Why You Have to Stay at The Armstrong When You Visit Fort Collins

When it comes to staying in Fort Collins hotels, there are a lot of choices. Here's why we think you should stay at the Armstrong.

There are dozens of hotels in Fort Collins for when you have friends and family coming to town, or for when you want a nice little 'staycation' out of the house. You can go super-cheap, you can go ultra-chic, or you can really enjoy your stay.

I, personally, have only stayed at The Armstrong once, but it was a great experience. Since then (years ago) they've only made that experience better for those who stay there. There are really only two places to book a room in the Downtown Fort Collin area: The Armstrong and The Elizabeth.

Let me tell you why The Armstrong is better.

It's a Part of Fort Collins History

The Armstrong has been in Downtown Fort Collins since 1923. Nearly 100 years of guests, a few permanent residents, soldiers (during World War II) and stories galore. Though The Armstrong hasn't always had a great existence (plenty of ups and downs) Elizabeth can in no way boast that it's a part of Fort Collins history.

The Armstrong is in the Heart of Downtown

Just north of College and Olive, the hotel is steps away from great restaurants and bars in the downtown area, including its OWN bar and café.

Ace Café/Ace Gillet's

Ace Gillet was 'The Man,' in my opinion. He came to Fort Collins to open a coffee shop at The Northern Hotel, and ended up owning that hotel and later The Armstrong too. He had a secret spot in his Ford to bring booze into town, when Fort Collins was a 'dry' town. Years later When it came time to name this lounge that the Armstrong created, they absolutely wanted to name it after Ace. Ace Gillet's is one of the coolest places in town and its right there at The Armstrong, with live music, cocktails and food being closed only on Mondays.

The Armstrong also has the Ace Café, right in there lobby.

They'll Give You a Bike to Go Riding

Complimentary bikes to go exploring around Fort Collins are easy-peasy at The Armstrong. I would bike over to Odell's for a beer.

RELATED: The Most-Epic 2-Day Brewery Tour of Fort Collins

Their Mascots

Mo, left, and Keanu are the current furry friends you'll find lounging at The Armstrong. Look at those faces.

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The Former Mascot of The Armstrong

Oreo was the beloved cat of The Armstrong for 16 years, after being adopted from the Larimer Humane Society. Oreo passed away in 2019. Everyone at the hotel loved Oreo.

Obviously, They are Pet-Friendly

Bring Max, Jack-Jack, or whatever you call your pet, along with you when you visit The Armstrong.

The Portrait Wall

Inside you'll find this great wall of portraits of famous folks from Fort Collins. Including Thomas Sutherland, John Ashton (Beverly Hills Cop fame) and Jon Heder (Napoleon Dynamite.)

I just like how The Armstrong IS Fort Collins, that's why I think you have to stay there if you ever get the chance.