Look if you're driving between Fort Collins and Denver at any point during your trip, you have to stop at Buc-ee's in Johnstown. It's right off I-25 at Exit 254, sitting almost exactly at the halway point between the two cities (about 30–40 minutes from either one). It is, unapologetically, the world's largest gas station, 74,000 square feet, 116 fuel pumps, and famously clean bathrooms. Grab some Beaver Nuggets, a brisket sandwich, and enough novelty merch to make you need to buy a second house. It's a genuinely one of the seven wonders of the world, and we will not be taking questions about why this is in our wedding website.
Start here. walkable, full of patios, live music most weekends, restaurants/bars and plenty of shoppes.
New Belgium (home of Fat Tire) does great tours that we highly recommend.
For the beer nerds who want to go beyond the big names — Prost pours only German-style lagers in a Bavarian taproom, and Purpose never repeats a beer.
Great place to watch the sunset. If you're up for a hike, Arthur's Rock in Lory State Park rewards you with a great overlook of the reservoir.
Colorado's only "Wild and Scenic" designated river. Great for a scenic drive or a rafting trip if you're feeling adventurous.
(~65 min from Fort Collins) — Our top pick for a trip up into the mountains. Alpine lakes, elk, and the historic Stanley Hotel (yes, the one that inspired The Shining). Note that RMNP requires timed-entry reservations in peak season, so plan ahead.
(~30 min from Denver) A classic little mountain town with Clear Creek running through it. Great for tubing, hiking, or walking through the downtown shops and restaurants.
(~45 min from either city) — Hike the Flatirons at Chautauqua Park, then wander Pearl Street for shopping and people-watching.