Back To Previous PageFort Collins prides itself on its thriving music culture, featuring numerous live music venues and unconventional avenues to satisfy your musical passions. Read on to dive into the unexpected ways to indulge in your love for music in FoCo.
A Vinyl Experience
All Sales Vinyl, which opened in Old Town Fort Collins in 2018, caters to music aficionados who understand there’s a deeper experience available from a record than merely streaming an album.
“People of all generations are not only hearing the difference in the vinyl album but... are able to see the album art, which is pretty amazing, and get to hold it in their hands, see who played on the album and get all the experiences you lose when you're just streaming.” said owner Mike Fogerty.
Spin (or Jam Out) Where You Stay
The elegant Elizabeth Hotel stands as a premier boutique destination, earning the distinction of Fort Collins' inaugural four-star accommodation upon its inauguration in 2017. Immerse yourself in musical delights with amenities such as in-room record players or the lobby lending library brimming with musical instruments awaiting your creative touch. Opt for the Music Suite experience and unleash your inner DJ with cutting-edge record players and sound systems, accompanied by the pleasure of playing your very own baby grand piano. Indulge in jazz melodies while savoring cocktails atop the rooftop Sunset Lounge, or groove to an eclectic array of genres—from rock 'n roll to folk, funk, and bluegrass—at The Magic Rat live music venue.
Music District Nurtures NoCo Music Landscape
The Music District stands at the forefront of Fort Collins' vibrant music scene, acting as a hub and creative space for contemporary musicians and members of the Northern Colorado music industry to create, connect, and level up. As membership-based organization, the Music District offers a diverse range of programming, including educational music writing camps, collaborative producer and songwriter meet-ups, 1-on-1 mentorship, unique engagements with touring musicians and various other artist development-infused initiatives.
Learn About Music
Unleash your musical creativity at the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, where you can rock out on guitars, drums, marimbas, and even experiment with a theremin, all within their captivating permanent music-themed exhibit. The Music & Sound Lab delves into the science of sound, the rich history of Fort Collins' music scene, and the evolution of technology from Edison wax cylinders to modern iPods. Additionally, the museum's OtterBox Digital Dome Theater not only showcases concerts but also presents captivating shows exploring the intersection of art, science, and history.
Add FoCoMX to Your 2024 Calendar
Held every spring in Old Town, FoCoMX is a popular event featuring over 400 Northern Colorado-based bands and artists at 35 downtown stages. This year’s event is slated for April 19-20, 2024.
Unique Places to Enjoy Live Music
Although established music venues like Washington's and The Aggie provide exceptional live music experiences, you might be intrigued by the less conventional spots to enjoy a live performance. The Lyric, a locally owned independent movie theater and event space, offers a vibrant lineup of live music performances with numerous upcoming shows to enjoy. For a refined musical treat, consider indulging in the Sunset Rooftop Lounge, where you can unwind to the tunes of live contemporary jazz in the evenings. Alternatively, elevate your experience with an elegant High Tea reservation on Sundays, adding a touch of sophistication to your musical escapades.
Music All Week Long
Live music can be heard any night of the week in Fort Collins!
- Enjoy live music and delicious food at The Fort Collins Food Truck Rally, which takes place every Tuesday from May through September, from 5:30 PM to dusk.
- Over at Colorado State University (CSU), The Lagoon Series is a free summer concert series slated for Wednesday evenings throughout the summer. Catch well-known (mostly) Colorado bands.
- Head to Old Town for the Thursday Night Live free weekly Thursday Night Live summer concerts every Thursday from 7-9pm throughout the summer.
- Front Range Village hosts its Sounds of Summer concert series each Thursday, July 12-August 9, 5-8pm on the Front Range Village Courtyard.
- Ace Gillett's hosts live music Wednesday through Sunday. Their events calendar includes live acoustic sets, blues, jazz, and contemporary piano.
