alley Cat. While you are there make sure to try one of their famous sandwiches.

The Cart

An image of the cart coffee shop illustrating Best Coffee Shops in Fort Collins

With a local presence of 27 years The Cart is definitely a can’t miss coffee shop in Fort Collins. It is located inside of Spouts grocery store at the intersection of Lemay and Drake. The Cart offers a small coffee shop feel that is great for a meeting or writing the next chapter of your novel. Once you are done you can grab some pastries from Great Harvest Bread a few doors down, or hit up Island Grill next door for dinner.

A picture of a coffee cup illustrating Best Coffee Shops in Fort Collins

Did we miss one of your favorite Best Coffee Shops in Fort Collins? Contact Us and we will add it to the list. As area experts we can also provide any other recommendations you may need, or even an area tour if you are looking to relocate. We are always happy to shed some light on what makes Fort Collins a great place to call home!

Best of Fort Collins 2022

Best of Fort Collins 2023

Exciting news! One of my favorite things, out of so many, about Fort Collins is that we do the “Best of Fort Collins 2022” Every year it is so fun to see who won “best of” in the different categories. The big news is that the results are in for 2022. So…who won in the different categories? Here is a list of some of the results.

  • Best all around restaurant: Austin American Grill
  • Best Breakfast: Silver Grill
  • Best Dessert: Walrus Ice Cream
  • Best Romantic Restaurant: Jay’s Bistro
  • Best Salad Bar: Spoons, Soups, Salads and Sandwiches
  • Best Meal For the Money: Krazy Karl’s Pixie and Sports Bar
  • Best Mexican: Blue Agave Grill
  • Best Tourist Attraction: Old Town
  • Best Gift Shop: The Cupboard
  • Best Grocery Store: King Supers
  • Best Florist Shop: Palmer Flowers
  • Best Family Amusement: The Gardens at Spring Creek
  • Best Birthday Party Venue: Fort Fun
  • Best Barber Shop: Floyd’s 99 Barbershop

What makes Fort Collins Great

Fort Collins is a great place to call home because of these Best of Fort Collins 2023 winners.

That is a long list and the list in the “best of” section of the Coloradoan is even longer. It covers “best of” for service providers, doctors, hospitals, beauty and health, entertainment, shopping and so much more. I am always available for recommendations, but this list is fun to refer to also.

Remember to enjoy all that Fort Collins has to offer and the unique places that are special to just Fort Collins, not just those on the Best of Fort Collins 2022 list. Nothing turns you into a local faster than knowing where all the great spots are. So, if you are looking for a special place, we can help. Whether it is a new home or just a community recommendation. Just reach out and contact us we provide special recommendations to some of the communities best kept secrets. We just ask that you promise not to spoil them by making them too popular.

An Introvert’s Guide To Fort Collins

There are a number of lists out there or things to do in Fort Collins for those who enjoy getting out and being around lots of people. However, what about those of us who are more interested in individualistic pursuits? With this in mind we have put together a list of a few things that may be more appealing for the introverts among us. Here is an introvert’s guide To Fort Collins.

People Watching in Old Town

An image of street photography representing an introverts guide to Fort Collins

Sometimes the best feeling is being a fly on the wall. In Old Town Fort Collins you can blend right in. Grab a seat at one of the many patios available. While you are there grab an appetizer or beverage and take in all the sights and sounds while blending right in. There is no need to feel like the center of attention with so many other people moving in and out of shops and stores. Pro tip, Old Town is also a great place to do some street photography with dozens of interactions going on at any given spot.

An Introvert’s Guide To Fort Collins: Try A Solo Hike

There are a number of great local hiking trails around Fort Collins, Colorado. This is really a choose your own adventure as the hikes available range from easy to complex. Two local favorites are the Horsetooth Rock trail and Horsetooth Falls. They both depart from the same trailhead. However, Horsetooh Rock takes a few hours and can be steep. Horsetooth Falls trail on the other hand is fairly flat and only about a mile.

