Golden, Colorado, isn’t just a pretty face—this historic town is a hub for unique tours that bring its rich past and stunning scenery to life. Whether you’re a history lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a fun way to explore, Golden offers options that won’t disappoint. We especially enjoy the Wild West Walking Tour, which makes history engaging and fun, especially with the colorful storytelling and the chance to wear a gold bandana for photos. For panoramic views, the E-bike Tour of Golden and Red Rocks Amphitheater is a must, combining scenic riding with stops at iconic landmarks. And if you’re feeling adventurous, the Guided Hiking Tour & Mountain Town Exploration offers a personal touch to mountain exploration, perfect for nature lovers. With options ranging from walking tours to full-day explorations, Golden’s tour scene is as lively and varied as its history.
Quick Overview
Golden’s tours span a variety of interests and activity levels. For a taste of the Wild West, there’s the Golden: Wild West Walking Tour (), offering lively stories and historic costumes. Those wanting to combine city sights and mountain views can opt for the Denver: City Highlights, Golden, and Lookout Mountain (), or the Small Group: Red Rocks Park, Golden Town Tour from Denver (). For outdoor activity lovers, the Guided Hiking Tour & Mountain Town Exploration () and the Scenic E-Bike Tour () offer active ways to see the landscape. If you’re into ghost stories and local legends, the Golden Ghosts & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl Tour () combines history with a lively pub crawl. For those interested in a full-day experience, the Characteristic Towns around Denver 1-Day Tour () covers Black Hawk, Estes Park, Boulder, and Golden.
1. Golden: Wild West Walking Tour
For just $21 per person, the Golden: Wild West Walking Tour offers a lively stroll through Colorado’s past. Over 1 to 2 hours, your guide will share outrageous stories of outlaws, miners, and pioneers who shaped Golden’s history. What makes this tour stand out is its engaging storytelling—this isn’t a boring history lecture. Instead, you’ll hear true tales from the Wild West, some more colorful than others.
Everyone receives a gold bandana—perfect for photos—and the stories are suitable for all ages. The tour brings history to life in a fun, memorable way that makes learning feel like an adventure. The guide’s ability to entertain while sharing authentic stories keeps the atmosphere lively. Perfect for families or history enthusiasts who want a taste of Golden’s past without dedicating an entire day.
Bottom line: If you’re after an affordable, fun introduction to Golden’s Wild West history, this tour hits the mark. It’s a lively walk that leaves you with stories to tell.
2. Denver: City Highlights, Golden, and Lookout Mountain
Priced at $89 per person, this 4-hour tour offers a great way to see Denver, Golden, and the scenic Lookout Mountain. It combines city sights with mountain vistas in a manageable half-day trip. The tour includes stopping at the State Capitol, Union Station, and Denver’s bustling downtown with its shops and historic landmarks. You’ll learn about Denver’s evolution from a gold rush town to a thriving city.
Then, the tour takes you to Golden, a charming town rich in Western history, where you’ll explore its streets and learn about its past. The highlight for many is the view from Lookout Mountain, where you get sweeping views of the Rocky Mountains and Great Plains. The scenic drive along the historic Lariat Loop offers plenty of photo opportunities.
This tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of city culture and mountain scenery without the hassle of planning. It’s perfect for newcomers who want a quick overview of Denver and surrounding highlights in just a few hours.
Bottom line: This tour packs a lot into four hours, making it a good option for those with limited time who want a broad overview.
$89 per person
3. Denver: Guided Hiking Tour & Mountain Town Exploration
At $350 for a group up to six, the Guided Hiking Tour & Mountain Town Exploration offers a personalized, flexible experience. The tour focuses on hiking in the Rockies’ foothills, with hikes tailored to your skill level, making it perfect for active travelers who want a custom outdoor adventure. The guide will select trails that match your comfort, whether you’re a beginner or experienced hiker.
After the hike, you’ll visit a charming Front Range mountain town, where you can enjoy shopping and exploring local attractions. This combination makes for a well-rounded day—getting active in the mountains and then relaxing in a quaint town atmosphere. The tour is ideal for those who prefer a more private, tailored experience rather than large group outings.
Guests who enjoy nature and personalized service will appreciate the flexibility and attention to detail. The only potential downside is the price—it’s more costly than other options—but the private experience is worth it for those who value customization.
Bottom line: This tour offers a personalized way to combine outdoor adventure with mountain town charm, perfect for active, independent travelers.
$350 per group up to 6
4. E-bike Tour of Golden and Red Rocks Amphitheater
For around $213 per person, the E-bike Tour of Golden and Red Rocks Amphitheater is a fantastic choice for those wanting an active, scenic experience. The 5-hour guided ride covers Golden, Morrison, and the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Riders enjoy the summit of Lookout Mountain, which offers some of the best views of the front range.
The tour includes a stop for ice cream at The Cow Eatery in Morrison, adding a sweet touch to the day. As you cruise past the world-famous Red Rocks, you’ll also see geological wonders like the Dinosaur Ridge, where ancient footprints are preserved in stone. The tour is suitable for most fitness levels, thanks to e-bikes that make climbing hills manageable.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of scenic beauty, active exploration, and fun stops. It’s perfect for travelers who want to cover a lot of ground without tiring out. Plus, the presence of natural landmarks, like Dinosaur Ridge, adds educational value.
