Best Hotels in Fort Collins for Families

Struggling to decide where to stay in Fort Collins?  Looking for somewhere with easy access to the Downtown area, yet something affordable that won’t completely blow the budget?  Then read on – this guide on the best hotels in Fort Collins for families is for you!

There is no need to spend hours and hours searching the internet any longer.  I’ve done all the research for you and listed the best Fort Collins hotels so that you can find one perfect for your upcoming family trip.

So, let’s get started and find you the best hotel in Fort Collins. 

Talk to other families about their tips on visiting Fort Collins and join our Thrifty Family Travel Facebook Group or get inspired on our Thrifty Family Travel Instagram Feed.

This post may contain compensated links.  Please refer to my disclaimer here for more information.

Best Hotels in Fort Collins Map

Below is a map where you can see the location of all the top hotels in Fort Collins, which are covered in this guide.  Zoom in and out for a closer view. 

 

Best Fort Collins Hotels for Families Table

Below is a super quick overview of all the best places to stay in Fort Collins covered in this guide.  You can use this guide to quickly determine where is the best place to stay in Fort Collins for you.   

For a more comprehensive review, keep reading below.

NameFrom DowntownRoom AmenitiesHotel FacilitiesCheck Price
Elizabeth Hotel

Downtown2 Double Beds
Coffee Machine
Restaurant
Cafe
Bar
Gym
Parking - extra
Check Price
Armstrong Hotel
Downtown2 Double Beds
Coffee Machine
Bar
Parking - extra
Check Price
Best Western Kiva Inn
5 min drive to Downtown2 Double Beds
Coffee Machine
Microwave
Pool
Free breakfast
Free parking
Check Price
Hilton
5 min drive to Downtown2 Double Beds
Coffee Machine
Microwave
Pool
Bar
Gym
Laundry
Free parking
Check Price
Marriott
10 min drive to Downtown

Surrounded by stores
2 Double Beds
Coffee Machine
Pool
Bar
Restaurant
Gym
Laundry
Free parking
Check Price
Quality Inn Suites
10 min drive to Downtown

Surrounded by stores
2 Double Beds
Coffee Machine
Microwave
Pool
Bar
Restaurant
Free breakfast
Laundry
Free parking
Check Price
Candlewood Suites
10 min drive to Downtown

Surrounded by stores
2 Double Beds
Kitchenette
Gym
Free Laundry
Free parking
Check Price
Fairfield Inn
15 min drive to Downtown2 Double Beds & Sofa
Coffee Machine
Microwave

Pool
Gym
Free breakfast
Free parking
Check Price
Holiday Inn
15 min drive to Downtown2 Double Beds
Coffee Machine
Microwave
Pool
Laundry
Free breakfast
Free parking
Check Price
Hampton Inn
15 min drive to Downtown2 Double Beds
Coffee Machine
Microwave
Pool
Gym
Free breakfast
Check Price

Where to Stay – Fort Collins?

The best place to stay in Fort Collins is around the Old Town Downtown area, where you can be close to various restaurants, cafes and bars.  However, there aren’t many Old Town Fort Collins hotels to choose from, and they are among the most expensive hotels in town.  For the cheapest hotels in Fort Collins, you will have to go further out – but these hotels do offer great value for money – and if you have a car with you, you can easily drive into town.

While Old Town is a fabulous place to stay, the attractions around Fort Collins are well spread out, so you will need a car to get around to them all.  So while I recommend staying Downtown (or as close as you can), given that you’ll have a car anyway, it really doesn’t matter where you stay in Fort Collins.

Best Places to Stay in Fort Collins with Kids

After hours of research and spending some time exploring Fort Collins myself, I’ve shortlisted 10 of the best hotels Fort Collins offers for families.  

The Elizabeth Hotel


The luxurious Elizabeth Hotel is conveniently located smack-bang in the heart of Old Town Fort Collins, perfect for exploring all that downtown has to offer. The hotel is an eclectic mix of traditional elements and modern design. It is a drawcard for creative families with an instrument lending library and an impressive display of local artwork.

The elegant rooms are airy with a neutral colour palette and can accommodate families of four in two double beds. In room amenities include a coffee machine and a record player – whilst not a usual in-room amenity, the record player adds to the vibrancy of this artistic hotel. As mentioned above, you can also loan instruments from the library to play in your room, returning them upon departure. It truly is a unique hotel.

Music isn’t just confined to the room, there is a rooftop jazz bar with live music, or for a more relaxing experience, the bar hosts a piano performance accompanied by High Tea every Sunday. There is also the Magic Rat, a live music venue featuring big-name artists and local musicians; here they offer great food and drinks to accompany the entertainment.

