Fort Collins isn’t just Colorado’s craft beer capital; it’s a city bursting with diverse experiences that appeal to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re a foodie eager to sample local bites, a history buff interested in early settlement stories, or an outdoor enthusiast craving fresh mountain air, Fort Collins offers a rich variety of tours. We particularly enjoyed the Guided 3-Hour Fort Collins Old Town Food Tour for its delicious samples and lively stories—an excellent way to kick off your stay. Its small-group setup ensures personalized attention, and the mix of cuisine and local history keeps it engaging. Plus, the chance to try everything from pizza to cider makes it perfect for hungry explorers.
Fort Collins has a reputation for outdoor activities, but it also charms with its spooky side, as seen in the Fort Collins Ghost Tour. For those who love a mix of history and the thrill of ghost stories, this 1 hour 15-minute walk offers a gripping glimpse into the city’s haunted past. For a more active adventure, the Guided Hiking Tours let you explore lesser-visited wilderness areas, perfect for families or adrenaline seekers. And if you’re after a lively, social evening, the Haunted Pub Tour combines local legends with craft beers in historic pubs.
Overview of Top Tours in Fort Collins
The tours below range from culinary outings and outdoor adventures to historical explorations and even holiday scavenger hunts. Whether you want to savor Fort Collins’ acclaimed food scene, learn about its early settlers, or enjoy a craft brewery tour, there’s something for all. All these experiences promise a taste of local life, with unique twists that make each one memorable. Now, let’s get into the details.
1. Guided 3-Hour Fort Collins Old Town Food Tour
At number 1 on our list, the Guided 3-Hour Fort Collins Old Town Food Tour scores a perfect 5.0 based on 63 reviews. This tour is designed for those who love to eat and learn. Over three hours, you’ll visit five different restaurants in Old Town Fort Collins, each offering a generous sample of their specialties. Expect to try everything from pizza and donuts to cider and burgers, with the menu changing each tour.
What makes this tour special is the combination of culinary variety and local history. Your guide will share stories about the city’s rapid growth and landmarks as you stroll between venues. The intimate small-group size—max 8 people—enhances the experience, allowing for a more personal connection with your guide and fellow food lovers. Reviewers praise the generous tastings and the knowledgeable guide, with one saying, “Food was incredibly tasty and VERY plentiful.” Ideal for foodies, history enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a relaxed, tasty afternoon.
Bottom line: If you want to combine good food with interesting stories, this tour is a clear winner—and plenty of food to keep you full.
2. Guided Hiking Tours near Fort Collins
Number 2 on our list is the Guided Hiking Tours near Fort Collins, rated 5.0 from 13 reviews. These hikes are perfect if you prefer experiencing nature on your own terms. The tours are fully customizable, ranging from beginner-friendly walks to advanced trails, making them suitable for families, solo adventurers, or thrill-seekers.
Your guide, an experienced outdoorsman, will take you through lesser-visited wilderness areas, offering insights into the local flora and fauna. The tour lasts about four hours, with stops at scenic spots and quiet corners of Northern Colorado’s natural landscape. Reviewers note the knowledgeable guide and the peaceful, less crowded trails—a true escape from busy city life. The tour is priced at $50 per person, offering good value for a personalized outdoor experience.
Bottom line: For outdoor lovers who want tailored hikes away from busy trails, these guided tours are a top choice. Just bring your hiking shoes and sense of adventure.
3. Fort Collins Ghost Tour
At number 3, the Fort Collins Ghost Tour combines history with a dose of spooky fun. Rated 4.5 from 36 reviews, this evening walk lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, exploring Old Town’s haunted spots, including underground tunnels and century-old buildings. Your guide will narrate ghost stories and legends that give life to the city’s darker side.
What sets this tour apart is the underground ghost hunting experience, adding an element of thrill. This tour is ideal for those who enjoy a spooky story and a bit of a chill, without a long commitment. Reviewers mention the guide’s enthusiasm and the engaging stories, making it a memorable late-night activity. It’s suitable for families with older children or anyone interested in local legends.
Bottom line: For a fun, spooky evening and a different view of Fort Collins, this ghost tour delivers a spooky-good time.
4. The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery
Number 4 is the Dinner Detective Murder Mystery, a unique blend of dining and entertainment. Rated 4.5, this 3-hour experience combines a gourmet meal with an interactive whodunit. As you enjoy your food, actors hidden among the diners act out clues, making everyone a suspect.
