Larimer County Road Map

Introduction

Larimer County is located in the northern part of Colorado and is known for its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and historical landmarks. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, Larimer County has something for everyone. This comprehensive travel guide will take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports in Larimer County.

Top Attractions

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the top attractions in Larimer County. It is home to breathtaking mountain views, scenic drives, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing. Some of the must-see spots in the park include Trail Ridge Road, Bear Lake, and Moraine Park.

Fort Collins Museum of Discovery

The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is a great place to learn about the history of Larimer County. The museum features interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and educational programs for people of all ages.

New Belgium Brewing Company

The New Belgium Brewing Company is one of the largest craft breweries in the United States. It offers tours of its facility and tastings of its famous beers.

Hidden Gems

Soapstone Prairie Natural Area

The Soapstone Prairie Natural Area is a hidden gem in Larimer County. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, pronghorn, and coyotes. Visitors can hike, bike, or horseback ride on the trails in the area.

Gateway Natural Area

The Gateway Natural Area is a secluded spot in Larimer County that offers stunning views of the mountains and the Poudre River. It is a great place for hiking, fishing, and picnicking.

Food Scene

The Kitchen

The Kitchen is a farm-to-table restaurant that sources its ingredients from local farmers and ranchers in Larimer County. It offers a variety of dishes, including seasonal salads, wood-fired pizzas, and grilled meats.

Lucile’s Creole Cafe

Lucile’s Creole Cafe is a popular breakfast spot in Fort Collins. It serves traditional Creole dishes, such as beignets, gumbo, and jambalaya.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Walking Tours

The Fort Collins Historical Society offers free walking tours of the city’s historic neighborhoods. Visitors can learn about the architecture and history of the area while getting some exercise.

City Park

City Park is a great place to spend a day in Larimer County. It offers free admission and features a playground, picnic areas, and a lake for fishing and boating.

Outdoor Adventures

Horsetooth Reservoir

Horsetooth Reservoir is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming in Larimer County. It is surrounded by hiking and biking trails and offers stunning views of the mountains.

Poudre River

The Poudre River is a great place for rafting and kayaking in Larimer County. It features Class II to Class IV rapids and offers scenic views of the mountains.

Historical Landmarks

Stanley Hotel

The Stanley Hotel is a historic landmark in Larimer County that is known for its connection to Stephen King’s “The Shining”. Visitors can take a guided tour of the hotel and learn about its history.

Cache La Poudre River National Heritage Area

The Cache La Poudre River National Heritage Area is a historic landmark that tells the story of Larimer County’s early settlers and the development of the area. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the area and learn about the history of the region.

Family-Friendly Activities

Fort Fun

Fort Fun is an amusement park in Larimer County that offers mini-golf, go-karts, bumper boats, and an arcade. It is a great place for families to spend a day together.

Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center

The Butterfly Pavilion and Insect Center is a great place for kids to learn about insects and their habitats. It features interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences

CSU Flower Trial Gardens

The CSU Flower Trial Gardens is a hidden gem in Larimer County. It features more than 1,000 varieties of flowers and plants and is a great place to take a stroll or have a picnic.

Mishawaka Amphitheatre

The Mishawaka Amphitheatre is a unique music venue in Larimer County that is located in the Poudre Canyon. It offers concerts and events in a stunning outdoor setting.

Natural Wonders

Lory State Park

Lory State Park is a natural wonder in Larimer County that offers hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails. It features stunning views of the mountains and the plains.

Devil’s Backbone Open Space

The Devil’s Backbone Open Space is a geological wonder in Larimer County that features unique rock formations and stunning views of the mountains. Visitors can hike or bike on the trails in the area.

Vibrant Nightlife

The Lyric

The Lyric is a popular music venue in Fort Collins that features live music, comedy shows, and movies. It offers a vibrant nightlife scene in Larimer County.

Avogadro’s Number

Avogadro’s Number is a popular bar in Fort Collins that offers live music, karaoke, and trivia nights. It is a great place to socialize and have fun.

Local Markets

Farmers’ Markets

Larimer County is home to several farmers’ markets that offer fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts. Some of the most popular markets include the Fort Collins Farmers’ Market and the Loveland Farmers’ Market.

The Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures Gift Shop

The Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures Gift Shop is a great place to shop for unique gifts and souvenirs in Larimer County. It features handmade crafts and artwork from around the world.

Beaches and Mountains

Carter Lake

Carter Lake is a great place to spend a day at the beach in Larimer County. It offers swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities in a beautiful mountain setting.

Estes Park

Estes Park is a popular mountain town in Larimer County that offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. It is a great place to shop, dine, and explore the outdoors.

Cultural Immersion

Colorado State University

Colorado State University is a great place to immerse yourself in the culture of Larimer County. It offers a variety of cultural events, including art exhibits, music concerts, and theater performances.

The Lincoln Center

The Lincoln Center is a cultural hub in Fort Collins that features performing arts events, art exhibits, and educational programs. It is a great place to experience the arts in Larimer County.

Art and Music Scene

The Downtown Artery

The Downtown Artery is an art gallery and music venue in Fort Collins that features local artists and musicians. It offers a unique and eclectic experience for visitors.

The Mishawaka Amphitheatre

The Mishawaka Amphitheatre is not only a great place to experience live music in Larimer County, but it also features stunning artwork and murals throughout the venue.

Walking Tours

Downtown Fort Collins

Downtown Fort Collins is a great place to take a walking tour in Larimer County. It features historic landmarks, unique shops, and restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

CSU Campus

The Colorado State University campus is a beautiful and historic place to take a walking tour in Larimer County. It features stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and unique sculptures and artwork.

Architectural Marvels

The Armstrong Hotel

The Armstrong Hotel is a historic landmark in Fort Collins that features beautiful architecture and elegant decor. It is a great place to stay for those interested in experiencing the history and culture of Larimer County.

Old Town Square

Old Town Square is a beautiful and historic landmark in Fort Collins that