Back To Previous PageFort Collins is a city brimming with rich history, there are so many activities with sentimental culture to be explored here. Check out this list of unique places and businesses that are sure to make you feel closer to the past.
Tour the Avery House
Embark on a journey through time as you step into the 1879 Avery House, a magnificent testament to Fort Collins' rich history. Led by passionate volunteer docents, you'll be transported back to the late 1800's, where the Avery family's story unfolds within the walls of this National Register of Historic Places Victorian home. This one-hour tour can be scheduled on Saturdays from 11am-2pm or Sundays from 1pm-4pm. Click here to visit their website and find out more information!
See a drive-in movie
The iconic Holiday Twin Drive-In Theater is a summer and fall must-visit (it’s open now through October). Along with reasonably priced movies ($9 for ages 10 and up; $6 for age 6-9 and over 65), score tasty eats from the concession stand, along with local beers from Odell Brewing Co., New Belgium, Horse & Dragon, and wines from The OBC Wine Project. It also just had the honor of being named one top 10 Best Drive-In Theaters by USA Today! Visit their website for more information.
Ride the trolley
Starting May 4th through September 29th, celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Fort Collins Municipal Railway on Birney Car 21 (also known as “Car 21” or just “Birney”) as well as Car 23 on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays in Fort Collins. Only around a dozen Birneys worldwide still operate as rail lines today, and Fort Collins has one of them. The trolley runs from Old Town to City Park and Grandview Cemetery on Mountain Avenue. Each 3-mile trip takes about 30 minutes. Or tour/ride Birney at the FoCo Food Truck Rally, which takes place in City Park on Tuesday evenings from May 14th through September 17th. Follow FoCo Food Truck Rally on Facebook to see the food truck and music lineup, and click here to visit the trolley website.
Go back in time to eat a slice
A nostalgic Fort Collins fixture, Totally 80's Pizza, boasts the world’s largest collection of ‘80s pop culture memorabilia in its impressive restaurant museum, including rare vintage arcade games, cereal boxes, autographed photos, computers, and original hand-written lyrics from the biggest names in 1980s music. No wonder the restaurant was recently featured on the History Channel’s new show, “Adam Eats the 80s” with TV host Adam Richman. Plus, the restaurant has a new double-the-size location with delicious 'za, a full arcade, and a souvenir shop.
Refuel at The Silver Grill Café
Along with delicious offerings for breakfast and lunch, this legendary Old Town hotspot has plenty of history to share — after all, it is the oldest restaurant in Northern Colorado. Don’t forget to order an enormous cinnamon roll – they bake more than 10,000 delicious buns each month!
Play pinball and more
Pinball Jones is a true gem of downtown Fort Collins, with 38 pinball machines (both vintage and brand new), as well as pool tables, air hockey tables, skee-ball and all types of arcade cabinets. This super nostalgic arcade is fun for the entire family, but they also have a bar for the grown-ups!
Play the day away at Fort Fun
From go-karts and mini golf to bumper boats and an arcade, Fort Fun has plenty of activities to keep kids (and adults!) of all ages playing. There are also escape rooms sure to get your brain working. Don't miss out on this Fort Collins staple!
Snag a sammy at B&B Pickle Barrel
An institution among current and former Colorado State University students, the B&B Pickle Barrel is celebrating its 36th anniversary this year. This East Coast deli serves truly excellent sandwiches, homemade soups, and tasty bakery items.
Roll around Rollerland
Strap on your roller skates and let the good times roll at Rollerland Skate Center in Fort Collins. Skate around a 12,000-square-foot smooth rink while a live DJ plays crowd-pleasing music, including plenty of throwback favorites. Be sure to check out the laser tag, arcade, and three-story playground too!
No matter what age you are or what activities you enjoy most, these classic Fort Collins establishments are sure to make you yearn for the past. Get out there and enjoy and get nostalgic!