Other places to grab food and drink at the hotel are the Emporium offering hearty yet refined regional produce and the Bowerbird Coffee with beverages and simple meals. Alternatively, you can order room service.

To work off all this fine food, there is a 24-hour gym onsite. Also available is parking at an additional charge.

What’s to Love?

Location! Being one of the Fort Collins hotels Old Town offers means you can explore all the Downtown area without worrying about driving and finding parking spots.

What’s not to Love?

This is definitely not one of the Fort Collins cheap hotels; unfortunately, it is one of the more expensive hotels in this guide. If you’re after a totally unique place with a luxury feel (plus it is centrally located), then you’ll have to weigh up the cost.

Summary

This is one of the creative and unique Fort Collins downtown hotels. Although on the pricier side of accommodation, for families who love their music, having a hotel themed around all things music is really quite special, and we’ll say it again; unique!

Click here for more information and to check the current price

The Armstrong Hotel


The historic Armstrong Hotel first opened its doors in 1923 and is still standing in the same spot – central Downtown, albeit a more revitalised modern version, however still with the same authentic hospitality.

Rooms are stunning with deep moody hues, brass and leather accents and historically inspired furnishings. Families of four will comfortably sleep in two queen pillow-top beds with in-room amenities, including a Nespresso Coffee Maker, mini fridge and free WiFi.

There is parking onsite at an additional charge; however if you decide to forgo a car, the Armstrong has complimentary bicycles to loan so you can see the sights with some pedal power.

The food and drink options on site are plentiful. Start the day at the Mugs Coffee Lounge with coffee and breakfast; you can come back for lunch or the multiple happy hours offered throughout the day. For those later risers (obviously not those with young kids), you can enjoy brunch at Aces Cafe in the Armstrong Lobby and later in the day craft cocktails. And in the evening, you can try Ace Gillett’s Lounge with shared plates, mains, beverages and usually live acoustic entertainment.

What’s to Love?

Being one of the Fort Collins hotels Downtown means everything is literally at your doorstep. Plus, the design and style of this hotel is next level.

What’s not to Love?

Price. This is the most expensive hotel within this guide. Yes, it is one of the Downtown Fort Collins hotels; however you will need to be able to afford the hefty price tag.

Summary

Nice hotels in Fort Collins don’t get much better than the Armstrong – it is historically beautiful, filled with modern amenities and old world charm.  If you’re looking for where to stay Fort Collins offers and don’t mind splashing some cash, the Armstrong is definitely one to check out!

Click here for more information and to check the current price

The Best Western Kiva Inn


Five minutes from Downtown, you’ll find the Best Western Kiva Inn. While a short drive to Downtown, there is not much else in the vicinity besides Fort Fun – which let’s face it, is where kids really want to go!

When you can drag the kids away from Fort Fun into the hotel room, you’ll find two double beds that can fit up to four people. The rooms also contain a coffee machine, microwave and mini fridge, which are convenient to heat up and store simple snacks for the kids.

Also for the budget conscious is the daily complimentary breakfast offered in the glass atrium with stunning sunrise views. Kids will love being able to make their own waffles and everyone will enjoy the fruit, bagels, pastries, juice and coffee.

Another great family friendly facility; this is one of the hotels in Fort Collins with outdoor pool – which is heated so that the whole family can enjoy a splash – or alternatively relax in the hot tubs and sauna. Rounding out the facilities is free parking and free WiFi.

What’s to Love?

This is one of the cheap places to stay in Fort Collins, actually one of the lowest priced hotels in this guide. And the short drive from the Downtown area is convenient.

What’s not to Love?

Isolated location – nothing much around apart from Fort Fun – which the kids will love though

Summary

If you’re after Fort Collins hotels with pools, well priced and not far from Downtown – then the Best Western is worth checking out.

Click here for more information and to check the current price

Hilton Fort Collins


The Hilton Fort Collins has easy access to the I-25, meaning coming to-and-fro when sightseeing is convenient and there are a few shops and dining options within a short drive too. Downtown is around a 5 minute drive. With all of this driving, it’s lucky that free parking is included in your room rate.

Speaking of room rates, you’ll find this Hilton is in the mid-range price bracket for this guide. The rooms will suit families of four in two double beds; for larger families, interconnecting rooms are available. You’ll find a coffee machine, microwave and mini fridge in the rooms.

For families who love to have a splash at the end of a long day of sightseeing, you’ll enjoy the indoor pool available and there is a gym if you want to squeeze in a workout. A laundry (additional charge) is on site, which is convenient when travelling to freshen up clothes. 

And for the ultimate convenience when dining, an onsite restaurant also delivers room service. Perfect for when you just want to chill out in the room.

What’s to Love?

