We all know Fort Collins is a fantastic place, nestled up against the mountains under shady trees and wrapped around the Poudre River. The people are friendly, welcoming, and kind. Complete strangers will smile at each other and have a conversation. Yet it is the details that make Fort Collins great, the odd little hole-in-the-wall treasures that keep people coming back. Listed below are just a few of the places that help make Fort Collins the haven that it is. Let's take a tour and see what is out there!

10. Dungeons and Drafts, located off of Prospect and Lemay is a "tavern for geeks and gamers" that serves up themed drinks, beers, food, and fun game tournaments. Visitors are encouraged to share a drink and play a few games, all in the spirit of nerd-dom. I always find this a great place to let my geek flag fly and to relax with my friends.

9. Bizarre Bazaar offers a wide variety of new and used music, books, records, and more. Found just across from campus on College Avenue, it never ceases to amaze with its wide selection of unique gifts and additions to your personal collection. I shop here constantly for gifts I know will be a success.

8. White Balcony, a centerpiece of Old Town, is a clothing, home decor, and gift store that has been locally owned and operated since 2003. They pride themselves on unique pieces, a diverse range of stock, and friendly customer service. I have been here many times and I have never had a bad experience!

7. Ten Thousand Villages Fort Collins sells goods made by international artisans right in the heart of Old Town. Their mission is to help artists and craftsmen in underdeveloped parts of the world sell their goods and live well-supported lives. They carry everything from handprinted china and woven baskets to notebooks and pottery. My friend love going there, as their stock changes regularly. There are always unique and fun pieces to find there!

6. The Bean Cycle, owned by a local Fort Collins family, shares a space with Wolverine Publishing in Old Town. They roast their own coffee, and have weekly tastings for the community. They also host poetry slams, occasional speakers, and always have room for new guests. I love going here to write or study or even just to people-watch!

5. Wear it Again, Sam features vintage and antique clothing and accessories that are sure to spice up your wardrobe! With everything from swing dresses to classic tweed suits, this store is a must for anyone looking for that vintage vibe. They also rent costumes for whatever special event you have in mind. If you're looking for a show-stopping piece for a great night out or for your everyday closet, this is the place for you.

4. Curiosities is my go-to for unusual and guarranteed-to-please gifts. Mugs, lamps, socks, jewelry, tapestries, posters, lunch boxes, tea steepers, magnets... They have it all. If you have a sense of humor, you will love this store and everything in it!

3. Happy Lucky's Teahouse serves a variety of tea blends that will "serve up world change", as 10% of their profits go to help Sustainable Schools International, a group that helps establish schools in developing countries around the world. You can get your tea addiction filled and help children learn at the same time. It's a win for everyone!

2. Firehouse Books is a local, independent bookseller right here in Fort Collins. Carrying books for every age, interest, price range, and taste, this store has it all. The staff is friendly and well-read and full of new suggestions for your reading list. Located right next to Happy Lucky's Teahouse, what could possibly be a better way to spend an afternoon?

1. Colorado State University. There is only one CSU, with her mighty Rams and her green and gold banners flying high, and she calls Fort Collins home. She sits at the center of our majestic city, surrounded by her students, faculty, and staff. People travel hundreds of thousands of miles to be a part of her student body. And the city of Fort Collins has the privilege of calling her their own.

These are just a few of the gems we have in Fort Collins, and if you think of more, list them in the comments below! If you haven't had a chance to visit all these wonderful places for yourself, I strongly encourage you to get a group of friends together and go exploring. We live in a truly amazing place. Go out and discover it!