Best of CSU 2025 | 35 Year Anniversary by The Rocky Mountain Collegian

the BEST in Fort Collins voted byYOU the BEST in Fort Collins voted byYOU

For 35 incredible years, the CSU community has celebrated its favorite places to eat, drink, shop, and play in Fort Collins, and 2025 marks this milestone of honoring the very best of the best!

In our 2024 Best of CSU survey, nearly 2,000 people cast their votes across 43 distinct categories. We’re thrilled to unveil the results of this year’s survey and celebrate alongside all our winners. With over 600 restaurants and 26 breweries in Fort Collins, we are proud to recognize the top 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners, as well as highlight special Honorable Mentions in our community.

The journey of Best of CSU began in 1990 with Kim Blumhardt, the visionary Advertising Director at Rocky Mountain Student Media, who launched the very first edition of this cherished tradition. Back then, the survey was created for an audience of 21,820 students and featured fewer than 10 categories. Today, with over 34,218 students at CSU, the survey has grown to include more than 40 categories and has become one of the most popular magazines on campus, now spanning 72 pages of vibrant content.

This 35th annual edition is dedicated to Kim Blumhardt, whose passion and innovation laid the foundation for this beloved celebration of our business community.

We invite you to join us in reflecting on 35 years of the Best of CSU and honoring the people and places that make Fort Collins so special.

With gratitude, Kaitlyn Larson, Editor

ABOUT THE BEST OF CSU

Best of CSU is a Rocky Mountain Student Media special publication featuring the results of our annual survey highlighting the best places to eat, drink, play, and shop in Fort Collins. This is the 35th edition featuring the results of the November 2024 survey. Thank you to the close to 2,000 people who participated in the survey.

KAITLYN LARSON

CLAIRE VOGL editors

WILL ENGLE

STELLA VAN BUSKIRK

BELLA BAILEY

ISABELLA BEVILACQUA

Photography

Aidan Hepler

Tiffany Bernabei Writers

Paige Mollenkamp

Publication Design

ADELE GOODWIN

STAFF Advisors

CHRISTA REED

MADDIE CHRISTIAN

ADVERTISING SALES

ELLA COATES

GAVIN LAWLOR

JOSH HANSEN

SYDNEY STAHL

BEST BEST OF THE

2025

BEST BREAKFAST

Silver Grill Cafe

Lucile’s Creole Café

Cafe Bluebird

BEST BURGER

Big al’s burgers & dogs

bad daddy’s BURGER BAR stuft Burger Bar

BEST PIZZA

krazy karl’s beau jo’s pizza casbah

BEST D ONUTS

lamar’s Donuts

Mr. Yo’s donuts krispy kreme

BEST SANDWICH

Cheba Hut

yampa Sandwich Co. snack attack

BEST ITALIAN FOOD

rare italian

BEST COFFEEAlley Cat COFFEEHOUSE

Mugs

Dutch Bros

BEST MEXICAN FOOD

taqueria

Los comales blue agave grill

cafe mexicali

BEST FRIED CHICKEN

music city

Nick’s Restaurant

Panino’s

BEST WINGS

jim’s wings wing shack wingstop

BEST DATE NIGHT

the melting pot

ginger AND baker

union bar & soda FOUNTAIN

BEST MARGARITA

ri0 grande fuzzy’s taco SHOP pueblo viejo

BEST SUSHI

jaws sushi

sushi JEJU

japango sushi

BEST ICE CREAM

walrus ice cream

old town churn

ben & jerry’s

BEST HAPPY HOUR

brothers bar & grill

pour bros community tavern road 34

hot chicken wing shack sexy sammies

BEST VEGETARIAN

avogAdro’s NUMBER cava

rainbow restaurant

BEST SWEET TREATS

mary’s mountain cookies crumbl

Nothing Bundt Cakes

BEST COLLEGE

natural scienceS

liberal arts

COLLEGE OF VETERINARY

Med. AND BioMED. SCI.

