Old Town Fort Collins: Five Bars You Can’t Miss for Drinks, History, and Local Vibes
As a former bartenders who have spent years navigating the ins and outs of Old Town Fort Collins, we've crafted a bar crawl that captures the essence of our vibrant community. Here's a curated loop of five must-visit bars, each offering a unique slice of Fort Collins' nightlife and local charm.
Start your evening at Trailhead Tavern, a Fort Collins bar staple since 1996. This downtown Fort Collins watering hole offers 14 beers on tap, including local craft beer favorites and $3 Pabst Blue Ribbon drafts available all day. The tavern serves a full lunch and dinner menu with daily specials, and Happy Hour runs from noon to 7:00 PM every day.
Whether you're looking to watch the game on the large projection TV and numerous flat screens, challenge friends to a game of pool on one of three tables, or just enjoy a laid-back bar atmosphere, Trailhead Tavern captures the essence of Fort Collins' vibrant community. Order a Poudre Canyon Drop Off shot, grab a $6 Burger Basket on Tuesday, and test your luck at Wednesday night trivia. No frills, just strong pours, good company, and a true local bar experience.
A short stroll brings you to High Point Bar, tucked inside the historic Community Bank & Trust building at 146 North College Avenue. This Old Town Fort Collins bar is known for its spacious back patio, one pool table, and four dart boards—perfect for a relaxed game night.
If you’re into darts, don’t miss the Monday night drop-in dart tournament with a $5 buy-in that includes a drink ticket. Adding to its mystique, High Point Bar is rumored to be haunted, with regulars swapping stories of unexplained happenings. Whether you're aiming for a bullseye or enjoying a drink under the Colorado night sky, High Point Bar is a must-visit spot for locals and visitors alike.
Continue your Old Town Fort Collins bar crawl at Town Pump, Fort Collins' oldest bar, established in 1909. Despite its tiny 416-square-foot space, this historic dive bar has built a reputation for its strong drinks and rowdy but friendly atmosphere.
The signature drinks here are simple but legendary—alcohol-soaked "atomic" cherries and jello shots that go down a little too easy. The walls are packed with vintage beer cans, bumper stickers, and signed books from past patrons, giving the place a nostalgic charm. If you're looking for an authentic dive bar experience that captures Fort Collins' history, Town Pump is where you’ll find it.
Next up is Steak-Out Saloon, or just "The Steakout" if you ask a local. Since 1999, this Fort Collins saloon has been the go-to for cheap drinks, great food, and an impressive 33-shot list. If you're feeling adventurous, try a round of shots from their legendary menu.
The daily food specials here are worth stopping for—locals swear by the spicy steak sandwich, gyro basket, and southwest egg rolls. It's a no-nonsense, all-welcome kind of bar, where you’ll find a mix of college students, regulars, and travelers just looking for a good meal and a strong drink.
Finish your night at Lucky Joe's Sidewalk Saloon, one of Old Town Fort Collins' most popular bars. This Irish pub-meets-Western saloon is best known for its live music, strong drinks, and rowdy but welcoming crowd.
One of the must-try drinks here is the Irish Coffee Bomb, a local favorite and the perfect pick-me-up after a long night. Every Thursday night from 7:00 PM to close, you can snag $4 Bombs Away specials, including this classic shot.
If you’re a live music fan, Lucky Joe’s hosts free shows throughout the week, including a Celtic Jam Session every Wednesday at 7:00 PM and Open Mic Night every Sunday at 7:00 PM. Whether you’re ending the night with a drink in hand, singing along to a live band, or just soaking up the Old Town Fort Collins bar scene, Lucky Joe’s is the perfect last stop.