Raise Your Glass: Discovering the Best Bars in Fort Collins for an Unforgettable Night Out
Discover the top bars in Fort Collins, from craft breweries to cozy pubs. Enjoy a cold beer or signature cocktail at these must-visit hotspots.
If you're looking for the best bars in Fort Collins, you won't be disappointed. This vibrant city is home to a thriving bar scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. From cozy neighborhood pubs to trendy craft breweries, there's a bar to suit everyone's style. Whether you're a local or just passing through, here are 10 of the best bars in Fort Collins that you won't want to miss.
First on our list is Ace Gillett's Lounge, a speakeasy-style bar that oozes old-school charm. The dimly lit space is perfect for a romantic date night or a classy night out with friends. The bartenders are skilled at crafting classic cocktails, and there's live jazz music most nights of the week.
If you're in the mood for something a little more laid back, head over to The Forge Publick House, a cozy pub that's been a local favorite for years. With over 50 beers on tap and a menu of hearty comfort food, it's the perfect spot to unwind after a long day. Don't miss their famous tater tots!
For those who prefer a more upscale experience, Social is the place to be. This sleek lounge serves up creative cocktails and small plates in a modern, stylish setting. If you're feeling adventurous, try their signature drink, The Socialite, which features lavender-infused vodka and edible glitter.
If you're a beer lover, you can't go wrong with Odell Brewing Company. This beloved local brewery has been churning out award-winning brews since 1989, and their taproom is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates a good pint. Be sure to try their flagship IPA, Odell IPA.
Another great option for beer fans is Funkwerks, a brewery that specializes in Belgian-style ales. Their taproom is cozy and inviting, with plenty of board games and a dog-friendly patio. Don't miss their flagship beer, Tropic King, a tropical and fruity saison that's perfect for sipping on a warm day.
For a taste of the Wild West, head over to The Whiskey, a bar that boasts over 200 different types of whiskey from around the world. The rustic decor and friendly bartenders make for a welcoming atmosphere, and there's often live music on weekends.
If you're looking for a unique experience, check out The Armstrong Hotel's Ace Gillett's Speakeasy, a hidden bar located in the basement of the historic hotel. The intimate space features live jazz music and a menu of classic cocktails, making it the perfect spot for a special occasion.
For a taste of Colorado's craft beer culture, visit Horse & Dragon Brewing Company. This family-owned brewery prides itself on using local ingredients and sustainable practices to create delicious, unique beers. Their taproom is spacious and welcoming, with plenty of outdoor seating and games like cornhole and giant Jenga.
If you're in the mood for something a little more exotic, head over to The Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant for a margarita or two. This popular spot serves up flavorful Tex-Mex fare and some of the best margaritas in town. Be sure to try their signature Rio Margarita, which features fresh-squeezed lime juice and house-infused tequila.
Last but not least is The Mayor of Old Town, a sprawling beer hall that boasts an impressive selection of over 100 taps. With a lively atmosphere and plenty of communal seating, it's the perfect spot to gather with friends and sample some of the best beers from Colorado and beyond.
Whether you're in the mood for a classic cocktail, a cold beer, or a delicious margarita, Fort Collins has a bar to suit your taste. So what are you waiting for? Grab some friends and hit the town!
Introduction
Fort Collins is a beautiful city in Colorado, known for its vibrant nightlife and delicious craft beer. With dozens of bars to choose from, it can be difficult to decide where to go. In this article, we will explore some of the best bars in Fort Collins that offer unique experiences for visitors.
The Mayor of Old Town
The Mayor of Old Town is a popular bar located in the heart of downtown Fort Collins. It offers over 100 beers on tap and a cozy atmosphere perfect for a night out with friends. The bar also hosts live music events and trivia nights, making it a great spot for entertainment.
The Forge Publick House
The Forge Publick House is a great option for those who enjoy a casual and relaxed atmosphere. This bar features a wide selection of beer, wine, and cocktails, as well as delicious food options. It also has outdoor seating and a game room, which makes it a great spot for families.
The Colorado Room
The Colorado Room is a unique bar that offers a farm-to-table experience for its customers. Its menu features locally sourced ingredients and a variety of craft beer options. The bar also has a cozy patio area and hosts live music events throughout the week.
CB & Potts
CB & Potts is a popular sports bar that offers a wide range of beer, wine, and cocktails. It has multiple locations throughout Fort Collins, each with a unique atmosphere. The bar also has a delicious food menu and plenty of TVs, making it a great spot to watch a game.
The Blind Pig Pub
The Blind Pig Pub is a hidden gem in Fort Collins that offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere. It has a wide selection of beer, as well as a delicious food menu. The bar also has live music events and trivia nights, making it a great spot for entertainment.