This tour appeals to those who love puzzles and storytelling, with the added bonus of a delicious meal. The interactive format encourages mingling and problem-solving—perfect for groups or couples. Reviewers highlight its originality and fun, calling it a “great night out.” It’s recommended for those looking for a lively, social experience with a mystery twist.
Bottom line: If you’re after a fun, engaging evening that’s different from typical dinners, this murder mystery is a fantastic choice.
5. In the Footsteps of the Explorers, Fort Collins Walking Tour
Number 5, the Footsteps of Explorers Walking Tour, is rated 5.0 from 2 reviews. This 2-hour walk focuses on the early expeditions into the western territories, including the Corps of Discovery and Stephen Long’s explorations. You’ll traverse historic corridors and hear stories about American Indian peoples and the land’s first explorers.
What makes this tour memorable is its focus on pioneering history and exploration, giving you context for how Fort Collins and the surrounding land were first charted and settled. Reviewers appreciate the engaging storytelling and the opportunity to walk through scenic areas like the Running Deer Natural Area. It’s perfect for history buffs or those interested in the American West’s expansion.
Bottom line: A well-paced, informative walk that offers a deep dive into early exploration, suitable for history lovers and curious travelers.
6. Fort Collins Early Settlement/Town Beginnings (Riding Tour)
Number 6 features the Early Settlement Riding Tour. This 2-hour van tour shares stories of the region’s earliest settlers and their connection to Fort Collins’ founding. It includes viewing historic artifacts and visiting key sites along the Cache la Poudre River.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on pioneer stories and tangible artifacts, perfect for history buffs eager to see relics from the 19th century. Reviewers note the interesting storytelling and the chance to learn about the daily lives of early Americans. It’s a good fit for travelers interested in the roots of Fort Collins and its early days.
Bottom line: An accessible, informative tour that provides insight into American frontier life.
$45 per person
7. Fort Collins Military Years (Riding Tour)
Rated 5.0, the Military Years Riding Tour explores Camp Collins and the military history of the region during the 1860s. This 2-hour ride offers a look into the Indian Wars and westward migration, with visits to historic sites and artifacts.
What makes this tour distinctive is its focus on military history and its scenic outdoor setting. Reviewers appreciate the well-informed narration and the chance to see original artifacts. It’s geared toward those interested in the military and early American conflicts.
Bottom line: A meaningful, scenic ride into Fort Collins’ military past, ideal for history and military enthusiasts.
$45 per person
8. Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Fort Collins with Holly Jolly Hunt
Number 8, the Holiday Scavenger Hunt, is rated 5.0. This one-hour app-based activity turns Fort Collins into a festive game ground, with families and friends seeking holiday items and completing challenges. It’s perfect for a fun holiday outing or as a group activity.
The appeal lies in its interactive, tech-friendly format and the chance to explore the city’s holiday sights. It’s suitable for all ages and helps create holiday memories with a competitive twist. Reviewers mention the fun and engaging nature, making it a lively way to see the city in the spirit of the season.
Bottom line: An entertaining, family-friendly activity that mixes sightseeing with holiday cheer.
$20.00 per group (up to 10)
9. Haunted Pub Tour in Fort Collins
The Haunted Pub Tour ranks 3.0 with 1 review. This 1.5-hour evening tour takes you through historic pubs with ghost stories and legends. You’ll enjoy drink specials (not included) and explore Fort Collins’ darker tales.
Designed for adults 21 and over, this tour combines local myths with craft beers and lively storytelling. It’s a great mix of history, spirits, and a bit of a scare, making it perfect for a fun night out. The tour involves some walking between venues but stays close to Old Town Square.
Bottom line: For those seeking a spirited night with some ghostly tales, this pub crawl offers a memorable, spirited experience.
$27.00 per person
10. Fort Collins Guided Libations Experience Tour
Number 10 is the Libations Experience Tour, priced at $85. This 2.5-hour walking tour starts at the Fort Collins Academy of Bartending, where you learn to make mocktails and bartending tricks, then visits three local venues for tastings and stories.
What makes this tour distinctive is the focus on craft cocktails and mixology, appealing to those interested in beverage arts. Reviewers mention the relaxed pace and the chance to get insider stories about Fort Collins’ drink scene. It’s ideal for cocktail lovers and social groups.
Bottom line: A fun, educational tour for anyone interested in bartending, cocktails, and local alcohol culture.
$85.00 per person
11. Experience Fort Collins by E Bike Guided Tour
Rated 0, the E-Bike Guided Tour offers a lively way to see the city in two hours. You’ll cycle through highlights like the Cache la Poudre River, New Belgium Brewing, Old Town Square, and the CSU Museum of Discovery, all with a local guide.
