Oak Street Plaza
A vibrant downtown hub with interactive fountains, public art, and lively community events in the heart of Old Town Fort Collins.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant markets & events
Oak Street Plaza
Best Time
Vibrant markets & events
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant downtown hub with interactive fountains, public art, and lively community events in the heart of Old Town Fort Collins.
"Great local hangout for brown bag lunch, people watching, and enjoying the fountains!"
🎯 Check Event Schedules
Markets, fashion shows, and concerts happen often! Plan your visit around these fun community events.
💦 Splash Pad Fun
Bring the kids to enjoy the interactive fountains and splash pad. It's a hit for all ages!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Interactive Fountains
Central Plaza
Watch kids and dogs delight in the playful water geysers. A perfect spot for cooling off and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Ruth Asawa Sculpture
Near College Ave
Admire this 12-foot bronze and copper wire sculpture by renowned artist Ruth Asawa, a unique artistic addition to the plaza.
Weekend Markets & Events
Throughout the Plaza
Discover local art, vintage finds, and community gatherings. Check schedules for special markets and fashion shows.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Kid-Friendly Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Event Schedules
Markets, fashion shows, and concerts happen often! Plan your visit around these fun community events.
💦 Splash Pad Fun
Bring the kids to enjoy the interactive fountains and splash pad. It's a hit for all ages!
☕ People-Watch Central
Grab a coffee or lunch and enjoy the lively downtown atmosphere. Great spot for observing local life.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes
Leashed dogs are welcome and often enjoy the fountains too!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Event Schedules
Markets, fashion shows, and concerts happen often! Plan your visit around these fun community events.
💦 Splash Pad Fun
Bring the kids to enjoy the interactive fountains and splash pad. It's a hit for all ages!
☕ People-Watch Central
Grab a coffee or lunch and enjoy the lively downtown atmosphere. Great spot for observing local life.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes
Leashed dogs are welcome and often enjoy the fountains too!
🚲 Bike Amenities
If you're biking, you might find tools and pumps available nearby.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Oak Street Plaza a charming and lively spot in Old Town, especially for its interactive fountains that delight kids and dogs. It's praised as a great place for people-watching, enjoying brown-bag lunches, and experiencing community events like markets and concerts. Some note it's smaller than expected, and the adjacent busy street can be noisy, but overall it's a beloved local hangout.
"Small splash pad with a good amount of shade and seating. Off from the road a little. We thought it was bigger but the kids had a great time anyway."
Mila Gates
"A great place to bring the kids, relax, let them play in the fountains and listen to musicians on the piano thanks to the Bohemian Foundation! Pleasant downtown atmosphere, although lots of traffic, but it's not too busy if you're looking for a table to chill at."
Abraham “Kaboomski” LaBonte
"great spot to sit and chill out and people watch for a while walking in the middle of old town. There are water geyser style fountains where you can often see kids and dogs having the time of their life!"
mel plett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Oak Street Plaza is located in the heart of Old Town Fort Collins, easily accessible by car, bike, or on foot. Parking is available in nearby garages and street parking. Many visitors arrive by bike, taking advantage of Fort Collins' extensive bike lanes and community amenities.
Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options available in the Old Town area, close to Oak Street Plaza. Some street parking can be metered.
Absolutely! Fort Collins is a very bike-friendly city. You'll find bike racks and potentially even public bike repair stations near the plaza.
While there isn't a direct bus stop right at the plaza, several bus routes serve the downtown Fort Collins area, with stops a short walk away. Check the local transit schedule for routes and times.
Oak Street Plaza is a central landmark in Old Town. It's easily found by heading towards the main College Avenue thoroughfare and looking for the open plaza area with fountains and seating.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Oak Street Plaza is a public space and is free to enter and enjoy.
As an outdoor public plaza, Oak Street Plaza is generally accessible at all hours. However, specific events or market hours will vary.
The splash pad and fountains are free to use for all visitors.