Quiet Coffee Shops

There are a number of cozy coffee shops in Fort Collins. Here you can enjoy a quiet cup of coffee and a calming atmosphere. One of the quietest is The Cart. This coffee shop is located inside of Spouts Grocery Store. The coffee is great and there are a number of little nooks and crannies. Take advantage of this little known spot to get some work done, or type away on your latest writing project.

An Introvert’s Guide To Fort Collins: Colorado State University Trial Garden

A picture of the CSU trial garden demonstrating things you can do in the introverts guide to Fort Collins

The CSU trial garden is a great place to get out while at the same time avoiding the crowds. In the spring, summer, and fall there is a changing landscape. This is because the plants peak at different times. It is a great place to explore with your camera. You can also bring a picnic lunch and enjoy it on the grass or at the nearby pavilion.

If you want more tailored recommendations like an introvert’s guide to Fort Collins of all that our area has to offer Contact us. We would be happy to help.

Golf Courses in Fort Collins

To start off this list let’s explore the municipal golf courses in Fort Collins, Colorado. Information on each of these courses and how to book at tee time can be found on the municipal golf website.

Collindale

An image of a sign depicting the Collindale Golf Course in Fort Collins, Colorado.

Let’s first take a look at Collindale golf course. Collindale is an 18 hole course with a par of 71. Additionally, it is characterized by a medium green length which are fast and well manicured. Collindale also features a driving range for those of us who need to shake the rust off early in the season. This course also features the C.B. & Potts restaurant and bar at the clubhouse. The clubhouse is a great place to finalize your business deals post play, or just grab a bite to eat before heading home.

Golf Courses in Fort Collins: City Park 9

Shorter greens and old growth trees characterize this 9 hole course located near Old Town Fort Collins. City Park 9 has a par of 36 and is great for a fast game when you don’t have time for a full 18 holes. This popular short course is great for those who want to walk while they play. Just make sure to lighten up your bag before hand.

Southridge

Rolling hills medium green length and spectacular views make Southridge a local favorite golf course. With 18 holes at a par of 71 this course is one that you should not miss when visiting or living in Fort Collins, Colorado. A fun fact about Southridge is that it is also a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. Who knows what neat birds you might see when you play this course.

Golf Courses in Fort Collins: Fort Collins Country Club

Our area also has a number of privately run golf courses. The most notable of these is the Fort Collins Country Club. The course features 18 holes that features great mountain views and mature trees lining the fairways. In order to play here you will need to be a member. If you are interested in membership more information can be found at the Fort Collins Country Club’s website.

Mountain Vista Golf Course

Mountain Vista is another private course in our area. It is 9 hole course located just North of town. Want to get in 18? Just play the course twice. This course also features a driving range, putting range, and chipping area. The chipping area even has a practice sand pit. Find yourself getting thirsty out there? No worries there is a full service beverage cart for all your needs. Visit the Mountain Vista website for more information.

XGolf

While it is not really a golf course XGolf offers a unique golfing experience. You will be able to play digital golf using the latest technology. These golf simulators have a 98% shot prediction accuracy. This is a great way to work on your golf game when the weather is less than ideal. There is also a bar, ping pong, foosball, and shuffle board. More information about booking a session can be found at the XGolf website.

Contact Us if you have any questions about the recreation opportunities our area has to offer.

Great Fort Collins Shopping Spots

If you have come to Northern Colorado looking for great Fort Collins shopping spots then you have certainly come to the right place. Here is a collection of a few of our favorites. Of course this is not an exhaustive list because we can’t spoil all the local secrets all at once.

Jax Outdoor Store

Jax Outdoor Store Fort Collins

Jax has multiple locations throughout Northern Colorado, but none have the size or selection of their original Fort Collins location. There is honestly something here for everyone. If you enjoy outdoor pursuits, or even just the Colorado lifestyle you will feel at home here. There is a wide variety of your typical outdoor equipment, but also a vast kitchen and cooking section, and a great selection of photography equipment for the photog in your life. You can find out more at the Jax Outdoor Website.

