Fort Collins, Colorado: Cities & Towns, Shopping, Schools and Things to do

What is the weather like in Fort Collins, CO?

Fort Collins has a range of weather conditions throughout the year. Each season has its own unique climate and activities. Summers are usually hot and dry, with temperatures reaching the 90s, with the sun shining for most of the day. In the winter, expect heavy snowfall, but it does not stay around long and often melts within a few days. Spring in Fort Collins is mild and sunny, with temperatures ranging from cool to warm. Spring is a great time to explore the outdoors and experience the city's vibrant craft beer scene. Like Spring, fall has comfortable temperatures and light breezes that make it perfect for enjoying Fort Collins. 

The most popular times for visitors are the Spring and Fall, but any season can be enjoyed in Fort Collins, CO.

The average snowfall is 51.4 inches (1.31 m), and the average precipitation is 15.88 inches (403 mm).

What are the best Museums in Fort Collins?

Fort Collins Museum of Discovery

The CSU Environmental Learning Center offers an educational experience for the whole family. You can hike, bird watch, and attend workshops focusing on the nature of the Colorado area. 

Museum of Art Fort Collins

The Museum of Art in Fort Collins features over 30,000 artifacts showcasing Fort Collins's history and culture. It also offers educational programs and special events throughout the year. Centered in the heart of downtown, it's a great place to visit and explore other shops, eateries, and breweries. 

Cottonwood Hollow Natural Area

Located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, the Cottonwood Hollow Natural Area is a must-visit for those who want to appreciate the nature of Northern Colorado. In addition, the Soapstone Prairie Natural Area within the park is a great place to view the plains and majestic Rocky Mountain peaks. 

Gardens on Spring Creek

The Gardens on Spring Creek is an expansive 18-acre (7.3 ha) botanical garden located a couple of miles north of downtown Fort Collins. The garden provides an assortment of themed gardens.

River Ponds Natural Area

Comprised of wetlands, ponds, grasslands, and forests, the River Ponds Natural Area is an excellent place for bird-watching, nature photography, and hiking. Several boardwalks, bridges, and viewing platforms give visitors an easy way to explore. The natural area is well-known for its educational and immersive guided hikes and nature walks. 

Edora Park

Edora Park is a great place to exercise with friends or family. There are fields, playgrounds, a dog park, picnic shelters, public tennis courts, frisbee golf courses, basketball courts, and even a skate park! You can also visit for special events like a holiday celebration or a marathon. 

What is the food scene like in Fort Collins, CO?

Fort Collins is a vibrant and growing city with plenty of new and exciting restaurants and bars. Here are some of the local favorites

1. Silver Grill Cafe: This cafe has been serving comforting and hearty breakfasts, and lunches with a nostalgic Front Range feel since 1933. 
2. Coopersmith's Pub & Brewing: The city's oldest brewery and pub. They offer a wide selection of locally crafted beers in a bottle and on tap.
3. Ginger and Baker: This restaurant and bakery are perfect for picking up freshly baked pies and enjoying their outdoor patio. It is dog friendly too! 
4. Town Pump: A small and cozy dive bar and one of the oldest bars in Colorado. A local favorite. 
5. Austin's American Grill: If you want to experience some classic cuisine of Colorado, go here. You won't be disappointed. 
6. The Melting Pot: This restaurant offers a unique and family-friendly dining experience with award-winning cheeses from Wisconsin, gourmet salads, entrees, and chocolate fondues.
7. Cactus Jack's has a bright, atrium-style dining room, a Starbucks, and a lounge to enjoy their sweets and beverages, including their homemade Spring Creek Ale and wide selection of dipping sauces.

All these restaurants are located in Old Town Fort Collins, the certified Colorado Creative District, with an array of bookstores, galleries, and shops to explore traditional Noco culture. 

Are there any festivals or attractions in Fort Collins, Colorado?

Yes, there are many events held in Fort Collins. The Downtown Business Association hosts e festivals in the Downtown district, like s the Bohemian Nights at NewWestFest in late summer, which showcases local cuisine, music, and businesses. Another popular event is The Colorado Brewer's Festival. The festival averages 30,0009 attendees and has reached up to 45 different brewers. The New Belgium Brewing Company also hosts the Tour de Fat. This event draws over 20,000 people who dress up and ride bikes around the city. 

Is Colorado State University in Fort Collins, CO?

CSU is the largest school in Fort Collins. Its sustainability initiatives make it one of the greenest colleges in America. CSU offers a range of majors and programs for undergrads. They also offer graduate and online degrees. CSU provided a diverse cultural experience and a growing and renewed campus with a welcoming and friendly feel of Colorado.

CSU Environmental Learning Center

The Colorado State University's Environmental Learning Center is great for taking the family and learning about Colorado's environment. The center focuses on educating visitors on conservation and sustainability. It has an interactive museum, live demonstrations in the garden, and interactive exhibits for kids. You can also explore the outdoors with over five miles of hiking and biking trails, bird watching, and guided educational tours. 

If you want to relax and enjoy the scenery, there is an outdoor amphitheater for picnics and camping and a pond to go fishing. The CSU Environmental Learning Center is open all year round and free of charge. 

FAQ

What is the population of Fort Collins, Colorado?

According to the U.S. Decennial Census, as of 2020, There are 169,810 residents living in Fort Collins. The breakdown of Fort Collins residents is also very diverse, with 21.5% under 18, 22.1% from 18 to 24, 31.5% from 25 to 44, 17.0% from 45 to 64, and 7.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age is 28 years.

What are the taxes like in Fort Collins, Colorado?

Fort Collins has one of the lowest effective property tax rates in Colorado, with a top income tax rate of 4.63%. Residents pay a much lower tax than their neighbors in Denver and Boulder.