morgan library lory student center the oval

the foundry ram’s horn durrell

BESTPLACE TO HAVEFUN

chipper’s laneS fort fun old town putt

new belgium brewing odell Brewing co. ramskeller

up ’n smoke kind creations one love

BEST BARBERSHOP

wing shack/ Sexy sammies ramskeller spoons

Morgan’s Grind sweet sinsations sweet temptations

ram’s village union the standard

lucky joe’s road 34 social

Wilbur’s total beverage campus west mulberry max

tuana hair design studio be locks & loaded SALON

the aggie theatre the mishawaka washington’s

d.p. dough cheba hut fat shack

floyd’s 99 rivalry barbershop two bit barber shop livwell ace’s place verts dispensary

the screamin peach european wax center waxing moon

arc thrift store ragstock brand spanking used

tribal rites tattoo & piercing freakshow ice cold tattoos BEST BIKE SHOP

lv nail spa peachy nail spot la nails

kansas city kitty ivy boutique vintage willows

outpost sunsport the gearage jax BEST THRIFT SHOP

recycled cycles road 34 trek BIcycle BEST BOUTIQUE

old firehouse books barnes & noble bizarre bazaar

YEARS 10+

Austin’s American Grill

Ben & Jerry’s

Big Al’s Burgers and Dogs

Cafe Mexicali

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop

Jaws Sushi

Krazy Karl’s

LuLu Asian Bistro

Mugs Coffee

Old Firehouse Books

Panda Express, LSC

Road 34

Silver Mine Subs

Studio Be Salon

STUFT Burger Bar

Tuana Hair Design

Wilbur’s Total Beverage

Yung’s Chinese

YEARS 15+

Alley Cat Cafe

Coffeehouse

Freakshow tattoo

Tattoo

LA Nails

Pizza Casbah

Recycled Cycles

Silver Grill Cafe

Spoons

Trailhead Tavern

Trail Head Tavern

Tribal Rites

Young’s Cafe

Screamin Peach

Youngs Vietnamese

20+

YEARS

20+

Aggie Theatre

Avogradro’s Number

YEARS

Beau Jo’s Pizza

Big City Burrito

Cheba Hut

Aggie Theater

Avagrado’s Number

CooperSmith’s

Lucile’s Creole Cafe

beau Jo’s Pizza

Big City Burrito

Rainbow Restaurant

Cheba Hut

Ramskeller

Ram’s Village

Coppersmith’s

Lucile’s Creole Cafe

Campus West Liquor Depot

Rainbow Restaurant

Mary’s Mountain Cookies

Tribal Rites

Ramskeller Pub & Grub

YEARS 25+

B & B Pickle Barrel (RIP)

JAX Outdoor Gear

Jim’s Wings

Lucky Joe’s

New Belgium Brewing

Odell Brewing Company

Rio Grande

BEST OF YEARS:

A special congratulations,

The Best of CSU was published for the first time in 1990. Over the years many long standing winners have come and gone but there are some who have weathered the storms and have continued to top our list of voter’s favorites. The pages to follow feature our 2025 Best of CSU winners. 35

JAX Outdoor Gear,

Over the years, many longstanding winners have come and gone but there are some who have weathered the storms and have continued to top our list of voter’s favorites. The pages to follow feature our 2025 Best of CSU winners.

To those businesses who currently hold or have held a consistent place in the top three since the publication began in 1990. This includes: Aggie Theater, Campus West Liquor, Freakshow, JAX Mercantile, Lucile’s Creole Cafe,

Lucky Joe’s, LuLu Asian Bistro, Mary’s Mountain Cookies, Odell Brewing Co., Ram’s Village, Walrus Ice Cream, and

Lucky Joe’s Lulu’s Asian Bistro, Mary’s Mountain Cookies, Odell Brewing, Rams Village, Ramskeller, Recycled Cycles, Silver Grill Cafe, Walrus Ice Cream and Wilbur’s Total Beverage.