Bottom line: An energetic way to see Golden and Red Rocks, this tour offers a blend of physical activity and sightseeing that’s hard to beat.
$213 per person
5. Golden Ghosts & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl Tour
At $48 per person for 2.5 hours, the Golden Ghosts & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl Tour combines history, ghost stories, and a bit of nightlife. As we walk the haunted streets and visit three historic pubs, your storyteller brings to life the tales of outlaws, pioneers, and restless spirits who still seem to linger.
The tour’s highlight is its engaging storytelling, which makes the wild West history come alive. Plus, a complimentary beverage at the first bar and optional drinks at subsequent stops add to the fun. Small groups ensure an intimate, friendly atmosphere.
This tour is perfect for curious travelers who enjoy a mix of history and ghost stories, with the bonus of socializing in local pubs. It’s a lively, entertaining way to experience Golden’s darker side without taking yourself too seriously.
Bottom line: Ideal for night owls and history lovers, this pub crawl blends storytelling and spirits for a memorable evening.
$48 per person
6. Golden: Scenic E-Bike Tour
At $130 per person for 3 hours, the Scenic E-Bike Tour is a versatile way to explore Golden’s outdoors. Riders cruise through the Lakota Hills, enjoying panoramic views from Lookout Mountain, and glide along the Clear Creek Trail. The ride also includes a climb to Norman D. Park for mountain vistas before descending into downtown Golden.
The tour takes you past notable sites like the Coors Brewery and Jefferson County Government Center, providing a mix of natural beauty and local landmarks. The e-bikes make climbing hills easier, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without overexerting yourself.
This option suits travelers who want an active yet manageable way to see Golden’s surroundings, especially if you prefer not to hike but still want a dose of adventure. The flexibility of the route means you can enjoy a relaxed ride or push a little harder if you’re feeling energetic.
Bottom line: A rewarding way to see Golden’s scenic spots on a bike that helps make the climbs easier.
$130 per person
7. Small Group: Characteristic Towns around Denver 1-Day Tour
For $251 per person, this full-day tour explores some of Colorado’s most iconic towns: Black Hawk, Estes Park, Boulder, and Golden. Starting from Denver, you’ll experience the charm of a historic mining town, take in stunning mountain views in Estes Park, visit the University of Colorado Boulder, and walk along Pearl Street Mall.
The trip offers a deep dive into the local flavor of each town, with plenty of opportunities for shopping, sightseeing, and photo stops. Highlights include visiting the NCAR Mesa Laboratory and exploring the gold-rush history of Black Hawk. The tour balances outdoor scenery with cultural experiences, making it suitable for travelers who want variety.
Reviews note the tour’s comprehensive nature and friendly guides. While it’s a full day, the pace is relaxed enough to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. It’s particularly good for those who want to see multiple towns without the hassle of independent planning.
Bottom line: This all-in-one day trip is perfect for those who want a broad taste of Colorado’s town life and mountain scenery.
$251 per person
8. Small Group: Red Rocks Park, Golden Town Tour from Denver
At $188 per person, this full-day tour combines Red Rocks Park, Golden, and Denver highlights. It starts with scenic views from Red Rocks Amphitheatre, where the natural acoustics and stunning geology impress visitors. Then, explore Denver’s State Capitol Building and Art Museum, before heading to Golden to see the Coors Brewery and the Colorado School of Mines.
The tour offers a good mix of natural wonder and urban culture, with plenty of photo opportunities. The Big Blue Bear statue is a fun stop, and walking along 16th Street Mall lets you soak in the city vibe. The tour is suitable for those wanting a comprehensive look at Denver and its nearby attractions in one day.
The organized nature and guided commentary make it easy to relax and learn without the stress of navigation. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to maximize sightseeing in a single trip.
Bottom line: For a balanced tour covering both natural and city sights, this full-day outing wins points for convenience and variety.
$188 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
Picking the best tour in Golden depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you have. Want a quick, fun history fix? The Wild West Walking Tour offers lively storytelling at a budget-friendly price. Looking to combine city views with mountain scenery? The City Highlights hits the sweet spot for a short excursion.
If outdoor activities appeal, the Guided Hiking Tour and Scenic E-bike Tour provide active ways to experience Colorado’s landscapes. For a more immersive, private experience, the Hiking and Mountain Town is ideal.
For those interested in local legends and spirits, the haunted pub crawl (https://happytovisit.com/golden-ghosts-spirits-haunted-pub-crawl-tour/) offers a lively evening. Meanwhile, the Town Tour provides a comprehensive full-day experience of Colorado’s charming towns.
Remember to consider booking early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot on the tour that best suits your interests.
Golden offers a variety of tours that cater to history lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and casual sightseers alike. Whether you’re after a quick walk through the Old West, an active e-bike adventure, or a full day of exploring charming towns, Golden’s tour scene makes it easy to discover all the region has to offer. For an authentic, memorable experience, pick what fits your style and get ready to enjoy Colorado’s scenic and historic treasures.