Colorado Springs: Downtown Food Tour & Local Art Walk

Summary

Downtown Colorado Springs food tastings history stories & art stops

You’ll wander downtown Colorado Springs with a local guide, tasting everything from craft lemonade to chef-inspired bites and skipping lines at favorite spots. Hear stories about Pikes Peak and see murals tucked in alleys as you stroll between stops. Expect laughter, unexpected flavors, and maybe even a new appreciation for this city’s creative side.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the smell—somewhere between fresh bread and something frying—drifting out from a little spot just off Tejon Street. Our guide, Jess, waved us over with a grin that made it feel like we were joining a friend for lunch instead of starting a food tour in downtown Colorado Springs. She pointed at a mural splashed across the alley wall, all blues and golds, and said it was part of the city’s Creative District. I’d never really thought about how much art sneaks into your day here until she said that.

We ducked into places I probably would’ve walked right past on my own—a lemonade tap house (who knew that was even a thing?), then this Irish pub where the bartender actually had an accent thick enough to make me second-guess my order. At Phantom Canyon, Jess told us how the building used to be part of the old Cheyenne railroad days. The light through those big windows caught all the dust motes swirling around our pints. I tried to say “sláinte” and Li laughed—definitely butchered it.

I didn’t expect to get so caught up in the stories about Pikes Peak or the gold rush—the way Jess told it, you could almost hear old train whistles echoing off the stone walls near the Pioneers Museum. Lunch was basically a parade: bites of southwest something at Four by Brother Luck (the chef was on Top Chef? No kidding), spicy sausage at another spot I can’t remember now because I was too busy trying not to spill sauce on myself. The walk wasn’t tough—maybe a mile or so—and every stop felt like its own little world. Honestly, skipping the line for ice cream at Josh & John’s might have been my personal highlight. That “Purple Mountain Majesty” flavor tasted like cold sunshine.

By the end, my feet were tired but in that good way, you know? Like you’ve actually seen a place instead of just ticking off sights. Still think about that rooftop view from Phantom Canyon sometimes—sunset bouncing off glass and brick, everyone talking over each other about which dish was their favorite. It’s funny how food tours turn strangers into people you’d maybe want to eat with again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Downtown Colorado Springs food and history tour

• Explore downtown Colorado Springs
• Visit The Antlers Hotel history site
• Stop at Phantom Canyon brewery
• Pass by Pioneers Museum
• Eat at Jack Quinn's Irish Pub
• See AdAmAn Alley art installation
• Pass by Mining Exchange Hotel
• Enjoy lemonade at tap house
• Walk through Acacia Park
• Try dish at Brother Luck restaurant
• Learn about Pikes Peak mountain
• Sample ice cream at Josh and John's

Top questions

How long is the Colorado Springs food tour?

The tour lasts about 3 hours and covers 1-1.5 miles on foot.

Are drinks included on this downtown food tour?

Water is included at all locations; you can upgrade to include craft beer, cocktails, or wine for an extra fee.

Is lunch included in this Colorado Springs food tour?

Yes, tastings at 4-5 locations are enough for a full meal.

Is this walking tour suitable for kids or strollers?

Yes, infants and small children can join in prams or strollers; it's family-friendly.

Are there vegetarian options on this food tour?

The specific menu varies by day; it's best to check ahead if you have dietary needs.

Does the tour visit Pikes Peak?

No, but you'll hear stories about Pikes Peak while exploring downtown Colorado Springs.

Is this food tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options and venues are wheelchair accessible.

Do I need to book in advance?

Advance booking is recommended as spots may fill up quickly.

What’s included

Your day includes tastings at four or five beloved restaurants and artisan shops (enough for a full lunch), water at every stop, insights into local art and history from an expert guide, plus behind-the-scenes stories about chefs and landmarks—all while strolling through downtown Colorado Springs’ creative district streets.