SILVER GRILLCAFE

SILVER

CE C

GRILLC E

“We are so excited to be honored by CSU again this year! At Silver Grill our guests are considered family. We are so proud of our incredible bakers and kitchen staff who make the best homestyle cooking around. And how our front of house team makes each guest’s visit unforgettable. It’s what Silver Grill has done for 92 years. Thank you for supporting Silver Grill and making us a special part of your community.”

We are honored that Walrus Ice Cream has won Best Ice Cream in the Best of CSU for 30 years. What an achievement! I am thankful to live in a community where the university supports local businesses.”

- Lisa Paugh, Walrus Ice Cream Owner

- Lisa Paugh, Owner of Walrus Ice Cream

- Alan and Jackie Jantzen, Owners

NEW BELGIUM

“It’s an incredible honor to be recognized as the Best Brewery by the CSU community for the 29th year. We’re so grateful to share the love of what we do with our fans, none of which is possible without the hard work, passion, and dedication of our amazing coworkers who not only make our Liquid Center a welcoming space but also craft the world-class beer we’re known for. We can’t wait to raise a glass with you!”

– Hannah Jungels, Hospitality

– Hannah Jungels, Hospitality Manager

Manager

SCREAMIN PEACH

“Thank You, CSU! Since 2006, the Screamin Peach has proudly served this incredible community, and this year, you’ve honored us with Best of CSU for the 19th year in a row! Your continued support, trust, and love for what we do mean the world to us. To every student, alum, and CSU supporter: THANK YOU. We couldn’t have done this without you. You’ve made us proud to be a part of this amazing community, year after year. Here’s to many more years of serving you with care, dedication, and heart—you’re the reason we do what we do.”

With endless gratitude, The Screamin Peach Team

RAM’S VILLAGE

“We strive to get things right and this is validation that our efforts are working for our Ramily at CSU!”

- Savana Blum, Ram’s Village Community Manager

- Savana Blum, Community Manager Ram’s Village

AGGIE THEATRE

TRIBAL RITES

“A heartfelt thank you to the wonderful CSU community for your unwavering support! We are deeply honored to have been voted Best Tattoo and Piercing Studio for an incredible 20 years in a row in the Best of CSU! Your trust and loyalty have been the backbone of our success, and we are committed to continuing to provide the highest quality art and service. Here’s to many more years of creativity and community together!”

- Chad Williams, Owner

- Chad Williams, Owner

“We are incredibly honored to have been voted the Best Music Venue for 25 consecutive years. Thank you for your continued support. We’re excited to continue bringing you the best in local and national music acts.”

Sincerely, - The Aggie Theatre Team

“We are deeply honored to be a long-time winner of the Best Wings category. After 34 years in business, we are so appreciative of the generations of customers who continue to support us. Our continued success is a direct reflection of the hard work and dedication of our manager, shift leaders, and staff who believe in the Jim’s Wings brand. A heartfelt thank you to CSU for your votes, year after year, crowning us as the Best of Wings. This honor inspires us to maintain our tradition of excellence and keep the streak alive”

- Jim & Julie Truax, Owners

“We are deeply honored to be a long-time winner of the Best of Wings category. After 34 years in business, we are so appreciative of the generations of customers who continue to support us. Our continued success is a direct reflection of the hard work and dedication of our manager, shift leaders, and staff who believe in the Jim’s Wings brand. A heartfelt thank you to CSU for your votes, year after year, crowning us as the Best of Wings. This honor inspires us to maintain our tradition of excellence and keep the streak alive” -Jims Wings

JIM’S WINGS

MSWINGS

BEST BREAKFAST:

Silver Grill Cafe

Silver Grill Cafe is a breakfast that is worth

BEST COFFEE: Alley Cat COFFEEHOUSE

Cramming for an exam? Need a caffeine fix at 11 p.m.? Alley Cat Coffeehouse is your lifeline. With its eclectic furniture, local art, and the constant hum of conversation, it’s the perfect spot to fuel your study sessions or just unwind with friends. They even have board games, guitars, and are right next to campus!

