Colorado State University
Colorado State University is one of the nation’s top-performing public research institutions and has been a cornerstone of Fort Collins from the very beginning. Founded in 1870 as Colorado’s land-grant institution, CSU’s main campus is easily accessible from I-25 and is just minutes from downtown Fort Collins and pristine Rocky Mountain recreation.
Visitors can stroll the vibrant CSU campus, explore the Lory Student Center, shop at the bookstore, take in the beautiful Flower Trial Gardens and generally soak in the college ambiance. Take an official campus tour or go at your own pace with a self-guided tour of CSU’s historic buildings and innovative learning and research spaces that are all part of Colorado State’s rich history. Summer is a great time to enroll in a Summer Session course or engage youth in educational K-12 Summer Programs.
CSU enrolls about 33,000 students and employs 7,600 faculty and staff. When you visit the Fort Collins main campus of the CSU System’s flagship institution you’re seeing the hub of a university with powerful statewide reach, including programs such as 4-H and Extension in every Colorado county, CSU Spur in the heart of Denver, agricultural research centers, and the CSU Mountain Campus west of Fort Collins.
Visit Colorado State University
- Where to Stay – Find a place to lay your head and relax after a day of fun at CSU.
- What to See & Do – What’s happening on campus and regional activity suggestions.
- Where to Eat – Restaurants, bars and coffee shops on and around campus.
Colorado State University Athletics
Colorado State University offers a top-notch NCAA Division I athletics program and all the excitement of watching your favorite sporting events live. Cheer on the CSU Rams and enjoy your stay after the game in Fort Collins!
Getting Around Campus
The University’s main campus is 586 acres, designed primarily for pedestrians and cyclists with limited vehicle access. Fort Collins Transfort provides bike-friendly buses and the efficient Max Rapid Transit system, connecting campus with an extensive network of destinations throughout Fort Collins, Colo. Bonus: CSU students ride free! Visitor parking permits are available for purchase at the machines located at the Moby Lot, University Square Lot and Veterinary Teaching Hospital West Lot.
Holding Meetings and Events on Campus
CSU may be the perfect spot for your upcoming conference, meeting, or other special event. Visit Fort Collins is here to help you identify available meeting space, and make the appropriate introductions to CSU staff. These complimentary services may also include assistance with lodging requests, activities coordination and visitor information table, packets, and services.
The CSU Energy Institute Powerhouse Energy Campus
The CSU Energy Institute is headquartered in the Powerhouse Energy Campus, which is ideally situated between the Poudre River and the heart of downtown Fort Collins. The Powerhouse is located in the former Fort Collins Municipal Power Plant. The old coal-fired power plant was constructed in 1936 and decommissioned in 1973, and then designated as historic landmarks in 1987. Today, the Powerhouse is a modern, 100,000 square foot LEED Platinum Certified building that is one of the largest free-standing energy facilities at any university. It is recognized nationally and internationally for its interdisciplinary approach and its groundbreaking work on engine technology, electric grids, biofuels, energy policy, human behavior, energy access in the developing world, and energy-focused entrepreneurship. In 2015, the Smithsonian Institution designated Fort Collins as one of six places of innovation in the U.S. and the only designee in energy innovation. Fort Collins represents clean energy development in the 21st century. The Powerhouse opens its doors to the public by providing guided tours of the state-of-the-art facilities and groundbreaking research. Tours are led by Colorado State University Energy Club Student Ambassadors, and give the public a chance to not only learn, but see science in action. Click here to register for a free tour of the Powerhouse.
Local Favorites
Authentic to Fort Collins
CSU Football Game Day
Come for the game, stay for the weekend! The Colorado State University Rams offer a first-class CSU game day experience at their brand new, state-of-the art on campus stadium. CSU has put together an...
Learn MoreThings to Do near CSU
f you’re interested in attending CSU or what to do at CSU, check out the one of the many walking tours led by CSU experts.
Learn MoreCSU Meeting Information
If you are planning a meeting at Colorado State University don't hesitate to contact Visit Fort Collins as we work hand-in-hand with CSU's Conference & Event Services team to ensure your...
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