Old Town Fort Collins Walking Tours Guide
Discover the historic charm and vibrant culture of Fort Collins on an enriching Old Town walking tour.
Old Town Fort Collins, a beautifully preserved historic district, is the heart and soul of this lively Colorado city. Its walkable streets are lined with Victorian-era architecture, bustling breweries, independent boutiques, and a palpable sense of history. Exploring Old Town on foot is the ideal way to soak in its unique atmosphere, uncover its stories, and appreciate the architectural nuances that make it so special. These guided walking tours offer a curated experience, designed to illuminate the history, culture, and often surprising tales behind the buildings and businesses that define this beloved area. From its roots as a logging and agricultural center to its modern-day reputation as a craft beer mecca, Old Town Fort Collins has a rich narrative waiting to be explored. Whether you're a history buff eager to delve into the city's past, a foodie looking to sample local flavors, or simply someone who appreciates a leisurely stroll through charming surroundings, an Old Town Fort Collins walking tour can cater to your interests. The tours are typically led by knowledgeable local guides who bring the district to life with engaging anecdotes, historical facts, and insider perspectives. They often highlight key landmarks like the historic downtown post office, the Armstrong Hotel, and the numerous art deco buildings, while also pointing out the vibrant street art and unique public spaces. These excursions are more than just sightseeing; they're an opportunity to connect with the essence of Fort Collins, understand its evolution, and discover the details you might otherwise miss on your own.
Featured Old Town Fort Collins Walking Tours Tours
Discover our top picks for old town fort collins walking tours in Fort Collins
Fort Collins Ghost Tour has exclusive access to several underground haunted sites throughout the Old Town area. We offer regularly scheduled tours on Friday and Saturday nights as well as private tours upon request.
Old Town Food Tour offers an experience like none other, as you enjoy opportunities provided by many local restaurants to sample their unique cuisines. You will also be connected with an experienced tour guide who will not only assist in showcasing each restaurant, but also will give you the opportunity to learn about what makes Fort Collins one of the fastest growing cities in America. Restaurant partners include: - Slyce Pizza - The Still Whiskey Steaks - Bread Fellow - Locust Cider - Ginger & Baker - Ace Gillett's - La Boutique - Hot Sauce Realm - Sonny Lubicks - Japango
This tour takes guests to areas not otherwise available to the general public while our professional costumed guides regale you with ghost stories and local history. Brew specials are available to our guests by each venue, and guests may carry their brew to that venue's secret areas underground, above the venue, etc., while enjoying the stories.
Curious about the lesser-known stories of Fort Collins? Starting with the very first steps of this playful walk, you’ll experience the thrill and beauty of discovery. Location-based riddles will show you the way to our favorite local places, including quiet courtyards, forgotten stories and cute hidden spots we’ll keep secret... for now! Fun fact: this trail was created by our local creator. - Explore Fort Collins (Colorado) during this interactive and fun discovery walk - Learn about the history and local stories of the city centre in a playful way - Solve 12 location-based riddles to unlock directions to your next stop along the route - See popular sights like the Fort Collins Power plant and the Poudre River from a different angle and discover hidden local spots This discovery walk is an educational and fun activity for friends, couples, families with kids, curious locals, visitors, and team building.
Our very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to assist and encourage you along through your phone. We are an Austin, TX-based global custom event design company offering scavenger hunts and other events in 300+ cities in North America and beyond. Our specially hand-crafted adventures are equal parts tour, creative challenge, detective hunt, and social experiment! Guests get to discover in an alternate reality our favorite hidden gems off the beaten trail and creatively interpret fun art, history, and culture clues - for points! They get to enjoy fame and glory while appearing on our website’s international leaderboard, no matter what their score. They get to essentially race other teams in other cities, even if they don’t have competitors who have signed up in their city that day. Get ready to discover unusual oddities, laugh out loud, and make the experience your own!