The Social
The Social is a trendy bar that offers a unique atmosphere perfect for a night out with friends. It features a rooftop patio area with beautiful views of the city, as well as a wide range of beer, wine, and cocktails. The bar also has a delicious food menu and hosts live music events throughout the week.
Odell Brewing Co.
Odell Brewing Co. is a must-visit spot for beer lovers in Fort Collins. Its brewery tour is a popular attraction that takes visitors through the beer-making process and offers tastings of its delicious craft beer. The brewery also has a taproom where visitors can enjoy a pint or two.
Rare Italian
Rare Italian is a great option for those who enjoy a sophisticated atmosphere and delicious cocktails. It has a wide range of Italian-inspired drinks, as well as a delicious food menu. The bar also has live music events and a cozy outdoor seating area.
The Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant
The Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant is a popular spot in Fort Collins that offers delicious margaritas and Tex-Mex cuisine. Its large outdoor patio area is perfect for enjoying a drink and some food on a warm day. The bar also hosts live music events and has a great happy hour.
Illegal Pete's
Illegal Pete's is a casual Mexican restaurant and bar that offers a fun and lively atmosphere. It has a wide range of margaritas and other cocktails, as well as delicious burritos and tacos. The bar also hosts live music events and open mic nights.
Conclusion
Fort Collins has a variety of bars to choose from, each offering a unique experience for visitors. Whether you prefer a cozy atmosphere or a lively environment, there is a bar in Fort Collins that will meet your needs. So, grab some friends and check out some of the best bars in Fort Collins for a night out on the town.
Fort Collins is a city known for its vibrant nightlife scene. With over 20 bars to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to spend your night out. From hidden gems to craft beer heaven, Fort Collins has a bar for every taste. In this article, we will explore the best bars in Fort Collins, including happy hour hotspots, rooftop bars with stunning views, live music and dancing spots, classic cocktail lounges, local favorites, sports bars, outdoor patios, and late-night bites and drinks.
The Speakeasy: A Hidden Gem in Fort Collins
Tucked away in an alley off College Ave, The Speakeasy is one of Fort Collins' best-kept secrets. With its dim lighting, vintage decor, and cozy atmosphere, this bar feels like a trip back in time to the Prohibition era. The menu boasts an impressive selection of classic cocktails, such as the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan, as well as creative concoctions like the Lavender Lemonade Martini.If you're feeling adventurous, ask the bartender for the bartender's choice and let them surprise you with a custom-made drink. The Speakeasy also offers small plates and snacks, including charcuterie boards, cheese plates, and truffle fries. This hidden gem is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and intimate bar experience.Craft Beer Heaven: The Best Breweries in Town
Fort Collins is home to some of the best craft breweries in the country, and no visit to the city is complete without sampling some of their brews. New Belgium Brewing Company is one of the most well-known breweries in town, offering tours of their facility and a tasting room with over 20 beers on tap.Another popular brewery is Odell Brewing Company, which has a spacious patio and a rotating selection of seasonal beers. For those who prefer a smaller, more intimate setting, Equinox Brewing offers a cozy taproom with a variety of beers on tap, including their popular Peanut Butter Porter.Happy Hour Hotspots: Where to Go for Deals
Looking for a great deal on drinks and appetizers? Fort Collins has plenty of happy hour hotspots to choose from. The Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant is a local favorite, offering discounted margaritas and tacos from 3 pm to 6 pm every day. Social, a gastropub located in Old Town, has a daily happy hour from 3 pm to 6 pm, featuring $1 off draft beers and $5 small plates.For a more upscale experience, head to The Kitchen, which offers happy hour specials from 3 pm to 5 pm every day, including $5 glasses of wine and $8 cocktails. No matter what your budget or taste, there's a happy hour spot in Fort Collins for everyone.Rooftop Bars with Stunning Views of the City
For those looking for a unique bar experience with breathtaking views, Fort Collins has several rooftop bars to choose from. The Elizabeth Hotel's Sunset Lounge offers panoramic views of the city and the mountains, as well as an extensive cocktail menu and live music on weekends.Another rooftop bar worth checking out is Ace Gillett's Lounge, which boasts a speakeasy vibe and stunning views of Old Town Fort Collins. Their cocktail menu features classic drinks with a modern twist, such as the Smoked Cherry Manhattan and the Spiced Pear Martini.Live Music and Dancing: The Best Nightlife Spots
