Visit Fort Collins for Memorial Day Weekend

Kick off your summer with a visit to Fort Collins over Memorial Day Weekend. This vibrant city in the foothills of Northern Colorado offers a charming downtown, family-friendly activities, and easy access to outdoor adventures. There is a ton to do in Fort Collins over Memorial Weekend! If you’re thinking about visiting for this long weekend, here are some tips on what to do!

Weather

 Late May in Fort Collins is mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures in the low to mid 70s (F), with cooler evenings. This is excellent weather for outdoor activities, exploring downtown or dining al fresco. Be sure to pack layers to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the day, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains.

Crowds

Memorial Weekend is a popular time to visit Fort Collins. While you may encounter some crowds at events or downtown establishments, the city’s relaxed atmosphere ensures that it never feels too congested. Accommodations and vacation rentals in Fort Collins tend to fill up quickly over this holiday weekend, so it’s always a good idea to book early.

Things to Do over Memorial Day Weekend

 

Attend the Memorial Day Ceremonies

Join the Fort Collins community in honoring veterans throughout the weekend at Veterans Plaza and other sites around town. On Saturday and Sunday, events include speakers, a Missing Man Table Ceremony and educational booths highlighting the history of past wars. On Memorial Day, a moving event features speakers, a military aircraft flyover, flag raising and wreath laying at Veterans Plaza.

Explore Old Town Fort Collins 

Check out the historic Old Town district in Fort Collins, known for its 19th century architecture that inspired Disneyland’s Main Street, U.S.A. You’ll find lots of local boutiques, art galleries, and great restaurants, with live music and street performers adding to the charm. Families will love the downtown parks at Oak Plaza and Old Town Square which feature splash pads, play structures and green space for kids to run around. If you're looking to stay walking/biking distance to Old Town, check out our great selection of Downtown Fort Collins rentals.

Discover the Local Beer Scene

Fort Collins is home to more than 25 craft breweries, including nationally known breweries like New Belgium Brewing and Odell Brewing Company, as well as many great micro breweries serving the local community. Many of the breweries host special events during Memorial Day Weekend, and when the weather is nice, there is nothing better than sharing a beer with friends on an outdoor patio. Memorial Day Weekend is a great time to sample local brews and enjoy delicious local food and fun. Check out some of our favorite Fort Collins breweries here.

Ride the Historic Fort Collins Trolley

Take a nostalgic ride on the Fort Collins Trolley along Mountain Avenue. This historic street car offers a unique way to see the city and great photo opportunities.

Enjoy Nature in Fort Collins

With over 285 miles of trails, you can easily get out into nature in Fort Collins. The scenic 21-mile paved Poudre River Trail goes right through town is perfect for biking and walking. Just west of the city, Horsetooth Reservoir is a peaceful spot to enjoy hiking trails, rock climbing or kayaking. It's also a popular reservoir for boating. View some of our favorite local hiking trails here.

Day Trips from Fort Collins

If you want to venture out for a day trip, Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park are about an hour’s drive from Fort Collins, with even more opportunities for outdoor adventures. 

Rocky Mountain National Park has over 350 miles of trails, from easy accessible walks to challenging treks, along with plenty of pull-out viewpoints. There are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife like elk, moose and bighorn sheep as you explore. The iconic Trail Ridge Road offers stunning alpine tundra views, but check ahead as it may still have snow closures in late May.

At the base of the national park, the charming town of Estes Park has a walkable downtown with unique shops and wonderful local restaurants. You can take a ride on the Estes Park Aerial Tramway for panoramic views of the Rockies, or rent a kayak at Lake Estes for a relaxing afternoon on the water. The town also hosts an Art Market during Memorial Weekend featuring Colorado artists, live music and local eats.

Discounts on Local Activities

Mountain Time Vacation Rentals is thrilled to offer discounts at local businesses exclusively for our vacation rental guests! Enjoy a night out at Old Town Putt, a full bar with 9 indoor mini golf holes, a private arcade room, and an outdoor patio. Or give Pedego Electric Bikes a try, and spend a day cruising around Fort Collins, exploring the town and surrounding bike paths. This is one of the best ways to explore a new city! Check out these fun activities and more here, and enjoy discounts when you stay with Mountain Time.

Plan Your Visit to Fort Collins

Fort Collins offers an unbeatable combination of outdoor recreation and Colorado charm that make it perfect for a Memorial Weekend vacation. With a wide variety of vacation rentals across Fort Collins and nearby towns, you’ll have no trouble finding the ideal home away from home for your northern Colorado getaway! Many of our vacation have great backyards and patio spaces, perfect for BBQing over the holiday weekend and enjoying time outdoors with friends and family. You'll also find rentals that come with bikes, perfect for cruising into Old Town Fort Collins, or hopping onto the Poudre River Trail. A vacation rental is the perfect way to maximize your visit to Fort Collins!

Posted on 04/14/2025