BEST BURGER:

Big al’s Burgers & Dogs

Big Al’s Burgers & Dogs is a burger experience that is anything but ordinary. Located in downtown Fort Collins, Big Al’s enhances the typical burger experience with a menu of bold flavors and creative twists. Here, you can find the iconic 60/40 burger—a delicious blend of 60% meat and 40% bacon. With eco-friendly practices and a lively, art-filled atmosphere that celebrates the Fort Collins community, Big Al’s delivers a dining experience that’s both mindful and flavorful. Runners up: Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar, Stuft Burger Bar, and Burger Lab

BEST SANDWICH:

Cheba Hut

For over 20 years and 15 consecutive years, Cheba Hut has reigned as Fort Collins best sandwich shop. Whether satisfying munchies or enjoying lunch, Cheba Hut excels in crafting over 30 delicious toasted sandwiches all named after different weed strains, something that is no stranger to Coloradans. Conveniently located near the CSU Campus on Taft Hill & West Elizabeth and at the corner of Laurel Street and College Avenue, It’s a college student’s late-night go-to snack. Sandwich Co, Snack Attack, and Newk’s Eatery

3 BEST BURGER DEALS:

• Earn $4.20 for every $100 spent

• Early access to Cheba perks

• Grab the latest Cheba merch

BEST MEXICAN FOOD:

los comales

Since opening in 2001, Los Comales has been serving up authentic Mexican food in the heart of Fort Collins. With their extensive menu and a tequila & mezcal bar, it’s no surprise they have earned the title of the best in town. They also prioritize using locally grown Colorado ingredients to achieve the authentic, traditional flavors in their dishes. Don’t skip dessert—with their irresistible traditional Mexican sweet treats, this spot satisfies all your cravings.

Runners up: Blue Agave Grill, Cafe Mexicali, and Rio Grande

BEST DRINKS WITH MEXICAN FOOD:

Classic Margarita:

Tangy lime, touch of salt, and smooth tequila—a classic margarita is the ultimate companion for Mexican cuisine to balance bold flavors and cool the heat.

Mexican Lager:

Sip back and relax—Modelo, Corona, or Pacifico are the ideal cerveza you need with seafood and nachos. They’re perfect for highlighting flavors while not overbearing them.

BEST BURRITO:

Big city burrito

Known for their giant, flavor-packed burritos and legendary potato fillings, Big City Burrito has been a Fort Collins favorite for over 20 years. From spicy ranch to the sweet kick of strawberry habanero, they know how to balance dynamic and unique tastes. Whether you’re hitting up their Phat Tuesday specials or just satisfying a midweek burrito craving, Big City Burrito consistently offers a fulfilling dining experience. Located on South College Ave., they add a burst of flavor to Old Town’s dining options.

Runners up: Illegal Pete’s, Cafe Mexicali, and Los Tarascos

Horchata:

This smooth, cinnamon spiced rice drink offers a calming contrast to any spicy plates like chiles rellenos or birria tacos, making it a great non-alcoholic choice.

Paloma:

This lively blend of tequila and grapefruit soda is tangy, bubbly, and pairs beautifully with tamales, carnitas, or elote. Light and citrusy, it’s a refreshing choice for any occasion.

Sangria:

Balancing sweet, fruity flavors, its vibrant notes pair perfectly with meat or veggie dishes. Red or white, sangria is a fiesta in your glass!

THE OFFICIAL CREDIT UNION OF CSU

Banking for the college experience.

No matter what your college experience looks like, Canvas Next helps you make the most of it with student-only perks like no overdraft fees and no direct deposit requirement for our most rewarding checking accounts. Enroll for free at our Lory Student Center branch or scan the QR code.

Eligible members may enroll in the Canvas Next Program with any Canvas checking or savings account. To be eligible for the Canvas Next Program, the primary account holder must be either a minor, or under twenty-five years of age and currently enrolled in college (for example, an account is not eligible if only a joint owner is a minor). Accounts enrolled in Canvas Next are ineligible for Safety Net and checks. Any nonsufficient funds (NSF) fees assessed will be automatically refunded. Zelle® access is only available to members who are 18-25 years old. Canvas may cancel or modify the Canvas Next Program at any time. The Canvas Next Program will be removed from the account once the primary account holder reaches twenty-five years of age or elects to opt out prior to that date. Insured by NCUA.