For each tour, owner and principal historical interpreter, Mark Serour, imparts the intriguing history of Fort Collins and the surrounding region in an engaging, detailed, and fun fashion. To enhance the customer experience, he also dresses in period clothing and shares a variety of relevant visual aids from the Traces of the Past company collections and archives. We are the only History tours business in greater Fort Collins that provides such a service. Customers will enjoy a guided van tour coupled with some light walking around the greater Fort Collins area. Our tours present the fascinating stories of personalities and events that pertain not only to the immediate Cache la Poudre River valley, but also to southeastern WY and western NE. Thorough history is not the story of one locality, but an all-encompassing impartial study that involves many peoples spread over a broad geographic area. Traces of the Past History Tours strives to do just that.
The Old Town Breweries and Distilleries Tour visits our best local brewery, winery and distillery. Tour "back of house" where you'll learn how beer, wine and spirits are crafted. You'll also have the time to purchase and enjoy sample flights and drinks at each brewery/distillery/winery. Along the way our tour guide will share Fort Collins' very unique and wild history of alcohol and how we went from 73 years of prohibition to being a town famous for it's craft beer. Drinks are not included in the price of the tour.
We've transformed Colorado State University into a thrilling outdoor mystery adventure! Our app combines the excitement of a Scavenger Hunt with the clever puzzles of an Escape Room, guiding you to 11 iconic campus landmarks. The mission? Cam the Ram, CSU’s cherished mascot, has vanished, and campus morale is at rock bottom. As members of Green & Gold Sleuths, the finest detective agency in town, you and your trusty Basset Hound, Archie, are on the case. You'll search for clues across landmarks like The Oval, Canvas Stadium, and Morgan Library, while uncovering fascinating facts about places like the CSU Trial Gardens, Vietnam Memorial Bridge, and more. Expect to walk about 2.1 miles as you unravel the mystery and bring Cam the Ram home. You can play solo or with friends, and the experience takes about 90 minutes to complete—but you’re free to move at your own pace.
Why Choose Old Town Fort Collins Walking Tours in Fort Collins?
Immersive History
Gain a deeper understanding of Fort Collins' Victorian roots and its development into a thriving community.
Brewery Insights
Many tours focus on Fort Collins' renowned craft beer scene, offering historical context to its breweries.
Architectural Gems
Admire the well-preserved Victorian and Art Deco buildings that give Old Town its distinctive character.
Local Expertise
Learn from passionate guides who share local stories and hidden details often missed by casual visitors.
Convenient Exploration
Discover the most interesting parts of Old Town easily on foot, with curated routes and highlights.
Cultural Immersion
Experience the vibrant arts scene, unique shops, and lively atmosphere that define downtown Fort Collins.
Types of Old Town Fort Collins Walking Tours in Fort Collins
General Historic Walking Tours
These comprehensive tours cover the broad strokes of Old Town's history, architecture, and key landmarks. They often touch upon the city's founding, its economic development, and the stories behind significant buildings. Expect a well-rounded introduction to the district.
Brewery & History Tours
Fort Collins is a craft beer capital, and these tours combine historical exploration with a taste of its famous breweries. You'll learn about the city's brewing heritage while visiting several local establishments, often with included samples or tasting opportunities.
Haunted History Tours
For those who enjoy a touch of the spooky, these tours delve into the darker side of Old Town's past. Guides share chilling tales of hauntings, mysteries, and intriguing historical events that have left their mark on the district.
Culinary & Historic Walks
Combine your love for food with a historical journey. These tours often include stops at local eateries and food shops, offering a taste of Fort Collins' culinary landscape while exploring the historical context of the Old Town area.
What to Expect on Old Town Fort Collins Walking Tours
Duration
Tours typically range from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the specific itinerary and the number of stops or included activities.
Weather
Fort Collins experiences varied weather. Tours usually operate rain or shine, so check the forecast and dress in layers, bringing rain gear or sun protection as needed.
Group Size
Group sizes can vary, from intimate private tours with just a few people to larger scheduled groups. Smaller groups often allow for more interaction with the guide.
What's Included
Generally includes the guided tour itself. Brewery tours may include a limited number of tastings. Food tours will include specified food samples. Additional purchases are usually extra.
Meeting Point
Meeting points are typically in a central, easily accessible location within Old Town Fort Collins, often near a prominent landmark. Specific details will be provided upon booking.
