We all know that Fort Collins is known for its breweries, but don’t let that fool you. This city has quite a selection of high quality cocktails as well. Not sure where to look or what to order? We’re here to help! Below is a list of popular cocktails from five upscale area favorites! Consider planning your next happy hour excursion at one of these locations and expand your drinking horizons. Cheers!

 

Elliot’s Martini Bar


234 Linden Street

Specialty Cocktail: Sazerac

Elliot's Martini Bar in Fort Collins

How it’s made: Made with rye whiskey, absinthe, bitters, simple syrup and a twist, the Sazerac will definitely put your taste buds into overdrive! Cocktail connoisseurs will appreciate the fact that this classic drink was reportedly the first cocktail invented in the U.S.

The vibe: Elliot’s Martini Bar is Fort Collins’ top martini bar, serving classic martinis, creative drinks, seasonal cocktails, fine beers, wines, scotches and tapas. Situated in North Old Town, Elliot’s offers a social experience for friends and family, a cap to the end of a long day, or the perfect end to an evening on the town.

 

Social


1 Old Town Square #7

Specialty Cocktail: Lavender Sour

The Social in Fort Collins

How it’s made: Lavender is known to calm the mind, ease stress and relax the body, so it’s no surprise that this Lavender Sour cocktail is the perfect remedy after a long day at the office! A combination of vodka, Canton Ginger Cognac and Social’s housemade lavender sour mix, this crowd favorite is as refreshing as it is beautiful!

The vibe: Social is a locally-owned, underground, cocktail bar in Old Town Fort Collins. It’s a place to enjoy properly crafted cocktails, sommelier selected wines and abundantly sliced charcuterie. At the entrance into Old Town Square, a street clock and a well-lit stairwell welcome you to an evening filled with great conversation. A soft modern/industrial decor paired with friendly service and great quality food and beverage present an experience you’ll want to repeat again and again.

 

Ace Gillett’s
 Lounge

239 South College Avenue

Specialty Cocktail: Bluebeard

Ace Gillett's in Fort CollinsHow it’s made: Attention all you gin fans, you’re going to want to check out the Bluebeard cocktail at Ace Gillett’s! The subtle floral notes of the elderflower help balance the gin, and the melding of these ingredients with a blueberry-lavender simple syrup is sure to surprise your senses. So head on down for happy hour or a night out on the town!

The vibe: Ace Gillett’s celebrates a bygone era of exquisite service, timeless style, classic cocktails, and expert cuisine. Step away from one world and descend underground into another – a shadowy, smoldering enclave with walls nearly a century old that hold the memories and merriment of travelers and the surrounding neighborhood alike. Sip a handcrafted martini from their signature drink menu, or partake in that perfect pairing of wine and unforgettable fare. Your evening of revelry, live music and familiar comfort at Ace Gillett’s is its homage to yesteryear.

 

The Whisk(e)y


214 South College Avenue #2

Specialty Cocktail: Old Fashioned

The Whiskey in Fort Collins

How it’s made: This classic drink is taken to a whole other level at The Whisk(e)y! With a selection of over 1200 whiskeys to choose from, including everything from American bourbons to the blended whiskeys of Japan, the options are pretty much unlimited. They also offer whiskeys that can’t be found anywhere else in Colorado, so we recommend asking one of their bartenders for suggestions!

The vibe: The Whisk(e)y is Fort Collins Premier Whiskey bar and lounge. Boasting the largest selection of whiskey in Colorado, along with whiskey inspired cocktails, classic cocktails and mules, they also host regular tastings and educational events with brand ambassadors and master distillers. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax after work, celebrate a special occasion, or enjoy a night of live music and dancing, The Whisk(e)y is the place for you.

 

Coppermuse Distillery

244 North College Avenue

Specialty Cocktail: Dr. Earl’s Caribbean Love Elixir

Coppermuse Distillery in Fort Collins

How it’s made: This elaborate cocktail consists of coconut rum, organic apple juice, lime juice, simple syrup, muddled raspberries and chilled earl grey tea. One sip of this drink and all you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a relaxing day at the beach…or at least their outdoor patio!

The vibe: Coppermuse Distillery offers a cozy tasting room for kicking back and sampling a variety of made-in-house spirits. Tours are also available, so grab your friends and enjoy a tour, tasting and flavorful food pairings! The food and drink menu does change often in order to offer fresh ingredients and to support local farms and providers, but we promise you won’t be disappointed by any of their selections!

Are there any local hot spots you love that are not on the list? We’d love for you to share in the comments below!