Colorado Springs is known for its stunning natural scenery and vibrant local culture, but it’s also gaining a reputation for its craft beer scene. With numerous breweries operating in the area, exploring them through guided tours offers a fun, informative way to sample a variety of brews and learn about Colorado’s brewing traditions. Whether you prefer a relaxed small-group experience or a comprehensive driving tour, Colorado Springs has options that fit different tastes and schedules. These tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at local breweries, often including tastings, food pairings, and insights from experienced guides.
If you’re a first-timer or a seasoned beer enthusiast, these brewery tours stand out for their unique features, quality of experience, and value for money. From VIP access to historic settings and veteran-owned breweries, each offers something special. Planning ahead and booking early can help make the most of your trip—especially during peak seasons or weekends.
1. Downtown Colorado Springs 2.5-Hour Brewery Tour
At number one, the Downtown Colorado Springs 2.5-Hour Brewery Tour is a top-rated choice, boasting a perfect 5.0/5 from 27 reviews. Priced at $68 per person, this tour delivers a well-rounded experience packed into just 2.5 hours, making it ideal for those with limited time but a desire for a rich tasting session. Starting in the heart of downtown, the tour takes you to three standout breweries, each with its own character and specialties.
What sets this tour apart is the VIP access at each stop, allowing you to sit down for complimentary beer flights and food pairings that are enough for a meal. Your guide, well-versed in local brewing and city history, will answer questions and get you behind the scenes with brewmasters and staff. The small group size—limited to 12—ensures an intimate, relaxed atmosphere. The three stops are the Red Swing Brewhouse, which celebrates community and inventive flavors; Brass Brewing Company, a veteran-owned brewery dedicated to quality and charity; and The Carter Payne, housed in a historic church with artisan brews. The reviews highlight engaging guides, excellent beer and food, and a fun, personalized experience.
Bottom Line: This tour offers exceptional value, combining quality tastings, food, and insider access in a compact, social format perfect for those who want a taste of Colorado Springs’ burgeoning beer scene without a long commitment.
2. Driving Brewery Tour of Colorado Springs
Coming in at number two, the Driving Brewery Tour of Colorado Springs offers a comprehensive, flexible experience. Costing $79 and lasting around 4 hours, this tour is the only one in the area that includes transportation, making it perfect for those who want to sample multiple breweries without worrying about driving.
The tour features visits to five breweries, starting with Urban Animal Beer Co., a newer spot in the Broadmoor neighborhood known for friendly staff and excellent beers. Next is Fossil Craft Beer Company, which has been serving the west side for nearly a decade, and Metric Brewing, a hip, creative space with a variety of brews. The final two stops are in downtown: Red Swing Brewhouse, famous for its farmhouse charm, and Mash Mechanix Brewing Co., a local favorite with a loyal following.
Your driver, who doubles as your guide, will facilitate purchases and provide insights into each brewery’s story. The stops are tailored based on your schedule and preferences, giving you a curated experience. Although this tour has no reviews yet, its itinerary emphasizes diversity—from new breweries to well-established favorites—and the convenience of door-to-door service.
Bottom Line: This tour suits those wanting to explore multiple breweries over a longer period, especially if you prefer not to worry about logistics. It’s ideal for beer lovers eager to taste a variety of styles and see different parts of the city.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding which brewery tour fits you best, consider your priorities. The Downtown Colorado Springs 2.5-Hour Brewery Tour is perfect if you want an intimate, guided experience with food pairings and VIP access, especially if you’re short on time. It’s a great choice for relaxed beer fans who enjoy learning from brewers and sampling enough for a meal.
On the other hand, the Driving Brewery Tour offers a wider range of breweries over a longer period and includes transportation, making it ideal for those who want to cover more ground without the hassle of driving themselves. It’s especially suitable for larger groups or visitors with limited time but a desire for variety.
Consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer a small-group or a more extensive, driver-led experience. Booking early is advisable, especially during weekends or peak seasons, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Both tours showcase Colorado Springs’ lively brewing scene with distinct approaches. The small-group, VIP experience of the downtown tour appeals to those wanting an in-depth, personal taste of the city’s breweries. Meanwhile, the comprehensive driving tour offers the chance to sample a broader spectrum of breweries across different neighborhoods, making it a good pick for larger groups or those who want to see more of the city.
For travelers looking for a cozy, seated experience with food and insider access, the Downtown Colorado Springs Brewery Tour is a standout. If you prefer a fuller day of tasting and the convenience of transportation, the Driving Brewery Tour offers great value and variety.
No matter which you choose, booking early will ensure you get to enjoy Colorado Springs’ growing craft beer scene without stress. Cheers to discovering some of Colorado’s best brews and the stories behind them!