Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Fort Collins, Colorado
Fort Collins offers something for everyone, from kayaking on the Cache la Poudre River to sipping award-winning IPAs in its many taprooms. The city’s historic downtown is filled with Victorian architecture, bookshops, music venues, and boutique shopping. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the city's trail networks, lakefront parks, and access to Rocky Mountain National Park. Fort Collins is both a basecamp for adventure and a destination full of charm.
Top areas to stay at in Fort Collins, Colorado
Old Town Fort Collins
Old Town Fort Collins is the city's cultural and commercial center, known for its lively energy, local shops, and live entertainment. Vacation rentals include restored apartments above shops, townhomes near breweries, and stylish lofts within walking distance of everything. Staying here means direct access to Fort Collins’ nightlife, dining, and weekly events. Old Town is perfect for those who love being in the heart of the action.
University Park
Adjacent to Colorado State University, University Park buzzes with student life, green spaces, and academic buildings. Visitors can stay in updated apartments, guest suites, or homes on quiet, tree-lined streets. The area is great for campus visits, concerts, or football weekends. University Park offers youthful energy and easy access to cultural happenings.
Midtown Fort Collins
A growing hub south of Old Town, Midtown Fort Collins features family-friendly neighborhoods, shopping centers, and modern conveniences. Rentals in Midtown Fort Collins include contemporary homes, cozy condos, and Airbnbs near breweries and parks. Midtown is quieter than downtown but still close to local attractions and restaurants.
Horsetooth Reservoir Area
For nature lovers, the Horsetooth Reservoir Area offers stunning lake views, outdoor adventure, and peaceful surroundings just west of the city. Vacation homes include lakefront cabins, hillside retreats, and lodges with decks and hot tubs. Activities include boating, hiking, rock climbing, and scenic picnicking. This area is perfect for travelers who want to immerse themselves in Fort Collins’ outdoor scene.
Rigden Farm / East Fort Collins
In the eastern part of town, Rigden Farm is a newer development featuring quiet streets, parks, and trail connections. Vacation rentals in Rigden Farm include spacious homes, modern apartments, and pet-friendly Airbnbs. Rigden Farm provides calm, convenience, and a neighborhood feel.
Must-visit places and attractions in Fort Collins, Colorado
Old Town Square
Located in the heart of downtown, Old Town Square is a lively plaza filled with restaurants, shops, and street performers. The historic architecture and inviting atmosphere make it a great spot for day or night visits. Seasonal events, like summer concerts and winter light displays, enhance its charm.
Horsetooth Reservoir
A short drive from downtown, Horsetooth Reservoir offers boating, paddleboarding, hiking, and breathtaking sunset views. Surrounded by red rock formations and forested trails. The reservoir has picnic areas, campsites, and scenic overlooks.
New Belgium Brewing Company
One of the most iconic breweries in the U.S., New Belgium Brewing Company offers tastings, brewery tours, and a spacious beer garden. Guests can enjoy local favorites like Fat Tire while learning about the brewery’s sustainability efforts. Live music and food trucks often enhance the experience.
Fort Collins Museum of Discovery
Combining science, history, and hands-on exhibits, the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is fun for all ages. Visitors can explore music labs, local history displays, and a digital dome theater. The museum bridges education and entertainment in an interactive space.
Avery House
Built in 1879, the Avery House is a beautifully preserved Victorian-era home that offers a glimpse into Fort Collins’ past. Guided tours provide insights into local history, architecture, and 19th-century life. The surrounding gardens are perfect for a quiet stroll.
The Lincoln Center
As the city’s premier performing arts venue, The Lincoln Center hosts plays, concerts, dance performances, and traveling Broadway shows. Its sleek, modern design contrasts with the city’s historic vibe. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of cultural events year-round. The Lincoln Center enriches Fort Collins with world-class entertainment.
Spring Canyon Park
Located in southwest Fort Collins, Spring Canyon Park features a dog park, splash pad, playground, and multi-use trails. The park offers views of the foothills and connections to larger trail systems.
Cache la Poudre River Trail
Winding through town, the Cache la Poudre River Trail offers scenic paths for biking, running, or strolling alongside the river. Interpretive signs and wildlife sightings make it both educational and enjoyable. The trail links parks, neighborhoods, and nature preserves.
Where to find a vacation rental near Fort Collins
Boulder, Colorado
Just over an hour south, Boulder is a lively college town known for its Flatirons, Pearl Street Mall, and progressive culture. Vacation rentals range from mountain chalets to downtown lofts and eco-conscious homes. Visitors can hike Chautauqua Park, explore art galleries, or relax in cozy cafés. For a balance of mountain access and city creativity, book an apartment in Boulder, where outdoor trails and cultural energy meet at every turn.
Estes Park, Colorado
About 90 minutes southwest, Estes Park is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park and a hub for wildlife, hiking, and alpine charm. Rentals include cabins with views, creekside lodges, and chalets near trailheads. Visitors can tour the historic Stanley Hotel or enjoy local shopping and dining. For high-altitude comfort with trail access, unwind in a vacation rental in Estes Park, where nature and nostalgia create a scenic retreat.
Brighton, Colorado
Roughly 75 minutes southeast, Brighton is a growing community with a mix of agriculture, suburban development, and outdoor recreation. Vacation homes include family-friendly rentals, country estates, and homes near Barr Lake State Park. Guests can enjoy birdwatching, fishing, and local produce markets. For a countryside stay close to nature reserves, relax in a house in Brighton, where open skies and quiet roads define the pace.
Greeley, Colorado
Only 45 minutes east, Greeley is a university town with museums, breweries, and community festivals throughout the year. Rentals range from downtown apartments to quiet neighborhood homes with backyard patios. Visitors can explore the Colorado Model Railroad Museum or catch a performance at the Union Colony Civic Center. To enjoy a casual cultural stay, settle into an apartment in Greeley, where local flavor and low-key comfort go hand in hand.
Laporte, Colorado
Just northwest of Fort Collins, Laporte offers riverfront retreats, rustic cabins, and access to the Cache la Poudre River and Roosevelt National Forest. Visitors can enjoy tubing, fly fishing, and hiking just minutes from the city. The town has a quiet, rural feel with mountain views and relaxed vibes. For nature lovers wanting peace near the foothills, choose a vacation rental in Laporte, where the river and pines become your daily backdrop.
Explore captivating American landscapes and vibrant cities across the country.
Experience the natural splendor that extends beyond Fort Collins by exploring a variety of breathtaking sites. Discover the grandeur of the giant trees with vacation rentals near Sequoia National Park, where towering sequoias create awe-inspiring landscapes. For a coastal retreat, set your sights on Hampton Beach airbnb in New Hampshire, offering a blend of sandy shores and charming resorts. If serene lakeside getaways suit your preference, consider a tranquil escape and book in Caseville, Michigan, known for its peaceful waterfront vistas.
Uncover a dynamic side of American life with urban adventures waiting to be explored. Investigate the thriving arts scene and vibrant culture of Kentucky through short-term rentals Paducah, a city recognized for its creative energy. Dive into the heart of California by staying at an airbnb in Davis, offering unique experiences amid rich landscapes and spirited community life. Should you seek Southern charm, rentals in Cary, North Carolina, invite guests to enjoy its beautiful parks and local hospitality. Finally, stay close to Colorado's heritage with vacation homes Pueblo, where you can explore historic sites and local traditions steeped in history and culture.