Fort Collins, Colorado Tours
The Adventure Gateway to Northern Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park Tours
Experiences in Rocky Mountain National Park from Fort Collins is limited to private tours at this time. Many of our local guides based in nearby cities can pick up our sightseeing guests from local accommodations on the day of their tour. We suggest meeting your guide in Estes Park, which will allow you to maximize your day and allow you to participate in some of the small group tours.
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Rocky Mountain Experience
Glass-roof van tours through Rocky Mountain National Park.... More
- Half Day • Estes Park, CO
- Perfect for families & photographers
- Travel above 12,000 ft in comfort
- Stargazing and wildlife options available
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Rocky Mountain National Park Private 4 Hour Tour
Private half-day SUV tour through Rocky Mountain National Park.... More
- Half Day • Estes Park, CO
- Perfect for families & groups
- Spot wildlife & enjoy short walks
- Private SUV transport & guide included
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3 Hour National Park Gateway Trail Ride
3-hour guided horseback ride through scenic alpine landscapes.... More
- 3 Hours • Estes Park, CO
- Ideal for families & adventure seekers
- Choose from Deer Mountain or Horseshoe Park routes
- Stream crossings, mountain views, and wildlife spotting
Things To Do in and Around Fort Collins
Fort Collins is where Colorado’s outdoor heart meets its creative soul. Within minutes of downtown, you can raft the Cache la Poudre River, hike to waterfall overlooks, or unwind with a cold craft beer on a sunlit patio. The city’s historic Old Town buzzes with music, art, and friendly locals, while nearby Horsetooth Reservoir and Poudre Canyon invite days filled with adventure. Whether you prefer paddles, pedals, or pints, Fort Collins has a way to make every day feel distinctly Colorado.
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The Fort Collins Haunted Pub Tour
90-minute 21 + haunted pub walk with ghost stories in Old Town... More
- 1.5 Hours • Fort Collins, CO
- Old Town Ghosts
- Pub Stops & Tales
- Evening Walking Tour
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The Fort Collins Ghost Tour
75-minute guided walking ghost tour through Old Town Fort Collins... More
- 1 Hr 15 Min • Fort Collins, CO
- Haunted Tunnels
- Local Legends
- Family Friendly
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Fort Collins Ghosts & Goodies Tour
Family-friendly one-hour ghost and dessert tour in Old Town Fort... More
- 1 Hour • Fort Collins, CO
- Family Friendly Tour
- Dessert Samples
- Lightly Spooky Fun
Best Time to Visit Fort Collins
- Spring (Mar–May): Wildflowers bloom along the foothills; ideal temps for biking and brewery patios.
- Summer (Jun–Aug): River recreation peaks — rafting, kayaking, and lake days at Horsetooth. Expect lively festivals and warm evenings.
- Fall (Sep–Nov): Crisp air, golden cottonwoods, and harvest season at local farms.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Quieter pace, holiday lights, and cozy tasting rooms — plus nearby snowshoeing in Poudre Canyon.
Events & Festivals
- Tour de Fat (June): Biking meets beer in this legendary costumed ride and festival hosted by New Belgium Brewery.
- FoCoMX (April): Two-day local music showcase across downtown venues.
- Colorado Brewers’ Festival (June): 150+ beers, food trucks, and live bands.
- Holiday Twin Drive-In Events: Outdoor movie nights under the stars.
- Taste of Fort Collins (Summer): Food, drinks, and family fun in Old Town Square.
Where to Stay
Choose from boutique hotels in Old Town, cozy Airbnbs near CSU, or scenic lodges overlooking Horsetooth Reservoir. The Armstrong Hotel blends history and modern charm, while newer stays like The Elizabeth Hotel add artistic flair with in-room record players and rooftop views.
Food & Drink Tours
Savor the spirit of Fort Collins one step — and one sip — at a time. Wander through Old Town’s historic brick-lined streets, where local stories meet modern flavor. With more than 80 restaurants, lively bars, and a thriving craft beer scene, each corner offers something to taste and discover. Join guided brewery tours at New Belgium, Odell, or Horse & Dragon, sample farm-to-table bites, and meet the makers who define the city’s creative energy. Along the way, explore art galleries, the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, and the vibrant Colorado State University campus — all part of this city’s walkable charm.
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The Fort Collins Haunted Pub Tour
90-minute 21 + haunted pub walk with ghost stories in Old Town... More
- 1.5 Hours • Fort Collins, CO
- Old Town Ghosts
- Pub Stops & Tales
- Evening Walking Tour
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Blendings Wine Experience
Two-hour guided wine-blending session with charcuterie and a... More
- 2 Hours • Fort Collins, CO
- Custom Wine Blending
- Guided Wine Flight
- Culinary Pairings
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Distilleries Tour
Three-hour distillery cart tour exploring Fort Collins’... More
- 3 Hours • Fort Collins, CO
- Craft Spirit Tastings
- Distillery Hopping Tour
- Street-Legal Cart Ride
Where to Eat
Fort Collins is one of Colorado’s culinary gems, balancing casual comfort and elevated flavor. Farm-to-table restaurants, gastropubs, and international cuisine line the streets of Old Town. Try The Kitchen for sustainable dining, Lucile’s for Creole breakfast, and Ginger and Baker for coffee and pies in a restored grain mill. Food tours and beer-pairing dinners are a must for visitors.