BEST FRIED CHICKEN:

Music city hot chicken

BEST WINGS: jim’s wings

Jim’s Wings has been providing the Fort Collins and CSU community with the tastiest wings for the 27th consecutive year. Perfect for a quick snack of five wings or 250 wings for the pre-game, Jim’s Wings has it all. With flavors from mild to “Ram-Hot,” Jim’s Wings are perfect for even the most daring of wing eaters. But brace yourself; one bite of the fiery “Ram-Hot” sauce, and you’ll be questioning if you ate wings or licked the sun.

Runners up: Wing Shack, Wing Stop, and Buffalo Wild Wings

It’s Just Wings has a mango habanero sauce that’ll knock your socks off! Its sweet and spicy kick is one of the best in town, but make sure to have some water nearby.

MONDAY-FRIDAY 3 to 6pm

BEST MARGARITA:

rio grande

Give me one margarita; I’m a have some fun. And at Rio Grande you can do just that. In addition to a full menu, they feature nine margaritas and over 50 hand-selected tequilas. With over 25 years of being one of the best of the best places in Fort Collins, Rio Grande’s legendary blends of tequila, lime, and salt have consistently swayed voters. With Rio Grande’s sizes, you’ll be one margarita in and suddenly everyone’s best friend. Runners up: Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, Pueblo Viejo, and Taqueria Los Comales

BEST SWEET TREATS: Mary’s Mountain Cookies

Mary’s Mountain Cookies in Old Town has been baking huge, oversized cookies for over 20 years and has held its place in Best of CSU for over 10 consecutive years. Whether you prefer cookies filled with ice cream, dipped in chocolate, or topped with marshmallows, there’s a delightful treat for every cookie enthusiast. Be prepared to satisfy a hearty appetite, as these cookies gained their fame for their gargantuan size and new flavors baked fresh daily.

Runners up: crumbl Cookies, Nothing Bundt Cakes, and Gelato aMore

BEST COLLEGE: college of natural scienceS

secret finds in the lsc:

Reflection Rooms:

Need a break from the stress of classes? Head to the third floor and discover the hidden Reflection Rooms. These are perfect for a moment of meditation, prayer, or a quiet break. So, don’t stress; the LSC has you covered.

Hidden Study Spots:

If you need a quiet, secluded place to study, the LSC has you covered. Head to the third floor and look for the secluded study areas tucked away near the offices. But, shh, it’s a secret!

The Morgan Library has it all. Between the abundance of study rooms, Morgan’s Grind Coffee, the Geospatial Centroid, extensive research assistive technologies, and some of the comfiest couches on campus, the Morgan Library has a well-earned spot on Best of CSU. In the heart of campus, the Morgan Library has a space for everyone. Runners up: Lory Student Center, The Oval,

BEST APARTMENTS:

Ram’s Village

Ram’s Village claims the title for best apartments for the 20th consecutive year. Ram’s Village clearly sets itself apart from the competition with amenities such as laundry rooms, a community pool, and free off-street parking. Ram’s Village offers residents exceptional service, spacious rooms, and convenient access to all parts of Fort Collins. Ram’s Village is more than an apartment complex; it’s a sanctuary for those who refuse to settle for less than perfection. Runners up: Union, The Standard, and Aggie Village

TOP 3

TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS:

Groome Transportation:

Your airport BFF! Groome offers super convenient affordable shuttles between Fort Collins and Denver International Airport. For only $32 one way, no more begging for rides or dealing with expensive Ubers. Just book your spot, hop on the shuttle, and arrive at DIA relaxed and ready to fly.

Bustang:

Your ticket to adventure! Bustang is a statewide bus service that connects Fort Collins to Denver and beyond. Hit the slopes in Breckenridge, catch a concert in the Mile High City, or explore the mountains — all without the stress of driving. Plus, Bustang buses are comfy and equipped with all the modern amenities like power outlets and free Wi-Fi.

