Admittedly, I don’t get out to eat as much as I could living in Old Town Fort Collins, but when I do, it is usually for a pretty informal lunch. When that is the case, the exchange has become my go to meet up location in town.

Entry to the Exchange courtyard from College Ave

Located just north of the intersection of Laporte Ave and College Ave, this conglomeration of shipping containers and brick and mortar restaurants can’t missed. A main attraction of the courtyard is the large ice cream bucket shaped building that houses the Churn ice cream shop, which undoubtedly is busier during the summer months than now, but still anchors the entire courtyard. I love coming to exchange as you can basically order food from any vendor, and enjoy the meal anywhere that you would like in the courtyard. You can also eat within the establishment you ordered from as well, but in a circumstance of COVID and altering food tastes, I’ve found this is a great spot to meet the comfort level and food needs of many different people.

For my taste, I tend to gravitate towards Vatos tacos, and specifically their Órale burrito. I guess the New Mexican in me can’t get enough of shredded carnitas wrapped in a tortilla and smothered with green chile! They also make a decent margarita there as well, and the prices aren’t totally outrageous. I have yet to try all of the different shops, but Waffle Lab, Chick’n Cone, and La Piadina are other notable eatery tenants. There are also quite a few other businesses in the complex, including Coppermuse distillery for a nice mixed drink, Crooked Stave Brewery for some unique and delicious beers, and Old Town Putt which offers indoor mini golf and beverages as well.

If you haven’t already had a chance to check the Exchange out, I would highly recommend a visit next time you are downtown and looking for a bite to eat, a quick drink, or just a nice place to relax and take in some sun. You can check out more information about the Exchange at their website here: https://theexchangefortcollins.com/

The Exchange

Stodgy Brewing: Neighborhood Brewery and Amazing Patio

The End of and Era: Beavers Market Changes Ownership