If you’re considering making Old Town Fort Collins your next home, you’re not alone. This neighborhood, with its historic charm, vibrant atmosphere, and unbeatable walkability, is one of the city’s most sought-after places to live. As a longtime Fort Collins local, here’s an honest, neighborly look at everyday life in Old Town, the pros and the quirks, and why so many people fall in love with these tree-lined streets.
The Heart and Soul: Community Vibe
Old Town isn’t just a location—it’s a lifestyle. The neighborhood, anchored by the iconic Old Town Square on Linden Street, pulses with energy during the day and hums with relaxed contentment at night. Most neighbors know each other by name, and it’s not rare to stop and chat on a stroll down Mountain Avenue or enjoy a spontaneous gathering at the splash pad on a hot summer day.
- There’s a real sense of community pride here, boosted by frequent local events like Taste of Fort Collins, First Friday Art Walk, and weekly farmers’ markets.
- You’ll find a diverse mix of residents: young couples, college students from nearby CSU, retirees, and growing families.
- The storybook setting—historic brick storefronts, mature shade trees, and Victorian homes—gives the whole neighborhood a postcard feel.
Types of Housing
Old Town offers unique housing options you won’t find anywhere else in the city:
- Historic Victorian Homes: Many streets, like Remington, Oak, and Whitcomb, are lined with lovingly restored houses dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s.
- Craftsman Bungalows and Cottages: These modest, character-filled homes are popular with first-time buyers and downsizers.
- Modern Infills and Lofts: Closer to College Avenue, you’ll spot a handful of newer condos and modern lofts blending seamlessly with the historic architecture.
Rentals can be competitive near Laurel Street or as you get closer to campus, but there’s a mix of short- and long-term leases. Prices run higher than other parts of Fort Collins, but that premium comes with unbeatable ambiance and access.
Walkability and Everyday Convenience
Walkability is where Old Town truly shines. This is an area where you can live happily with only one car—or even none at all.
- Everyday errands are a breeze. You can pick up groceries at Lucky’s Market, grab a coffee at Little Bird on Walnut, and hop into a yoga class at The Yoga Pod, all within a ten-minute walk.
- Main streets like College Avenue and Mountain Avenue are bike-friendly, with wide sidewalks and plenty of crosswalks.
- Dining and nightlife are just blocks away, so dinner plans or meeting friends after work requires no driving.
- Multiple bus stops, the MAX transit line, and safe bike lanes make getting anywhere in Fort Collins easy.
Schools and Family-Friendliness
Families often choose Old Town for its strong sense of inclusion and the quality of nearby schools:
- Laurel Elementary (on Laurel Street) has a solid reputation for academics and a dedicated, engaged staff.
- Older students are zoned for Lesher Middle School and Fort Collins High School—both highly regarded within the Poudre School District.
- Family-friendly amenities like the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, the Old Town Library, and interactive Art in Public Places installations are scattered through the neighborhood.
- Seasonal events—like the annual Halloween Zombie Crawl and the summer “Kids’ Days”—make families feel right at home.
Parks and Green Spaces
Despite its urban convenience, Old Town is surprisingly green. Locals are passionate about their parks, which range from cozy pocket parks to expansive recreation spaces:
- Library Park: In the heart of the neighborhood, this beloved space offers wide lawns under shady trees, a popular playground, and hosts community events all year.
- Lee Martinez Park: Spanning over 80 acres just north of Old Town, this park features trails along the Poudre River, a farm, dog park, and ample open space for picnics and play.
- Avery Park: Tucked between Mulberry and Prospect Streets, Avery’s sports fields, community gardens, and tennis courts bring neighbors together on sunny afternoons.
- Ample bike paths connect Old Town to City Park and Spring Creek Trail, making outdoor adventure part of daily life.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Old Town is generally considered one of Fort Collins’ safer neighborhoods, though, like any lively urban center, it sees a bit more activity than quieter suburbs.
- The area is well-lit at night and heavily traveled by pedestrians, slowing down car traffic.
- Community policing and neighborhood watch programs foster a safe, aware environment.
- Occasional petty theft or bicycle theft can happen, especially near busier parts of College Avenue—residents are wise to lock up bikes and cars.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Location is everything in Old Town. Whether you work for Colorado State University, Woodward, Inc., or another local business, commutes are short and sweet:
- Downtown Fort Collins (the business and government hub) is walkable from nearly anywhere in Old Town.
- Colorado State University is just to the south—biking or busing in takes only minutes.
- Major employers like UC Health, city departments, high-tech startups, and countless locally owned retail and restaurants are all within a quick bike ride.
- Access to North College Avenue means citywide travel—and trips out of town—are quick and convenient.
What Residents Love Most
Ask anyone why they love living in Old Town, and the answers are often the same:
- The creative, friendly culture—neighbors who look out for each other and a calendar packed with events that invite everyone to join.
- Being able to walk or bike to everything—parks, schools, shops, or the best patios in town.
- The blend of history and progress—you’ll see century-old homes next to sleek new eateries and art murals around every corner.
- The “small town in a city” vibe—where you might see someone playing violin on Oak Street and run into friends at the farmers’ market on a Saturday morning.
Living in Old Town means embracing the best of Fort Collins: community spirit, timeless charm, and exceptional convenience. If you’re ready for vibrant Colorado living where every street feels like home, Old Town awaits with open arms.