Haunted Pub Tour in Fort Collins: A Spirited Night Out
When you think of Fort Collins, Colorado, you likely picture outdoor adventures, craft breweries, or perhaps the lively Old Town Square. But for those with a taste for the mysterious and a love of local stories, the Haunted Pub Tour offers a different kind of city adventure. For around $27 per person, you get a 90-minute walk through some of the city’s most historic pubs, where stories of ghosts, legends, and old west lore come alive. Led by a costumed guide, the tour combines history, ghost tales, and a bit of local color, making it a fun, atmospheric way to spend an evening.
What makes this tour especially appealing are its unique venues—hidden corners of Fort Collins that only locals and insiders know—and the chance to pair storytelling with a drink or two. The tour’s walking pace is relaxed, taking you from pub to pub just a block or two apart. It’s a lively, entertaining experience, perfect for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, or anyone curious about Fort Collins’ darker tales.
However, it’s worth noting that beverage prices are not included in the ticket, and the tour is primarily geared toward adults 21 and over, which means if you’re traveling with family or looking for a family-friendly activity, this might not be the best fit. Also, some reviewers mention that the drink-buying process can be a bit inconvenient—you’re expected to finish your drinks before leaving each pub, which can be a downside if you prefer to sip at your leisure.
This tour will suit travelers who enjoy a mixture of history, storytelling, and a lively social atmosphere. If you like walking around historic neighborhoods, hearing ghost stories, and pairing these tales with a cold beer, it’s a solid choice. It’s also a good pick for those who want a relaxed, small-group experience that’s a little different from typical city tours.
Key Points
- Unique venues with ghost stories and local legends
- Adult-only experience with optional beverage purchases
- Relaxed pace—just over 1.5 hours of walking and storytelling
- Convenient meeting point at Old Town Square
- Includes access to areas not typically open to the public
- Free cancellation offers flexibility in planning
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A Detailed Look at the Haunted Pub Tour in Fort Collins
For anyone interested in combining history, ghost stories, and local pubs, this tour provides a fun, informal way to experience Fort Collins differently. Let’s break down what you can expect and why it might appeal.
Starting Point and Duration
The tour begins at 21 Old Town Square, a lively hub packed with historic charm and local character. Starting here makes perfect sense: it’s a central, easily accessible location with plenty of nearby amenities. The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, which makes it a manageable evening activity—long enough to be engaging without feeling rushed or overly demanding.
The Venues and Walking Itinerary
The tour involves walking between pubs, usually just a block or two apart. This means you get to enjoy the ambiance of Fort Collins’ historic streets, especially the old west-style architecture and vintage storefronts.
Your guide, who is dressed up in costumes fitting the ghostly theme, will lead you into some of the city’s most historic pubs—places that have stories dating back decades. These are not your typical bars; they are venues with hidden or restricted areas that only guides can access, giving you a glimpse into Fort Collins’ secret side.
Stories and Ghostly Tales
The core attraction is the ghost stories and local legends. Your guide will narrate tales of hauntings, myths, and legends that have been passed down through generations. These stories might include tales of spirits lingering in old buildings, or the history behind some of the most storied pubs in town.
One reviewer, Diane, mentioned that the guide was good, which suggests that storytelling quality varies but generally hits the mark. She also noted that she didn’t like the requirement to finish drinks in each pub before leaving, which could be a minor inconvenience, especially if you prefer to sip slowly or enjoy the atmosphere without rushing.
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Drinking and Specials
While the ticket price does not include drinks, some pubs offer drink specials. You are encouraged to purchase beverages to accompany the stories, and you can bring your drink with you as you move from place to place, adding to the fun and social nature of the tour.
Keep in mind, most travelers will need to budget extra for drinks if they want to partake. Since some participants may find the need to finish their drink before leaving a bit restrictive, it’s worth considering whether you want to buy multiple small drinks or just enjoy the atmosphere without feeling pressured.
Authenticity and Experiences
The tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at otherwise private or restricted areas, making it a rare chance to experience parts of Fort Collins’ past that are usually off-limits. This adds a layer of authenticity and exclusivity that ghost story fans might particularly appreciate.
Considerations and Drawbacks
The main potential drawback is the cost and process of purchasing drinks, which some find inconvenient. Also, since the tour is for 21+ only, families or younger groups won’t be able to participate, limiting its appeal to adult travelers. The rating is only average (3/5) based on limited reviews, with some guests wishing for a more relaxed drink experience or more detailed storytelling.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This experience is best suited for adults who enjoy walking tours, ghost stories, and pub atmospheres. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts, nightlife explorers, or groups looking for a lively, spooky night out. If you’re more interested in casual sightseeing or family-friendly activities, you might want to look elsewhere.
Final Takeaways
- A fun way to explore Fort Collins’ historic pubs and ghost stories in a small-group setting.
- Perfect for adults who enjoy storytelling, ghost lore, and pub environments.
- Includes access to private, haunted areas not open to the public.
- Beverages are extra, and the process of buying and finishing drinks can feel a bit rushed.
- The tour’s length and pace make it suitable for a relaxed, evening outing.
- Free cancellation provides peace of mind if your plans change.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re curious about local legends and enjoy a bit of a spooky story, you’ll probably find this tour entertaining. It’s perfect for those seeking a relaxed, social experience that combines history, storytelling, and drinks in a cozy, intimate setting. Given its focus on hidden venues and ghost tales, it might be especially appealing during a cooler evening or around Halloween, but it remains a solid option year-round for a different way to see Fort Collins.
If your idea of a good night involves learning some local lore while sipping a cold beer, this tour hits the right notes. Just be prepared for the cost of drinks outside the ticket price and the rushed finish at each pub.
FAQ About the Haunted Pub Tour in Fort Collins
Is this tour suitable for children or teenagers?
No, this experience is for ages 21 and over, mainly because of the alcohol consumption involved and the adult-themed storytelling.
How long does the tour last?
Expect about 90 minutes of walking, storytelling, and pub visits. The pace is relaxed, and you’ll be walking just a block or two between venues.
Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, drinks are not included. You can purchase a beer or beverage at each pub, and some specials may be offered, but you should budget extra for drinks.
Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at 21 Old Town Square, a convenient location in the heart of Fort Collins.
Can I bring my drink with me?
Yes, you can take your beverage with you as you move between pubs, which adds to the social and casual atmosphere.
What if the weather is bad?
Since this is an outdoor walking tour, bad weather might affect your experience. The tour provider offers full refunds or rescheduling if canceled due to poor weather.
To sum it up, the Haunted Pub Tour in Fort Collins is a quirky and atmospheric way to combine local history, ghostly tales, and a casual pub crawl. It’s best suited for adults who enjoy storytelling, history, and a lively social scene. While it offers some exclusive access and fun stories, the additional cost for drinks and the rushed nature of finishing your beverage might be a consideration. Whether you’re a local looking for a different kind of night out or a visitor wanting to add a spooky twist to your trip, this tour offers a memorable experience—just be sure to have your drinking budget prepared.