Wild West Pub Crawl

If you’re headed to Denver or the surrounding area and craving a cool way to learn about Colorado’s past while enjoying some local brews, the Wild West Pub Crawl in Golden might just be your ticket. This isn’t your average bar-hopping event — it’s a guided tour designed to blend history, storytelling, and good old-fashioned beer drinking all in one compact three-hour adventure.

What caught our eye about this experience are the lively guides who bring stories to life and the small-group setting that keeps things intimate and engaging. Plus, it’s great to know that drinks are included at four different spots, meaning you get to sample the best of Golden’s brewing scene without worrying about the tab — a real bonus for those who like a little structure with their socializing.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite focused on the historical and cultural vibe of Golden, so if you’re not into stories about cowboys, outlaws, or the Gold Rush era, it might not hit all your notes. Still, if you’re curious about Colorado’s Old West roots or just looking for a relaxed way to spend an afternoon with a small crowd, this tour is a solid choice.

This experience feels best suited for travelers who appreciate storytelling, craft beer lovers, or anyone wanting a taste of Colorado’s frontier history in a fun, social setting.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: Limited to 12 travelers, making it intimate and personable.
• Inclusive Drinks: A 10-oz beer at each of four stops, with options for wine or non-alcoholic beverages.
• Historical Highlights: Stops include Colorado’s second-oldest brewery, historic hotels, and downtown Golden’s gold rush landmarks.
• Engaging Guides: Tour narrators who make the history come alive with lively stories and characters.
• Flexible End: Finish near your starting point, giving you free time afterward.
• Affordable Value: At $68, including multiple drinks and a fun experience, it’s a cost-effective way to explore Golden’s past.

Let’s unpack what makes this tour stand out — and what you should consider before booking. From the itinerary to the vibe, here’s everything you need to know.

Starting Off: Golden City Brewery

Your adventure kicks off at the Golden City Brewery, which is actually the town’s second-oldest brewery still operating today. The brewery’s tucked away in the yard of a charming Victorian mansion, giving it an authentic, old-time feel. Here, your guide will introduce you to the local brewing scene, but more importantly, they’ll set the scene for the stories to come.

Expect about 45 minutes here, with your included 10-oz beer giving you a chance to settle in and start soaking up the atmosphere. The brewery itself is free to enter, so you’ll just enjoy your drink and listen to your guide’s tales. It’s a laid-back start, perfect for easing into the tour without feeling rushed.

Passing by the Astor House Galleries

Next is a quick stop at the Astor House Galleries, Colorado’s oldest standing hotel. While the tour primarily highlights the building’s external story, it’s a fun peek into Golden’s historic architecture and significance. If you have a moment afterward, browsing the gallery is free, which is a nice bonus.

You only spend around 5 minutes here, so don’t expect a deep dive — just a quick nod to a building that’s witnessed a lot of Colorado history. It’s a nice visual anchor in the tour, adding to the sense of walking through living history.

Walking the Streets of Golden

The heart of your experience is a one-hour walk through downtown Golden. This is where the tour gets its character — cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and stories of the Gold Rush days. You’ll learn about Gold Rush-era figures, such as Buffalo Bill, and see where famous spots like Coors set up shop.

Your guide will share stories of outlaws being gunned down and notable figures stopping for drinks. It’s as much about the tales as the sites. During this walk, you’ll sample some local fare, adding a taste of the town’s current culinary scene to the historical narrative.

This segment is interactive and lively, making history feel immediate and relatable. Plus, walking in this historic district is a relaxing way to get some fresh air and see the town’s charm firsthand.

Wrapping Up at Mountain Toad Brewing

Your final stop is Mountain Toad Brewing, a friendly, off-the-beaten-path brewery. It’s a cozy spot to wrap up your stories about Golden’s wild west days. Here, you’ll get your last 10-oz beer, and the guide might share some final insights or funny anecdotes.

You’ll spend about 45 minutes here, giving you time to enjoy your brew, reflect on the stories, and soak in the local vibe. Since this is the last stop, you’ll be near your starting point, so you can linger if you’d like or head off to explore more on your own.

The Experience: What’s Included?

The tour’s value is pretty straightforward: for $68, you get four beers (or wine/non-alcoholic options if you prefer), a private Golden bandana (fun souvenir), and expert storytelling. The breweries and the entire route are within a few blocks of each other, meaning minimal walking and easy logistics.

The small group size ensures everyone can hear the stories and ask questions, making it a more personalized experience. Plus, since the tour operates in a relaxed, social manner, it’s perfect for those who enjoy friendly interactions and a laid-back pace.

What Travelers Say

The rave reviews speak volumes. One reviewer, Mark, called it “Worth Every Penny,” praising the guide Chris for bringing the characters to life and making the stories engaging. The fact that it’s a highly recommended experience with a 5-star average rating underlines its appeal.

Most travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the excellent value for money. The inclusion of drinks at each stop means you’re not constantly reaching for your wallet, and the small-group setting keeps the vibe intimate and fun.

Practical Considerations

The tour runs at 1:00 pm, which is a nice afternoon slot to enjoy the town without the evening crowds. It’s suitable for most travelers, and service animals are allowed if needed. Parking is nearby, and the tour doesn’t venture too far from the start point, making it convenient for most.

Since the tour is weather-dependent, a poor forecast might mean rescheduling or getting a full refund. And, with a 24-hour cancellation window, it’s flexible enough if your plans change.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, craft beer enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to combine a relaxed walk with engaging storytelling. It’s especially suited for small groups who enjoy personalized experiences and lively guides. If you’re traveling with friends or a couple looking for a fun, social way to explore Golden, this fits the bill.

It’s not a wild party scene — think of it more as a storytelling cruise through old Colorado, with drinks to keep the mood lively. If you’re after an energetic nightlife or a full-blown bar crawl, you might want to look elsewhere.

If you’re after an experience that balances history, local culture, and good drinks, this tour delivers. The small-group format and engaging guide make it feel more like hanging out with friends than a formal tour, which is a big plus. Plus, the inclusion of four beers and a fun souvenir make the price feel justified — especially for a relaxed, 3-hour outing.

It’s ideal if you’re curious about Colorado’s frontier past but prefer a laid-back, storytelling approach rather than stiff historical lectures. If you enjoy craft beers and lively conversation, you’ll find plenty to love here.

That said, if you’re not into history or storytelling, or prefer a more high-energy nightlife experience, this might not be your ideal fit. But for those who love a good yarn and local brews, the Wild West Pub Crawl is a charming, engaging way to spend an afternoon in Golden.

• How long does the tour last?
  About 3 hours, with stops at four locations and some walking between them.

• Are drinks included?
  Yes, you get a 10-oz beer at each of the four stops, with options for wine or non-alcoholic beverages if needed.

• Is it suitable for families or kids?
  The tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, but most travelers can participate. Service animals are allowed.

• Where does the tour start and end?
  It begins at Golden City Brewery and finishes near Mountain Toad Brewing, both within walking distance of each other.

• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Is transportation provided between stops?
  No, the tour is on foot, and all stops are within a few blocks of each other.

• Is parking available?
  Yes, parking is nearby, and the breweries are located within a short walk from the start point.

• What’s the guide like?
  Guides are knowledgeable and lively, making the stories fun and engaging, as highlighted by positive reviews.

If you love history, good beer, and small-group adventures, this tour offers a memorable way to get to know Golden’s cowboy roots with some laughs and local flavor along the way.