The e-bike format allows for covering more ground without fatigue, making it suitable for all fitness levels. The tour includes stops at notable sites, with plenty of stories from your guide. Reviewers appreciate the easy riding and insider insights.
Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers who want a quick, rundown of Fort Collins’ sights with minimal effort.
$110.00 per person
12. Five Breweries in Three Hours Bus Tour
Number 12, the Five Breweries Tour, is a beer lover’s dream. For about $120, you visit Odell Brewing, Breckenridge Brewery, Funkwerks, Horse & Dragon, and Hello Brew, with around 30-45 minutes at each stop. It’s a relaxed way to sample some of Fort Collins’ best brews.
What sets this apart is the organized bus transportation and the chance to try different styles—from IPAs to barrel-aged beers. Reviewers say it’s a “great way to taste a lot of beer without the hassle,” making it perfect for groups wanting a social, beer-focused experience.
Bottom line: A solid choice for beer aficionados who want to sample multiple breweries comfortably in one afternoon.
$120.00 per person
13. Fort Collins Crusade Scavenger Hunt
Rated 0, the Crusade Scavenger Hunt is an interactive experience with a remote host guiding your team through the city. Over two hours, you solve clues and explore key sites, making it a fun way to see Fort Collins differently.
What makes this hunt exciting is its customized, social challenge format, suitable for families, friends, or team-building. It encourages teamwork and problem-solving, with live support. It’s a unique experience that turns sightseeing into a game.
Bottom line: Perfect for competitive groups or families wanting a lively, game-based tour.
$23.20 per person
14. Fort Collins Puzzling Adventure
Number 14, the Puzzling Adventure, is a smartphone-guided scavenger hunt lasting approximately 2 hours. It combines puzzles, clues, and challenges around Fort Collins’ scenic spots and historic architecture. It’s a blend of sightseeing and brainteasers.
Ideal for travelers who enjoy interactive challenges and want to explore at their own pace. Reviewers mention the fun of solving clues while seeing the sights, making it suitable for families or adventurous couples.
Bottom line: A good choice for puzzle enthusiasts and curious explorers seeking a self-guided, engaging activity.
$34.95 per group (up to 12)
15. Taco Tuesday
Number 15 features the Taco Tuesday Tour, a lively, food-focused experience. For $120, you’ll sample some of Fort Collins’ best tacos from DGT Tacos, Alleycat Coffee, Vatos Tacos, Maggie’s Tacos, and Las Delicias, along with drinks and desserts.
This tour is perfect for lovers of Mexican cuisine and anyone wanting a casual, flavorful outing. Reviewers love the variety of tacos and the fun atmosphere, making it a relaxed way to experience local eateries.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for taco fans and casual diners who want to explore Fort Collins’ vibrant food scene.
$120.00 per person
16. Scavenger Hunt in Fort Collins by Zombie Scavengers
Our final pick, the Zombie Scavengers, offers a fun, themed game where you hunt for survival items and complete zombie-themed tasks. Lasting about 1 hour, it’s perfect for families or groups wanting a quick, energetic challenge.
It’s a creative way to see the city and test your problem-solving skills, with remote support available. Ideal for those who want a playful, unconventional activity that sparks teamwork.
Bottom line: A lively, short activity that turns Fort Collins into a post-apocalyptic game zone—perfect for a quick dose of fun.
$20.00 per group (up to 10)
How to Choose the Right Tour in Fort Collins
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, budget, and the amount of time you have. For food lovers, the Old Town Food Tour offers a satisfying taste of local cuisine and history. If outdoor adventures appeal, the Guided Hiking Tours provide a personalized nature escape, while history buffs might prefer the Explorers Walking Tour.
For those interested in Fort Collins’ brewing scene, the Five Breweries in Three Hours Bus Tour is hard to beat. Conversely, families or groups wanting a playful challenge might enjoy the Fort Collins Crusade Scavenger Hunt. Keep in mind your fitness level, preferred pace, and whether you’re more into tasting, exploring, or storytelling.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the food and brewery outings, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Fort Collins offers a range of engaging tours that cater to many interests—from gastronomy and outdoor pursuits to ghost stories and historic walks. If you’re traveling with a group, the Guided 3-Hour Old Town Food Tour or the Five Breweries Tour will keep everyone happily busy. For those seeking a more active day, the guided hikes and e-bike tours provide a wonderful way to see the area’s natural beauty.
For an evening twist, the Dinner Detective Murder Mystery or the ghost tour will add memorable stories and fun. Whichever you choose, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these highly-rated experiences. Happy exploring!