7 Fantastic Bars in Fort Collins, CO

What Is It?

Social is a prohibition-style speakeasy bar located in the heart of Fort Collins. Renowned for its craft cocktails and delicious small plates, this hidden gem offers a cozy yet lively atmosphere, making it a popular spot for a chic night out or a casual get-together with friends. With its vintage decor and expertly crafted drinks, Social is the perfect place to unwind and indulge in a unique dining experience.

The Experience

Walking into Social, you’re immediately enveloped by the warm, inviting glow of dim lights and the soft hum of conversations. You make your way down the stairs, feeling a sense of excitement for what's in store. As you settle into a cozy corner, your eyes scan the menu filled with inventive cocktails that promise to delight. You’re tempted by the enticing Black Magic, while a friend's choice of the popular Sgt. Pepper looks just as tempting.

The moment the drinks are served, their quality is evident; beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The bartender, attentive and enthusiastic, shares the story behind your chosen cocktails, heightening the whole experience. Between sips, you indulge in one of the charcuterie boards, artfully arranged with an assortment of cheeses, meats, and pickled treats. It's a perfect complement to the cocktails, enhancing the flavors while further immersing you into the speakeasy vibe.

As the night unfolds, the atmosphere showcases an interesting mix of laughter and conversations, yet it never feels overcrowded. You catch some live music in the air — a blend of classics mixed with contemporary tunes, just perfect for the surroundings. You find yourself enjoying every moment, feeling comfortable and relaxed despite the bar being busy. The staff is all smiles, checking in on your party, making sure you have all that you need without being too intrusive.

Between rounds, you brainstorm tapping into the happy hour menu next time, eyeing those delicious appetizer options like the deviled eggs and burrata. Sharing those delectable bites with friends while swapping cocktails seems like the perfect plan. As you prepare to leave, you can’t help but feel you've found a true gem in Fort Collins, a bar that feels both special and familiar at the same time.

When to Go

To enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere, consider visiting Social during weekday evenings. The earlier you arrive, the better chance you have to snag a seat without having to wait in line. Happy hour is also a lovely time to soak in the ambiance while getting great deals on drinks and small plates.

What Is It?

Sunset Lounge Rooftop Bar offers a chic, sophisticated escape in Fort Collins, CO, characterized by stunning views of the Front Range mountains. Located atop The Elizabeth Hotel, this classy jazz bar is perfect for after-work happy hours, romantic date nights, or just a casual evening out with friends. The atmosphere is bustling yet cozy, filled with great music and delicious cocktails that create an unforgettable experience.

The Experience

As you step into the Sunset Lounge, you're greeted by a panoramic view that stretches across the vibrant downtown Fort Collins and the majestic Front Range. The rooftop bar lies tucked away atop The Elizabeth Hotel, creating an exclusive feel that makes it the perfect spot to unwind. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with soft jazz playing in the background enhancing your experience. Comfortable seating invites you to sink in and enjoy the ambiance while enjoying a signature cocktail that’s expertly crafted by the skilled bartenders. Maybe you try their special Sunset Martini, which patrons claim to be one of the best they've ever had.

As the sun begins to set, the city lights start to twinkle, creating an enchanting backdrop while you catch up with friends or share a special moment with someone close. You can’t help but be captivated by the views that seem to improve with every passing minute. Guests rave about how relaxing it is to sip on creative drinks while listening to live music from the grand piano—a quintessential part of the Sunset Lounge experience. The combination of the drinks, ambiance, and music makes your evening feel special and memorable.

Feeling a bit peckish, you browse the small plates menu but keep your expectations modest. It's not about the food alone, but rather the overall experience that draws you here. Patrons share their joy about the attentive staff who engage with you and ensure that you’re well taken care of, making the magical twilight hours feel even more special. Conversation flows easily amid the cozy surroundings, and you find yourself lingering longer than expected, caught up in the moment.

Before you know it, you're planning your next visit, eager to return either for their live music nights or simply to soak in the incredible sunset view that Fort Collins has to offer, all while sipping on another delightful cocktail. Every moment feels perfectly curated to provide a wonderful night out, ensuring that this gem quickly becomes a go-to spot in your social calendar.

When to Go

For a more laid-back experience, consider visiting the Sunset Lounge during off-peak hours like early week evenings or closer to 5 PM, just after they open. You’ll often avoid the busy weekend crowd and might even get a better chance to enjoy the scenic views without too much distractions from the hustle and bustle of peak hours.

What Is It?

Taste and Savor Wine Bar is a charming spot in Fort Collins, celebrated for its extensive selection of over 50 wines by the glass, and a delicious menu featuring charcuterie boards, flatbreads, paninis, and more. This cozy venue invites wine lovers and foodies alike to enjoy a delightful experience in a vibrant yet relaxing atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a romantic evening or wanting to catch up with friends, it's a fantastic choice for any occasion.