The Cupboard

The Cupboard Fort Collins

The Cupboard is your one stop shop for all things kitchen. From specialty hot sauces to a wide array of chefs knives. If you use it in the kitchen you can find it in the Cupboard. If you love to cook or entertain you will be hard pressed to leave without walking out with something new for your home. You can find out more at the Cupboard’s Website.

Rocky Mountain Olive Oil

Rocky Mountain Olive Oil Company Fort Collins

Ever wanted to try something new in the kitchen? If the answer is yes then you need to check out Rocky Mountain Olive Oil. Their oils are infused with a variety of different flavor notes from oranges to green chilies. You can also taste test each oil to find the one that is right for you. This might help put your next dish over the top. You can find out more at the Rocky Mountain Olive Oil Website.

Old Fire House Books

Old Fire House Books Fort Collins

Located in Old Town, Old Fire House Books is another of the great Fort Collins shopping spots. It is Northern Colorado’s largest independent bookstore. Looking for something new and interesting, or even out of print, there is a chance you might find it at Old Fire House Books. You can find out more about them at the Old Fire House Books Website.

Need More Great Fort Collins Shopping Spots?

If you need any suggestions of great places in the area to shop for something specific, contact us, we would be happy to help.

Disc Golf Course in Fort Collins

There are quite a few disc golf course in Fort Collins. Disc Golf is a popular sport in Fort Collins and Greater Northern Colorado. This is reflected by the sheer number and quality of courses that we are fortunate enough to have here. Locals often have their top courses that they continue to play over and over again. Our local courses vary from beginner friendly to expert. With that in mind we will break down the different courses beginning with the easiest and moving to the most difficult at the end. Of course, any article like this is likely to be subjective so please don’t @ us if you don’t agree with our assessment. Make sure to download Udisc to get more in depth information on each of these courses.

Boltz Junior High

First, Boltz is one of our personal favorite disc golf course in Fort Collins. This is a 9 hole course with short-medium drives and relatively easy difficulty. As this course is mostly open there isn’t a lot to get in your way. However, beware of the tennis courts which are often locked. This can make retrieving an mis-thrown disc difficult. There is also a water hazard running down the middle of the course. The ditch can vary in moisture content depending on the season. You definitely want to be more concerned with in in spring and summer. Park by the tennis courts to find hole 1 near the massive cottonwood tree on the West side.

Cache La Poudre Middle School

Second is CLP which is a really fun course. While technically not “in” Fort Collins city limits it has earned its spot on this list. CLP is a 9 hole course with short drives and easy to moderate difficulty. This course is all about control with lots of big trees and plants to eat discs. The benefit is that lots of trees also mean lots of shade in the spring and summer. When arriving, park in the school lot after hours/on the weekend. From there find hole 1 near their outdoor amphitheater.

Fort Collins High School

Third is FCHS which is a pretty wide open 9 hole course with medium drives and easy to moderate difficulty. FCHS is usually one of the least crowded courses on any given day. Unlike CLP, FCHS openness means less shade in the hotter months which is something to keep in mind. Park on the Southwest corner of the high school building to find hole 1 to the West.

Aggie Greens

Aggie Greens is an 18 hole course with long drives and a moderate difficulty. It is a newer course without a lot of older growth trees which can mean hotter play in the summer. This is a course you should make sure to play at least once while in Fort Collins. CR23 will take you directly to the proper parking area.

Edora Disc Golf Course Fort Collins

Finally, Edora is an 18 hole course with medium to long drives and a hard difficulty. With this in mind, long driving ability is a must on this course or it can quickly become a slog. It is easy to mix things up with long holes interspaced with shorter ones. With 18 holes there is a lot of opportunity to mix up your play if you don’t want to do it in order. Edora is a well known course and as such it is often crowded on weekends. Park near the pool and ice center to find hole 1 down the hill to the North.

Hopefully you were able to discover a new disc golf course in Fort Collins from this list. As always if you have any questions or need any recommendations about the Fort Collins and Greater Northern Colorado area we are here for you. Don’t hesitate to reach out and Contact Us for any of your needs.