Jessie & Sean
Things To Do
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is 1.5–2 hours from Denver via U.S. 36 through Boulder and from Fort Collins via U.S. 34 through Loveland (fastest) or CO-14 to CO-7 (scenic). From May to October, a Timed Entry Permit is required at Recreation.gov. Choose Park Access Plus (includes Bear Lake Rd) or Park Access (excludes it). Entry fees are $30/day or $35/7 days per vehicle. Must-see areas include Bear Lake, an easy alpine trail with stunning views; Trail Ridge Road, a breathtaking high-altitude drive; Moraine Park, ideal for elk viewing; Wild Basin, a quieter area with waterfalls and great hikes; Sprague Lake, a serene, wheelchair-accessible loop with reflections of the Continental Divide; and Bierstadt Lake, a moderately challenging uphill hike that leads you to the lake where we got engaged!
Estes Park
Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, Estes Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and leisure seekers alike. Estes Park’s charming downtown is lined with unique local shops, from cozy bookstores and artisan boutiques to classic taffy and fudge stores. When it’s time to eat, you’ll find everything from casual cafés and craft breweries to upscale restaurants with stunning mountain views. A must-visit is the historic Stanley Hotel (our first stop after getting engaged!), a grand and storied landmark overlooking Estes Park. Stop by the whiskey vault for a fantastic tasting experience or head upstairs to the wine bar, where you can sip and savor while taking in stunning panoramic views. Whether you’re drawn by history, luxury, or a hint of the supernatural, the Stanley is an unforgettable part of the Estes Park experience!
Horsetooth Reservoir
Horsetooth Reservoir, a 6.5-mile-long lake just west of Fort Collins, is a prime spot for boating, fishing, hiking, camping, and rock climbing, surrounded by scenic foothills. Just 15 minutes from downtown, take W. Mulberry St. west to Overland Trail, turn left (south) on Overland Trail, then right (west) on CR-38E, and follow signs to the reservoir. Activities include boating and paddleboarding with rentals available, fishing for walleye, bass, and trout, hiking and biking on trails like Horsetooth Falls and Shoreline Trail, rock climbing near Horsetooth Rock, and camping with lakefront sites offering beautiful views.
Lory State Park
Lory State Park, located just west of Fort Collins, Colorado, offers 2,591 acres of scenic foothills terrain perfect for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. With 26 miles of trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs, visitors can explore stunning red rock formations, grasslands, and pine forests. Popular spots include Arthur’s Rock, which provides breathtaking views of Horsetooth Reservoir and the plains beyond. The park is also great for fishing, picnicking, and photography, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
New Belgium Brewing Company
New Belgium Brewing Company is one of the most famous craft breweries in the U.S., known for Fat Tire Ale and a strong sustainability focus. Visitors can enjoy brewery tours, which showcase the brewing process and company history, and beer tastings in the taproom, featuring exclusive and seasonal brews. The spacious outdoor patio is perfect for relaxing with a pint, and food trucks often stop by. New Belgium also hosts events, live music, and bike-friendly gatherings, embracing Fort Collins’ cycling culture. It’s a must-visit spot for craft beer lovers!
Tap and Handle
Tap and Handle, located in the heart of Fort Collins, is a craft beer lover’s paradise with 74 rotating taps featuring local, national, and international brews. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, it’s a go-to spot for beer enthusiasts looking to explore new flavors. The menu offers delicious pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and shareable plates that pair perfectly with the extensive beer selection. With frequent tap takeovers, live music, and a spacious patio, Tap and Handle is a favorite gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Totally 80's Pizza & Museum
Totally 80’s Pizza & Museum, located in Fort Collins, Colorado, is a must-visit for fans of the 1980s. This unique spot combines a retro arcade, pop culture museum, and pizzeria, featuring walls covered in 80s memorabilia, from vintage toys to movie posters. Guests can enjoy New York-style pizza, arcade games, and classic 80s music videos playing in the background. The museum showcases rare collectibles, including items from Ghostbusters, Star Wars, and MTV’s golden era. Whether you’re reliving nostalgia or discovering the decade for the first time, it’s a fun, family-friendly experience with great food and a totally rad atmosphere.
Magic Rat Live Music
Magic Rat Live Music is a vibrant venue located in downtown Fort Collins, inside The Elizabeth Hotel. Known for its intimate setting and eclectic lineup, it hosts live music from local and national artists, ranging from indie and jazz to rock and folk. With a cozy indoor stage and a seasonal outdoor patio, it’s a great spot for music lovers to enjoy craft cocktails, local brews, and a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a casual night out or a unique music experience, Magic Rat delivers a dynamic mix of entertainment in the heart of Old Town Fort Collins.
Bean Cycle Roasters
Bean Cycle, a beloved coffee shop in the heart of Old Town Fort Collins, is more than just a café—it’s a community hub. Serving ethically sourced, locally roasted coffee, it’s the perfect spot to grab a latte, relax with a book, or catch up with friends. The cozy, eclectic atmosphere makes it a favorite for students, remote workers, and creatives alike. In addition to great coffee, Bean Cycle shares space with a bookstore and local artisan shop, adding to its unique charm. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to work or a vibrant space to connect, Bean Cycle delivers.