Top Colorado Cultural Tours

Head south from Denver on a small group tour to two of Colorado’s most majestic places. First, visit Garden of the Gods, a unique geological area with colossal red rock formations. Then take a drive up Pikes Peak, which inspired the song “America the Beautiful.” Have lunch and enjoy a bit of free time or shopping in the charming town of Manitou Springs, then take a scenic drive through the foothills back to Denver.

Skip the typical walking tours for a ghostly exploration of Breckenridge and—unlike most travelers—see a stranger side to this historic mining town. During this interactive tour, explore haunted buildings you might otherwise have overlooked, hunt down spirit energies with the tools conveniently provided, and listen to your private guide tell spooky stories you wouldn’t otherwise hear.

Explore the ancient wonders of Mesa Verde National Park with our immersive audio tour! Walk among the cliff dwellings and archaeological sites of the Ancestral Pueblo people as our guides share captivating stories about their rich history, culture, and remarkable architecture. Learn about the significance of these ancient structures and the park's unique landscape. Perfect for families, history buffs, and curious travelers, our tour provides a fascinating and educational experience. Simply download, plug in your headphones, and embark on a journey through the incredible history of Mesa Verde National Park! *Download the Shaka Guide app to access the purchased tours*

View the ancient sites of Mesa Verde National Park on a guided group tour from Durango, led by an archaeologist-trained guide. This half-day adventure lets you see significant archaeological sites and stunning overlooks while learning about the rich history of the Ancestral Pueblo people. The tour includes comfortable transportation, making it ideal for couples and families. While this tour does NOT include access to Cliff Palace or other cliff dwellings, it provides unforgettable views and insights into the cultural heritage of this remarkable area. Great for folks with mobility concerns since we are not climbing ladders. - Enjoy a 5-hour guided tour from Durango with expert insights - Visit key viewpoints and mesa-top sites in Mesa Verde - Transportation from our Durango, CO office

Sit back and relax while your guide drives you around a specially curated route to show you Denver’s best streets, neighborhoods, and parks. Your local tour leader will talk you through the history of the city as you soak up the sights. They can also recommend their favorite restaurants, breweries, shops, and other fun things for you to try when the 2-hour tour is done.

Explore Denver's River North Art District (known as RiNo) and discover the street art murals and artists that make this area unique with this self-guided tour that’s available via your smartphone. Wander at your own pace and on your own time when you use the app to guide you turn by turn through the area, learning about the murals along the way.

Get up close and personal with the wonders of Mesa Verde—and learn all about the park’s Indigenous heritage and ancient cliff-dwellings—during this half-day tour. Pick between morning and afternoon tour times; meet your guide in Mancos, Colorado; and set off with only a small group for company. You’ll drive to the park’s highlight landmarks and scenic vistas, will discover its signature ancient ruins, and will learn about its millennia of history.

The first national park to “preserve the works of man,” Mesa Verde stands alone as a national park, archaeological site, and UNESCO World Heritage Site. On this half-day tour, you’ll skip the search for parking and go straight to exploring the ancient cliff dwellings with a guide, learning about the park’s flora and fauna, geology, and human mystery—these ruins were abandoned around the year 1300.

Explore the picturesque town of Estes Park—and leave the crowds behind—on this small-group e-bike tour around its scenic landscape. Discover highlights, including the historic main street and renowned Stanley Hotel, ride on the dedicated cycle path by Lake Estes, and take in panoramic views of Rocky Mountain National Park. Along the way, learn about the area and hear insights on local culture and traditions.

We got tickets! Discover Mesa Verde with an Archaeologist Trained Guide & explore Cliff Palace! Skip the hassle of trying to get tickets and dive straight into an unforgettable journey through one of Colorado’s most iconic landmarks. Our Mesa Verde Express Tour offers a 5-hour adventure door to door through the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of Mesa Verde National Park. This experience includes a rare opportunity to explore the legendary Cliff Palace on a ranger-led tour, where you’ll spend 45 minutes up close with the largest cliff dwelling in North America. Discover the incredible ingenuity of the Ancestral Puebloans, who built and thrived in these structures over 700 years ago. Throughout your journey, you’ll be accompanied by a highly trained guide, extensively educated by a professional archaeologist. Their in-depth knowledge of Mesa Verde’s history and culture.,

Enjoy a delectable introduction to Denver's hip RiNo Arts District—and follow your guide straight to its culinary highlights—on this small-group walking tour. You’ll visit five award-winning local restaurants to taste dishes ranging from fried chicken and sourdough pizza to mochi donuts and beyond. In between tour stops, your foodie guide will share stories about Denver’s growing culinary scene.

Step inside Colorado’s first legal whiskey distillery since Prohibition and discover how Stranahan’s American single malt whiskey comes to life. Located in Denver, this immersive tour follows the handcrafted journey — from distillation to barrel aging to bottling. Along the way, enjoy exclusive tastings of award-winning whiskeys and receive $10 off a select bottle of your choice. Tours are offered daily and include: -Guided distillery walkthrough led by a Stranahan’s whiskey expert -The story of Stranahan’s founding and its place in American whiskey history -Tastings of four award-winning Stranahan's American single malt whiskeys Perfect for curious newcomers and devoted whiskey fans alike.

The Denver foothills are packed with some of Colorado's best sights, from Red Rocks Amphitheater to Lookout Mountain and scenic Lariat Loop. Throughout this half-day tour from Denver explore the scenic foothills, get panoramic views of the mountain surroundings, and stroll through small, historic towns before stopping in Golden for a coffee or craft beer. It's a quick escape from the big city buzz and a taste of life in the mountains just outside of "Mile High" City.

