A Local’s Guide to A Fort Collins Day Trip 

You’re already up in Estes Park enjoying the mountains, maybe getting ready for a morning hike or taking in the crisp air from one of the overlooks. Fort Collins is just about an hour away, and honestly, it’s worth the detour from your Estes trip. You’re already most of the way there anyway, why not see all the city has to offer?  

This guide is here to tell you that skipping Fort Collins is a missed opportunity. The city blends walkable streets, outdoor recreation, and a lively food and drink scene in a way that’s worth exploring when you’re already in the area. It sits close enough that a quick day trip won’t turn your day into an exhausting marathon. You’ve already driven to Estes Park, so most of the travel is behind you. Fort Collins is just down the hill. 

The city has earned its reputation as one of Colorado’s most appealing places to live, and unlike some destinations that look good on paper but disappoint in person, Fort Collins delivers. Downtown works. The trails and parks provide genuine outdoor access. The food and beverage scene maintains quality without being pretentious. It’s a college town that feels alive without being overrun by students, a craft beer hub that welcomes casual visitors, and a Front Range city that still feels connected to the mountains and outdoorsy activities. 

Here’s how to make the most of a day in Fort Collins. Stroll downtown streets filled with local shops, breweries, and cafés, stop for lunch or a snack at one of the city’s approachable restaurants, walk along the Poudre River Trail or explore a nearby park for a bit of fresh air and exercise. Check out rafting on the Poudre, or Horsetooth Reservoir to really round out your experience. Let us help you plan the perfect day in Fort Collins, all within 90 minutes of your Estes Park vacation.  

Morning: Raft the Poudre River 

If you’re looking for a nearby thrill, A Wanderlust Adventure offers one of the closest whitewater rafting experiences near Estes Park. Just a short drive from town, their trips on the Cache la Poudre River give adventurers the chance to enjoy real rapids without spending hours on the road. The river winds through stunning canyons, offering both excitement and incredible scenery for first-time rafters and seasoned paddlers alike. 

Their rafting excursions are designed to suit a range of skill levels. Families and beginners can enjoy gentler stretches that still provide plenty of fun and memorable views, while more experienced rafters can take on challenging rapids that deliver nonstop thrills. All trips are guided by trained professionals who make sure every ride is educational and exciting. For anyone in Estes Park craving adventure nearby, A Wanderlust Adventure turns a day in the mountains into a full whitewater experience. 

Fuel Up at Vern’s Place 

After rafting, walk upstairs to Vern’s Place. The restaurant has been there since 1946 serving homestyle breakfast, lunch and dinner. Their cinnamon rolls have a cult following among Fort Collins locals. Not fancy, just really good food that hits right after three hours of paddling through cold water. The outdoor patio catches afternoon sun and offers canyon views. It’s the perfect spot to decompress and figure out what to do with the rest of your day. 

Early Afternoon: Horsetooth Reservoir 

After you’ve changed into dry clothes and eaten, Horsetooth Reservoir is a 20-minute drive from Vern’s Place. It sits just west of Fort Collins at the base of Horsetooth Mountain. 

If you’re tired from rafting, this is a low-effort way to enjoy more Colorado scenery. Inlet Bay on the north end has easy parking and beach access. You can swim, rent paddleboards, or just find a spot on the rocks to relax. The water stays reasonably warm through July and August, though it’s noticeably cooler than what you’d find at lower elevation reservoirs. South Bay toward the southern end tends to be quieter if you want to avoid the summer crowds that gather at Inlet Bay. The reservoir itself stretches for six miles, so even on busy weekends there’s usually space to spread out. If you brought a kayak or paddleboard, launching from the various access points is straightforward. The afternoon winds can pick up significantly, especially from May through September, so morning or early afternoon tends to be calmer for water activities. 

If you want more activity, the Horsetooth Falls Trail runs about 2.5 miles round trip with moderate elevation gain. The falls flow strongest during spring runoff and after heavy rains. It’s enough to stretch your legs without wearing yourself out before the evening. For those feeling ambitious after rafting, the Horsetooth Rock Trail offers a more challenging option. It’s a steep climb gaining about 1,100 feet over 1.5 miles one way, but the views from the distinctive rock formation at the top are some of the best in the area. You can see Fort Collins sprawling east toward the plains and the mountain ranges stacking up to the west. Fair warning though, this one’s a workout after a morning of paddling. 

