Wild West Pub Crawl

Wild West Pub Crawl: A Fun and Authentic Denver Experience

If you’re visiting Denver and want to explore the historic gold rush town of Golden, this Wild West Pub Crawl offers a unique way to do it. Priced at $68 per person and lasting about 3 hours, this guided tour takes you through some of Golden’s best brew spots, combining local craft beer with stories of cowboys, outlaws, and legendary figures like Buffalo Bill. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll walk from one historic tavern to the next, learning about Golden’s rugged past while enjoying a few refreshing drinks.

What we really love about this experience is how it balances history and fun. First, it’s a small-group tour limited to just 12 participants, which means you get plenty of personalized attention and a lively atmosphere. Second, the stories your guide shares about local legends, outlaws, and Western characters make the stops come alive far more than a typical pub crawl.

One thing to consider is that this tour’s focus on drinking and storytelling might not appeal to everyone, especially those looking for a more traditional sightseeing experience. Also, since the tour stays within Golden’s town center, it’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, walkable outing without needing transportation. It’s best suited for those interested in Colorado’s Old West roots, craft beer enthusiasts, or anyone eager for a lively, small-group adventure.

Key Points

Authentic Golden Experience: Walk through a historic cowboy town rich in Gold Rush history.
Small Group Setting: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring personal attention and camaraderie.
Local Brews & Stories: Enjoy four different beers while hearing colorful tales of outlaws and legends.
Flexible and Convenient: All stops are within walking distance, ending near the starting point for relaxed exploration afterward.
Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Chris bring characters and stories vividly to life.
Great Value: The tour packs in history, drinks, and fun for a reasonable price.

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Exploring the Wild West Pub Crawl in Golden: An Enriching Mix of History and Beer

When planning a visit to Denver, a trip to Golden offers a chance to step back into Colorado’s early days—before Denver became the bustling city it is today. This Wild West Pub Crawl is an engaging way to experience that past while enjoying local craft beers and lively storytelling. What makes this tour stand out is the way it combines small-group intimacy, historic insights, and refreshing drinks into a three-hour adventure that feels both relaxed and exciting.

Key Details and First Impressions

Priced at $68 per person, the tour is accessible for most travelers and offers exceptional value, especially considering the included four 10-oz beers. The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, beginning at 1:00 pm at the Golden City Brewery, and winding through four stops that highlight Golden’s rich history. The tour is operated by Golden History Tours and is booked an average of 26 days in advance, showing solid popularity.

What we appreciate right away is the small-group experience—a maximum of 12 travelers means you won’t feel lost in a crowd. Instead, you’ll get to interact more closely with your guide, who, based on reviews, makes the stories come alive with enthusiasm and character.

The Itinerary: Walking Through History and Pints

Stop 1: Golden City Brewery
The tour kicks off at Golden City Brewery, the second oldest brewery still in operation in Golden. It’s tucked into the backyard of an old Victorian mansion, which adds a touch of historic charm. Expect to sample a 10-oz beer here, while your guide shares tales of Golden’s brewing roots and early days. We loved the personal touch of starting at a brewery that’s been part of the community for generations.

Stop 2: Astor House Galleries
Next, you’ll pass by the Astor House, Colorado’s oldest standing hotel, now functioning as an art gallery. The outside tells a story of a bygone era, and if you have time afterward, browsing the gallery offers a chance to soak in more local history for free. It’s a quick stop but adds depth to the tour’s historical narrative.

Stop 3: Downtown Golden
The heart of the experience is walking the streets of historic Golden. This is where Colorado’s Gold Rush boom took hold, and the town served as the territorial capital long before Denver took center stage. Your guide will point out where Buffalo Bill used to stop for a drink, where outlaw gangs met their end, and where the Coors brewery started. Expect a lively walk, with plenty of stories about characters and events that shaped the Old West. A highlight for us was learning about the town’s Gold Rush roots mixed with colorful outlaw tales.

Stop 4: Mountain Toad Brewing
The tour concludes at Mountain Toad Brewing, a friendly spot just off the main route. Here, your guide will wrap up the stories of Golden’s wild west days, and you’ll have the chance to sit back and enjoy your last beer. The relaxed vibe at Mountain Toad Brewing makes for a perfect finishing touch, especially since the tour ends within walking distance of the starting point, giving you free time to explore or relax.

What Comes With the Tour

Each stop includes a 10-oz beer (or alternative beverage if preferred), which is more than enough to enjoy without feeling overwhelmed. The Golden Bandana given at the start adds a fun, thematic touch, helping to immerse you in the cowboy ambiance.

The tour is designed for most travelers, with good accessibility and proximity to public transportation. Since all breweries and stops are within a few blocks, you can easily linger or explore further after the tour ends.

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Authenticity, Stories, and the Guide’s Role

Based on reviews, guides like Chris excel at bringing characters and stories to life. A reviewer mentioned, “Chris is great and makes the characters in his stories come to life,” highlighting how storytelling elevates this tour beyond a typical pub crawl. The narrative approach, combined with the historic sites, keeps the experience lively and engaging, especially for history buffs or those who enjoy a bit of theatrical flair.

The Value of the Experience

At $68, the tour offers a great value—it includes four beers, guided storytelling, and a chance to walk through a historic town. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the flexible timing allows for a relaxed pace. Plus, the focus on local history and authentic Western character makes it more than just a pub crawl; it’s an immersive cultural experience.

Potential Considerations

While this tour is perfect for those who enjoy storytelling and local brews, it might not suit travelers seeking a more traditional sightseeing tour or without an interest in alcohol. Since the focus is on history, stories, and drinks, it’s best for those comfortable with pub-style outings and open to socializing in a small group setting.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love the Wild West Pub Crawl?

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, craft beer lovers, and travelers who enjoy small-group experiences. The fact that it combines informative storytelling with local breweries makes it a memorable way to get a sense of Golden’s past and present. If you’re looking for a relaxed, fun afternoon with a dash of Western charm, this tour delivers.

It’s especially suited for those who appreciate personalized attention and want to learn about Colorado’s cowboy days from guides who bring characters and stories vividly to life. While it may not be the best choice for families with young children or those seeking a purely sightseeing experience, it offers a genuine, lively taste of Golden’s rugged spirit.

FAQ: Your Questions About the Wild West Pub Crawl

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is most suitable for adults or older teenagers, particularly because it involves alcohol and walking between several pub stops.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, each stop provides a 10-oz beer, with options for wine or non-alcoholic beverages if preferred.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 3 hours starting at 1:00 pm, making it a perfect afternoon activity.

Can I join the tour without prior booking?
Booking is recommended, as the tour is popular and booked on average 26 days in advance.

What if I don’t drink alcohol?
You can request non-alcoholic beverages or wine as substitutes, making it accessible for non-drinkers.

Is transportation needed between stops?
No, all stops are within walking distance, so you’ll explore Golden’s historic streets along the way.

What is the group size?
Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate and engaging experience.

Can I stay at the last stop longer?
Yes, the tour ends near your starting point, allowing you to linger at Mountain Toad Brewing or explore Golden further.

Is there any additional cost?
No, the tour includes all four drinks and the guide, but snacks are not included.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility if your plans change.

In short, the Wild West Pub Crawl offers a spirited blend of history, storytelling, and local craft beer, all in a small-group setting that makes for a lively and memorable afternoon. Perfect for those who love a good story as much as a good brew, and willing to walk through Golden’s storied streets.