7 Most Highly Rated Historical Tours In Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs stands out as a destination ripe for historical exploration. Its mix of natural beauty and stories from the old West make it a prime spot for immersive tours. Whether you’re admiring Garden of the Gods, learning local legends, or wandering historic streets, the city offers experiences that bring its past vividly to life.

We’re particularly fond of the Foothills, History, and Garden of the Gods Jeep Tour because it seamlessly blends stunning scenery with engaging storytelling, taking you off-road to visit secluded spots many travelers never see.

Plus, with guides sharing insights into geology, local history, and secret spots, it’s a fantastic way to see the area without the hassle of driving.

Colorado Springs boasts a variety of historic tours, including jeep rides, ghost walks, walking tours, Segway adventures, and even e-golf cart explorations. Each offers a different way to experience the city’s stories, from the picturesque Garden of the Gods to eerie tales of haunted buildings.

Whether you’re here for a quick overview or a deep dive into local lore, there’s something for every type of traveler.

Quick Overview

Our list covers diverse historical tours suited for different interests and energy levels. If you love outdoor adventures combined with storytelling, the Foothills, History, and Garden of the Gods Jeep Tour is a standout. For those curious about ghost stories and paranormal tales, the Guided Ghost and History Tours offer a fun, spooky twist.

If you prefer a walking exploration, the Small Group Historic Walking Tour provides an intimate look at downtown Colorado Springs’ past. For a modern twist, the Segway Tour of Cheyenne Cañon offers a relaxed, off-road experience with history thrown in.

Lastly, the Pikes Peak E-Golf Cart Tour makes touring easy and accessible, especially for those with limited mobility or keen on a short but comprehensive visit. Now, let’s explore each one in detail.

1. Foothills, History, and Garden of the Gods Jeep Tour

At number 1, this 2.5-hour open-air jeep tour immerses you in Colorado Springs’ stunning natural landscapes while sharing stories about local geology, history, and famous landmarks. You’ll visit Garden of the Gods, Cheyenne Canyon, Helen Hunt Falls, and Manitou Springs, all in one trip.

The tour’s small group size ensures personalized attention from your guide, who points out hidden details you might miss exploring on your own.

What makes this tour stand out is its mix of scenic views and rugged terrain. Riding in a jeep allows access to dirt roads and secluded spots, giving you a true sense of Colorado’s wilderness.

The guides, often locals with decades of experience, share tales about Colorado’s geological formations, railroad tunnels, and local legends. Included water, snacks, and blankets keep you comfortable on the ride, even if the weather turns cool.

Reviewers love the informative narration and spectacular scenery, often mentioning guides like Hawkeye and Lucky for their friendly knowledge and local insights.

Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a quick, in-depth look at Colorado Springs’ highlights from a comfortable, off-road perspective. It’s particularly good if you prefer guided adventures over self-driving, and the price reflects the small-group intimacy and all-inclusive comfort.

2. Colorado Springs – Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour

Next on our list is the 1.5-hour guided walking tour that combines history and paranormal tales. Starting in downtown Colorado Springs, your guide leads you around five stops packed with stories about haunted buildings, secret scandals, and spectral sightings. It’s a participatory tour, meaning you’ll hear stories but also get the chance to explore some hidden relics most travelers overlook.

This tour appeals to those interested in the spooky side of Colorado Springs, with stories about haunted hotels, underground tunnels, and ghostly encounters. The tour’s lively narration and engaging stops make it suitable for all ages, especially those curious about the city’s darker tales.

The tour has earned rave reviews for knowledgeable guides like John, who weaves humor and history into his storytelling.

Bottom line: Ideal for curious travelers eager to combine local history with ghost stories in a walk that’s easy and fun. It’s affordable, lively, and offers a different perspective on Colorado Springs’ past, making it a memorable tour for history buffs and paranormal enthusiasts alike.

3. Colorado Springs: Garden of the Gods & Historic Town Tour

For around $95, this jeep day tour takes you through the breathtaking Garden of the Gods and into charming historic towns nearby. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a scenic day with plenty of photo stops and stories about local ecology and history. The guide points out rock formations, waterfalls, and shares tidbits about the area’s formation and past inhabitants.

What makes this tour unique is its focus on local towns like Manitou Springs, known for its mineral springs and quirky shops, along with the geological marvels of the park. The tour strikes a good balance between nature and history, offering insights into the ecology and cultural significance of the area.

Reviewers appreciate the guide’s storytelling and the opportunity to see both natural and historic sights in just a few hours.

Bottom line: Best suited for visitors who want a relaxed, scenic experience with a focus on natural beauty and local history. It’s a well-rounded option for families or anyone short on time but eager to see the highlights.

