My city is often named one of the best places to live in the US. It's also a surprisingly great place to visit.

Fort Collins is celebrated for its uncomplicated admission to nature.

One of my favorite scenic spots is Horsetooth Reservoir, which is fair west of the city and tucked against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.

I've hiked in the surrounding Horsetooth Mountain Open Space and Lory State Park year-round, but I particularly affection paddling about the reservoir's hill-framed inlets in the summer.

Fort Collins is additionally residence to Cache la Poudre, Colorado's lone nationally designated "Wild and Scenic" River protected by the US Forest Service.

Whenever I have visitors, I affection driving them up the winding Poudre Canyon for beautiful views of the river, and stopping to hike or outing alongside the way.

The area is additionally a famous destination for fishing and whitewater rafting.

Old Town, a historic part of the city, is located in the bosom of Downtown Fort Collins and features a assortment of restaurants, shops, and bars.

I never get tired of strolling about this area, which is stated to be among the places that inspired Disneyland's Main Street USA.

That small-town charm is what makes Old Town awareness particularly memorable. Not lone is it residence to small businesses, cafés, autonomous bookstores, and quirky thrift shops, but it additionally hosts a year-round shade tour that highlights local former and legends.

There are additionally many of engaging dining options, from American comfort food at The Regional to the finest housemade gluten-free pasta I've had exterior Italy at Rare Italian.

In the warmer months, I affection going to The Exchange, an open-air food court and gathering area featuring restaurants, bars, an ice-cream stand, and an indoor mini-golf course.

On the weekends, I'll encounter up alongside allies at elegant speakeasies akin Ace Gillette or Social, the two located in Old Town. We additionally normally halt by my all-time favorite dive bar, Trailhead Tavern, for pickle shots.

If you affection beer, Fort Collins is the location to be, since it's known as the craft-beer chief of Colorado.

We have big-name breweries akin New Belgium and Odell Brewing Company, as fine as many smaller, locally owned alternatives alongside dog-friendly patios and regular community events.

To me, there's nothing improved than spending a summer evening alongside allies in the ale storyline of Stodgy Brewing Company, located in a construction that looks direct out of a Western movie. I additionally affection that many breweries recommendation gluten-free and non-alcoholic options.

Whether they're ale drinkers or not, I think visitors can discover plentifulness to affection concerning Fort Collins. No matter the period of year, I continually propose checking it out and discovering why I think it's Colorado's best-kept secret.