Exploring Around Fort Collins
From scenic foothills to nearby mountain towns, Fort Collins is the perfect base for exploring northern Colorado’s beauty. Take a leisurely drive to Horsetooth Reservoir for lake views and hiking trails, or head into the Cache la Poudre Canyon for rafting, fishing, and wildlife. Guided tours reveal the region’s rich blend of nature and culture — from historic ranchlands and craft distilleries to day trips into Rocky Mountain National Park. Whether you’re after open-air adventure or relaxed sightseeing, Fort Collins offers easy access to some of Colorado’s most unforgettable landscapes.
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Fort Collins: Military Years (Riding Tour)
Two-hour guided military history tour exploring Camp Collins and... More
- 2 Hours • Fort Collins, CO
- Fort Collins Origins
- Frontier Army Life
- Poudre River Trail
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Fort Collins: Early Settlement & Town Beginnings (Riding Tour)
Two-hour guided history tour exploring early settlement and Fort... More
- 2 Hours • Fort Collins, CO
- Fort Collins Founders
- Frontier Life Stories
- Historic Settlement Sites
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Half-Day Winter Fat Bike Tour
Private 4-hour guided fat-bike adventure with gear, snacks, and... More
- 4 Hours • Front Range, CO
- Winter Snow Trails
- Certified Guides
- Premium Fat Bikes
Near Town
- Cache la Poudre River: Colorado’s only federally designated Wild & Scenic River — perfect for rafting, kayaking, tubing, or fly-fishing.
- Horsetooth Reservoir: Hiking, boating, paddleboarding, and scenic drives just west of town.
- Lory State Park: Mountain biking and horseback trails with views of the foothills.
- Poudre Canyon Scenic Drive: 40 miles of stunning canyon views, picnic stops, and wildlife spotting.
- Avery House & Gardens: Historic home tours and local heritage exhibits.
Family Favorities
- City Park & Lake: Paddleboat rentals, picnic areas, and open-air concerts in summer.
- Fort Collins Trolley: Ride a restored 1907 streetcar through Old Town on weekends.
- The Farm at Lee Martinez Park: Hands-on petting zoo and kids’ activities.
- Annual Garden of Lights: Holiday light displays at The Gardens on Spring Creek.
Check Out The Rich (Haunted) History Of The City
Step into the stories that shaped Fort Collins. From haunted alleys to century-old storefronts, every block in Old Town carries a trace of the past — and a few lingering mysteries. Guided walking tours bring the city’s history to life through tales of pioneers, spirits, and preservation, while art lovers can explore over 300 murals and sculptures through the city’s Art in Public Places program. Don’t miss the monthly Downtown First Friday Art Walk, where local artists and musicians fill the streets, or a visit to the Global Village Museum to experience cultures from around the world. Whether you’re drawn to the paranormal or the picturesque, these tours reveal the creative soul and spirited heritage of Fort Collins.
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The Fort Collins Ghost Tour
75-minute guided walking ghost tour through Old Town Fort Collins... More
- 1 Hr 15 Min • Fort Collins, CO
- Haunted Tunnels
- Local Legends
- Family Friendly
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Fort Collins Ghosts & Goodies Tour
Family-friendly one-hour ghost and dessert tour in Old Town Fort... More
- 1 Hour • Fort Collins, CO
- Family Friendly Tour
- Dessert Samples
- Lightly Spooky Fun
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Forbidden Fort Collins History Tour
Adults-only 75-minute walking history tour of Old Town Fort... More
- 1 Hr 15 Min • Fort Collins, CO
- Bootleggers & Brothels
- Costumed Guides
- Historic Landmarks
Cultural & Historical Experiences
- Art in Public Places: Over 300 murals and sculptures throughout downtown.
- Global Village Museum: Exhibits celebrating cultures from around the world.
- Downtown First Friday Art Walk: Monthly evening event with local artists and live music.
Suggested Itineraries
Boulder makes a great stop before or after Rocky Mountain National Park. Whether you’re here for a single day, a long weekend, or part of a weeklong Colorado trip, Boulder offers an easy mix of hiking, dining, and cultural experiences.
1 Day Itinerary
Morning: Breakfast downtown, bike or stroll the Poudre Trail.
Afternoon: Brewery tour or museum visit, lunch at The Kitchen or Coopersmith’s.
Evening: Dinner and live music in Old Town Square.
👉 Best for weekend explorers.
2-3 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Explore Old Town, take a guided brewery tour.
Day 2: Raft the Poudre River or hike Horsetooth Falls.
Day 3: Shop local markets and enjoy an evening concert or art walk.
