Best Burger Spots Near CSU – Why Big Al’s Tops the List

Oct 29, 2025

Ask anyone around Colorado State University where to grab the best burger in town, and you’ll hear it more than once: “Big Al’s — hands down.”

Since opening our doors in 2010, Big Al’s Burgers & Dogs has earned a spot on every local’s “must-try” list and every CSU student’s “go-to after class” rotation. Located just blocks from campus in the heart of Downtown Fort Collins, we’re proof that great food doesn’t need to be fancy — it just needs to be real, fresh, and full of flavor.

So what makes Big Al’s the burger joint that tops every list near CSU? Let’s dig in (preferably with fries on the side).

1. We Keep It Fresh — Literally

At Big Al’s, we don’t do frozen patties or shortcuts. Every burger starts with fresh, never-frozen beef — seasoned, seared, and stacked high with toppings chopped throughout the day.

We keep our menu simple but thoughtful: flavorful all-beef hot dogs, house-made veggie burgers, and a rotating lineup of local specials that keep things exciting. Everything that leaves our kitchen is made with care, which is why locals call us one of the best burger restaurants in Fort Collins.

That’s also why you’ll catch our team hustling behind the counter with a smile — we actually love what we do.

2. The Legendary 60/40 Burger

If Fort Collins had a flavor mascot, it would be our 60/40 burger.

This local legend blends 60% beef and 40% bacon into one smoky, juicy, flavor-packed patty that’s been winning hearts (and awards) for over a decade. One bite in, and you’ll understand why people drive across town just for this burger.

Pair it with a basket of seasoned fries and a hand-scooped milkshake, and you’ve got the most iconic CSU combo since green and gold.

3. We’re Walking Distance from Campus

After a long day of classes, labs, or late-night study sessions, the last thing you want is a long trek for food. Big Al’s sits just a few blocks from CSU, right on Mountain Avenue in Downtown Fort Collins.

That means you can grab a burger on your lunch break, swing by before a game, or unwind with friends after class — all without worrying about parking miles away. Street parking and public lots make it easy, and our order-ahead pickup means your meal’s ready when you are.

And for those extra lazy days? Big Al’s delivers through DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, and Nosh. Because sometimes “walking distance” still feels too far.

4. It’s the Kind of Place That Feels Like Fort Collins

Walk into Big Al’s, and you’ll get it right away.

We’ve got rotating art from local Fort Collins artists, upbeat music, and an easygoing energy that makes everyone feel at home — from CSU freshmen to downtown regulars. Our space is casual but full of character, the kind of spot where laughter and fry baskets both come in generous portions.

That local pride isn’t just decoration; it’s in everything we do. We source ingredients from Colorado suppliers whenever we can and support the community that’s supported us since day one.

Because Big Al’s isn’t just a place to eat — it’s a little slice of what makes Fort Collins awesome.

5. We’ve Got the Sides (and Shakes) to Match

Every great burger needs a great co-star. Ours come crispy, salty, and addictive.

Our hand-cut fries are tossed in your choice of flavors — classic sea salt, Cajun, chile, or parmesan truffle (for when you’re feeling fancy). And don’t even think about skipping the milkshake. Hand-scooped, thick, and creamy, our shakes are the stuff late-night legends are made of.

We even have a $5 Happy Hour from 2–5 PM every day, featuring burgers, dogs, and shakes that make your wallet just as happy as your stomach.

6. Locally Loved. Student-Approved.

Over the years, Big Al’s has built a reputation that stretches well beyond campus. We’ve been featured on “Best Burgers in Fort Collins” lists, highlighted by local food blogs, and named a must-visit stop for anyone exploring Old Town.

But our favorite reviews? The ones from you.

From CSU students who call us their “Friday tradition” to Fort Collins families who’ve been visiting since opening day — our community keeps us fired up to serve every single burger like it’s our first.

7. Your Spot for Comfort Food Done Right

At the end of the day, Big Al’s is simple: good food, good people, and good times. It’s a place where friends meet up after class, families share stories over fries, and everyone leaves a little happier than when they came in.

So if you’re on the hunt for the best burger spots near CSU, don’t overthink it. Follow the smell of sizzling bacon, the sound of laughter, and the steady hum of a place that’s been feeding Fort Collins with love (and plenty of fries) since 2010.