Colorado State University Campus
A picturesque research university in Fort Collins, known for its stunning mountain views and strong programs in veterinary medicine and agriculture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blooming flowers, pleasant weather
Colorado State University Campus
Best Time
Blooming flowers, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque research university in Fort Collins, known for its stunning mountain views and strong programs in veterinary medicine and agriculture.
"CSU is a beautiful campus with a strong community, offering a great education with a stunning mountain backdrop."
🚶♀️ Explore the Oval
Stroll down the iconic Oval for beautiful views and a classic campus experience. :camerawithflash:
⛰️ Hike Horsetooth
Don't miss nearby Horsetooth for stunning mountain vistas and outdoor fun. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Oval
Central Campus
A picturesque, tree-lined promenade perfect for strolls and enjoying the campus atmosphere.
Horsetooth Reservoir
Near Campus
Iconic natural spot offering hiking, water activities, and breathtaking views.
Veterinary Teaching Hospital
South Campus
State-of-the-art facility, renowned nationally, offering a glimpse into advanced animal care.
Ram Stadium
Campus
Home of the CSU Rams football team, a hub for school spirit and community events.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Campus Vibe & Scenery
Academic & Student Life
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore the Oval
Stroll down the iconic Oval for beautiful views and a classic campus experience.
⛰️ Hike Horsetooth
Don't miss nearby Horsetooth for stunning mountain vistas and outdoor fun. :hiking_boot:
🏈 Catch a Game
Experience CSU Rams football for a dose of school spirit and community. :football:
☀️ Enjoy Summer Vibes
Campus is quieter in summer, perfect for exploring at your own pace.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore the Oval
Stroll down the iconic Oval for beautiful views and a classic campus experience.
⛰️ Hike Horsetooth
Don't miss nearby Horsetooth for stunning mountain vistas and outdoor fun. :hiking_boot:
🏈 Catch a Game
Experience CSU Rams football for a dose of school spirit and community. :football:
☀️ Enjoy Summer Vibes
Campus is quieter in summer, perfect for exploring at your own pace.
🎓 Research Programs
CSU is a top research university, especially strong in vet med and agriculture.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Colorado State University is praised for its beautiful campus, stunning mountain backdrop, and strong sense of community, particularly during sporting events. Many alumni credit their education for career success. However, some students and parents have expressed concerns regarding professor preparedness, academic support services, and the cost of tuition.
"Honestly, although I rarely write a bad review, I feel like I should in this case to warn/inform other families who are spending their money at CSU. My daughter chose to attend CSU for a variety of reasons. She graduated with the highest GPA in the history of her HS, so she's no slouch. She is pursuing pre-med and/or engineering.
Her professors so far have been very poor. They don't prepare the students for the exams. My daughter has taken numerous practice exams, skipped many social activities to study, and has sought extra help to prepare for the exam. She sits down to take it and information on the exam wasn't in the lecture or the reading. As an educator for 30 years, this is EXTREMELY poor pedagogy.
And, so far, her professors regularly use profanity and act unprofessional in other ways. We will seriously consider whether CSU is the right fit for her going forward. We are very disappointed so far. Parents and prospective students: be warned, be aware.
CSU, you can do better."
James Kelley
"This college is good if you're a very specific type of person. The requirements are:
- Just out of high school
- Plan to go four years
- No Disabilities
- Planning on moving into the dormitories
- Not a transfer student
- And a little bit of a lot of money
Generally, for me, the one that's the biggest problem is their disabilities department. I don't know how I'm paying so much money for this school and their disabilities department can only afford five testing rooms. During finals week, I found out that I could only get an hour and 30 minutes of test time instead of the two hours and thirty minutes I was supposed to get for the final and one of my classes. I ditched the testing center and talked with my teacher and I was able to get the full two hours and thirty minutes back. Yes, that's right, the disability department is so incompetent at what they do that going into a teacher and working it out was a better option.
Other than that, the school is nice except for where they put all the People who are not focused on getting engineering or agricultural students. They have good professors sometimes. It's just really expensive and If you transfer there, they give you the lowest priority in picking classes. Overall, if you have a very specific path in Fort Collinsis what you need, to go for it. But if you just need a general school, I would choose something else."
Preston Patterson
"Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado is a beautiful campus. The Rocky mountains have the backdrop and Northern Colorado weather, getting any better?
Great football stadium. We're going to CSU Rams games.
Even if you're not going to school here, it's a beautiful campus to walk around on.
Lots of trees on campus so that you can take a break in the shade as well as benches, tables, etc."
