10 Things To Do in Fort Collins for First Time Visitors

Are you planning a visit to Fort Collins in the near future? If so, then you’re in for the time of your life. The area offers some of the most fun and exciting things to do and see for first timers as well as for the locals that enjoy their surroundings. Get ready to step back into an era long gone, when the buffalo roamed the plains because you’re going to see them while you’re there. Here are 10 of the most highly recommended things to do in Fort Collins to make your trip absolutely unforgettable.

1. Watch the Bison in their natural habitat

You can see real bison at the Laramie Foothills Bison Conservatory. They maintain and care for a herd that lives within their fenced pasture that is located at the Soapstone Prairie Natural Area. This designated tourist attraction is open for visitors beginning in March and running through November. You’ll really enjoy watching the babies and the adults as they interact and graze. The members of this herd are direct descendants of the Yellowstone bison. An educational component will teach you everything you wanted to learn about them.

2. Try your hand at birdwatching

Fort Collins and the surrounding area offer some of the best birdwatching opportunities in the world. If you’re already into the pastime you’ll be delighted to know that there are more than 500 species which have been spotted and recorded in the area. Some of the best viewpoints for birdwatching at Fort Collins include the Bobcat Ridge Natural Area where a very rare American Woodcock has been spotted. The Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area is a magnificent place to spot bald eagles.

3. Visit the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery

The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery has two options for visitors. You can either go with the premium option and buy a ticket for admission or go and visit their free zone. The museum has made it possible for everyone who wants to attend to get in on the excitement. Here you’ll find a grand piano that has been restored and preserved from circa 1904 at the St. Louis World’s Fair, and you can also see the archive which stores a massive collection of maps, photos, and books that tell Fort Collins’ interesting story from a historical perspective. There are many more attractions.

4. Have fun at the Library

The Poudre Valley Library District transforms into a wonderland your children with free classes on technology for people of all ages and a variety of free fun events. They offer wonderful storytelling events and much more. It’s a tour that the whole family can enjoy.

5. Catch some free cartoons

If you’re visiting Fort Collins with the whole family then you won’t want to skip a visit to the Lyric Cinema Cafe. Here you’ll be able to get in on the fun and excitement of catching some cartoon showings for free. They offer a broad variety of different showings including Thundercats, Popeye, Voltron, Looney Tunes and much more. It’s also a great place to catch a bit to eat. You never have to pay to see any of the classic cartoons that are offered, but if you’re starving and you want to grab a bite to eat they offer an all you can eat cereal bar for just $5.

6. Go Stargazing

If you’re planning to be at Fort Collins with someone very special, you might want to put in a night of stargazing. It’s one of the most romantic things to do in the spring summer or fall. The Sunlight Peak Observatory is located at Front Range Community College and it’s one of two places you can view the heavenly bodies with amazement. You can also get a good view of the stars at the Stargazer Observatory which is located in southeast Fort Collins at Observatory Village. Check online in advance of your trip to nail down the dates and times.

7. Tour the Brewery

If you appreciate a good brew, then you can drink your fill at the local brewery tour. While there, you’ll be guided through the facilities of the brewery and get an in-depth explanation of the brewing process and you’ll get to see first hand how beer is made. There are a few different breweries to tour including Anheuser-Busch, Odell Brewing Company, New Belgium Brewing Company and Fort Collins Brewery. By the way, these are all free tours.

8. Visit the Fort Collins Museum of Art

The Fort Collins Museum of Art is located in the Old part of town. They offer free admission if you’re there on the first day of the month and any other day, you’ll need to purchase admission tickets, but this is an amazing museum for art enthusiasts. They offer exhibits designed to provoke thought and this may not be the best place to take the kids, but it offers tremendous intellectual stimulation for adults.

9. To to the Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures

This museum is situated on Mountain Avenue and the admission is free on the first Friday. The museum is open from 6 to 9 pm and it offers amazing exhibits of international folk art as well as historical information and exhibits with educational components.

10. Ride the trolley

The Fort Collins Trolley is a special attraction that is guaranteed to be fun for the entire family. It takes you all around Fort Collins and it shows you all the sights from a comfortable seat that gives you a good view of the area.

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