We understand how hard it is to think of fun and unique places for date night. So, we thought we would help and give you six places in Fort Collins that stood out in our minds as unique and original. Please feel free to comment and add to our list so others can find a variety of places when they are stumped when it comes time for their date night in Fort Collins.
1. Social
This locally-owned speakeasy takes you back in time, giving you the rebellious feeling that was once had when enjoyed drinks at illicit establishments during the prohibition era. You will notice from the start that these bartenders take their craft seriously. It's a show on its own just to watch the bartenders craft their beverages like works of art. This highly-knowledgeable bar staff is so dedicated to drink-making that it will amaze even the finest connoisseur. They also offer foodie-friendly dishes like their delightful charcuterie boards. Social also offers “Social Hour,” which is the perfect way to describe this cocktail bar’s exhilarating Happy Hour. Their Social Hour offerings rotate to keep things fresh. Food and drink specials are offered Sunday - Thursday between 4 pm and 6 pm, with all night Social Hour on Tuesday. We highly recommend this underground cocktail bar to anyone looking for a unique experience... just look for the street clock!
2. Ace Gillette’s
Since we are on the subject of speakeasies, we have to mention the speakeasy that serves as the epitome of elegance and grandeur, Ace Gillette’s. Named and inspired by previous 1950′s Armstrong Hotel owner Ace Gillette, this lounge personifies the sensation of class and sultry sophistication that enveloped city speakeasies during the years of prohibition, which lasted from 1896 to 1969 in Fort Collins! A soft, dimly lit atmosphere with dark woods, large circular booths, and gently lit candles help shape one of the classiest places in Fort Collins. More than just the atmosphere, Ace Gillette’s serves up some of the finest tapas and cocktails around. The master bartenders make every drink with precision, and once you taste it, let’s just say you won’t be disappointed. The passion continues in their food options with plates such as Dynamite Tots and Marg Crab Cakes. We highly recommend Ace Gillette's if you want a trip back into yesteryear. Stop by for a happy hour or go for a night of live jazz; this place is a marvel.
3. The Fort Collins Symphony
If you're looking for an excuse to wear your fancy clothes, plan a date at the Fort Collins Symphony! Their 2025-2025 season kicks off on October 5th with Tales of Arabian Moons - Rimsky-Korsakov's "Scheherazade". The Fort Collins Symphony is regarded as one of the premier cultural organizations in the greater Northern Colorado Region. Officially incorporated in 1950, the Symphony is now a fully-professional orchestra with many events throughout the year!
4. Looking Glass Escape Lounge
Head over to the Looking Glass Escape Lounge if you're looking for something to break the ice or test your relationship. Once you enter the doors, it's like you've entered a steampunk world. In addition to an aesthetically pleasing design, Looking Glass has seasonal and specialty cocktails and small bites. The escape portion of the lounge features three, thirty-minute escape rooms. If you're looking for additional things to do, head over on a night they're having one of their weekly events, like comedy night!
5. Otto Pint
When you think unique, you think of something that is out of the ordinary, and Otto Pint fits the bill perfectly. Otto Pint is a locally-owned (same owner as Domenic’s Bistro) casual restaurant serving pizzas and craft beers, but what sets it apart is the fact it was converted from an old gas station. You would never guess it by looking at it, however. Otto Pint has an industrial feel that includes a large bar serving as a centerpiece to two very large rooms. The restaurant is also surrounded by open garage doors, bringing in that natural fresh breeze while you dine. Otto Pint specializes in craft beer, as evidenced by their expansive menu of over 40 beers, including 20 on rotating taps. Beer isn’t the only thing you can get there. Otto Pint also has specialty drinks inspired by local spirits from regional distilleries. Otto Pint is the right place if you want a nice casual night out on the south side of town while enjoying delicious pizza (we recommend the Hot Momma) and incredible craft beer with regular live music and trivia on Monday nights.
6. Colorado Shoe School
One of Fort Collins' most unique year-round attractions is the Colorado Shoe School. Located in Bellvue, the Shoe School is a perfect way to escape the business of Fort Collins and embrace the slow-paced living of some of the towns on the outskirts. The Colorado Shoe School has three great options for a date with your sweetie. If you're looking for an immersive experience, sign up for a one-day shoe making workshop! Both of you will learn how to make shoes by hand and leave with a pair of new shoes for each of you. If you're looking for a shorter experience, sign up for the fanny pack workshop to make your own "bum bag" or the Intro to Leather sewing workshop to make your own journal cover.
