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So many cities boast downtown areas with excellent, locally owned shops and restaurants. Downtown Fort Collins, however, has more to offer than just fun restaurants and quirky shops. Without looking too far, you will also find that it has a rich history of early settlement and architecture. And, at the heart of Downtown Fort Collins is Old Town, radiating from the intersection of Mountain and College Avenues.

The fascinating history of early Euro-American settlers and Native Americans in our area can be explored at the Fort Collins Museum of DiscoveryLocated at 408 Mason Ct., this family-friendly museum houses a vast collection of artifacts. The Linden Hotel, one of our most well-known and admired buildings, is located at the corner of Linden Street and Walnut. Once there, you will find shops such as Nature’s Own. Check out a map for the Historic Walking Tour of Fort Collins – grab your walking shoes!

The Downtown Business Association (DBA) is an excellent resource for all things Fort Collins, particularly if you want information about Fort Collins’ history, tours, and businesses. They are a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the Downtown/Old Town community, and you can visit them at 19 Old Town Square, Suite #230, or call them at (970) 484-6500.

And, while feeding your fascination with history and architecture is certainly important, make sure to experience Old Town’s fantastic shopping and dining. There is something for everyone: gifts, clothing, souvenirs, or food. The Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant may have a three-margarita limit, but there is no limit to your enjoyment of the fun atmosphere and food! Coopersmiths Pub & Brewing is a local favorite offering pub fare and their own locally brewed beers, all in an upscale yet casual atmosphere.

Fort Collins is also home to many unique shops. You could spend an entire day Downtown and still not hit them all! The Cupboard, an always-lively kitchen specialty store, has been locally owned and operated since 1972. Foodies and home chefs can spend hours wandering through this beautiful, two-story establishment. For you bookworms, Old Firehouse Books,  located in the historic Firehouse building on Walnut Street, is an independent bookseller offering new and used titles of all genres. After buying a great book, hop next door to Happy Lucky’s Teahouse, where you can sip on unique and flavorful teas or choose from a vast selection of bulk teas to take home. (They also offer lattes and cappuccinos for your coffee die-hards.)

The DBA also hosts several popular events throughout the year, such as the First Friday Gallery WalkFort Collins Foodie WalkFarmer’s Markets, and more! For a month-by-month list of events, click here. And for a list of Downtown and Old Town businesses, click here.