4. 1-Hour Segway Tour of Cheyenne Cañon Art, History and Nature

This 1-hour Segway tour offers a fun alternative to traditional sightseeing. Starting at the South Cheyenne Cañon Picnic Grounds, you’ll glide past public artwork, historic buildings, and then hit off-road trails in Cheyenne Cañon, where walls rise 1,000 feet above. The guide shares stories about local characters and cultural details as you cruise through the park.

What makes this tour stand out is its accessibility—no biking or hiking experience needed—and its mix of urban sights with off-road nature. It’s suitable for most ages and fitness levels, with a limit of six travelers ensuring personalized attention. Reviewers mention the guide “Happy” as very patient and knowledgeable, making nervous beginners feel comfortable.

Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a light physical activity combined with history and nature stories. It offers a novel way to see Cheyenne Cañon without heavy exertion, and the small group size means you’ll get more tailored insights.

5. Colorado Springs: Guided Ghost Story and History Tour

This evening tour takes you through Colorado Springs’ darker past, with stories that touch on murder, scandals, and haunted sites. Walking through the city at night, you’ll visit places like old hotels and underground tunnels that have seen their share of mystery and mayhem. It’s a 1.5-hour journey into the city’s provocative stories.

Ideal for night owls or those interested in the spooky side of history, the tour is filled with vivid storytelling that makes past horrors come alive. The reviews mention how the guide makes the stories engaging and atmospheric, perfect for a fun, spooky evening.

Bottom line: Suited for travelers who enjoy ghost stories and stories of mystery and murder. It’s a lively way to see a different facet of Colorado Springs’ past, especially if you like a little thrill with your history.

6. Colorado Springs Small Group Historic Walking Tour

For those seeking an intimate exploration, this 2-hour small-group walking tour covers downtown Colorado Springs’ most iconic historic sites like the Antlers Hotel, Acacia Park, and the Original Opera House. The tour’s small size ensures flexibility, allowing the guide to customize stories and focus on what interests the group most.

This tour shines with its personalized approach. Tour guide Happy shares stories about Victorian era architecture, local scandals, and early settlers, making the past feel alive. Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and personable style, and many appreciate the opportunity to ask questions and see hidden stories behind familiar sights.

Bottom line: Best for travelers who want a deeper, more personal history experience with a flexible format. Ideal if you enjoy strolling old streets and discovering how the city evolved from frontier town to modern city.

7. Pikes Peak E-Golf Cart Historic Tour of Manitou Springs

Finally, this 1.5-hour electric-golf cart tour guides you through Historic Manitou Springs, at the foot of Pikes Peak. You’ll visit Miramont Castle, a Victorian mansion reputed to have ghostly residents, and take a ride on the famous Cog Railway. The tour also stops at natural springs and the Penny Arcade, offering a mix of history, local lore, and fun.

What makes this tour appealing is its combination of easy transportation and rich storytelling. The guide, David, is praised for his local knowledge and ability to make the tour engaging. The stops at Miramont Castle and the springs give a tangible sense of the area’s early settlement and Native American significance.

Bottom line: Great for travelers who prefer a short, accessible tour that combines historic sights with a relaxed pace. Ideal if mobility or time is limited but you still want a substantive look at Manitou Springs’ history.

How to Choose the Right Tour

Choosing between these options depends on your interests, schedule, and physical activity preference. If you want a quick yet comprehensive taste of Colorado Springs’ landscapes and stories, the Foothills Jeep Tour offers unmatched scenery and insider tales. For a spooky evening or daytime ghost adventure, the Ghost and History Tours are perfect.

Those eager for a personal touch can’t go wrong with the Small Group Walking Tour, which offers an up-close look at downtown sites.

To combine history with ease of access, the Pikes Peak E-Golf Cart Tour is a smart pick, especially for families or visitors with limited mobility.

Consider your budget: the jeep tour provides a full experience for $140, while walking and ghost tours are more budget-friendly at around $28. Think about the time available; the jeep and walking tours run about two hours, while the ghost story and Segway tours are shorter. And finally, booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to ensure you get your preferred date.

Final Thoughts

Colorado Springs offers a wide spectrum of historical tours suited for every taste. For an immersive outdoor adventure, the Foothills Jeep Tour is a top choice. If you’re drawn to ghost stories, the Guided Ghost and History Tours deliver a fun, spooky experience. Those wanting a more personal exploration of the city’s streets will appreciate the Small Group Historic Walking Tour.

For a relaxed, accessible way to see Manitou Springs, the Pikes Peak E-Golf Cart Tour combines history with comfort. Whatever your preference, booking early and choosing a tour that fits your interests will ensure a memorable journey into Colorado Springs’ fascinating past.