Fort Collins has a thriving music scene, with plenty of bars and venues offering live music and dancing. The Aggie Theatre is one of the most popular spots in town, hosting both local and national acts in a historic building dating back to 1906.For a more intimate experience, head to The Armory, which hosts live music and comedy shows in a cozy basement space. For those who love to dance, Hodi's Half Note features a large dance floor and a diverse lineup of DJs and live bands.Classic Cocktails and Upscale Atmosphere: Top Lounge Bars
If you're in the mood for a more upscale bar experience, Fort Collins has several lounge bars to choose from. The Whiskey Bar at The Astoria offers an extensive selection of whiskeys and bourbons, as well as craft cocktails and small plates.Another popular spot is The Cache, located in the historic Opera Galleria building. This elegant lounge features a sophisticated atmosphere, live music on weekends, and a menu of classic cocktails with a modern twist.Local Favorites: Bars with a Unique Fort Collins Vibe
Fort Collins has a unique vibe that is reflected in its local bars. The Forge Publick House is a popular spot for locals, offering a rotating selection of craft beers and a cozy, laid-back atmosphere. The Crown Pub is another local favorite, known for its extensive selection of British beers and pub fare.For a truly unique experience, head to The Magic Rat, which features live music, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar, and a retro arcade. This eclectic bar embodies the quirky and creative spirit of Fort Collins.Sports Bars for Game Day and Watch Parties
If you're a sports fan, Fort Collins has plenty of bars to catch the game or host a watch party. CB & Potts is a popular spot with multiple locations, featuring an extensive menu of pub fare and a variety of beers on tap.Another great option is The Boot Grill, which has several large TVs and a menu of burgers, wings, and other game-day favorites. For a more upscale sports bar experience, head to The Sportsbook Bar & Grill, which features a large patio and an extensive selection of craft beers.Outdoor Patios and Beer Gardens for Summer Nights
During the summer months, Fort Collins' outdoor patios and beer gardens come alive with locals and tourists alike. The Colorado Room is a popular spot with a spacious patio and a menu of locally sourced burgers and sandwiches.Another great option is The Mayor of Old Town, which has a large beer garden and a rotating selection of over 100 beers on tap. For those who love cider, Scrumpy's Hard Cider Bar offers a cozy patio and an impressive selection of ciders from around the country.Late Night Bites and Drinks: Where to Go After Hours
For those looking for a late-night spot to grab a bite and a drink, Fort Collins has several options. The Silver Grill Cafe is a local institution, serving breakfast all day and night and famous for their cinnamon rolls.Another popular spot is The Crown Pub, which serves food until midnight and has a great selection of late-night beers. For those who prefer a more upscale experience, head to Ace Gillett's Lounge, which serves a late-night menu of small plates and craft cocktails until 1 am.In conclusion, Fort Collins has a bar for every taste and budget. Whether you're looking for a hidden gem, craft beer heaven, happy hour hotspots, rooftop bars with stunning views, live music and dancing spots, classic cocktail lounges, local favorites, sports bars, outdoor patios, or late-night bites and drinks, Fort Collins has it all. So grab some friends and explore the city's vibrant nightlife scene!The Best Bars in Fort Collins: A Local's Point of View
Introduction
Fort Collins, Colorado is known for its lively nightlife scene and plethora of bars. As a local, I have explored many of these bars and have narrowed down the top contenders for the title of best bar in Fort Collins. In this article, I will share my point of view on the best bars in Fort Collins and provide a table comparison of their pros and cons.The Best Bars in Fort Collins
1. The Mayor of Old Town
The Mayor of Old Town is a craft beer bar located in the heart of Old Town Fort Collins. It boasts an impressive selection of over 100 beers on tap and has a cozy, pub-like atmosphere. The bar also hosts live music events and trivia nights.
Pros:
- Extensive beer selection
- Fun events and activities
- Cozy atmosphere
Cons:
- Can get crowded on weekends
- Not ideal for non-beer drinkers
- Somewhat pricey
2. Social
Social is a trendy bar located in the heart of Old Town Fort Collins, known for its creative cocktails and stylish decor. The bar also serves small plates and hosts DJ events on weekends.
Pros:
- Creative cocktail menu
- Stylish atmosphere
- Good food options
Cons:
- Can get very crowded
- Slightly expensive
- Not ideal for beer drinkers
3. Trailhead Tavern
Trailhead Tavern is a sports bar located near the Colorado State University campus. It has a laid-back atmosphere and serves classic pub fare and drinks.
