This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Fort Collins.
Situated between the plains and mountains north of Denver, Fort Collins provides a perfect gateway to Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park and Roosevelt National Forest. However, with a thriving Old Town Historic District and one of Colorado’s top craft-brewery hubs, this beautiful city has a lot to offer all on its own.
Despite what the name might imply, the town’s history doesn’t involve much military. Instead, the “fort” the name refers to was a trading post used in the 1860s. Visitors can learn more about the city’s past in Old Town, including the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery and the stately Victorian Avery House. Trolley rides are available to give travelers a more unique guided tour into the community’s past.
Hostels and hotels are plentiful, as this bustling city is home to the Colorado State University and boasts a thriving arts community. A hostel stay in Fort Collins will give tourists plenty of opportunities to venture out to some of the craft breweries here, including the New Belgium Brewing Company, Fort Collins Brewery, Odell Brewing Company, and even Anheuser-Busch – where guests can meet the brewing company’s world-famous Clydesdale horses.
Fort Collins also features tons of opportunities to experience the spectacular Colorado outdoors. In addition to the national parks nearby, Fort Collins is home to Lory State Park and Horsetooth Reservoir, which offer boating, swimming, horseback riding, rock climbing, mountain biking, camping, and fishing. There is no shortage of ways to stay active in Fort Collins, so you’ll earn a good night’s rest by the time you make it back to your hostel or hotel.
Getting around Fort Collins is fairly easy, as there are plenty of options for local public transportation. Shuttles are also available from the Denver Airport, but car rentals are recommended for visitors who plan to explore the national parks and venture into the adjacent Rocky Mountains.
Written by local enthusiast for Fort Collins hostels
