Twenty-four years ago, Mugs became the first internet cafe in Fort Collins. Mugs was originally located in West Fort Collins and soon expanded to cater to caffeine-lovers and those looking for a fun place to work, outside of their house or the library. Now, Mugs has two locations, Mugs on Laurel and Mugs Old Town, with seasonally rotating menu specials, a full bar, and some of the best breakfast burritos in town.
We spoke with Adriana, General Manager of Mugs Fort Collins, to learn more about this long-running coffee shop!
What do you love about Fort Collins?
I’m from a small town in the midwest, and I think Fort Collins possesses the very special ability to create a small town feel, but with city amenities. Every niche interest has a place here, every walk of life is welcome, and most every interaction ends in getting to know another amazing person. It really is incredible how, compared to tiny rural communities, we have so much more space and yet everything feels so close knit.
What are your top 3 favorite activities to do in Fort Collins?
I’m a huge fan of any activity in Horsetooth Reservoir. Other than that, I spend a lot of time exploring the local events and farmers markets and scoping out local breweries and restaurants!
What "can't miss" activity/restaurant/place would you tell a first-time visitor to go?
You simply haven’t seen the beauty of Fort Collins until you’ve checked out at least one local event/shop in Old Town! The Downtown Fort Collins First Friday Art WalkTM in town has quickly become one of my favorite.
What makes Mugs Fort Collins unique?
The community that Mugs has created over the years is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. Whether you’re a new college student trying to find a study spot, a patron of 25 years, or just a friendly face touring all that Fort Collins has to offer, you are bound to be met with a sense of belonging, find someone who wants to engage in meaningful discussion, or give you a compliment. The customers we serve are such a reflection of what our business is all about, and this creates such a unique experience for every guest. If you come to Mugs more than a few times, don’t be surprised when our amazing baristas ask about your dog by name!
How did Mugs get its start?
Marli and McCabe Callahan started Mugs in 2002 as the first internet cafe in Fort Collins. When their business model was met with success, they expanded to multiple Mugs locations, but ultimately decided to continue with our two Mugs locations in Fort Collins in 2010. We welcomed a new crew to the Mugs family in 2025, with Maida Trattoria, a family-style Italian restaurant, which opened a few blocks away from our Mugs Old Town location. Marli & McCabe stay very involved in all three of their businesses, and because of the constant community support, Mugs & Maida are here to stay for the long-run!
What do you want visitors to experience at Mugs?
Any visitor can pick up on the positive energy that radiates from our shops, and that is exactly our goal. Great food, high quality coffee, reasonable prices, employees that truly enjoy their job, working with many other small businesses, and a sense of community can all be found in the same place when you come to Mugs Fort Collins.
(Photos provided by Mugs Fort Collins)
Mugs Fort Collins
Address: 261 S College Ave and 306 W Laurel Street
Hours: Everyday - 6am to 6pm (Old Town) and 7am to 6pm (Laurel)
Phone: (970) 449-2265
Website: https://www.mugsfortcollins.com/
Instagram: @mugsoldtown & @mugsonlaurel
Facebook: Mugs Old Town & Mugs on Laurel
TikTok: @mugsfortcollins