Pros:
- Laid-back atmosphere
- Good food options
- Reasonable prices
Cons:
- Not as trendy or upscale as other bars in town
- Not as many drink options
- Can get noisy during sports games
Table Comparison
| Bar Name | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| The Mayor of Old Town | Extensive beer selection, fun events and activities, cozy atmosphere | Can get crowded on weekends, not ideal for non-beer drinkers, somewhat pricey |
| Social | Creative cocktail menu, stylish atmosphere, good food options | Can get very crowded, slightly expensive, not ideal for beer drinkers |
| Trailhead Tavern | Laid-back atmosphere, good food options, reasonable prices | Not as trendy or upscale as other bars in town, not as many drink options, can get noisy during sports games |
Conclusion
Fort Collins has a diverse range of bars to suit every taste and preference. From craft beer havens to trendy cocktail bars, there is something for everyone. The Mayor of Old Town, Social, and Trailhead Tavern are some of the best bars in Fort Collins, each with its own unique atmosphere and offerings. Whether you're a local or just visiting, these bars are definitely worth checking out.The Best Bars in Fort Collins – A Guide to Nightlife in the City
Thank you for taking the time to read our guide to the best bars in Fort Collins. We hope that you have found this article informative and helpful, and that it has given you a good idea of the different types of bars that are available in the city.
Whether you are a student looking for a casual place to grab a drink with friends, or a professional seeking a more sophisticated atmosphere for an after-work cocktail, Fort Collins has something to offer everyone.
If you are a beer lover, then there is no shortage of great breweries in Fort Collins. From the famous New Belgium Brewing Company to local favorites like Odell Brewing and Horse & Dragon Brewing, there is always a new craft beer to try in this city.
For those who prefer wine or cocktails, there are plenty of options as well. The Social is a popular spot for wine lovers, with a rotating selection of wines from around the world. Meanwhile, Ace Gillett’s Lounge is known for its classic cocktails and live jazz music.
If you are looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, then the Crown Pub is a great option. This cozy British-style pub offers a variety of beers on tap and a menu of classic pub fare like fish and chips and shepherd's pie.
For a unique experience, check out The Whisk(e)y. This bar specializes in – you guessed it – whiskey, with over 200 different varieties available. They also have a menu of whiskey-based cocktails and a knowledgeable staff who can help you find the perfect drink.
Of course, we can’t forget about the sports fans out there. Lucky Joe’s Sidewalk Saloon is a favorite among locals for watching games, with multiple TVs and a lively atmosphere. Meanwhile, The Mayor of Old Town is a popular spot for craft beer and sports, with over 100 beers on tap and plenty of TVs to catch the game.
If you are looking for a bar with a view, then head to The Elizabeth Hotel’s rooftop bar, Sunset Lounge. This chic spot offers stunning views of the city and the Rocky Mountains, along with a menu of craft cocktails and small plates.
Finally, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention Old Town Square. This charming downtown area is home to several great bars and restaurants, including CooperSmith’s Pub & Brewing, The Forge Publick House, and The Kitchen. You can’t go wrong with any of these options.
We hope that this guide has given you some ideas for your next night out in Fort Collins. Whether you are a local or just visiting, there is always something new to discover in this vibrant city.
So, grab some friends, pick a bar, and enjoy all that Fort Collins has to offer!
People Also Ask About Best Bars in Fort Collins
What are the best bars in Fort Collins for craft beer?
If you love craft beer, then you're in luck because Fort Collins is home to some of the best craft breweries in the country. Here are some of the best bars in Fort Collins for craft beer:
- Tap and Handle
- The Mayor of Old Town
- Choice City Butcher and Deli
- Odell Brewing Company
- New Belgium Brewing Company
What are the best bars in Fort Collins for live music?
Whether you're a fan of rock, blues, or jazz, Fort Collins has plenty of bars that offer live music. Here are some of the best bars in Fort Collins for live music:
- Hodi's Half Note
- The Aggie Theatre
- Avo's
- The Whisk(e)y
- Mishawaka Amphitheatre
What are the best bars in Fort Collins for cocktails?
If you're in the mood for a fancy cocktail, then Fort Collins has some great options for you. Here are some of the best bars in Fort Collins for cocktails:
- The Social
- The Kitchen
- Jay's Bistro
- The Welsh Rabbit Cheese Bistro
- Union Bar and Soda Fountain
What are the best bars in Fort Collins for sports?
If you're a sports fan, then there are plenty of bars in Fort Collins where you can catch the game. Here are some of the best bars in Fort Collins for sports:
- The Boot Grill
- CB & Potts
- The Sportsbook Bar and Grill
- Ramskeller
- Old Chicago Pizza and Taproom
What are the best bars in Fort Collins for a casual night out?
If you're looking for a laid-back atmosphere where you can relax and have a good time, then check out these bars in Fort Collins:
- The Crown Pub
- Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant
- The Trailhead Tavern
- Lucky Joe's Sidewalk Saloon
- The Colorado Room