Where to Stay in Fort Collins (Best Places & Areas)

4 Best Neighborhoods & Areas to Stay in Fort Collins

Old Town is located in the heart of the city. This area is the most walkable, and where you’ll find the greatest concentration of dining options and local shops. Colorado State University is also set within this historic district. 

South Fort Collins is flanked by residential neighborhoods and has a suburban feel. Expect chain hotels and restaurants, several urban parks, and nearby convenience stores. The area east of town has fewer but similar amenities, and easy access to I-25. 

West Fort Collins is closest to mountain parks, Horsetooth Reservoir, and the Cache la Poudre canyon. Outdoor recreation is plentiful and accommodation options range from suburban to remote.

Old Town Fort Collins

👉 Best Area For Tourists | ✨ Best Old Town Fort Collins Hotels: The Armstrong Hotel • The Elizabeth Hotel • Remington Flats • Edwards House

Vacationers and those visiting Colorado State University will want to stay in Old Town, a central district with a small-town feel. Old brick structures, local storefronts, and flower-lined sidewalks give it an undeniable charm. The area famously inspired Disneyland’s Main Street, USA.

Hang out in Old Town Square, dine on a restaurant patio, and peruse the many shops. Most everything will be within walking distance of your accommodation. 

For the best location and historic character, stay at the Armstrong Hotel. Stylish rooms and suites come with luxe amenities, and complimentary cruiser bikes make it even easier to get around town. Be sure to order a cocktail from the hidden underground speakeasy when visiting.

Edwards House offers similar amenities but an even more local feel. Couples especially love this bed and breakfast, which has been restored to its original Victorian elegance. Book a room with a fireplace for the full experience.

Pros of Staying in Old Town Fort Collins:

• Several hotel options 
• Walkable to shops, restaurants, and bars
• Quaint streets and hometown feel
• Close to CSU

Cons of Staying in Old Town Fort Collins:

• Hotels can be pricey
• More crowds downtown

South Fort Collins

👉 Best Area For Affordable Stays | ✨ Best South Fort Collins Hotels: Fort Collins Marriott • Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites • Home2 Suites by Hilton

The region south of Old Town is surrounded by residential neighborhoods, creating a more suburban feel. Families and business travelers may prefer this quieter area, which provides easy access to green spaces, convenience stores, and affordable chain hotels. 

Holiday Inn Express is a reliable pick, offering clean rooms and great amenities like a fitness center, indoor swimming pool, and a free continental breakfast each morning. For extended stays, consider Home2 Suites for its stocked kitchenettes and spacious rooms. 

Pros of Staying in South Fort Collins:

• Affordable and extended-stay hotels 
• Several nearby parks

Con of Staying in South Fort Collins:

• Lacks local charm 
• You’ll need to drive to Old Town and other attractions

East Fort Collins

👉 Best Area For Traveling Through | ✨ Best East Fort Collins Hotels: Best Western Kiva Inn • Days Inn by Wyndham

If Fort Collins is a pit stop on a larger road trip, stay east of town near I-25. No-frills chain hotels like the Days Inn are right off the highway, offering an affordable and comfortable place to rest.

However, if you’re a light sleeper, you may want to stay at the Best Western Kiva Inn. It’s a couple of miles from the freeway, so the sounds of traffic are less. This hotel is also pet-friendly, and offers a complimentary breakfast and charging stations for electric vehicles. 

Pros of Staying in East Fort Collins:

• Hotels are affordable
• Easy access to I-25 

Con of Staying in East Fort Collins:

• Few dining options in immediate area 
• Lacks charm of other areas 

West Fort Collins

👉 Best Area For Outdoor Experiences | ✨ Best West Fort Collins Hotels: Riverside Colorado • Laporte Home Rental • Bellvue Hideaway

The west side of Fort Collins is best known for Horsetooth Reservoir, a great spot for adventures on and off the water. Paddleboard around the coves and enjoy year-round hiking, plus snowshoeing in the winter. This spacious Bellvue Hideaway is just a five-minute drive from the park. It also sleeps up to six guests, pets are welcome, and the backyard is fantastic. 

Alternatively, plan a getaway to Riverside Colorado. My stay there last summer was absolute perfection. This glamping destination offers several cozy cabins, tiny homes, and furnished canvas tents right along the Cache la Poudre River. Cast a line into the water, explore nearby trails, and catch the free shuttle to the Mishawaka Amphitheatre for an evening concert. 

Pros of Staying in West Fort Collins: 

• Near year-round outdoor recreation
• Close to Horsetooth Reservoir, Cache la Poudre, etc. 
• Quiet and scenic 

Con of Staying in West Fort Collins:

• Farther from downtown attractions
• Fewer dining options 
• Cell service is limited in the canyon

Tips for Staying in Fort Collins

Stay Outside of Old Town to Save Money

Several Old Town hotels offer historic charm and walkability to the top Fort Collins attractions. However, you’ll pay a premium to stay in this centralized area. 

If you’re on a budget, consider hotels just outside of downtown. Those in South Fort Collins are still very close to the top things to do, while accommodations west provide easier access to outdoor recreation. 

Consider Your Transportation

Getting to Fort Collins from Denver International Airport takes just over an hour, so ride shares can get pricey. There are shared shuttles you can take from the airport but still, I’d recommend renting a car.  

While Old Town is wonderful, I believe that so much of Fort Collins charm extends beyond downtown. A rental vehicle will allow you to explore a wider range of attractions including hiking, rafting tours, and a day at Horsetooth Reservoir. 

📚 Related Reading: Getting Around Denver (How to Do it With or Without a Car)

Drink Lots of Water

The high altitude and exhilarating outdoor activities can lead to dehydration quickly. When exploring local hiking trails or spending any amount of time outside, be sure to drink plenty of water. A refillable bottle should absolutely be part of your Colorado packing list.

Have Layers and Sun Protection

Another consideration in the Great Outdoors is to make sure you’re well-protected in the sun. You’ll definitely want a hat with a generous brim, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Bring along sun protection even on cloudy days because the weather here changes quickly. 

Because of this, you may find that you’re chilly one moment, and then peeling off sweaty clothing the next. Bring several layers that are easy to take on and off, plus a backpack to store them when you don’t need them.

FAQs

Is Fort Collins worth visiting?

Fort Collins is absolutely worth visiting. The city has a relaxed, college town vibe that makes a visit feel like a relaxing vacation. There are plenty of outdoor activities, along with a thriving craft beer scene and the charming Old Town district.

How do I spend a day in Fort Collins?

Start by grabbing breakfast and browsing the shops in Old Town, then head out for a hike, go boating on the reservoir, or fly fish the Cache la Poudre in West Fort Collins. Wind down at one of many breweries, then enjoy dinner at Ginger and Baker. 

What is there to do in Fort Collins at night?

There is a lot to do in Fort Collins at night. Have a bite and peruse the memorabilia at Totally 80’s Pizza, then sip cocktails and listen to vinyl records at Wobble HiFi. You could also catch a double-feature at the Holiday Twin Drive-In Theater or see a concert at the Mishawaka. 

***

Fort Collins is a fantastic destination, whether you want to tour breweries, visit a college student, or spend a day outdoors. I hope this guide has been helpful! Leave a comment if you have any questions and check out our guide to the best day trips from Fort Collins next.