Landline:

The new kid on the block! Landline is shaking up the transportation game with their innovative bus service. They partner with airlines to provide seamless connections between Fort Collins and DIA, making your travel experience a breeze.

1, 2, 3 & 4-BEDROOMS

2 POOLS & SPAS

TO THE

NSYNC AND BRITTNEY SPEARS WERE ALL THE RAGE AS POP TOOK OVER THE RADIOS AND MAJOR FANDOMS FOLLOWED.

INSTAGRAM FIRST LAUNCHED AND REVOLUTIONIZED SOCIAL MEDIA INTERACTION.

“HAMILTON,” STARRING LIN-MANUEL MIRANDA, MADE ITS DEBUT AND TOOK OVER THE WORLD OF MUSICAL THEATER.

IN 2020, NETFLIX’S HIT TV SHOW “TIGER KING” TOOK OVER

MTV was at an all time high, making waves in both the music and fashion industry.

Starbucks officially launched the frappuccino; WHICH WOULD will later go on to be one of their best selling and most iconic drink options.

“STAR WARS EPISODE III: REVENGE OF THE SITH” WAS RELEASED, MARKING THE CONCLUSION OF THE PREQUEL TRILOGY

the planking trend took over the internet and sparked debates over safety and the limits of internet challenges.

IN 2022, THE JOHNNY DEPP-AMBER HEARD COURT CASE WAS AIRED ON NATIONAL TELEVISION AND CAPTIVATED THE PUBLIC WITH ITS DRAMATIC AND OFTEN CONTROVERSIAL DETAILS.

POKEMON GO WAS ALL THE RAGE AND BECAME ONE OF THE FIRST WIDE SPREAD USES OF AUGMENTED REALITY.

THE LAST BLOCKBUSTER CLOSED, MARKING THE MOMENT WHEN STREAMING MEDIA BECAME THE NEW STANDARD.

THE MOVIE “BARBIE,” STARRING MARGOT ROBBIE AND RYAN GOSLING, MADE ITS DEBUT AND WAS THE HIGHEST-GROSSING FILM OF THE YEAR.

MONDAY - FRIDAY

8AM - 6PM

peter.bleich@colostate.edu,

BEST LIVE MUSIC:

The aggie Theatre

Aggie Theater holds a special place in the heart of Fort Collins residents. It’s a rite of passage to have a memorable, and a little crazy, night at The Aggie. It’s the kind of place where you accidentally bond with someone over spilling your beer and screaming the wrong lyrics to your favorite songs. With countless shows during the year, CSU and Fort Collins residents are fortunate to have this amazing venue in their backyard. Runners up: The Mishawaka, Washington’s, and The Lyric

Centers are the perfect spot to unwind. With two locations, there’s no shortage of entertainment! Head to 830 North for live concerts on the lanes, or visit Chipper’s Horsetooth for bowling, laser tag battles, and axe throwing to test your skills, and hit the arcade to rack up tickets for awesome prizes. For a night of unforgettable fun, Chipper’s Lanes has you covered! Runners up: Fort Fun, Old Town Putt, and Pinball Jones

BEST CAMPUS LUNCH:

wing shack & sexy sammies

If you’re looking to spice up your lunch, we know just the place! New to the LSC in fall 2024, Wing Shack & Sexy Sammies serve up saucy wings, crispy tenders, and mouthwatering sandwiches that make lunch the highlight of your day. Sexy Sammies offers crispy, hand-breaded chicken sandwiches and tenders made with fresh chicken & yummy sauces. Wing Shack has been a local gem since 2004. Serving up fresh homemade wings tossed in their 12 specialty sauces, they satisfy every craving you’re in the mood for. Runners up: Ramskeller, Spoons, and Freddy’s

BEST DINNING HALL:

The Foundry

As CSU’s newest and most spacious dining hall, The Foundry serves up eight distinct micro-restaurants. Each restaurant flaunts a unique cultural vibe, taking students around the globe through cuisine on campus. After indulging in your culinary adventure, make sure to stop by The Creamery for a scoop of Walrus Ice Cream. Who needs a vacation when you can eat your way through the borders and then spiral into a sugar coma like the legend you are?