The Experience

Stepping into Taste and Savor, you immediately feel a warm and inviting ambiance that hints at an upscale yet laid-back experience. The soft music enhances the cozy vibe, making it a perfect backdrop for a night out with friends or a romantic date. You’re greeted by a friendly face—perhaps the owner, who is keen to share his passion for wines. As you settle in, the impressive wine list immediately catches your eye, with options ranging from bold reds to light whites. You decide to kick things off with a flight, allowing you to sample different varietals, and soon, you find yourself chatting about the various flavors with fellow guests.

Your eyes wander around the beautifully designed space, spotting charcuterie boards making their way to adjacent tables, each presented with a creative touch. You order the chef’s cheese bread and a selection of cheeses, which not only taste exceptional but pair beautifully with your chosen wines. In between sips, you engage with the attentive staff, who are quick to provide recommendations on both the food and wine, making the experience even more delightful. With every bite of bruschetta and sip of wine, you can feel the stresses of the day melting away.

As the evening unfolds, you absorb the spirited atmosphere around you, filled with laughter and the clinking of glasses. The crowd's buzz enhances the experience, as everyone around seems to be enjoying their own unique wine journey. You overhear stories from guests celebrating special moments and feel the sense of community that this wine bar fosters. As the night draws to a close, you can’t help but relish the thought of returning—perhaps for a wine tasting event or to try more of the diverse and delicious food offerings that have been tantalizing your taste buds throughout the night.

What Is It?

The Crown Pub is a welcoming English-style brewpub situated in the heart of Fort Collins, renowned for its inventive cocktails and global takes on classic tavern fare. With its cozy atmosphere and friendly service, it attracts both locals and visitors looking for a great spot to relax and enjoy delicious food and drinks.

The Experience

You stroll into The Crown Pub on a warm summer evening, greeted by the inviting aroma of hearty British pub fare. The atmosphere is bustling yet cozy, with the beautiful dark wood interiors blending perfectly with the soft green glow of lights overhead. You take a seat at the bar, where the bartenders are already in motion, mixing up a variety of inventive cocktails. You decide to kick things off with their famous lavender lemon drop – a refreshing choice that’s become a signature drink here. It’s perfectly balanced, just sweet enough with a delightful twist that leaves you smiling.

As you peruse the menu, your eyes light up at the mention of traditional pub favorites like fish and chips and pub steak. The crowd around you seems to be celebrating the same comfort food, as you overhear fellow patrons gushing over the garlic aioli served with their pommes frites. You finally opt for the blackened & blue burger, which arrives sizzling and garnished beautifully, the steak cooked to perfection. With a side of crispy fries and chipotle ranch, you know you’re in for a treat.

Between bites, you take in the scene – there’s a mix of locals catching up and families enjoying a relaxed meal. The servers seem genuinely friendly, effortlessly keeping the upbeat vibe alive even during the busy hours. As you savor every bite, you can’t help but wonder how many diners have come and gone, sharing stories and laughter just like you.

After your meal, you decide to indulge in dessert. The classic bread pudding is a must-try, and it arrives warm with a drizzle of caramel that compliments it perfectly. As you sip on your drink and enjoy some light jazz playing in the background, you feel grateful to have stumbled upon this Fort Collins gem, a place that captures the essence of a genuine pub experience. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or a special evening out, The Crown Pub never fails to satisfy.

When to Go

To enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere at The Crown Pub, consider visiting during the earlier hours of the day on weekdays or later in the afternoon when the dinner rush starts to taper off. This will help you avoid the peak times of around 5 PM to 7 PM, allowing for a more leisurely dining experience with attentive service and less noise.

What Is It?

The Mayor of Old Town is a vibrant taproom in Fort Collins, known for its extensive beer selection and laid-back atmosphere. With over 100 beers on tap, this local favorite invites patrons to sample a variety of local and international brews, all served alongside delicious menu options. The spacious venue features high ceilings and a cozy outdoor patio, making it a perfect spot for enjoying drinks with friends.

The Experience

You step into The Mayor of Old Town, and right away you’re hit by the buzz of excitement—the kind that only comes from a popular local hangout. The ambient lighting creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a casual evening out. As you walk in, the impressive wall of taps catches your eye, showcasing over 100 different beers. You can’t help but grin—there's no shortage of choices here! Maybe you’ll try a flight to kick things off, sampling a little bit of this and a little bit of that, with helpful bartenders ready to guide you toward what’s perfect for your palate.

After settling in at a comfy spot, you explore the menu, and your mouth waters just thinking about all the options. The pretzels are a must-have, especially on a Friday during happy hour when they’re free with any drink purchase! Patrons rave about the jalapeno cream cheese variety, and you make a mental note to try those. Hungry? You can’t go wrong with the acclaimed beef stroganoff or the crispy fried cauliflower bites that seem to be a guest favorite. As you sip on your chosen brew, you chat with your friends, feeling the relaxed vibe all around.

Service here is nothing short of stellar; servers buzz around, keeping your drinks filled without you even having to ask. One attentive staff member checks in regularly, ensuring you have everything you need, without feeling rushed. If you’re with a big group, they handle large orders seamlessly, and whether you fear the dinner rush or not, it seems there's plenty of staff to go around.

