


Fort Collins Municipal Railway Trolley Depot
About
Step back in time aboard a beautifully restored vintage trolley that clatters through downtown Fort Collins! Kids will be enchanted by the historic Birney Car No. 21 as it rolls along original tracks, complete with engaging narration about the city's history. The experience combines transportation nostalgia with education, and special holiday-themed rides add extra magic throughout the year.
Highlights
- ✓Riding in a restored 1919 Birney trolley car along original historic tracks
- ✓Hearing the authentic bell ringing and watching the vintage controls in action
- ✓Learning about Fort Collins history through kid-friendly narration during the journey
- ✓Special themed rides including North Pole Trolley and Pumpkin Trolley events
- ✓Exploring the small museum area at the depot with historic photos and artifacts
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive 15-20 minutes early on weekends as the trolley has limited capacity and operates on a first-come, first-served basis during peak times
- 2.Sit near the windows for the best views and let kids watch the conductor operate the vintage controls from the platform
- 3.Check their website for special seasonal events like the North Pole Trolley during December and Pumpkin Trolley in October,these sell out quickly
- 4.The trolley depot itself has interesting exhibits and historic photos that are worth exploring before or after your ride
- 5.Bring quarters for the donation box and let kids help contribute,it's a volunteer-run nonprofit
Best Time to Visit
Weekend afternoons (Saturday or Sunday 12-5pm) when the trolley operates, with early afternoon being less crowded than later in the day. Visit during spring or fall for comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, or book special holiday rides for a memorable seasonal experience.
What to Know
The trolley operates on donations (suggested $3-5 per person) and runs weekends only from May through early fall, with limited holiday operations. Street parking is available nearby, and the ride itself lasts about 30 minutes roundtrip with informative narration throughout.
Seasonal Notes
The trolley primarily operates May through September on weekends, with special holiday runs in October (Pumpkin Trolley) and December (North Pole Trolley). Winter operations are limited. Always check their website before visiting as service depends on weather and volunteer availability.
Nearby Eats
Head to Tasty Harmony (vegetarian/vegan with kid-friendly options) or Austin's American Grill on Old Town Square, both within a short drive and offering family-friendly menus and casual atmospheres.
More Activities Near Fort Collins
Swetsville Zoo
Swetsville Zoo is a wonderfully quirky outdoor sculpture park where massive metal animals and fantastical creatures made from recycled farm equipment sprawl across 160 acres. Kids can run freely among dinosaurs, dragons, and towering insects while parents snap creative photos,and the best part? Admission is completely free, making it a budget-friendly adventure for families.
The Trolley Cordial Library
The Trolley Cordial Library is a charming independent bookstore in Fort Collins that's dedicated entirely to nurturing young readers. With carefully curated children's literature, regular story times, and a knowledgeable staff who genuinely understand kids' books, this cozy shop makes finding the perfect read an adventure in itself.
Horsetooth Rock Trail
Horsetooth Rock Trail offers adventurous families a rewarding 2.4-mile round-trip hike with incredible panoramic views of Fort Collins and the surrounding prairie. The trail climbs roughly 800 feet through iconic red rock formations, making it a memorable Colorado mountain experience that's challenging enough to feel like an accomplishment without being overwhelming for active older kids.
City Park
City Park is a beloved Fort Collins destination where families can easily spend a full morning or afternoon. The spacious playground keeps kids entertained for hours, while the splash pad offers perfect relief on hot summer days. Parents love the mature shade trees, duck pond for feeding (bring your own healthy treats!), and ample green space for picnics, frisbee, or simply letting kids run free.