Famous for its picturesque historic downtown district, Fort Collins offers travelers the amenities of a Colorado mountain town with various big-city offerings. Anyone who says you can’t have the best of both worlds has obviously never been to the area.
The best activities of the town include biking, hiking, fishing, camping, and exploring state parks with beautiful wildlife. It’s nearly impossible to explore all the lakes, streams, and trails, but some of the must-sees are the spectacular Horsetooth Reservoir and Roosevelt National Forests.
Fort Collins is a place that can easily be explored when you have a limited amount of cash. We have checked out all the accommodation options in the area to ensure that you get the best value for your money. Hostels in Fort Collins are your best bet. Not only are they economical, but they are the best places to meet new people who you can share adventures with.
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What to Expect from Hostels in Fort Collins
Staying in a hostel in Fort Collins helps save you money, so you can enjoy all the activities available in the local area. Aside from the wide array of activities and parks, Fort Collins is considered the cultural capital of Northern Colorado. Museums, art galleries, and musical performances are scheduled throughout the year.
Hostels come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They offer private rooms, as well as shared dorm rooms which are always significantly cheaper. Aside from the fact that hostels help you stay on budget, most have a unique communal vibe that you won’t find in other types of accommodation.
Hostels in Fort Collins have a laid-back vibe. After all, the area is known for its outdoor activities and parks.
How much should you expect to spend on hostels in the area?
- Mixed or same-sex dorms – $60 to $80
- Private rooms – $30 to $40
If you want to find the best hostels, you should check out HostelWorld. Before clicking the ‘book’ button, be sure to check the reviews, pictures, and amenities to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Best Hostel in Fort Collins
Let’s not waste any more time, check out the coolest places to stay in while in Fort Collins!
Best Overall Hostel in Fort Collins – Fernweh Inn & Hostel
- $$
- Tours/Travel desk
- Complimentary coffee, tea, and snacks
- Within walking distance of attractions and nightlife
Located in the heart of Fort Collins, Fernweh Inn & Hostel sits in a historic landmark that has been in the community for more than a century. It’s an accommodation with so much history!
The hostel staff are incredible. They love nothing more than to guide travelers, as well as customize trips. If its your first time to the area, they will make sure you hit all the hotspots.
The property is within walking distance of parks, attractions, bars, clubs, and restaurants. There’s definitely a lot of local food to try, as well as watering holes where you can head for a nightcap after a satisfying meal. It’s never boring in this area of Colorado, and if you’re someone who enjoys the nightlife, you’ll love it here!
Aside from the nearby attractions, the surrounding area has a lot to offer. Lory State Park, Foretooth Reservoir, and Poudre Canyon are all just a short trip from the hostel. You might want to extend your vacation to cover them all.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Games room
- Fully-equipped kitchen
- Plenty of outdoor spaces
Unlike most hostels, Fernweh only offers private rooms, all with their own private bathrooms. It is a non-smoking hostel that welcomes pets and children.
There are multiple common spaces where you can meet other travelers and relax. Lounge in hammocks, the organic garden, around the BBQ grill, fire pit, or picnic table. Yard games are very popular!
You can cycle around town using the complimentary bikes to explore. The hostel also offers free coffee and tea, and snacks such as pancakes, and waffles. It’s a good opportunity to fill your tummy without extra spending.
Keep in mind that quiet hours are between 22:00 and 8:00, and guests are expected to respect and follow this rule. Laundry facilities are available and free Wi-Fi throughout the hostel helps keep you connected to loved ones back home.
Fernweh Inn & Hostel is one of our favourites in Fort Collins but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
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Aside from hostels, several Fort Collins accommodation will give you your money’s worth. These Airbnb rentals and motels have comparable prices with hostels and offer excellent amenities, too!
Most Affordable Motel in Fort Collins – America’s Best Value Inn & Suites
- $
- Free breakfast
- Fitness center
- Seasonal outdoor pool
This motel offers the best value for people who are on a tight budget. You can enjoy a free continental breakfast with their daily rate, as well as free private parking on site.
Each room has a desk where you can do a bit of work should they need to, as well as a coffee maker to perk up in the morning. American’s Best Value Inn is nearby The Edge Sports Center and is in proximity to various attractions such as the New Belgium Brewing Company and Fort Collins Museum. Link-N-Green Golf Course is within 6.4km of the motel, too.
The fitness center is open to all those who want to work out and a seasonal swimming pool is on-site!
Great Airbnb for Couples in Fort Collins – Apartment in the Heart of Town
- $$
- Patio
- Close to downtown and old town
- Walkable to restaurants and coffee shops
This charming property was built in 1905 by a famous architect, filling it with personality and history. One of the things couples love most about the home is the location. Not only is it close to downtown, but it is close to Old Town Fort Collins.
Guests can walk or bike to a plethora of coffee shops and restaurants, as well as breweries in the area. Don’t be afraid to contact your hosts and ask for their recommendations. They would be more than happy to guide you to an unforgettable experience.
The patio is open for guests to use and it’s a good place to have your morning coffee. Oh, the nearby area is also a good place to go shopping!
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Airbnb for Large Groups in Fort Collins – Townhouse on Spring Creek Trail
- $$
- Nearby Old Town
- Quick access to city and nature
- Within minutes of breweries
This sunny townhouse is located on Spring Creek Trail and has an excellent location that guests love! Old Town and Horsetooth Reservoir are a mere 10 to 12 minutes’ drive away. It can easily sleep a family or a group of friends in its three bedrooms.
Spring Creek trail is a favorite among walkers, bikers, and runners. You can use the trail to get various breweries, and don’t forget to try the local craft beer.
Guests traveling by car will have free parking in the lot in front of the house. If you are traveling without a vehicle, there is a bus stop located directly in front of the townhouse on Drake Road.
Laundry amenities are available so you don’t have to worry about having clean clothes, and at least two desk spaces can be used by those who need to get some work done.
Airbnb with a Pool/Jacuzzi in Fort Collins – Townhouse Close to CSU and Old Town
- $$
- Community pool
- Walking distance to groceries
- Close to restaurants and coffee shops
This townhouse is located in a quiet residential area, nearby to restaurants, coffee shops, and ice cream shops. You never have to worry about your next meal if you don’t fancy cooking. If you do want to save some money, the home is in walking distance to groceries where you can get supplies.
One of the best things about the home is its location. It is a 5 to 10-minute drive from Old Town, and several bike paths and recreation parks are nearby. The community pool is available for guests to use, as well as the indoor climbing gym and tennis courts across the street.
You can easily take day trips to Horsetooth Reservoir and Estes Park where you can see a variety of wildlife and experience the outdoors. Make sure you have enough battery on your phone or camera so you can take hundreds of pictures!
Fort Collins Hostels FAQ
Travel Safety Tips for Fort Collins
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Final Thoughts
You are never short on adventure and fun in Fort Collins. It’s a must-visit area for people who love Mother Nature and the outdoors.
We’ve checked hostels, motels, Airbnb rentals, and other budget accommodations and narrowed down the choices to the best of the best.
Still can’t decide where to stay? You’ll never go wrong with Fernweh Inn & Hostel. A historical landmark, it is in the perfect location.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