Runners up: Ram’s Horn, Durrell, and Braiden

5 of the Best CSU Traditions:

Every year on the Friday before finals week in the spring semester, thousands of CSU students gather to run across campus in their underwear. Even when faced with backlash from administration, the tradition continues and allows students to blow off steam.

For the past 22 years, CSU students have been able to go bar hopping between three different bars for just $12 on Thursday nights. This affordable tradition allows CSU students to connect with their peers and their community.

I Love CSU Day:

On April 18, 2023, the governor of Colorado, Jared Polis, signed a proclamation declaring April 18 as “I Love CSU Day” across Colorado. This tradition leads to events all day and special deals across campus and all throughout Fort Collins.

C.A.N.S. Around The Oval:

For the past 38 years, CSU has worked to raise awareness about food insecurity and collect funds for the Food Bank of Larimer County. “Cash and Nutritious Staples” works to contribute to the relief of food insecurity for fellow Rams and Northern Colorado neighbors.

Friday Night Lights:

Every year CSU drags students, families, and unsuspecting Fort Collins locals into the chaos that is Friday Night Lights. This means a bonfire in front of the LSC, fireworks galore, and the almighty A getting lit (literally). Finishing off the night with a DJ dance frenzy at the pre-game pep rally, it’s pure madness that you don’t want to miss.

IN & AROUND THE

Best Campus

COFFEE

Morgan’s Grind (Morgan Library)

Sweet Sinsations (Lory Student Center)

Sweet Temptations (Behavioral Sciences)

The Bean Counter (Rockwell West)

1 st

2 nd

3rd

Honorable Mention

BEST COLLEGE BAR:

When Friday night arrives, and your plans are still uncertain, look no further than Lucky Joe’s. With an enticing combination of free live music, fantastic deals, and coffee bombs that might still linger on your taste buds the next morning, Lucky Joe’s is the way to go. The friendly ambiance of an Irish pub mixed with a western saloon means someone might challenge you to a duel; except at Lucky Joe’s, it’s with a different type of shot. Runners up: Road 34, Social, and Bar District

BEST DRUNCHIES:

d.p. dough

Experiencing the drunchies again? We get it; we’ve all been there. The only solution to satisfy your cravings is D.P. Dough. D.P. Dough reigns supreme as the ultimate solution to your latenight cravings. Open till 3 a.m., D.P. Dough’s mouthwatering calzones and heavenly cookies round off any drinking spree. Situated east of campus on College Avenue, their calzones will satisfy any post-drinking worry and will finish your night out on a high note. Runners up: Cheba Hut, Fat Shack, and Slyce Pizza

lucky joe’s

BEST DISPENSARY:

LivWell serves as your all-encompassing shop for all your cannabis needs. Serving both recreational and medicinal clients, their extensive array of products and knowledgeable staff can help you find what you’re looking for. LivWell’s prerolls, edibles, flowers, concentrates, and tinctures give you a wide variety of options for all your smoking needs. LivWell offers the flexibility of in-store shopping or convenient online ordering for pickup. VERTS, and Kind Care of Colorado

BEST SMOKE SHOP:

Up’n Smoke is the go-to smoke shop in Fort Collins. With a wide variety of products, including American-made glass, vapes, CBD products, and more, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for. With flower and dab accessories, they cover all your smoking needs. Up’n Smoke has a very knowledgeable staff that can help you find the perfect product for your needs. Along with this, their location on College Avenue is super convenient for students. Runners up: Kind Creations, One Love,

Top 3 strains:

Blue

Dream

A Colorado classic, this hybrid has been winning hearts and minds for years with its smooth effects and sweet berry aroma.

Durban Poison

In need of some energy? This sativa strain has the unique effects of your typical daily coffee, creating sparks of creativity and focus.

Gorilla Glue

Much like the name, this hybrid strain will leave you glued to the couch from its sticky potent buds and powerful effectsit’s the ultimate go-to for unwinding and relaxation.

