Nestled against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Fort Collins is known for its vibrant culture and stunning architecture.
The city blends historic charm with modern design, creating a unique and visually appealing streetscape.
Whether you are a resident or a visitor, the architecture of Fort Collins offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and dynamic growth.
Whether it’s quaint residential homes or striking commercial buildings, each structure tells a story.
Discovering the best architectural buildings in Fort Collins will help you appreciate the city’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing contemporary designs.
Without further ado, let’s explore the architectural gems that make Fort Collins a standout destination.
1. The Lincoln Center
The Lincoln Center is a prominent cultural venue in Fort Collins, offering a variety of events.
It features 79,000 square feet of space and hosts over 800 activities each year, including musicals, dance shows, and comedy performances.
Operated by the city since 1978, it serves as a hub for performing and visual arts.
This historic site brings together artists and the community, making it a significant landmark in Northern Colorado.
To learn more about current events and its history, visit the Lincoln Center’s page.
2. The Lyric
The Lyric, located at 1209 N College Avenue in Fort Collins, is a standout example of local architecture.
It features three indoor movie theaters and a large outdoor screen.
The venue is versatile, hosting a range of events like movies, music, weddings, and parties.
The lobby includes a full bar, restaurant, and gift shop, making it a unique arts and entertainment hub in Fort Collins.
The building’s transformation from an office to a cultural space highlights creative architectural reuse.
3. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery
The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery sits at the heart of Fort Collins, Colorado.
Opened in 2012, this museum blends science, history, and culture into interactive exhibits.
Patrons, especially those with children, enjoy its hands-on displays.
Current special exhibitions include “Skin: Living Armor, Evolving Identity” and “The Bias Inside Us,” running through the fall and winter of 2024.
This museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning through engaging and thoughtful exhibits.
4. Old Town Square
Old Town Square in Fort Collins is a vibrant public space that blends history with modern charm.
It was conceived by former businessman Gene Mitchell, and construction began in 1983.
This area has become a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.
It features a mix of shops, restaurants, and open areas for events.
Recognized nationally, it has been named one of the top public squares by USA Today.
For those interested in history, the square is located within the Old Town Historic District, which was designated a national landmark in 1978.
5. The Avery House
The Avery House, built in 1879, is a prime example of Victorian architecture in Fort Collins.
Located at 328 W. Mountain Ave., this historic home stands out with its well-preserved structure and design.
Frank Avery, founder of First National Bank, constructed this house as a family residence.
The house, along with its stable, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Tours of the Avery House are available, offering a glimpse into late 19th-century life.
Volunteer docents guide visitors through the house’s rich history and architectural details.
6. Colorado State University Oval
The Colorado State University Oval is a historic and central part of the CSU campus in Fort Collins.
This iconic area features eight historic buildings. The architecture varies, showcasing styles that have evolved over the years.
Located at 251 W. Laurel St., the Oval District includes the Industrial Sciences building, which exhibits the Richardsonian Romanesque Revival style, designed with later additions by architect Harlan Thomas in the late 1800s.
This area is an important cultural and educational hub within the university.
7. Edora Park Ice Center
The Edora Park Ice Center, also known as EPIC, is one of Fort Collins’ premier recreational facilities.
It features an ice rink and a pool, providing year-round activities for residents and visitors.
EPIC hosts various sports teams, including CSU Hockey and Fort Collins Figure Skating.
The center is equipped with a dehumidification unit and solar hot water systems.
Visitors can enjoy reduced admission rates for groups. For more details, visit the City of Fort Collins website.
8. Hughes Stadium
Hughes Stadium, also known as Sonny Lubick Field, was an outdoor football stadium in Fort Collins, Colorado.
It was the home of the Colorado State University Rams from 1968 to 2016.
Located in the western part of the city, Hughes Stadium witnessed many memorable games.
The stadium closed in 2016, and its demolition has led to discussions about the future use of the site.
Currently, the city and Colorado State University are exploring new possibilities for redeveloping the area.
They plan to involve the community in the decision-making process to ensure it meets local needs. Learn more about the plans here.
9. Downtown Artery
Downtown Artery in Fort Collins is a unique arts ecosystem.
This vibrant space includes a cafe, bar, event venue, and gallery, all dedicated to fostering creativity.
