Fort Collins is having a second. Simply ask CNN, HGTV and extra

Fort Collins could also be having a second.

Over a bit greater than a yr, it has been honored by journey writers and web sites for its attraction as a spot to each go to and reside.

It has repeatedly been acknowledged for a peaceable environment, and a number of the newest accolades spotlight the social, cultural and leisure alternatives across the metropolis. Others notice that it supplies extra alternatives than similar-sized cities, presumably due to the establishments that develop if you end up the location of a giant public college.

Here’s a style of why Fort Collins is grabbing some nationwide consideration:

HGTV ranks Fort Collins among the many finest mid-sized cities

Fort Collins, together with Colorado Springs, made HGTV’s record of the 20 finest mid-sized cities within the U.S.

It stood out to HGTV for its “cultural attractions, outdoor recreation and affordable housing” that had been serving to to attract new residents. The writeup additionally saluted its affordability, community of paved trails and devoted bike lanes, Horsetooth Reservoir and craft beer scene.

CNN says Fort Collins is a should to go to

CNN Travel named Fort Collins the fifth-best American city to go to in 2026, recognizing it for its historic downtown, beverage selection and surrounding surroundings.

CNN went on to say that, “Fort Collins feels like a theme park” the place you possibly can soar from one expertise to a different, whether or not that be a espresso store, indie movie show, mountain climbing path or nationally well-known brewery.

Travel publications name Fort Collins among the many most peaceable locations to go to

One of probably the most outstanding methods Fort Collins has garnered nationwide consideration is for its recognition as probably the most peaceable place to reside within the U.S. The consideration first got here in 2023, when Insider Monkey bestowed the title on the town. Travel + Leisure republished the rankings in 2025, which had been primarily based on elements resembling low noise ranges, park entry and proximity to pure settings.

An identical honor was bestowed in late 2025, when thetravel.com referred to as Fort Collins probably the most peaceable place to go to in Colorado. That rating was primarily based on common noise ranges, “serene atmosphere, vibrant cultural scene, and abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities.”  

Nate Trela covers trending information in Colorado and Utah for the USA TODAY Network, with an emphasis on client finance, authorized points and state legal guidelines.