Plan to spend an hour or two here. You don’t need to make it a whole production. Just enjoy being outside without the intensity of whitewater. 

Late Afternoon: Old Town Fort Collins 

By late afternoon, head into Old Town Fort Collins, about 15 minutes from Horsetooth. This is the historic downtown core, centered on College Avenue. Brick buildings from the 1880s through 1940s now house breweries, restaurants, shops, and galleries. What makes Old Town work is that it’s a functioning downtown where locals actually go, not just a tourist district. You’ll see people picking up hardware supplies, getting haircuts, running normal errands alongside tourists exploring. Wander through without a specific agenda. Duck into Trimble Court Artisans if you’re into local art and crafts. Grab coffee at Mugs Coffee on College or The Alley Cat. If you’re here the first Friday of the month from May through October, the First Friday Art Walk takes over the streets with local artists, live music, and gallery openings. 

Old Town Fort Collins is a shopping destination that blends charm, variety, and local flair. Strolling through its streets, you’ll find a mix of boutique shops, specialty stores, and unique local businesses that make browsing a pleasure. From handmade gifts, artisanal goods, and home décor to clothing, accessories, and locally crafted products, there’s something for every taste. The area’s walkable layout makes it easy to wander from store to store, pop into a café for a break, and soak in the historic architecture and lively atmosphere.  

The Poudre River Trail runs 21 miles through Fort Collins along the Cache la Poudre River. Fort Collins earned Platinum status from the League of American Bicyclists, the highest ranking for bike-friendly cities. With over 280 miles of trails and one of the highest bikes per capita rates in Colorado, the infrastructure actually works. The section through downtown passes breweries and parks with mountain views. Walk a section to get a feel for the city. If you want to bike after rafting all morning, Recycled Cycles or Fort Collins Bike Library offer rentals. The trail connects neighborhoods and gives you a sense of how Fort Collins residents actually use the city. 

Evening: Craft Beer and Dinner 

After a full day of rafting the Poudre River and exploring the streets of Fort Collins, your appetite is guaranteed to be roaring. Between the adrenaline of navigating rapids and the miles of walking, shopping, and sightseeing downtown, your body is ready for a hearty, satisfying meal. The smells of fresh-baked bread, sizzling grills, and aromatic coffee from the cafés along Old Town’s streets only make the hunger more intense. Whether you’re craving a comforting plate of pasta, a juicy burger, or a lighter, fresh salad, the variety of restaurants nearby offers the perfect reward for a day packed with adventure and activity. Sitting down to eat after such an active day isn’t just about refueling, t’s a chance to relax, savor local flavors, and share stories about the day’s highlights. 

New Belgium Brewing 

Fort Collins has over 20 breweries within city limits, one of the highest breweries per capita in the country. The brewing heritage dates back to the 1870s, so the craft beer scene isn’t just a recent trend. 

New Belgium is the most famous brewery in town. They opened in 1991 in a basement and now they’re one of America’s largest craft breweries. Most people skip the formal tour and head straight to the tasting room, but the tours hold a great reputation among locals.  The tasting room pours both their widely distributed beers and experimental batches that never leave Fort Collins. The real draw is the patio overlooking the Poudre River Trail, often accompanied by local food trucks. By late afternoon, it fills with cyclists, after-work groups, and people who spent the morning rafting. Everyone’s doing the same thing: drinking decent beer while watching Fort Collins move past on bikes. After an active morning and afternoon, sitting on a patio with a beer flight is exactly the right speed. If you want to check out other breweries after getting your fill of Fat Tire or VooDoo Ranger, some are within walking distance! 

Other breweries worth checking out: Odell Brewing Company (another Fort Collins pioneer), Equinox Brewing, and Horse and Dragon (small batch focused). 

Dinner in Old Town 

After beer, grab dinner at one of Old Town’s restaurants. Here are some solid options within walking distance from the Old Town breweries:  

• Coopersmith’s Pub & Brewing is a longtime Fort Collins institution, offering classic pub fare, house-brewed beers, and a welcoming atmosphere for casual meals and gatherings. 

• RARE is a modern American restaurant known for its elevated dishes, creative plating, and thoughtful flavors that make it ideal for a special night out. 

• Ginger and Baker combines a café, bakery, and market, offering everything from fresh pastries and coffee to approachable lunch and dinner options. 