Explore the captivating history of LoDo on this engaging 2.5-hour walking tour. Starting at the iconic House of Mirrors, uncover the intriguing characters and events that have shaped this vibrant area. As you stroll through the streets, enjoy scenic views of downtown Denver while immersing yourself in its colorful past. The tour concludes in the beautiful and historic Larimer Square, offering a perfect backdrop to reflect on the stories shared along the way. - 2.5-hour guided walking tour through LoDo's history - Begins at 20th and Market Street, outside the House of Mirrors - Concludes in the picturesque Larimer Square - Discover the fascinating tales of Denver's past

Experience Denver like a local on this fun, engaging day tour that brings the city's top sights, fascinating stories & even a scoop of the most famous sweet treat, together in an unforgettable day out. Whether it's your first time in the Mile High City or you're looking for a fresh perspective, this relaxed-pace tour is packed with iconic landmarks, stunning views & a few hidden gems along the way. Your day out starts at the breathtaking Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre, where you can take in the views or explore on your own, with every stop on this tour designed to give you a real feel for the city. Along the way, you'll pass by must-see landmarks like Empower Field at Mile High, the vibrant RiNo Art District, home to some of the best murals in the country, the famous Dancer statues at the Denver Performing Arts Complex, Coors Field, stop for a scoop of ice cream at the legendary Little Man & more, all while hearing the stories of what makes each of these iconic Denver places special.

Vail Village looks like a picture-perfect alpine retreat – all Bavarian chalets and polished luxury – but the real stories are hidden in plain sight. On this self-guided audio tour, you’ll hear about the soldiers, ski legends, and local quirks that shaped this mountain town into something far more interesting than its postcard image suggests. You’ll start at the Vail Village Welcome Center near the Colorado Snowsports Museum, and make your way through the cobblestone streets of the village center. As you walk, you’ll hear stories about the 10th Mountain Division soldiers who fought in World War II and returned to build Vail from scratch. The tour ends at a second covered bridge over Gore Creek, surrounded by sculpture gardens and mountain views.

Enjoy an introductory visit to the Rocky Mountains—and still leave enough time to continue your Denver sightseeing—on this half-day, small-group tour. Meet your guide in the morning, and head out to the foothills to enjoy views of the Great Plains and Lookout Mountain. Drive historic Lariat Loop, and get a glimpse of historic Golden, home to Coors Brewery. In just half a day, you'll see some of the best of the region's scenery.

Colorado Springs has historically been a city of tourists and travelers. From horses, to coaches, to trains, to trolleys and automobiles, the very first settlers of the town were excited to boast the amazements of the area. They welcomed travelers from far and wide to come and see all of the treasures Colorado Springs had to offer. Welcome Friends! There is much to see and do! It is my pleasure to host you as we stroll through the streets of Colorado Springs and explore the past, present and future of this great city.

Hear the Denver stories that don’t get included in the guidebooks. On this roughly two-hour walking tour of the city’s prominent graffiti and street art, discover the city’s cultural underground hiding in plain sight. Learn about the art, the artists and the neighborhoods that you’re exploring from your guide, including stories about how Denver has changed and how that’s affected the art being made. This tour opens up a new and unsung side of Denver.

Walk across the tallest sand dunes in North America and explore Great Sand Dunes National Park at your own pace. A friendly narrator tells you stories about how the wind and rivers shaped these giant dunes and about the people who lived here long ago. You can start at the Visitor Center, then climb the dunes, feel the sand in your toes, or slide down like you’re on a playground. Hike to Zapata Fall, stroll the Montville Nature Trail under aspen trees, and follow the Dunes Overlook Trail for big views. And, if you have time, walk the Mosca Pass Trail if you have more time. This tour works without cell service. It gives turn by turn directions, travel tips as you explore and it never expires. Download the tour, walk in the sand, tell your friends about dunes, waterfalls, and stories of Great Sand Dunes National Park enjoy this amazing park your way. *Download the Shaka Guide app to access the purchased tours*

You’ll be guided through Historic Manitou Springs, located at the foot of Pike’s Peak. - Manitou Springs, located near Colorado Springs, Colorado, has a rich history that dates to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Ute Indians, who revered the natural springs for their healing properties. In the mid-1800s, European settlers began to arrive, drawn by the natural mineral springs and the area's scenic beauty. The town was officially founded in 1872, with the name "Manitou" derived from a Native American word meaning "spirit." The springs became a popular destination for health seekers looking to benefit from the mineral waters. Manitou Springs grew rapidly during the late 19th century, becoming a popular resort town. The arrival of the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad in the 1880s further boosted tourism.

On this jam-packed walking tour of Golden, Colorado, you’ll see how the Wild West still lingers on just 20 minutes west of Denver. Following your guide around this gold-rush town, you’ll dive into 150+ years of history, learning all about hard-to-believe tales and unscrupulous characters that formed this spot. And with this boots-on-the-ground tour, you’ll see how that history is still standing strong today.

Denver can sometimes feel inaccessible to foreign visitors. Take the mystery out of your visit by exploring with a local on a private, personalized walking tour. You’ll discover the exterior of iconic monuments, including museums, while your guide shares insights into Denver’s culture and history. If you’d like to include a museum visit, we can tailor the tour just for you—simply let us know in advance. Your guide contacts you beforehand to understand your interests, ensuring a route that highlights the city’s hidden gems, must-see attractions, and local favorites. Perfect for families, solo travelers, or couples, this tour provides insider knowledge and a unique perspective on Denver.