Music Lover Itinerary

Music Lovers can rejoice as music is a huge part of the Fort Collins community and a wide array of genres are found at music venues and outdoor concerts around town. Everything is more enjoyable with a little music and there is never a shortage of it here in Fort Collins. 

Day 1:

Breakfast at Lucile’s

Experience Creole cooking from around the world in this one-of-a-kind, Victorian style restaurant. They offer wonderful food and an authentic New Orleans ambiance which includes Cajun music, decorations and a great sense of community.

Mug’s Coffee Lounge

Mugs is locally owned and operated with a strong passion for recycling and all natural ingredients. This corner coffee store is a staple in the Fort Collins community and it encourages social interaction, and community culture. Relax and enjoy a tasty treat and drink in the midst of Old Town Fort Collins.

Lunch at Snack Attack

Enjoy one of Fort Collins’ finest sandwich shops. Snack Attack’s menu is freshly crafted with Boar's Head meats and cheeses, organic produce (where possible) and soft, plump breads! The sandwich shop also offers over 40 local craft brews! 

Music District

The recently opened Music District is a dynamic gathering hub, workspace, and creative playground for the music community. For the novice or pro, it’s a place where anyone can hone their craft, learn the business, and share skills and passions with musicians and music lovers.

Mishawaka Amphitheater

The Mishawaka has served as a memorable gathering spot for locals and visitors alike, providing music, food, libations and incredible natural scenery during the past century. The legendary Mishawaka Amphitheatre recently celebrated its 100th anniversary which has been shaped by pushing two constant themes, music and community, which have helped shape what the venue has become today.

 Ace Gillette’s

As it says on Ace Gillette’s website, IT’S THE MUSIC THAT WILL TEMPT YOU TO THIS UNDERGROUND HAVEN and will keep you coming back for more. Named and inspired by previous 1950′s Armstrong owner, Ace Gillette, the lounge evokes the feeling of class and sultry sophistication that enveloped city speakeasies during the years of prohibition. A soft dark atmosphere with espresso woods, large purple circular booths, delicate tea light candles, and one of the best places to entice Fort Collins. They have some incredibly creative and delicious tapas using unique ingredients, and some of the best drinks in our lovely Choice City.

Day 2:

Breakfast at Café Bluebird

A full service breakfast and lunch café offering homemade recipes and feel good comfort foods. With their great service and full menu, the Bluebird Café offers great value in a comfy atmosphere. Try one of their breakfast scrambles!

Horsetooth Reservoir

The perfect setting for musical inspiration, Horsetooth Open Spaces provides 29 miles of trails open for hiking or mountain biking. You will experience breathtaking views of Horsetooth Reservoir and the city of Fort Collins from atop a mountain.

Lunch at Rio Grande

Locally owned and operated the Rio Grande offers homemade Mexican dishes that never disappoint. Take a seat out on their patio and indulge in some of their famous margaritas, but beware, they’re tasty but strong.

Washington’s

Visitors and locals alike are buzzing about Washington’s, which is the newest music venue in town anchoring an ever-growing music scene. This Old Town Fort Collins landmark was purchased by the Bohemian Foundation and renovated with a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system. Now the 900-capacity venue is bringing local and national bands to the region. 

Dinner at Avogadro’s Number

Avogadro’s Number is like two businesses in one. They serve mouthwatering All-American foods, great vegetarian dishes and an all-around large menu. They also offer an exciting bar with great drinks and a pool table. Enjoy after dinner drinks while you watch one of their nightly music performances.

After Dinner Drinks and Grooves at Magic Rat and Sunset Lounge

After dinner enjoy live music and libations at the Magic RatMagic Rat Live Music offers swinging sounds on tap weekly, from big-name artists to local late-night jam sessions. Located adjacent to Emporium Kitchen + Wine Market next to the extended Firehouse Alley, the downtown Fort Collins bar is an experience–refined, but a bit off beat– bringing people together in mutual respect for good music. As Sage Restaurant Group Co-founder Peter Karpinski explains, the music venue was named after the song Jungleland on Bruce Springsteen’s Born to Run album, where the ‘Magic Rat’ acts as the protagonist of the acclaimed rock song. At Magic Rat Live Music, guests and locals can enjoy a space that blends the comfort and intimacy of a neighborhood bar with the vibe of a high-energy music venue: a lively hangout for a local craft beer, a glass of wine, or a craft cocktail paired with curious bites.

Sunset Lounge features all-weather and open-air lounge areas atop The Elizabeth Hotel, offering unrivaled sunset views and front-range mountain views. Open nightly Tuesday through Sunday, the beverage program pours a list of craft cocktails, plus wines by the glass and by the bottle, alongside a custom martini service and shareable bites like fondue. Guests can imbibe in the vibrant space as they listen to live jazz and take in views in Fort Collins’ charming Old Town neighborhood. 

Fort Collins Spotlight