This mid-range hotel is good value for what you get and being under the Hilton name gives you some confidence you’ll receive good service.

What’s not to Love?

This is a bit of an isolated location with not much around, although there are a few food stores within a short drive.

Summary

If you are looking for where to stay near Fort Collins, the Hilton is a good option being only a 5 minute drive Downtown.  While it is located in an isolated area, if you have your car, you can get to key places quickly.

Click here for more information and to check the current price

Fort Collins Marriott

If you like the convenience of having multiple shops and restaurants right on your doorstep, then the Fort Collins Marriott could be the hotel for you. Surrounded by ample eateries, you’ll be able to find food for the whole family’s tastebuds and budget. And if you need some retail therapy, there’s something for everyone from department stores to fashion boutiques to sporting goods. And Downtown is around a 10 minute drive away.

Families will find the rooms comfortable and contemporary, with fresh decor inspired by nature. Two double beds will fit a family of four with a coffee machine and mini fridge convenient in-room amenities, along with all guests receiving free WiFi.

There are loads of hotel facilities onsite to make your stay comfortable, including an indoor / outdoor pool, gym and free parking.

And if you feel like eating in, Copper Creek Restaurant is at the Marriott and has a wide ranging menu with locally sourced ingredients, and Falls Bar will take care of beverages with handcrafted cocktails and a selection of wine.

We stayed at this hotel during our time in Fort Collins and had a very pleasant stay.

What’s to Love?

Surrounded by loads of shops and fast food locations just a short walk away.

What’s not to Love?

Bit of a drive to Downtown and any of the area’s attractions.

Summary

If you’re after Fort Collins hotels with outdoor pools, the Marriott does you one better – with their pool being both indoor and outdoor, meaning you can swim no matter the weather! Besides the pool, this modern hotel is priced mid-range and while a bit of a drive to attractions you are surrounded by shops which are quite convenient when travelling.

Click here for more information and to check the current price

Quality Inn & Suites


Located right off I-25, the Quality Inn & Suites ensures you have easy access to Downtown, which is around a 10 minute drive. Also within the vicinity is a bunch of fast food restaurants, making grabbing a quick meal easy – and cheap.

Families of four are accommodated in two double beds, with larger families of up to six people fitting into the room with an additional bed. Rooms feature a coffee machine for your early morning caffeine fix and a microwave to heat easy meals and snacks – perfect if you have younger children.

Breakfast is one meal of the day that is taken care of – with a free hot breakfast offered at the Quality Inn. And if you feel like eating in for dinner, the onsite restaurant has hearty meals and the bar will take care of your beverages.

Kids will love the sizable indoor pool with a hot tub and there is a simple gym with a few pieces of equipment and some weights if you want to squeeze in a workout. Rounding out the onsite facilities at the Quality Inn is the laundry (at a charge), free parking and free WiFi.

What’s to Love?

Great value for money, this is the cheapest hotel in this guide and as you can see by the inclusions and facilities, you are getting lots for your dollar here.

What’s not to Love?

A little bit dated and a bit of a drive to Downtown and key attractions.

Summary

If keeping an eye on your budget is your main focus, the Quality Inn & Suites is worth checking out. It is well priced, with great inclusions and onsite facilities, helping stretch your travelling dollars.

Click here for more information and to check the current price

Candlewood Suites


Candlewood Suites is across from the Pavilion Shopping Center, which is packed full of retailers along with a grocery store – which is perfect to stock up with food for the in-room kitchenettes at Candlewood. There are also restaurants and fast food joints surrounding the hotel and getting Downtown will take approximately 10 minutes by car.

Rooms have two double beds suiting families of four, with the main feature being the kitchenette. Families will love having the ability to prepare meals in the room; it not only saves on the budget but also ensures you are getting some decent meals – because as we know, when we travel, sometimes eating out all the time doesn’t result in the healthiest choices. 

The kitchenettes are equipped with all the necessities, such as a full size fridge, microwave, stovetop, sink, dishwasher and all cooking/dining/serving ware. And if you want to change it up and cook your meals outside, there is an outdoor gazebo with BBQs for guests to use.

Another big drawcard for families at Candlewood is the laundry… which is free! Yep, machines and powder are available for all guests to get their clothes washed and dried, ready for the next stop on your travels. And finally, a gym and free parking round out the facilities at Candlewood.

What’s to Love?

The kitchenette. The convenience of preparing and storing proper meals yourself is a huge bonus when travelling, especially with kids.

What’s not to Love?

It’s a little bit of a drive to Downtown and any of the area’s attractions.

Summary

You can’t go wrong with in-room kitchenettes and free laundry! Plus, this is one of the cheaper hotels in this guide. You’ll notice there’s not as many inclusions as some of the other hotels, such as a pool or restaurant; however for what you are provided and at such a great price, it could be worth forgoing these onsite amenities.

