You can live a lifetime in a city and still not see everything. Guided sightseeing can unearth things to do, even for locals. That's why we recommend a range of city tours. From those that hit the popular tourist destinations to those that are more off the beaten path. So, what are some cool Denver walking tours?
This in-depth blog post offers an insider's guide to the top tours in Denver. Whether you're a local looking to rediscover hidden gems or a visitor eager to explore, these curated Denver walking tours and adventures promise to leave you with memories of the Mile-High City.
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1. Downtown Denver Food Tour
Vibes: Culinary Adventure, Urban Exploration, Casual and Fun
Kickstart your Denver day with the Downtown Denver Food Tour. This walking tour is a feast for foodies and history buffs, from artisanal bakeries to historic food halls and more interesting places. These tours are led by a savvy local guide who dishes out fascinating anecdotes about Denver's downtown food culture.
You'll sample a variety of gastronomical delights, including a famous wood-fired pizza and Colorado pork green chili. The tour lasts approximately three hours, covering about one mile of Denver's walkable downtown area. Be prepared to uncover the eateries that were once the haunts of the city's famous gunslingers and gold miners.
2. Craft Beer Tour in Lower Downtown Denver
Vibes: Brew Master Class, Casual and Educational, Beer Enthusiast Heaven
For those with a love for lagers, this tour is a golden opportunity to sip and savor the best brews. With the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop, Denver's craft beer scene is known for its innovative twists on classic barleys and hops. This walking tour leads you through history and hops, stopping at celebrated and hidden breweries.
Guides will educate you on the craft and science behind brewing while you sample a wide variety of unique beers. Each stop is carefully selected, from local watering holes to larger craft breweries. Get ready to lift your spirits as you immerse yourself in the social and cultural phenomenon of Denver's beer culture.
3. The Denver Cocktail Tour
Vibes: Mixology Exploration, Upscale yet Casual
If beer isn't your beverage of choice, the Denver Cocktail Tour offers an evening of refined rebellion in the form of crafted cocktails. This walking tour sweeps through the streets of Downtown and LoDo, where attendees will learn the history of prohibition-era Denver.
From sipping classic cocktails in authentic speakeasies to trying modern concoctions in some of the city's most exclusive establishments, this tour celebrates the art of mixology. Expert storytellers regale with tales of the first distillers in the area, while each cocktail offers a unique perspective into the quirky and colorful history of Denver's Downtown. Another great option is to try out the self-guided LoDO walking tour here.
4. Ghost Towns of the Rockies
Vibes: Vintage Charm, History Mysteries, Profound and Adventurous
For those seeking a supernatural spin on their Denver adventure, the Ghost Towns of the Rockies tour offers a step back in time and maybe a shiver down your spine. This day-long trip takes you deep into the mountains to explore the eerie remnants of Colorado's once-booming mining towns.
Led by expert guides dotted with brothels, saloons, and mansions, the town's tales of boom and bust come to life. This is not just a ghost hunt; it's a deep dive into the country's largest collection of living ghost towns, all of which hold secrets and stories of the life and death of the American Dream.
5. Denver History & Highlights
Vibes: Academic Interest, Civic Pride, Leisurely Exploration
Spend the day getting to know the ins and outs of the Mile-High City. Beginning at the Colorado Veterans Monument, you'll walk a loop that touches on pivotal points in Denver's historic district.
This tour, led by experienced guides, imparts nuggets of knowledge about Denver's architecture, art, and culture. You'll visit iconic locations and landmarks and learn the extraordinary stories behind them, all while seeing the city from a local's perspective.
6. Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park Private Day Tour
Vibes: Nature Immersion, Majestic Landscapes, Customizable Experience
Head out of the city on a private day tour that showcases the unrivaled natural beauty of the Rocky Mountain National Park and the charming town of Estes Park. Ponderosa pines, cascading waterfalls, and meandering wildlife await you on this customizable trek through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the United States.
Your private tour guide will take you on a route that may include the Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the United States, offering stunning panoramic views. Make stops at popular viewpoints and keep an eye out for soaring eagles and curious elk. Then, wrap up the day with a relaxing visit to the quaint village of Estes Park, home to the historic Stanley Hotel and inspiration for Stephen King's 'The Shining.'
7. RiNo Food Tour
Vibes: Hipster Hangout, Gastronomic Adventure, Art and Flavor Fusion
The River North Art District (RiNo) is renowned for its vibrant street art, eclectic art galleries, and an impressive culinary scene. The RiNo Food Tour walking tour ushers you through this hipster haven to taste your way through eateries that reflect the neighborhood's commitment to all things artisanal and local.
Sample an array of foods from a Parisian-style bakery, enjoy a lakeside spread, and wind your way through a variety of global cuisines prepared and presented in a distinctly Denver style. Your guide will offer insights into the district's cultural and culinary evolution, providing you with a well-rounded taste of this dynamic and changing neighborhood.
8. Private Denver, Red Rocks, and Beyond
Vibes: Luxury-Like, Comprehensive Tour, Experiential Variety
For the ultimate Denver city experience, treat yourself to a private tour that includes city highlights, the world-famous Red Rocks Amphitheater, and a scenic drive through the mountains. With a personal guide catering to your interests, this day-long adventure promises an in-depth exploration of Denver's eclectic cityscape, historic places, and natural wonders.
The best part is that you can tailor the itinerary to suit your preferences. Learn about the music legends who have graced the Red Rocks stage, entertain your palate with scenic picnics, or explore the wilderness with short hikes to panoramic vistas. This fab tour ensures that no stone in the Rockies goes unturned.
9. Denver Art Tour
Vibes: Culturally Rich, Inspiring, Interactive
Dive deep into Denver's public art scene with an exclusive Denver Art walking tour. These curated walking tours will guide you through the city's most inspiring art districts and public art sites. Learn about the murals, graffiti, and installations that adorn the walls of Denver's buildings.
Final Thoughts on Taking a Foodie, Adventure, or Denver Walking Tours
Whether you're a food lover, a history buff, or a casual wanderer, Denver's walking tours offer something for every traveler. These guided experiences provide more than just information; they offer a deeper connection to Denver's past and present. They allow visitors and locals alike to see the Mile-High City from a new perspective and to understand its place in the broader landscape of the American West.
Prepare to taste, learn, and be amazed on one of the many Denver walking tours or guide adventures. With each step, each bite, and each sight, you'll discover what makes Denver City such a beloved destination. Whether it's the breathtaking beauty of the Rockies or delicious food, Denver's tours promise an adventure.
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