Pipes for all budgets! Cheapest N O2 in town! CBD & kratom products! Daily Deals 20-50% off!

Voted as Top Smoke Shop for 10+ years!

Every Monday BOGO 50% off disposable vapes!

We accept competitors coupons and will match deals!

BEST HAIR SALON:

tuana hair design

Tuana Hair Design is perfect for anyone in Fort Collins seeking top-notch hair services. Tuana holds both a hair academy and a day-to-day salon with stylists who excel in creating stunning looks tailored to each client. It’s no surprise Tuana Hair Design has claimed their title of best hair salon for the sixth year. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff make every visit a pleasure. Whether you need a quick trim or a complete transformation, Tuana Hair Design is the ultimate destination. Runners up: Studio Be, Locks and Loaded, and Molly’s Hair Salon

BEST WAX SALON:

the screamin peach

Screamin Peach offers its clients a comprehensive range of services. Providing services for all genders, everyone can expect thorough satisfaction. Their excellent prices, great customer service, and precision make Screamin Peach a fan favorite. With two locations, one in Old Town and another in South Fort Collins, they offer services from tanning and waxing to eyebrow shaping and lash maintenance. Screamin Peach’s expertise at this delicate task will leave you “peachy-clean” after your visit. Runners up: European Wax Center, Waxing Moon, and Wax Factory

BEST BARBERSHOP:

floyd’s 99

With three locations across Fort Collins, Floyd’s 99 promises expertly crafted cuts and styles, as well as hot lather neck shaves and relaxing shoulder massages. Floyd’s 99 emphasizes reliability and customer service. With 12 barber chairs on display, Floyd’s 99 is ready to showcase their talented barbers and stylists in action. Make an appointment or just stop by for a fresh new look. Runners up: Rivalry Barbershop, Two Bit Barbershop, and Lucky 27

BEST NAIL SALON: lv nail spa

LV Nail Spa stands out within the Fort Collins community for its customer service, convenient proximity to campus, and their enticing student discounts. LV Nails goes above and beyond with their attentive and personalized care. Their luxurious space allows you to sit back, relax, and have a drink while you’re taken care of. It’s time to treat yourself at LV Nail Spa. Runners up: Peachy Nail Spot, LA Nails, and Glossy Nails

4 tatoo specials:

Black Friday

Tribal Rites Black Friday sale is one of a kind! With multiple types of jewelry 20% off and a Cyber Monday that follows, this is one of their best deals of the year.

$20 Plus Jewelry

Freakshow Tattoos offers a $20 piercing plus jewelry special. Get pierced for just $20, then add the price from their wide range of jewelry to complete your new look!

Weird Shit Flash

Millennium Gallery Of Living Art’s “Weird Shit Flash” special is a fan favorite. With pre-drawn designs, you can pick your new favorite tattoo with ease.

One Shot Tattoos

Terrarium Tattoo’s “One Shot” tattoos are flat rate, custom flash designs that will only be tattooed once. Their unique flash sales are perfect if you don’t know what you want.

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BEST BOOKSTORE:

old firehouse books

Old Firehouse Books wide selection of books and readings from accredited authors, Old Firehouse Books established itself as a cornerstone of Fort Collins. This haven for passionate readers is the largest independent bookstore in Northern Colorado and offers not only delightful book clubs but also showcases extensive collections of local authors. Putting phones to rest and minds at ease, Old Firehouse Books is the perfect spot to find your new favorite read. Runners up: Barnes & Noble, Bizarre Bazaar, and CSU Bookstore

popular hikes in foco:

ARTHUR’S ROCK TRAIL

With its diverse scenery and 1,100 ft elevation gain, Arthur’s Rock Trail is perfect for moderate level hikers. It’s 3.2 miles out and back with only 2 hours to complete, making it the perfect day trip.

COYOTE RIDGE TRAIL

A quaint 4.2 miles of clearly marked trails make this the perfect hike. Linking to open spaces to the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, the trail is flourishing with natural wildlife and diverse flora.