Old Town Fort Collins Guide | Historic Downtown District, Colorado

Colorado's Craft Beer Capital

Old Town Fort Collins is the heart of one of Colorado's best college towns. The beautifully preserved historic district served as the inspiration for Disneyland's Main Street USA—and it's easy to see why. Tree-lined streets, historic storefronts, and an infectious energy make this one of Colorado's most walkable downtown areas.

But Old Town isn't stuck in the past. The district has evolved into Colorado's craft beer mecca, with New Belgium, Odell, and dozens of other breweries calling Fort Collins home. Add in farm-to-table restaurants, independent boutiques, and Colorado State University's youthful energy, and you have a downtown that feels both timeless and cutting-edge.

The pedestrian-friendly streets invite wandering. Duck into an alley to discover a hidden speakeasy, grab a locally-roasted coffee, browse a used bookstore, then end at a brewery patio watching the sunset. Old Town rewards exploration without a rigid itinerary.

Old Town Highlights

Essential stops downtown

Craft Breweries

Beer Capital

Over 30 craft breweries in the Fort Collins area. Downtown favorites include Coopersmith's, Equinox Brewing, and the Horse & Dragon taproom. Take the free Fort Collins Brewery trolley to hit multiple spots.

Old Town Square

Central Plaza

The heart of downtown with a central fountain, outdoor seating, and regular events. Summer concerts, farmers markets, and festivals keep the square active year-round.

The Music Scene

Live Entertainment

The Aggie Theatre, Hodi's Half Note, and Washington's host touring acts and local bands. Fort Collins punches above its weight for live music—check listings before your visit.

Historic Architecture

Victorian Charm

Over 20 blocks of historic buildings dating to the 1880s. The Old Town Historic District is on the National Register. Look for the ornate facades on College and Mountain Avenues.

Boutique Shopping

Independent Stores

No chain stores in Old Town—just independent retailers. Highlights include Nuance Chocolate, Clothes Pony (vintage), Alpine Arts (outdoor gear), and several bookstores.

Alley Culture

Hidden Gems

Old Town's alleys hide speakeasies, street art, and secret patios. Trimble Court and the alleys off College Avenue reward curious wanderers with unexpected discoveries.

Where to Eat

The Kitchen: Farm-to-table pioneer with a rooftop patio and community table. Brunch is legendary—expect a wait. Local, seasonal, and consistently excellent.

Jax Fish House: Sustainable seafood done right. Fresh oysters, creative preparations, and a lively bar scene. The lobster mac is a local favorite.

Cafe Vino: Italian small plates perfect for sharing. Great wine list and intimate atmosphere. Ideal for date night.

Choice City Butcher: Old-school deli and butcher shop with excellent sandwiches. Cash only, no frills, big flavors.

The Welsh Rabbit: Cheese-focused bistro with fondues, sandwiches, and an impressive cheese selection. Pairs perfectly with local beer.

Brewery Must-Visits

New Belgium Brewing: The Fat Tire originators offer tours of their sustainable brewery. The tasting room pours limited releases you can't get elsewhere. Reserve tours in advance.

Odell Brewing: Employee-owned brewery with one of the best taprooms in Colorado. The patio is perfect on summer evenings. Try the Drumroll APA.

Funkwerks: Saison specialists with a Belgian focus. Small batch, high quality, unique flavors. The taproom is intimate and beer-forward.

Zwei Brewing: German-style lagers and a killer patio. Authentic recipes and a welcoming atmosphere. Bring a group for communal tables.

Visiting Tips

Parking: Free 2-hour street parking throughout Old Town. Parking garages available for longer visits. The district is very walkable once parked.

Getting Around: Rent a bike through Spin or walk—Old Town is compact. The free FLEX shuttle connects to CSU campus and Midtown.

Events: Check the calendar for First Friday gallery walks, the Bohemian Nights concert series, and seasonal festivals. Something's usually happening.

Day Trip: Combine Old Town with Horsetooth Reservoir for a perfect Fort Collins day—downtown in the morning, lake in the afternoon.

More Colorado Main Streets

Love walkable downtown districts? Explore these similar experiences

Main Street Breckenridge: Victorian storefronts at 9,600 feet. Colorado's quintessential ski town main drag with 150+ shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Elkhorn Avenue, Estes Park: Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. Taffy shops, mountain views, and elk wandering through town.

Vail Village: European-inspired pedestrian village at the base of Vail Mountain. Upscale dining and boutique shopping in an alpine setting.

Manitou Springs: Quirky artist community at the base of Pikes Peak. Mineral springs, indie shops, and authentic Colorado character.

Old Town Fort Collins