Longmont, Colorado, is a dynamic town with a rich history, diverse food scenes, and thriving craft breweries. Guided tours are one of the best ways to immerse yourself in everything Longmont offers. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a craft beer enthusiast, there are plenty of tour options to make your visit unforgettable. Below, we explore some of Longmont's most popular tour experiences, covering everything from historical walking tours to food and brewery adventures.
Historical and Cultural Tours in Longmont
For those interested in learning about Longmont’s past, the city offers a variety of walking tours that highlight its historical significance and cultural roots. A great place to start is the Downtown Longmont Walking Tour, which guides visitors through Longmont’s Certified Colorado Creative District. The tour takes you past historic landmarks, public art installations, and beautiful architecture, showcasing how Longmont has grown from its early agricultural days into the thriving community it is today.
Along the way, you’ll encounter fascinating stories about Longmont's origins, including its settlement by members of the Chicago-Colorado Colony in 1871. Many historic buildings have been preserved, allowing visitors to get a sense of what life was like in the town's early days. Don’t miss stops like the Callahan House or Old Mill Park, which offer glimpses into Longmont’s Victorian and pioneer past.
For a deeper dive into local history, The Longmont Museum offers virtual historic tours, including themes such as Latino history and the Women of Longmont, accessible via a downloadable mobile app. These self-guided tours are perfect for those who prefer to explore at their own pace while learning about the stories that shaped this community.
Food and Drink Tours
A Taste of Longmont Longmont is home to a flourishing food scene that’s diverse and rooted in locally sourced, farm-fresh ingredients. One of the most exciting ways to experience this is through the various food tours offered in town.
A standout option is the Longmont Food Tour, where local guides lead you on a culinary adventure through some of the area's best eateries and specialty shops. These tours take you off the beaten path to experience hidden gems in Longmont’s restaurant scene, showcasing everything from artisanal cheeses to international cuisine. Along the way, you'll taste dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, focusing on the unique flavors and creative cooking styles that make Longmont’s food scene unique.
You can also enjoy an educational experience on local farming practices by participating in farm tours or attending farm-to-table dinners. These events highlight Longmont’s agricultural heritage and commitment to sustainable food production, allowing you to savor seasonal ingredients straight from the source.
For those with a sweet tooth, specialized tours also stop by local dessert shops, bakeries, and ice cream parlors. No matter your culinary preferences, a food tour in Longmont is designed to delight your palate.
Brewery Tours
The Craft Beer Capital Longmont has become a mecca for craft beer lovers, with a diverse range of breweries offering everything from experimental IPAs to smooth lagers. Exploring Longmont’s breweries is a must; many offer behind-the-scenes tours that give visitors an inside look at the brewing process.
A great place to start is Left Hand Brewing Company, one of the most well-known breweries in the U.S. Known for its Milk Stout Nitro, Left Hand offers both public tours and private group tours. On the latter, you can learn about the brewery's history, brewing process, and the nitro revolution they pioneered. After the tour, enjoy a tasting of their year-round and seasonal offerings.
Another local favorite is Wibby Brewing, which specializes in crafting German-style lagers with an American twist. Their brewery tour is perfect for learning more about lager brewing while sampling their signature Lightshine Helles or the hop-forward IPL. Wibby also features a welcoming outdoor beer garden, ideal for enjoying a drink with family or friends after the tour.
If you want to experience multiple breweries in one day, hop on the Brewhop Trolley. This hop-on, hop-off trolley runs on weekends and stops at some of Longmont’s top breweries, including Bootstrap Brewing and 300 Suns Brewing. It’s a fun, convenient way to experience Longmont’s craft beer scene without worrying about transportation. The trolley typically runs a loop every hour, allowing you plenty of time to sample a few pints before heading to the next stop.
Beer lovers who enjoy adventure should consider combining a brewery tour with a bike tour. Some companies offer guided bike tours that stop at local breweries, allowing you to explore Longmont’s scenic trails while enjoying craft beer.
Self-Guided Tours
Explore at Your Own Pace Do you prefer to take things slow and explore on your own? Longmont has plenty of options for self-guided tours as well. The St. Vrain Greenway is a beautiful trail that winds through Longmont and offers scenic views of the St. Vrain River, wildlife, and natural habitats. It’s a great way to combine nature with local exploration. You can stop at various parks, including Rogers Grove and Golden Ponds, for a picnic or a quick stroll.
Another fantastic self-guided option is the Art in Public Places tour, which allows you to explore the numerous murals, sculptures, and art installations throughout Longmont. You can pick up a map from the Longmont Visitors Center or download it online to guide you through the town’s public art offerings.
Many of Longmont’s breweries and restaurants offer self-guided tastings for those interested in the culinary side of things. Simply pop into any of the local spots and ask for a flight of their offerings to sample a variety of flavors.
No matter your interests, Longmont offers a tour experience that’s sure to captivate. Whether delving into the town’s rich history, tasting your way through local eateries, or exploring the thriving craft beer scene, Longmont provides endless opportunities to discover its charm. With so many tours—guided, self-guided, on foot, or by trolley—you can create your own unique Longmont adventure packed with memorable experiences for all ages. So, grab your map, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to explore everything this vibrant city has to offer!
