Craft Beverage Tours in Fort Collins with Hop Cart - Denver, Colorado

Craft Beverage Tours in Fort Collins with Hop Cart

Denver, Coloradoeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–4 hours

Fitness Level

Minimal physical exertion required; comfortable walking and standing for tastings.

Overview

Sip through Fort Collins’ vibrant brewing and distilling scene on curated tours with Hop Cart. From stouts and sours to distillery secrets, discover what makes this Colorado town a craft beverage hotspot.

Details

Fort Collins, Colorado is known not only for its foothills and trails but also as a brewing and distilling hub in the Mountain West. Hop Cart steps into this dynamic scene with a series of craft beverage tours that capture the spirit of Fort Collins’ innovative beer and spirits culture. Whether you’re a seasoned taster or a curious first-timer, Hop Cart offers experiences designed to showcase some of the region’s freshest stouts, sours, and distilleries.

The tours range from the Classic Tour, which introduces participants to flagship breweries and distilleries, to niche experiences like the Stouts & Sours Tour, perfect for those drawn to the complexities of dark beers and tart brews. Their New School Tour highlights avant-garde producers pushing craft boundaries with inventive recipes and fermentation techniques. For an exclusive angle, Hop Cart’s Members Only Private Tours target enthusiasts craving a more intimate access to behind-the-scenes stories and rare pours.

Fort Collins itself is a vibrant backdrop: its streets lined with historic brick buildings converted into taprooms, distillery warehouses, and lively tasting rooms. The city’s distinct water source—the Cache la Poudre River—provides pristine ingredients that elevate local brews. History buffs will appreciate how Fort Collins maintains its Old West roots alongside this flourishing modern craft scene.

What makes Hop Cart stand out in this bustling Colorado town is its focused curation of tours, allowing visitors to engage with Fort Collins’ beverage craftsmanship at a genuine, walkable pace. Rather than rushing, participants sip, chat, and learn about production methods that reflect the region’s climate and culture. This approach puts Hop Cart at the center of Fort Collins’ outdoor and social activity matrix, bridging nature, history, and the evolving art of craft brewing and distilling.

Adventure Tips

Book Tours in Advance

Hop Cart tours are popular and can fill quickly—reserve your spot early to guarantee availability.

Designate a Driver

If you plan to sample multiple tastings, arrange for transportation to keep the experience safe and comfortable.

Bring a Reusable Water Bottle

Stay hydrated between tastings by carrying water, especially during warm months in Fort Collins.

Check Weather Beforehand

Tours may include outdoor walking portions; dress appropriately for Colorado’s changing mountain climate.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Check out Rams Route for creative off-the-beaten-path breweries
  • Visit smaller distilleries offering experimental spirits not found elsewhere

Wildlife

  • Urban hawks that often perch on city rooftops
  • Occasional sightings of white-tailed deer in nearby natural areas

History

Fort Collins’ brewing roots date back to the late 19th century, evolving alongside the city’s growth as a railroad and agricultural center.

Conservation

Many local breweries and distilleries prioritize sustainable sourcing and waste reduction, reflecting Fort Collins’ broader commitment to environmental stewardship.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour before sunset
Mid-afternoon for sunny outdoor patios
Early evening for vibrant indoor ambiance

Best Viewpoints

  • Historic Old Town district sidewalks
  • Riverfront views near Cache la Poudre
  • Patio seating areas with mountain vistas

What to Photograph

Rustic brewery interiors
Handcrafted glassware with rich liquid textures
Street scenes featuring local art and signage

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Essential for navigating city streets and brewery entrances comfortably.

Water bottle

Essential

Helps maintain hydration during beer and spirit tastings.

summer|spring|fall|winter specific

Layered clothing

Essential

Allows you to adapt to the weather changes typical of Fort Collins.

all specific

Photo ID

Essential

Required for legal tasting at breweries and distilleries.