👉 Perfect for couples or friends’ getaways.
Weeklong Adventure
Split your time between Fort Collins and the Rockies. Spend 3–4 days enjoying city adventures, then drive the scenic Poudre Canyon route to Estes Park or Rocky Mountain National Park.
👉 Great for travelers wanting both comfort and wilderness.
Boulder isn’t just a gateway to Rocky — it’s a destination in its own right. From farm-to-table dining and craft breweries to iconic Flatiron hikes, we’ll help you create an itinerary that combines Boulder’s best with park adventures.
Insider Tips
- Fort Collins is flat and bike-friendly — rent one to explore like a local.
- Many breweries offer free samples or discounted flights.
- Parking is easiest in Old Town garages or near Civic Center.
- Hydrate and take it easy the first day; elevation is around 5,000 feet.
- Rafting season typically runs May–August depending on snowmelt.
- Try weekday visits to avoid crowds at Horsetooth Reservoir.
Practical Travel Info
- Location: 65 miles north of Denver, 45 minutes from Estes Park.
- Elevation: 5,003 feet.
- Airport Access: Denver International Airport (DEN) ~1.25 hours by car.
- Transport: Local bus system, e-scooters, bike rentals; car recommended for canyon and park trips.
- Duration of Stay: 2–4 days recommended.
Notable Features
- Over 20 craft breweries and cideries.
- Historic downtown that inspired Disneyland’s Main Street, U.S.A.
- Cache la Poudre River — Colorado’s only Wild & Scenic River.
- Horsetooth Reservoir recreation area.
- Active arts and live music scene.
Town Highlights
- Old Town Fort Collins
- Cache la Poudre River
- Horsetooth Reservoir
- Odell Brewing & New Belgium Brewery
- Colorado State University
- Poudre Canyon Drive
- Fort Collins Museum of Discovery
- Lincoln Center for the Arts
Weather / Climate Overview
Fort Collins enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year.
- Spring: Mild and green; snow possible in early March.
- Summer: Warm and dry, highs mid-80s°F, ideal for river and outdoor dining.
- Fall: Clear, crisp days with stunning golden foliage.
- Winter: Snow in foothills but city streets stay manageable.
Crowd Levels / Peak Times
Summer and fall weekends are busiest, especially for festivals. Spring and winter see lighter crowds and better hotel rates.
Accessibility Notes
Old Town, breweries, and public facilities are ADA-accessible. River and reservoir areas have mixed terrain but designated accessible sections.
Shuttle / Transport Info
Local bus system (Transfort) covers city routes. Regional shuttle options connect Fort Collins to Denver and Estes Park.
What to Bring
Comfortable shoes, reusable water bottle, hat, sunscreen, layers, and a camera for canyon drives.
Safety Tips
Use caution near the river; currents can be strong in early summer.
Watch for wildlife on mountain roads.
Afternoon storms pass quickly but bring rain gear.
Cell Service / WiFi
Excellent coverage in the city; limited service in the canyon. Most cafes and breweries offer free Wi-Fi.
Sustainable Travel Tips
Use bike share programs and public transport.
Support local farms, breweries, and green-certified lodgings.
Pack reusable containers for trail or picnic days.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Fort Collins from Rocky Mountain National Park?
About 45 minutes by car via U.S. 34 through Loveland and Estes Park.
Is Fort Collins worth visiting on its own?
Yes — it’s a destination city known for outdoor fun, great food, and an unmatched beer scene.
Do I need a car?
Not for in-town fun, but one is recommended for river access and day trips.
When is the best time to visit?
May–October for warm weather and events; December for holiday lights and winter charm.
Is Fort Collins family-friendly?
Absolutely — it offers parks, trolleys, petting zoos, and safe biking paths.
Park Gateway Towns
Rocky Mountain’s two official entrances are flanked by mountain towns that make perfect bases. Estes Park anchors the lively east side, Grand Lake is the quieter west-side gateway, and nearby Boulder and Denver serve as arrival points with easy transfers to the park.
Estes Park, CO
The busiest gateway and the hub for Bear Lake Road and Trail Ridge Road adventures. Full of lodges, cabins, shops, and restaurants, Estes Park buzzes year-round with festivals and even elk wandering downtown in fall.
Grand Lake, CO
On the park’s quieter west side, this historic boardwalk town fronts Colorado’s largest natural lake. It’s perfect for kayaking, fishing, and moose watching in the Kawuneeche Valley.
Denver, CO
Colorado’s capital and the nearest major airport hub. Just 1.5–2 hours’ drive from Estes Park, Denver is where most long-distance travelers begin their Rocky Mountain adventure.
Boulder, CO
About 90 minutes from the park, Boulder pairs outdoor adventure with a vibrant dining and brewery scene. Many visitors stop here before or after their time in the mountains.
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CONTACT US
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National Park Tours
700 Rochelle Cir
Fort Collins, CO 80526 -
Meeting locations vary for each tour: You will be sent a meeting location after you book