Click here for more information and to check the current price

Fairfield Inn & Suites

The Fairfield Inn & Suites is part of the Marriott group, which has a good name in the hotel industry, so it should provide some confidence if you choose to stay here. It’s located around a 15 minute drive to Downtown and unfortunately, there’s not too much within walking distance. However, there are some food retailers within a short drive and a medical centre close by, which is always convenient when travelling with kids.

Rooms are contemporary and cosy and can fit families of four in two double beds. If you upgrade to a Suite, families of five are accommodated in two double beds and a sofa bed. You’ll find a coffee machine, microwave and mini fridge in the room.

Every morning you’ll enjoy a free buffet breakfast with a spread to suit most tastes, including; scrambled eggs and sausage, oatmeal, fresh fruit and yoghurt. If you want to get active at the hotel, there is a 24/7 gym and an indoor pool.

As you need to drive everywhere from this hotel, it is great parking is free, so you can come and go as you please without having to fork out to park each time. Another freebie at this hotel is the WiFi.

What’s to Love?

A fairly contemporary hotel that is priced in the mid-range with some decent inclusions.

What’s not to Love?

The location is a little isolated. There’s nothing much within walking distance, so you’ll need to jump in your car whenever you want to go somewhere.

Summary

A great brand hotel that is priced well for what you get. Although it is a little isolated, you’ll need to drive to most attractions so this should only deter you if you like to be in amongst the action – as there’s not much surrounding the Fairfield Inn.

Click here for more information and to check the current price

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites


Located a 15 minute drive to Downtown, the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites is a bit out of the way of any key attractions. It is however across the road from a supermarket and a few food retail outlets such as Pizza, Dairy Queen and the American staple; Starbucks – so at least dinner, dessert and coffee are within close proximity. There is also an IHOP located directly next door if you want to skip out on the free breakfast.

Large families will love this hotel, as groups of up to seven are accommodated in rooms with two double beds and a sofa bed. And to help stretch your budget, there’s a few in-room amenities such as a microwave, mini fridge and coffee maker so you are able to prepare some snacks and simple meals.

Free breakfast is offered at the Holiday Inn and it includes all the breakfast staples along with an American favourite; Cinnamon Rolls. There is also a pancake maker – apparently, it rivals IHOP pancakes, so you can save your money and eat at the hotel. If you want additional snacks or food, there is a 24-hour market onsite.

The indoor pool and hot tub are a great onsite amenity for families who love to have some splash-fun. And there is also a basic gym with a few machines. Rounding out the inclusions at the Holiday Inn is free parking and free WiFi, plus a laundry at a charge.

What’s to Love?

Larger families will love the convenience of fitting everyone in one room instead of having to shell out extra dollars for additional rooms.

What’s not to Love?

The location is not super central with not a lot close by; the food outlets nearby are handy though.

Summary

This is a nice hotel, especially for larger families. A great breakfast spread ensures you can fill up before heading out sightseeing and there are quite a few inclusions which is a nice bonus when travelling with lots of kids.

Click here for more information and to check the current price

Hampton Inn Fort Collins


The Hampton Inn Fort Collins is located a bit out of the way with not really anything within walking distance.  However, there are a few food outlets within a short driving distance. To get Downtown, you’ll need to jump in your car for an approximate 15 minute drive.

Traditionally styled rooms can accommodate families of four in two double beds.  If you have additional guests, the Hampton Inn offers interconnecting rooms. In-room amenities include a coffee machine, microwave and mini fridge – which are all convenient when travelling with kids. And all guests are provided with free WiFi.

There is a free hot breakfast included every day with enough variety in the offering to appeal to even the pickiest of eaters. Onsite there is an indoor pool with a hot tub and a small gym with a few machines for a simple workout.

As this location is a little isolated it’s great the Holiday Inn offers free parking for guests, as you’ll be in and out for sightseeing, so this will help stretch the budget.

What’s to Love?

Good hotel with good inclusions and the interconnecting rooms are great for larger groups.

What’s not to Love?

The location isn’t central, with not much around besides a few food outlets within a short drive.

Summary

The Holiday Inn is a good all round hotel. It is priced in the mid-range and the inclusions on offer mean you can save some of your budget for sightseeing. If you don’t mind being a little isolated, then the Holiday Inn could be a contender for your family holiday to Fort Collins.

Click here for more information and to check the current price

____________________________________________________________

We hope you found this guide on where to stay in Fort Collins helpful.  We have other guides to help plan your trip to Colorado including things to do in Fort Collins, things to do in Loveland, things to do in Denver and more

Leave a Comment