As the night wears on, you look around and see new guests arriving, fitting right into the joyful atmosphere. Even as the bar fills up, it still feels welcoming and friendly. With the mix of laughter, clinking glasses, and the mouthwatering aroma of food wafting through the air, this feels like a place where you could easily lose track of time. The many beer selections spark lively discussions and smiles, making it clear—this is a place worth revisiting whenever you're in Fort Collins.

When to Go

For a more laid-back experience, plan your visit during the afternoon or earlier in the evening, ideally before 5 PM. This is when the bar tends to be less crowded, allowing you to fully enjoy the atmosphere and maybe secure a cozy spot on the outdoor patio.

What Is It?

The Whisk(e)y is a Fort Collins hotspot known for its jaw-dropping selection of over 2,400 whiskeys alongside hearty pub fare and an enjoyable live music scene. With its dark, sultry ambiance and chic leather booths, it's the perfect place to unwind, socialize, and explore a world of whiskey choices. Whether you're a connoisseur or just dipping your toes into the whiskey scene, this bar caters to all with a knowledgeable staff and a fun atmosphere.

The Experience

Stepping into The Whisk(e)y is like entering a whiskey lover's dream. As you walk through the door, the dim lighting and cozy leather booths invite you to take a seat and settle in. The air is a mix of laughter and lively chatter, punctuated by the subtle strumming of a guitar from the back area where live music often brings the night to life. You glance around and immediately notice the impressive display of countless whiskey bottles lining the shelves—a treasure trove for any enthusiast.

As you take a seat at the bar, a friendly bartender approaches with a warm smile. With over 2,400 options available, choosing just one feels impossible. But fear not! The bartenders here are eager to share their expertise, suggesting several unique whiskeys based on your taste preferences. Maybe you’re feeling adventurous and decide on a rare pour, or perhaps you want something classic. Either way, you’re in good hands. Making a decision feels rewarding, and the bartender’s enthusiasm only adds to the experience.

After a few sips that dance on your palate, you might want to indulge in a small bite or two. Patrons rave about the food—especially the garlic knots! While many say the focus should remain on drinks, when the food does hit the spot, it’s a delightful bonus. For those looking to make it a full meal, you can enjoy great eats from the kitchen next door or the rotating menu available on-site.

As the night unfolds, you might catch a glimpse of an impromptu karaoke performance or a guest belting out a classic tune, adding to the vibrant energy of the bar. Everyone here seems to be having a great time, and the ambiance makes it feel less like a crowded college bar and more like an upscale whiskey hideaway. Whether you're gathering with friends or enjoying a date night, The Whisk(e)y always has something special in store. You can’t help but think, this is a spot you’ll return to often to continue exploring the vast whiskey selection and soaking up its lively atmosphere.

When to Go

For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting The Whisk(e)y earlier in the evening or during the weekdays. It tends to get crowded later in the night, especially on weekends when karaoke and events draw larger crowds. By going earlier, you'll likely enjoy a quieter atmosphere and more attentive service, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the whiskey selection without the hustle and bustle.

What Is It?

Trail Head Tavern is a cozy dive bar in Fort Collins known for its rustic charm and laid-back vibe. With a great selection of microbrews, burgers, and hearty pub fare, this local hotspot is the perfect place to unwind after a long day. Whether you're looking to catch a game on one of the many flat-screen TVs or challenge your friends to a game of pool, this casual roadhouse is sure to delight everyone.

The Experience

Walking into Trail Head Tavern, you’re instantly wrapped in the warm, inviting atmosphere that makes this place a beloved hangout. You can hear laughter and the clatter of pool balls in the background, which sets the stage for a fun night out. As you settle in at the bar, a friendly bartender greets you and they seem genuinely happy to craft your drink as they chatter with patrons, making you feel right at home. The drink menu is loaded with affordable options, perfect for sipping while you enjoy the game on the big screens plastered with various sports events.

As you browse the menu, it’s impossible to miss the rave reviews about the food, specifically the burgers and wings. You go for the Bronco burger, and soon enough, you’re savoring its juicy goodness, perfectly cooked and piled high with toppings. The fries, described as the best in Fort Collins, live up to their reputation; they’re crispy on the outside and delightfully soft on the inside, especially with ranch on the side. You can’t resist the cheese curds either—little nuggets of gooey heaven that are gone in a flash!

The energy in the bar shifts as the night progresses, and what started as a casual dinner has turned into a lively scene filled with spirited college students and locals engaging in friendly banter. After finishing your meal, you decide to join in on some pool; the tables are well-used, but that only adds to their charm. You’re surrounded by cheerful laughter, with patrons enjoying the space and the inviting ambiance.

Just outside, a patio welcomes your four-legged friends, which makes it a perfect pit stop for those enjoying a night stroll. As you sip on your drink while watching folks play games or kick back with friends, it’s hard not to feel that Trail Head Tavern is the quintessential Fort Collins bar experience. Leaving, you can't help but think of how you'll be back soon for another round of burgers and memories here.

When to Go

To snag a spot at Trail Head Tavern without the hustle and bustle, aim for early afternoons during the week. The time just after they open is typically quieter, allowing you to enjoy a low-key atmosphere and quick service, ensuring an enjoyable experience without the late-night crowd of college students.