Aaron Decker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Colorado State University is located in Fort Collins, Colorado. The nearest major airport is Denver International Airport (DEN), about a 1.5-hour drive away. From Denver, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service like Groome Transportation to Fort Collins. Driving is also a common option, with ample parking available on campus for visitors. +1
The CSU campus is very walkable and bike-friendly. Many students use bikes to get around quickly. There are also campus bus services, and the city of Fort Collins has a public transit system. For visitors, walking is often the easiest way to see the main attractions.
Yes, visitor parking is available on campus, though it can be limited during peak academic times. Look for designated visitor lots or metered parking. It's advisable to check the CSU Parking Services website for the most current information on rates and locations.
Absolutely! Colorado State University welcomes visitors. You can explore the campus on your own, take a self-guided tour, or join an official campus tour. The beautiful scenery and architecture make it a great place for a day trip.
Fort Collins generally experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and dry, while winters are cold with snow. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, making them ideal times to visit the campus. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general access to the Colorado State University campus is free. You don't need tickets to walk around, see the architecture, or enjoy the outdoor spaces like The Oval.
Yes, CSU offers various tours for prospective students, including campus tours and specific college or department tours. It's recommended to book these in advance through the CSU Admissions website.
Visiting hours vary for specific facilities. The Ram Stadium may have event-specific hours, and the Veterinary Teaching Hospital has its own operational schedule. Check the respective department's website for the most accurate information. +1
There is no admission fee for walking around the main Colorado State University campus. Enjoy the beautiful grounds and public spaces without any charge.
Yes, CSU has various cultural sites, including galleries and museums. Check their individual websites for operating hours and any potential admission fees or exhibition schedules.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss The Oval for its iconic beauty, the Lory Student Center for amenities, and the beautiful grounds surrounding the stadiums. The Veterinary Teaching Hospital is also a significant facility. Enjoy the mountain views! +1
Yes, CSU offers various dining options, including the Lory Student Center food court, cafes, and dining halls. Many options cater to different tastes and dietary needs.
Beyond academics, you can attend sporting events, explore campus art, enjoy outdoor recreation at nearby Horsetooth Reservoir, or simply relax on the beautiful grounds.
While CSU strives for accessibility, some students have reported challenges, particularly with the disabilities department's resources. It's advisable to contact the university's disability services directly for specific needs.
The atmosphere is often described as vibrant and community-oriented, with a strong sense of school spirit, especially around athletic events. The natural beauty of the surroundings also contributes to a positive vibe.
📸 📸 Photography
The Oval is a prime spot, especially with blooming trees in spring. The views of the Rocky Mountains from various points on campus are also stunning. The stadium and historic buildings offer great architectural shots.
You can generally take photos of the exterior of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital. For interior access or specific photography requests, it's best to inquire with the hospital's administration.
General photography for personal use is usually permitted. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be respectful of students, faculty, and ongoing activities.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photos. Midday can be harsh, but the open spaces like The Oval can still be picturesque.
Higher points on campus or areas with fewer trees offer the best panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains. Horsetooth Reservoir, just a short drive away, provides even more dramatic mountain backdrops. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during spring when the campus is in full bloom, or fall for the vibrant foliage. 🎓 Prospective Students
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
You can grab a bite at one of the campus eateries or explore the Lory Student Center. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Academic Experience at CSU
Despite some reported challenges, many alumni express gratitude for the education and life skills gained at CSU. The university's commitment to hands-on learning and its unique programs, like the brewing science course mentioned by an alum, have opened doors to successful careers.
CSU also engages in significant community outreach and global initiatives, aiming to address societal challenges through research and education.
This commitment extends to sustainability efforts, with CSU being recognized as a leader in green initiatives. The overall academic environment is one of striving for excellence, balanced with the realities of a large university setting.Campus Life and Community
During the spring, the campus bursts with color from blooming trees, creating a particularly inviting atmosphere. Student life at CSU is characterized by a strong sense of community, often referred to as the 'Ramily.'
While the majority of experiences are positive, some reviews highlight specific concerns, such as the disabilities department's capacity or the cost of attendance.
Exploring Fort Collins and Surroundings
For those interested in nature and scenic beauty, the Colorado landscape surrounding CSU is a major draw. The Rocky Mountains serve as a constant, breathtaking backdrop, visible from many points on campus and offering endless possibilities for outdoor adventures.
Visitors can also explore other nearby attractions, such as the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora or the various campuses of the University of Colorado system if they are interested in comparing educational institutions or exploring different facets of Colorado's academic and medical landscape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit