Classic 3-Hour Food Tour in Colorado Springs

If you’re looking to experience Colorado Springs beyond the iconic Garden of the Gods, this three-hour food tour offers a delightful taste of the city’s culinary and cultural scene. Though we haven’t done it ourselves, reviews consistently praise its combination of authentic food, engaging storytelling, and friendly guides. It’s a great way to get a feel for downtown Colorado Springs, especially if you appreciate good eats paired with some local history.

What really stands out are the small-group atmosphere, which makes for an intimate experience, and the variety of stops that showcase both the city’s historic sites and its vibrant food culture. That said, it’s worth considering that alcohol is an optional extra, and some may find the pacing a bit brisk if they’re big on lingering at each location. This tour appeals most to those who love discovering local flavors and learning about a place through its food scene—foodies, history buffs, and anyone curious about Colorado Springs’ stories.

Key Points

• The tour features 4-5 different local eateries and boutique shops, providing a well-rounded taste of downtown Colorado Springs.
• Small group size (max 12) ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.
• Guided by a knowledgeable local who shares fascinating stories about the city’s past and present.
• Includes enough tastings to serve as a full lunch, making it excellent value.
• Optional craft beers and cocktails are available for purchase, adding to the fun.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most people able to join, and it’s booked about 18 days in advance on average.

A Deeper Dive into the Colorado Springs Food Tour

This tour is not just about eating—it’s about understanding Colorado Springs through the lens of its food, architecture, and history. Starting in downtown, you’ll quickly realize that this area is a hub of creativity and stories, with more than 300 pieces of public art and a vibrant local scene. The tour is designed to be interactive, encouraging questions and conversations, which helps to deepen your appreciation for the city.

The First Stop: Historic Downtown Colorado Springs

Your journey begins in the heart of the city, exploring the historic core. The Antlers Hotel, built in 1873 by William Jackson Palmer, sets the tone for your historical immersion. Your guide will share tales of the city’s founding, the importance of the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad, and how Colorado Springs evolved from a railroad stop into a thriving city.

Although the walk is brief—around 10 minutes—it’s packed with insights that make the later food stops more meaningful. The setting itself, with its historic buildings and art installations, makes for a lively start. Visitors often comment on the well-paced nature of the tour and how the guide’s storytelling brings the city’s past to life.

The Train Depot and Burger Stop

Next, you’ll visit the Brakeman’s Smashed Burger Bar, nestled inside the original train depot. This location’s history, spanning from 1871-1971, adds a layer of nostalgia and authenticity. Here, you’ll sample juicy burgers and creamy milkshakes, and if you’re lucky, a passing train might add some extra charm to your experience. Guests frequently mention the friendly staff and the delicious food, with comments like, “the food was great,” and “it’s a fun setting with a slice of local history.”

Exploring the Pioneers Museum and Art

A quick walk takes you to the Pioneers Museum, housed in a 1903 county courthouse. This building is an architectural wonder, and the museum showcases artifacts from Colorado’s Wild West days. The surrounding park features striking art pieces, making it a perfect spot to learn about local culture. Many reviews highlight the guide’s storytelling, which enriches the experience beyond just the visual.

Irish Pub and the Art of AdAmAn

Your next stop is Jack Quinn’s Irish Pub, a beloved downtown spot since 1998. It offers a cozy, authentic Irish pub atmosphere, with hearty fare and a lively vibe. During this segment, you’ll also get the chance to see AdAmAn Alley, an art installation commemorating a century of fireworks on Pikes Peak.

This part of the tour combines great food with a sense of community and history, as your guide explains the significance of the AdAmAn Club’s tradition of ascending Pikes Peak every New Year’s Eve. The pub’s warm atmosphere often receives praise, and many mention how the guide’s anecdotes make the visit more memorable.

The Mining Exchange and Local Legends

Continuing the journey, you’ll hear about the Mining Exchange Hotel, once the largest gold and silver stock exchange in the county. This spot ties into Colorado’s famous gold rush, and the guide’s stories help visualize the excitement of those times. It’s a fascinating peek into the city’s economic roots, often appreciated by history enthusiasts.

Refreshing Lemonade and Downtown Parks

Next, Pikes Peak Lemonade stands out as the only shop in the nation that offers handcrafted lemonade with organic cane sugar and fresh lemons. If you love a refreshing sip, you’ll enjoy the 10% discount offered to tour guests. Close by, Acacia Park provides a scenic pause with its historic bandstand, public art, and musical fountain—an ideal spot for photos or a quick chat with your guide about local shops and neighborhoods.

Fine Dining at Four by Brother Luck

By now, your appetite will be well-pleased, especially as you visit Four by Brother Luck, a restaurant helmed by a celebrity chef. The menu showcases southwest-inspired dishes made from local, farm-fresh ingredients. You might even try a dish featured on Top Chef, giving you a taste of Colorado’s innovative culinary scene. Guests often remark on the high quality of the food and the chef’s creative approach.

The Sweet Finale at Josh & John’s

Your last stop is Josh & John’s, a downtown staple since 1986. Known for their mountain churn ice cream, the flavor “Purple Mountain Majesty” was created in honor of the Pikes Peak Hillclimb. Sampling this treat is the perfect way to end your tour, especially since you get to skip the line—another perk appreciated by many reviewers.

What to Expect: The Practical Details

The tour lasts about three hours, and each stop offers enough tasting for a full lunch, making it quite a good deal for the price of $88 per person. The small group size (capped at 12 travelers) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, allowing for questions and conversations.

Most of the stops include admission to the venues, and you will be advised on optional craft beers and cocktails for an additional $18. Water is provided at all locations, so staying hydrated is easy. The tour is scheduled approximately 18 days in advance, reflecting its popularity, and is accessible for most travelers.

Transportation between stops is minimal—mostly walking—and the tour is designed to be comfortably paced. The total walking distance isn’t excessive, but comfortable shoes are recommended. You’ll get a good mix of history, art, and food, making it appealing whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local wanting to rediscover your city.

The Experience and the Guides

Reviews consistently praise the guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling ability. For instance, one reviewer called Kathy a “fantastic guide,” noting her beautiful presentation of facts and explanations of each stop. Others highlight Adam and Behr, emphasizing their local insights and enjoyable personalities.

The Value and Who Should Consider It

At $88, the tour offers a full lunch’s worth of tastings, local stories, and cultural insights packed into three hours. If you’re a foodie, history lover, or someone wanting a leisurely, guided introduction to downtown Colorado Springs, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially ideal for travelers who appreciate small groups and authentic local experiences over generic sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

This three-hour food tour in Colorado Springs offers more than just bites—it’s a window into the city’s soul, stitched together with stories, art, and genuine local flavor. You’ll visit historic landmarks, learn about Colorado’s mining past, and discover neighborhood secrets—all while savoring some of the best local fare.

The guides elevate the experience with their knowledge and enthusiasm, making each stop lively and engaging. The included tastings are substantial, often enough for a full meal, which adds excellent value to the $88 price tag. For those who like a mix of good food, engaging storytelling, and a chance to see a city through a local’s eyes, this tour hits the mark.

If you’re visiting Colorado Springs and want to get a taste of its culinary and cultural character without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suited to curious travelers who enjoy learning as they eat—and who want to support local businesses and artisans along the way.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately three hours, with plenty of time at each stop to enjoy tastings and hear stories.

How many people are on the tour?
The group is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

What is included in the price?
You get tastings at 4-5 locations that are enough for a full lunch, water at all stops, a knowledgeable guide, and insights into local art and history.

Can I buy alcohol during the tour?
Yes, craft beers and cocktails are available for an additional $18, but they are not included in the base price.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those who enjoy walking and tasting. Check with the provider if you have specific needs.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Yes, on average, it’s booked about 18 days ahead, reflecting its popularity. It’s wise to reserve early to secure your spot.

In summary, this Colorado Springs food tour offers a flavorful, story-rich exploration of downtown that’s perfect for curious travelers, food lovers, and history buffs alike. With excellent guides, substantial tastings, and a friendly atmosphere, it’s an experience that’s both educational and delicious, leaving you with a fuller stomach and a deeper appreciation for this vibrant city.