Top 10 Things to Do in Fort Collins This Summer
- gallipottsalon
- Aug 12
- 4 min read
Soak Up Summer, Fort Collins Style
If you’re lucky enough to spend a summer in Fort Collins, Colorado, you already know there’s something special in the air. The mountains feel closer. The bikes roll smoother. The breweries buzz. And the golden-hour light? Chef’s kiss.
Whether you’re a long-time local, a recent transplant, or just passing through, this guide highlights ten summer experiences you won’t want to miss—plus one local secret that’s pure Gallipott magic.
1. Float the Poudre
NoFoCo summer isn’t complete without a float down the Cache la Poudre River. Bring your own tubes, rent from a local outfitter like Mountain Whitewater, and enjoy a mellow current with occasional thrill bursts.
🌊 Insider Tip: Weekdays = fewer crowds. Always check water flow levels before launching.
2. Visit the Gallery at Gallipott
Tucked inside one of Fort Collins’ most unique salons, the Gallery at Gallipott is a refreshing break from the ordinary. Featuring rotating work by local artists—painters, photographers, sculptors, and mixed media creatives—it’s a celebration of Northern Colorado talent in a serene, welcoming space.
🖼 Why it’s special: You don’t have to book a service to wander in, sip something cold, and enjoy the art. It’s quiet, inclusive, and a bit magical.
📍 Pro tip: Pair your gallery visit with a hair treatment or pick up clean beauty products from Davines, K18, or Gallipott’s private collection.
3. Catch a Concert at The Lyric
The Lyric is an indie gem with a big backyard. Come for a film, stay for a live show, local kombucha, or dance party under the stars. Their summer calendar is stacked with music, themed nights, and community events.
🎶 Don’t miss: Silent discos, outdoor movie nights, and their famous Fourth of July bash.
4. Eat Your Way Through the Farmers’ Market
The Fort Collins Farmers’ Market at Harmony or the Downtown Market on Oak Street offer fresh produce, sourdough bread, vegan tamales, homemade soaps, and flowers from nearby farms.
🍓 Perfect for: Picnic prep, Sunday resets, or building your own charcuterie board with local fare.
5. Hike at Lory State Park
While Horsetooth Reservoir gets most of the spotlight, Lory State Park is where you’ll find stunning views and slightly less foot traffic. Try Arthur’s Rock Trail for a moderate climb with a huge payoff—or go sunrise style with a thermos and breakfast burrito.
🥾 Bonus: It’s dog-friendly (on leash), and many trails loop for customizable adventures.
6. Book a Patio Blowout
Yes, you read that right. After a sweaty hike or a few pool days, treat yourself to a professional blowout at Gallipott. Not only will your hair feel incredible, but you’ll walk out with a style that can handle Colorado dryness and dinner downtown.
✨ Add-ons like scalp resets, deep conditioning, or shine treatments elevate the experience even further.
7. Sip Something Local
Whether you’re into craft beer, small-batch spirits, or lavender lemonade, Fort Collins is a hub for beverage creatives. Check out:
Odell Brewing – Rooftop vibes and seasonal releases
CopperMuse Distillery – House-infused vodkas and outdoor seating
Tea & Whisk – Hand-blended herbal and oolong teas
The Welsh Rabbit – Wine bar + cheese pairing heaven
🍻 Pro Tip: Bring your own blanket and sip picnic-style on the lawn at Odell or Snowbank.
8. Ride the Fort Collins Trolley
For less than the price of a latte, hop aboard the city’s historic trolley, which runs from City Park to Old Town on summer weekends. It’s a slow, nostalgic ride with bells, conductors, and fun facts for the whole family.
🚋 Ideal for: Kids, history nerds, or a whimsical detour on the way to brunch.
9. Attend the Fort Collins Peach Festival
Hosted in August by the Rotary Clubs of Fort Collins, the Peach Festival is pure summer joy. Think peach cobbler, peach beer, pie-eating contests, and vendor booths with everything from handmade jewelry to local jams.
🍑 Sweet tip: Get there early—Colorado peaches are worth the hype and the line.
10. Watch Alpenglow at Horsetooth Rock
Not a morning person? This one might convert you.
"Alpenglow" is the pink light that hits the mountains at sunrise and sunset. Hike up Horsetooth Rock or simply pull over on Bingham Hill Road at dusk. Bring a blanket, maybe a bottle of rosé, and just breathe.
🎨 You may catch a plein air painter or a proposal if you stay long enough.
🌟 Bonus: Plan a Day of Rest at Gallipott
Fort Collins is full of activity—but don’t forget restoration. Gallipott offers more than cuts and color. It’s a sanctuary for self-care and connection.
Plan your “slow day” with:
Browsing our curated hair care collection (clean, planet-friendly, and stylist-vetted)
A walk through the gallery to see beautiful work from local artists in Fort Collins
A blowout or braid service before your evening plans
💚 It's one of the few places in town that feels equal parts luxurious and down-to-earth.
🧭 Local Love, Gallipott Style
We created this list not as influencers, but as community members. Gallipott is proud to support local artists, venues, food growers, and event organizers. We know how hard it is to build something beautiful—and we’re here for it.
Whether you spend your summer hiking, gallery hopping, sipping, or simply surviving the heat, we hope this guide helps you enjoy Fort Collins to its fullest.
And if you’re looking for something relaxing, beautiful, and local? You know where to find us.
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