Markets, such as the Vintage & Art Market, are typically held on specific dates, often on Saturdays. It's best to check local event listings or social media for upcoming market dates.
Many events held at Oak Street Plaza are free to attend, but it's always a good idea to confirm specifics for any particular event you're interested in.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy the interactive fountains, relax on the seating, people-watch, visit the Ruth Asawa sculpture, and attend various community events like markets and fashion shows.
Yes, it's very kid-friendly! The splash pad and fountains are a huge hit, and there's plenty of space for them to play.
Leashed dogs are welcome in the plaza and often enjoy the water features.
The plaza hosts a variety of events including vintage and art markets, fashion shows, free concerts, and holiday celebrations.
Yes, there is ample seating throughout the plaza, including benches and areas around the fountains, making it a great spot to relax.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Oak Street Plaza itself doesn't have dedicated restaurants, but it's surrounded by numerous dining options in Old Town Fort Collins, offering everything from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants.
Yes, it's a popular spot for 'brown bag lunches' and picnics. Many people bring their own food to enjoy in the plaza.
You'll find a wide array of choices just steps away on College Avenue and surrounding streets, including pizza, burgers, international cuisine, and coffee shops.
Yes, several coffee shops are located within easy walking distance of Oak Street Plaza in Old Town.
Often, market days will feature local food vendors offering snacks and treats, in addition to the surrounding restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the lively atmosphere with the interactive fountains, the unique Ruth Asawa sculpture, and the vibrant scenes during market days or events.
Drone usage may be restricted in public spaces and downtown areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light. Daytime is great for capturing the fountains in action and people enjoying the space.
Yes, you're welcome to take personal photos of events. For commercial use, always ensure you have the necessary permissions.
The Ruth Asawa sculpture is a distinctive landmark. The fountains themselves, especially with people interacting, make for dynamic shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Bring towels and a change of clothes for the kids! The plaza is also surrounded by plenty of dining options in Old Town, perfect for a post-play lunch. It's a great spot to let kids burn off energy in a safe and engaging environment.
🐶 Pet Owners
It's a convenient stop if you're exploring Old Town with your pet. You can enjoy the atmosphere, grab a bite nearby, and let your dog stretch their legs and enjoy the water features. Just remember to keep them on a leash and clean up after them.
🛍️ Shoppers & Market Goers
Beyond markets, the plaza is a central point in Old Town, surrounded by a plethora of shops and boutiques. It's an ideal spot to take a break from shopping, enjoy a coffee, or people-watch before diving back into the retail scene.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Old Town
The plaza is more than just a public space; it's a dynamic venue for community events. Throughout the year, it hosts a variety of happenings, from weekend markets showcasing local artisans and vintage finds to fashion shows and seasonal celebrations. These events inject energy into the plaza, drawing crowds and offering unique experiences for visitors. Checking the local event calendar is key to catching these special occasions.
Beyond its role as an event space, Oak Street Plaza is a testament to public art and thoughtful urban design. The presence of Ruth Asawa's striking sculpture adds an artistic dimension, inviting contemplation and appreciation. The interactive fountains are a particular draw, providing entertainment for children and a refreshing element on warmer days. This blend of art, recreation, and community engagement solidifies Oak Street Plaza's status as a beloved downtown destination.
Family Fun and Four-Legged Friends
Adding to its appeal, Oak Street Plaza is also a welcoming spot for canine companions. Leashed dogs are permitted in the plaza, and many can be seen enjoying the water features alongside their human counterparts. This dog-friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal stop for those traveling with pets, allowing everyone in the family to partake in the downtown experience.
For those looking to make a day of it, the plaza's location in Old Town means easy access to nearby amenities. Visitors can easily combine a visit to the plaza with a meal at one of the many surrounding restaurants or grab a coffee. This convenience, coupled with the built-in entertainment for kids and pets, makes Oak Street Plaza a well-rounded choice for a family outing or a relaxed afternoon stroll.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit