A Stay at Fort Collin’s Elizabeth Hotel

At The Elizabeth in Fort Collins, music sets the stage for a great stay.

The Elizabeth Hotel lobby
Photo courtesy of The Elizabeth Hotel.

Set in the beating heart of Old Town Fort Collins, The Elizabeth Hotel is the kind of place where stories unfold as effortlessly as your favorite vinyl record. This isn’t just a hotel; it’s a celebration of everything that makes Fort Collins tick—creative, quirky, and undeniably cool.

From the moment you step through the doors, you’re greeted by a vibe that’s equal parts refined and relaxed, with a dash of that signature Fort Collins whimsy. The hotel’s 164 guest rooms, including three jaw-dropping signature suites, are a masterclass in balancing old-school elegance with modern flair. Think in-room record players spinning your perfect soundtrack, locally sourced artwork that captures the spirit of this colorful town, and all the little details that make you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a well-kept secret.

But The Elizabeth doesn’t just invite you to stay—it dares you to play. The Instrument Lending Library is a dream for any music lover, offering a collection that would make even the most seasoned musician swoon. We’re talking Eric Clapton-worthy guitars, vintage banjos, digital pianos, and a ukulele that might just inspire your next island getaway. Whether you’re a virtuoso or a newbie, this is your chance to strum, pluck, or tickle the ivories to your heart’s content—because at The Elizabeth, creativity isn’t just encouraged, it’s practically mandatory.

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When it comes to dining, this hotel doesn’t disappoint. With a lineup of locally adored spots, you’ll find a menu as inventive and inspired as the town itself. Whether you’re noshing on a gourmet breakfast or grabbing a midnight snack, every bite is a love letter to Fort Collins’ culinary scene, where fresh ingredients meet fearless flavor.

And then there’s Magic Rat, the hotel’s not-so-hidden gem of a live music venue. It’s the kind of place where you can sip a craft beer, lose yourself in a killer performance, and feel like you’re part of something bigger. The vibe? Refined but just the right amount of offbeat—a perfect mirror to the Fort Collins crowd that knows how to keep things real while having a damn good time.

Top it all off with a visit to the rooftop lounge, where panoramic mountain views provide the perfect backdrop to sip a cocktail and watch the sun dip behind the Rockies. At The Elizabeth Hotel, you’re not just checking in—you’re plugging into the soul of Fort Collins. And trust us, it’s a tune you’ll want to play on repeat.

Seafood dish
Photo courtesy of Visit Fort Collins.

Eat + Drink

The Emporium at The Elizabeth Hotel is where Fort Collins’ culinary scene comes to life. This American Brasserie invites you to savor an eclectic menu featuring the finest regional ingredients—from bison short ribs to fresh-caught fish, all prepared with a refined touch. Take a stroll through the wine display to handpick the perfect bottle for your meal, guided by the knowledgeable staff. Designed to evoke the warmth of a bustling market, The Emporium is a community hub perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or a relaxed evening out. Here, every meal is an experience worth savoring.

Man on a scenic look out over a lake.
Photo courtesy of Horsetooth Reservoir.

Explore

Offsite, Fort Collins is heavy with delicious dining options. The original Blue Agave Grill on South College Avenue is a great choice for fresh Mexican dishes, or check out the Ginger and Baker complex—a historic mill replete with a pie bakery, American cafe, and great cocktails. For a sweet taste of Denver, Old Town Churn Ice Cream features exclusive Little Man Ice Cream flavors inspired by Fort Collins. To work up an appetite for all the eats, the nearby Horsetooth Reservoir is a local gem, perfect for water activities like fishing, boating, and paddleboarding. With trails surrounding the reservoir, it’s also a hotspot for mountain biking, hiking, and bouldering. Just north of town, the Cache la Poudre River boasts Colorado’s only federally designated “Wild & Scenic” river. Not to mention, Colorado Highway 14, which runs alongside the river, is a designated Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway as well.