Harper Goff Alley

Constructed in 2023, the Harper Goff Alley invites visitors to enjoy the “Journey” through this alley. With bold art elements, this alley is Instagram-worthy both day and night.

As you approach the alley from Pine Street, you can’t help but notice the two towering prismatic purple arches. These arches form a prominent entry feature and draw you to explore further while also framing the mimetic architecture of the ice cream churn-themed building inside The Exchange. The arches are illuminated at night, casting a warm glow that lights the way. 

Upon arrival at the alley, you’ll be greeted by a mural of Harper Goff (1911 - 1993). Local artist Chris Bates was commissioned in late 2018 by Brinkman Real Estate to create a mural of this local icon. Fort Collins is the hometown of Disney Imagineer Harper Goff. He pulled design elements from historic Old Town, as well as Walt Disney’s hometown of Marceline, Missouri, as inspiration for the look of Disneyland’s Main Street, USA. Bates uses his characteristic “finetoon” style of art to tell the story of Goff’s life, using detailed interior images with smaller black and white line drawings to form the overall image. The portrait’s upper section combines Goff’s face, while the lower section shows the Old Firehouse, one of many buildings that inspired the iconic theme parks.