It features artist studios, live music performances, and showcases local art.
Visitors can enjoy various events such as dance workshops, gallery openings, and performances by both local and renowned artists.
It offers a wide range of experiences in one location, promoting a sense of community and artistic expression. Learn more about the diverse offerings at Downtown Artery here.
10. Art Lab Fort Collins
Art Lab Fort Collins is a vibrant community space in Old Town.
It’s dedicated to supporting local artists and providing a creative outlet for diverse artistic expressions.
This free-to-use venue encourages experimentation and collaboration.
It hosts visual artists, musicians, and other creative spirits, making it a hub for the arts in Fort Collins.
Learn more about Art Lab on their Facebook page.
Architectural Styles in Fort Collins
Fort Collins boasts a rich architectural heritage with notable historical buildings and modern additions. These styles reflect the city’s growth and evolving tastes through the years.
Historical Significance
Fort Collins features various architectural styles that provide a glimpse into its past.
For instance, the Fort Collins Power Plant built in 1936 showcases the Art Deco design with its distinctive WPA Art Deco fountain.
Additionally, the Colonial-style home at 620 E. Elizabeth St., constructed in 1905, demonstrates early 20th-century architecture.
Examples like the Romero House at 425 10th St. and the Armstrong Hotel, which opened in 1923 and remains the only historic hotel in the area, further highlight the historical elements seen in the city’s structures.
Modern Innovations
Fort Collins also embraces modern architectural innovations.
Efforts to blend contemporary designs with historical aesthetics can be seen throughout the city.
Newer buildings often incorporate sustainable materials and energy-efficient technologies.
These buildings reflect a commitment to environmental consciousness while maintaining architectural beauty.
The city ensures modern structures complement the existing historic landscape, creating a seamless blend of old and new. For more on recent additions and their impact, visit The hidden history of Fort Collins architecture.
Influence of Local Culture on Architecture
Local culture in Fort Collins deeply shapes its architectural styles, seen through the preservation of historic buildings and the community’s engagement with architectural landmarks. These influences create a unique and vibrant urban landscape.
Cultural Landmarks
Fort Collins is home to many significant cultural landmarks that highlight the impact of local traditions and histories.
For example, the Fort Collins Power Plant at 401 N. College Ave. showcases an Art Deco fountain, added as a part of the Works Progress Administration effort in 1936. This style reflects the city’s embrace of historical narratives and government infrastructure projects.
Other examples include the Old Town Historic District, designated a National Historic Landmark District in 1978. This area preserves the early 20th-century commercial architecture.
Many buildings retain original facades and structural designs, demonstrating the local priority of maintaining historical authenticity in urban spaces.
Community Impact
The architectural landscape of Fort Collins is also shaped by community initiatives and public engagement.
One notable example is the historic Armstrong Hotel, open since 1923 and still operating.
It stands as a testament to the community’s dedication to preserving its historical architecture while integrating modern functionality.
In addition, efforts by local citizens to have the Old Town area recognized as a National Historic Landmark District illustrate the community’s role in protecting and celebrating architectural heritage.
This collective effort not only preserves aesthetic and historical values but also strengthens community identity and continuity.
Preservation Efforts
Fort Collins proudly maintains its historic architecture through focused restoration projects and sustainable practices. These efforts help preserve the city’s rich history while promoting environmentally friendly methods.
Restoration Projects
Fort Collins has undertaken significant restoration projects to preserve its historic buildings.
The Fort Collins Power Plant, built in 1936, is one notable example. The city has worked on restoring its original Art Deco features, including a unique WPA fountain.
Another key project is the Romero House, a recognized landmark.
Preservation efforts here ensure that the house maintains its historic character, highlighting its role in the community.
Additionally, the Armstrong Hotel, operating since 1923, has received preservation attention to keep its historic charm intact.
Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a major focus in Fort Collins’ preservation efforts. The city’s programs encourage using eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies in restoration projects.
Historic buildings, like those in the Old Town Historic District, benefit from these practices by reducing their environmental impact.
Moreover, financial incentives are offered to property owners who adopt sustainable practices. This includes grants and tax credits for using green building techniques.
These incentives help ensure that preservation doesn’t come at the cost of the environment, promoting long-term sustainability and historical integrity.