Art Lover Itinerary

We value the arts in Fort Collins and display our local talent throughout the community. In Old Town, public art can be seen down alley ways, on electrical boxes and statues placed all around the area. Pianos About Town, painted by local artists, can be seen in different Fort Collins locations, while art shops line the Old Town streets. Fort Collins is an art lover’s paradise thanks to the art that encompasses the town. Experience the artsy town of Fort Collins with eyes wide open.

Check into a room at the Armstrong Hotel

An Old Town Fort Collins landmark, the iconic Armstrong Hotel is happy to welcome your whole family to the hotel. Their dog friendly rooms include a comfy Pendleton dog bed, a New Belgium Brewery dog bowl and plenty of local treats to snack on. While your pup will be more than pleased with the accommodations, so will you. The hotel recently reopened in spring 2019 after a complete remodel honoring the hotel’s 95-year history. The new look features an eclectic mix of earthy, natural and jewel tones juxtaposed with industrial elements, such as vintage leather, wood, and metals throughout. Visit this page for more details on the hotel’s pet policy.

• 259 S. College Ave
• (970) 484-3883

Breakfast Options:

• Starry Night, locally roasted, organic fair trade coffee served to the community of Fort Collins for over 20 years.
  • 112 S College Ave #100
  • (970)-493-3039
• Little Bird Bakeshop, local delicious, made-from-scratch pastries, cakes, pies and every other sweet treat you desire.
  • 613 S. College Ave
  • (970)-568-8906

Visit the Fort Collins Museum of Art  

Housed in the old Post Office of Fort Collins this art museum is in and of itself, a piece of art.

• 201 S. College Ave
• (970) 482-2787
• moafc.org

Check out The Center for Fine Art Photography and Trimble Court Artisans

The Center for Fine Art Photography displays photo exhibitions in three galleries and offers free admission, and Trimble Court Artisans features artistic goods for sale from local artists.

• 321 Maple St. 
• (970)-224-1010

Trimble Court Artisans, an art and craft co-op gallery featuring unique work from over 50 local Colorado artists.

• 118 Trimble Court
• (970-221-0051

Lunch Options:

• Big Al’s Burgers and Dogs, serves up all American classic type of grub like gourmet hot dogs, creative cheeseburgers and hand-cut fries.
  • 140 W Mountain Ave
  • (970)-232-9815
• Choice City Butcher and Deli, a true Fort Collins hidden gem serving up some of the best breakfast, sandwiches,  burgers and cuts of meat around.
  • 104 W Olive St
  • (970-490-2489

Visit the Bas Bleu Gallery

Housed in the historic Giddings Building, the Bas Bleu Gallery in Fort Collins hosts six visual art exhibits a year, featuring local and regional artists. This is also the home to Bas Bleu Theatre Company, which hosts a number of plays throughout the year.

• 401 Pine St
• (970) 498-8949 
• www.basbleu.org

First Friday Art Walk

Enjoy Downtown Fort Collins’ thriving gallery scene! The walk features nearly 20 galleries located all within walking distance in historic Downtown Fort Collins. This event occurs every first Friday of each month.

Dinner:

• RARE Italian, a unique restaurant in Old Town Fort Collins that has perfected a delicious farm-to-table Italian cuisine as it is prepared and enjoyed in Italy.
  • 101 S College
  • (970)-294-4544

After Dinner Drinks:

• Elliot’s Martini Bar, one of Fort Collins’ first craft cocktail bars serving up creative and sophisticated martinis.
  • 234 Linden St
  • (970)-472-9802
• Sunset Longue, Our all-weather, open-air jazz bar atop The Elizabeth Hotel sets a picturesque backdrop to savor the finest drinks and Front Range Mountain views. 
  • 111 Chestnut
  • (970)-999-3494