When Harper Goff, an illustrator and production designer for Walt Disney, was asked in 1951 to draw up plans for a section of the company’s new California theme park, he thought back to his childhood home: Fort Collins, Colorado. Established as a military outpost in 1864, the town became a vital stopover for stagecoaches and wagons headed west on the Overland Trail. By Goff’s era, Fort Collins had transformed into a quintessential American town — and its captivating Romanesque and Classical Revival buildings served as perfect inspiration for Disneyland.

However, FoCo, as the locals affectionately call it, isn’t stuck in time. The median age of the residents is 29, thanks in part to the presence of Colorado State University; consequently, new businesses have infused the town with a youthful spirit. Here’s an insightful guide on how to explore the best of Fort Collins.

A Grown-up Grande Dame

The historic 1923 Armstrong Hotel underwent a stunning renovation in 2019, and its 54 rooms are now adorned with burnished-brass beds and plush Persian rugs. Don’t miss the extensive vinyl-record library at Ace Gillett’s, the subterranean supper club and lounge — and save time for a leisurely ride around town on one of the hotel’s cruiser bikes. Doubles from $239.

A Sophisticated Sweet Shop

Moreover, the world’s largest selection of single-origin chocolate is crafted at Nuance Chocolate, where ethically sourced cacao beans are roasted on-site. Specialties include the wildflower honey and lavender truffle — created in collaboration with local Colorado beekeepers — and the spicy Snake Bite, which features añejo tequila sourced from nearby distillery Leopold Bros.

An Epicurean HQ

A revitalized 1905 feed store and grain elevator is home to Ginger & Bakery, a delightful market-café-restaurant where patrons can enjoy bison carpaccio, made-from-scratch pies (the quadruple coconut cream is a standout), and a locally blended spiced chai that can be transformed into a “cheeky chai” with a shot of Baileys. Entrées $18–$48.

A Bakery With Pep in Its Step

Inside a former mechanic’s garage on an old farm, you’ll discover Bindle Coffee: a unique roastery featuring a bar made from rail-car floorboards and tables crafted from 1870s barnwood. Start your day strong with a lemon poppy cruffin (a delightful croissant-muffin hybrid) paired perfectly with a cortado.

A Hyper-local Beer Bar

Consequently, beer lovers can savor Colorado in a glass: 11 of the 13 brewing options at Stodgy Brewing Co., including a caramelly Belgian Quad and a refreshing Mexican Lager, are crafted entirely from local malts and hops. During renovations of the former fireplace and stove repair business, the owners creatively repurposed soapstone stove parts for the tile floors. The bar itself is made from black walnut trees found on the property.

An Urban Oasis

Discover a new sanctuary for nature lovers with over 300 butterfly species — including black malachites, bright orange Julias, and zebra longwings — fluttering through the 1,700-square-foot greenhouse at the Gardens on Spring Creek. Be sure to look out for stunning birds-of-paradise, angel’s trumpets, and the elusive voodoo lilies that bloom just once each year.

This guide presents a glimpse into the enchanting elements of Fort Collins, encouraging visitors to appreciate its vibrant culture, culinary delights, and natural beauty.