Costs
Prices generally start around $28 per person for standard walking tours and can increase for tours with extensive tastings or specialized themes.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Wear comfortable walking shoes – you'll be on your feet for a good portion of the tour.
Check the specific meeting point in advance; many tours start at central locations in Old Town.
Book in advance, especially for popular themed tours or if you're traveling during peak season.
Bring a reusable water bottle, especially during warmer months.
Don't hesitate to ask your guide questions; they are a wealth of local knowledge.
If taking a brewery tour, pace yourself and be mindful of your alcohol consumption.
Consider the weather and dress in layers. Fort Collins weather can change quickly.
Look up! Many of the most interesting architectural details are on the upper floors of the buildings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Are Old Town Fort Collins walking tours suitable for children?
A: Generally, yes, but it depends on the tour's focus. Standard historical tours are usually fine for older children. Tours focused heavily on breweries or haunted history might be less suitable for very young kids. It's always best to check the tour description or contact the operator.
Q:What is the best time of year to take a walking tour in Old Town Fort Collins?
A: Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for walking, with beautiful foliage in autumn. Summer is also popular but can be hot, so morning tours are recommended. Winter tours are available but require warm clothing.
Q:Can I join a tour without booking in advance?
A: While some tours might have last-minute availability, it's highly recommended to book in advance to secure your spot, especially for popular times or themed tours. This also helps the tour operators plan accordingly.
Q:What happens if it rains on the day of my tour?
A: Most tours operate rain or shine. Guides will typically provide information on how to prepare for inclement weather. Some tours may have covered stops or alternative arrangements, but always be prepared for the elements.
Q:Are these tours accessible for people with mobility issues?
A: Old Town Fort Collins is relatively flat, but some sidewalks can be uneven. Tours typically stick to accessible paths, but it's crucial to check with the tour operator directly about specific accessibility concerns before booking.
Q:Can I take photos during the tour?
A: Absolutely! Guides often encourage photography to capture the historic architecture and vibrant street scenes. Just be mindful of your surroundings and the pace of the group.
Q:What should I do if I get separated from my group?
A: If you realize you've lost your group, try to retrace your steps or look for your guide. Most guides will provide a contact number for emergencies. Staying in a central location and calling the guide is often the best course of action.
Why Visit Fort Collins?
Explore vibrant craft breweries and enjoy the lively Old Town atmosphere in Fort Collins.
Discover the stunning natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains right at your doorstep.
Experience a family-friendly destination with abundant outdoor recreation and cultural attractions.
Step back in time exploring historic buildings and learning about the pioneering spirit.
Savor farm-to-table dining and unique local shops found only in this Colorado gem.
Immerse yourself in a laid-back college town vibe with a strong community spirit.
Best Time to Visit
Weather
Fort Collins enjoys a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and sunny, often with afternoon thunderstorms, while winters are cold with moderate snowfall. Spring can be unpredictable with wind and variable temperatures, and autumn offers crisp air and beautiful fall colors.
Best Months
The best months to visit Fort Collins are typically May through October, offering pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking and biking. September and October are particularly lovely with mild temperatures and vibrant autumn foliage.
Peak Season
Peak season generally falls during the summer months of June, July, and August, coinciding with school holidays and warm weather. Expect larger crowds at attractions and potentially higher accommodation prices during this time.
Off Season
The off-season includes the winter months (November to March) and early spring (April). While the weather can be cold, you'll find fewer crowds, lower prices, and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying breweries and indoor cultural events.
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Plan Your Fort Collins Trip
Transportation Tips
Getting around Fort Collins is a breeze, thanks to its well-connected public transportation system. Transfort buses offer an affordable and efficient way to navigate the city. Many areas, especially downtown and near the university, are very walkable and bike-friendly, with numerous dedicated bike lanes and the extensive Poudre River Trail system. For exploring further afield or for maximum flexibility, consider ride-sharing services or renting a car, though parking in Old Town can be metered.
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Where to Stay
Find the perfect accommodation for your Fort Collins adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
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