Experience The Magic Rat Through The Eyes Of A College Student
Electra Holberton, 21, has been overwhelmed with assignments, school, and applying for future jobs this past week and she is ready to blow off some steam this weekend. It’s Friday night, and Electra stares at the kick-ass outfit she picked out for her night out with the girls in her mirror. Her hair is curled, and she has her dancing shoes on and is ready to go. Her and her friends called an Uber to the Magic Rat.
As they walk through the doors of the Elizabeth Hotel, they can already feel the music and hear the crowd. Within one step after walking into the venue, her hands were up and she was grooving to the music.
When you go out, what is one thing that you, as a college student, look for in a bar or venue?
I always look for a fun environment, and somewhere that is a central hub for college students. I often look for somewhere to listen to good music, dance with my friends and meet new people.
What is one of the most interesting places you’ve been to in Old Town?
The most interesting place I have been to in Old Town is the Magic Rat. It’s fun and funky, and a lot of people have no idea that it exists! Since it is in the Elizabeth Hotel, many college students don’t get to experience it, and it isn’t advertised as much as other bars in Old Town on campus.
How did you come across the Magic Rat?
I first heard about the Magic Rat through my stay at the Elizabeth Hotel. My family was in town, and we wanted to do something fun as a family after dinner!
How would you describe your experience at the venue?
My experience at the venue was very fun. There was a live band called the Valley Queen that put on an amazing performance and really brought out the liveliness and laid back characteristics of the Magic Rat. We had a lot of fun dancing to the sultry sound of Valley Queen and enjoying the atmosphere that the Magic Rat brought to us.
Did you have any expectation going into the venue? Were your expectations met?
I didn’t really have any expectations other than the assumption that it would be an interesting spot that would blend with the exciting scene in downtown Fort Collins. The Elizabeth Hotel is a very hip place on its own, so I was set on the fact that the Magic Rat would only add to the modern setting of the hotel. The Magic Rat definitely met my expectations, it was intriguing and it was enjoyable for my whole family. It was such a friendly environment and the staff made us all feel at home!
You said that Downtown Fort Collins has an exciting scene. How do you think the Magic Rat fits into your perception of what downton FoCo is?
The Magic Rat fits into my perception of Fort Collins because it is modern, rustic, and it’s a place for everyone. The atmosphere of the Magic rat blends in with what Fort Collins portrays, which is inclusivity, friendliness, and progressiveness.
So, what made you choose to come here over the other venues and bars in town?
We chose to come here because it was located in the Elizabeth Hotel, (where we were staying), and because it is so close to the heart of Old Town and lots of cool restaurants. It’s a great location and there is parking available! I wanted my family to experience how the people of Fort Collins party and enjoy their time downtown, and the Magic Rat seemed like the perfect place to do so!
Was there anything about your experience that you did not enjoy?
For the most part I really enjoyed my time, however it was a little bit packed with people the night that we went. I assumed it was because it was a popular place where locals went on the weekends and because there was a live band playing that night.
What did you think about the atmosphere and the overall vibe of the venue?
I thought the atmosphere of the Magic Rat was very dynamic. It reminded me of those classic smoky bars you see in the movies, but with a more modern touch. It was a fine balance between a hippy vibe, and a more sophisticated tone with the abstract art on the walls and the classy furniture.
As a college student, would you recommend this venue to other college kids?
As a college student I would say that this would be a cool place to go with friends and to see live music. While it is more laid back than a typical college atmosphere, it would be great for students to come and experience. Most college students are looking for a wild party scene, and while the Magic Rat is fun and interactive, it’s better a scene for college students looking for a different experience on a night out in Old Town.
Do you have any other comments or thoughts about the Magic Rat?
Everyone should definitely go to the Magic Rat and get the chance to experience it for themselves!