• Bistro Nautille serves French-inspired cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and seafood, offering both classic and creative dishes in a cozy, intimate setting. 

• Beau Jo’s Pizza serves Colorado-style mountain pies with thick crusts perfect for drizzling with honey. It’s hearty, filling comfort food after a day on the water. 

• Rio Grande has been doing Mexican food and margaritas since 1986. Americanized Mexican but well-executed with generous portions and a reputation for strong margaritas. 

• Blue Agave brings Mexican fusion flavors to Fort Collins, with flavorful tacos, enchiladas, and margaritas in a festive, colorful atmosphere. 

• Illegal Pete’s is a lively spot for burritos, tacos, and other Southwestern favorites, known for its fresh ingredients and bold flavors. 

• Big Al’s serves classic American comfort food, including burgers, hot dogs, and shakes.  Perfect after a day of exploring (and drinking). 

• Slyce is a casual pizzeria popular for its creative pizzas offered by the slice, fresh toppings, and fun, relaxed atmosphere. They’re open late! 

• The Exchange is a lively, open-air gathering space that brings together a diverse mix of food, drinks, and entertainment in a 20,000-square-foot venue. It features a variety of locally owned businesses housed in repurposed shipping containers, offering everything from tacos and craft cocktails to ice cream.  

If You Have More Energy or Need a Few More Options 

Fort Collins Museum of Discovery 

The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is an interactive science and history museum that engages kids and adults. Exhibits cover everything from the Poudre River watershed to space exploration to local history. 

Gardens on Spring Creek 

Gardens on Spring Creek offers 12 acres of botanical gardens along Spring Creek. It’s free to visit, though donations are encouraged. The gardens include a children’s garden, herb garden, rock garden, and accessible gardens. The gardens stay open until dusk during summer, making it a mellow option if you want something peaceful after an active day. 

Live Music 

Fort Collins has a solid live music scene with several venues worth checking out throughout Old Town, and seasonal performances in the square. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy live music at Mishawaka Amphitheatre, located along the Poudre River, offering a unique concert experience in a natural setting. Additionally, Bohemian Nights Thursday Night Live provides free outdoor concerts during the summer months, featuring a range of genres and local talent  

Alternative Afternoon Options 

Drive Further Up Poudre Canyon 

If you want to stay in the canyon after rafting with A Wanderlust Adventure, Highway 14 is one of the most scenic drives in Colorado. The road follows the Cache la Poudre River through Roosevelt National Forest, climbing from Fort Collins’ elevation of 5,000 feet up to Cameron Pass at 10,276 feet. 

A good option is driving to Rustic (about 25 minutes from Vern’s Place) and back, stopping at pullouts along the way. The Poudre is a Gold Medal Water fishery. You’ll see anglers working the river year-round. This works well if you want a more relaxed afternoon without the downtown scene. 

Lory State Park 

Lory State Park sits on the west edge of Fort Collins, offering hiking and mountain biking trails with views of Horsetooth Reservoir and the Front Range. It’s less crowded than Horsetooth Reservoir proper. Arthur’s Rock Trail is the most popular hike, gaining about 1,200 feet over 1.7 miles to a rock outcropping with panoramic views. The trail gets busy on weekends, but weekday afternoons are quieter. Mountain bikers love Lory for its network of singletrack ranging from beginner-friendly to technical. 

Making It Work 

The day flows naturally. Morning whitewater in Poudre Canyon, lunch at Vern’s, afternoon at Horsetooth or straight to Old Town, brewery patio time, dinner. Each piece is close enough that you’re not spending significant time driving between activities, and you can get everything in during a single day trip from Estes Park. 

Fort Collins works well as an add-on to your rafting trip because it offers variety without demanding intensity. You can adjust based on energy levels. Want more outdoor time? Spend longer at Horsetooth or drive up the canyon. Prefer urban exploration? Skip the reservoir and head straight to Old Town. Exhausted from rafting? Grab lunch and spend the afternoon at the Mishawaka or on New Belgium’s patio before dinner. 

The combination of outdoor access, walkable downtown, craft beer scene, and 300+ days of sunshine makes it easy to see why the day trip to Fort Collins from Estes Park is worth it.  

Ready to book the rafting adventure that kicks off your Fort Collins trip? Reach out today!