If you’re looking for a way to see Denver beyond its scenic parks and lively neighborhoods, the Dark Side of Denver RiNos True Crime and Murals Tour promises a unique combo of street art and gritty history. This tour isn’t your typical sightseeing route; it offers a mix of colorful murals and stories of crime and controversy that will make you see Denver in a new light. It’s a short, 1.5-hour walk, but packed with enough stories and visuals to keep you captivated.
What we love about this experience is how it balances the visual appeal of Denver’s famous murals with the darker tales that have shaped parts of the city. The guide’s knowledge and friendly approach come through in every story, making the experience both educational and engaging. Plus, the stops at popular food spots mean you get a taste of Denver’s local flavor along the way.
One thing to keep in mind, however, is that this tour is a walking adventure covering about two miles, so a moderate level of physical activity is needed. If you’re expecting a relaxed sit-down experience, this might not be ideal. But for those interested in history, crime stories, street art, and a lively guided walk, this tour hits the mark.
This experience suits travelers who enjoy storytelling, urban art, and a touch of the city’s more mysterious side. It’s perfect for those wanting a quick, insightful look into Denver’s past with the bonus of seeing its creative murals.
Key Points
- Balance of Art and Crime: This tour offers a perfect mix of Denver’s vibrant mural scene with intriguing crime stories.
- Small Group Feel: With a maximum of 10 travelers, it feels personal and allows plenty of questions.
- Excellent Guide: Travelers consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and friendly demeanor.
- Affordable Price: At just $25, it provides good value for the amount of storytelling and visual interest.
- Flexible and Customizable: The tour can be tailored based on your interests, whether focusing more on murals or true crime.
- Ideal for Walkers: It covers about 2 miles on foot, so moderate fitness is helpful but it’s not overly strenuous.
A Deep Dive into the Experience
Starting Point: The Vibrant RiNo Art District
Your journey kicks off at the Wonderyard Garden + Table, right in Denver’s increasingly popular RiNo neighborhood. This area, affectionately called the River North Art District, is a hub of creativity with its array of contemporary galleries, music venues, and trendy food halls. Think of it as Denver’s answer to Brooklyn’s street art scene, but with a distinctly local twist. You’ll see the murals that make this neighborhood pop, knowing that these are more than just pretty paintings—they’re part of Denver’s modern culture.
The tour’s opening is a great way to get familiar with the area’s vibe. The reviews mention how the guide’s storytelling is engaging right from the start, setting a fun tone for what’s ahead.
Market Streets’ Murky Past
One major highlight is the exploration of the Market Street district. The tour covers its shady past when over 1,000 prostitutes worked in what was once Denver’s most notorious red-light district. We loved the way the guide brings these stories to life without sensationalizing, giving context to Denver’s evolution over the decades. It’s fascinating to think about how the city transformed from that gritty scene to a hub of artistic expression.
The Denver Central Market: A Foodie Pause
Next, you’ll visit the Denver Central Market, which is more than just a place to snack—it’s a lively spot to soak in Denver’s culinary scene. The market features everything from butcher counters to bakeries, along with a bar where you can grab a drink or a quick bite. It’s a good breather point, especially if you’re craving local flavors before heading back into the streets.
The Outdoors at Improper City
Your walk then takes you to Improper City, an outdoor hub filled with food trucks and a lively crowd. Here, you’ll have your first chance to sit down, have a drink, and reflect on the stories and murals seen so far. This spot perfectly captures the eclectic and energetic spirit of RiNo.
Stories of Colorado’s Dark Side
The core of the tour is the collection of true crime stories. You might hear about historical tragedies like the Sand Creek Massacre or stories of individuals fighting to uncover the truth, like Silas Soule. The guide shares these accounts with a tone that’s respectful but engaging, making the past feel immediate and relevant.
Among the more recent stories are the 2022 shooting rampage involving a misogynist, a failed kidnapping attempt targeting Adolph Coors III, and the infamous red-light district’s history. The tour also touches on well-known Colorado cases such as JonBenet Ramsey, Columbine, Ted Bundy (who famously escaped from Denver jail), and others.
What stood out in reviews was how knowledgeable the guide is, with multiple comments highlighting Jeremy’s personable style and ability to answer questions thoroughly. One review noted that Jeremy tied in murals to the stories, adding a visual layer that made the history more vivid.
Art, Stories, and Snacks – An Ideal Mix
Throughout the walk, you’ll see murals that are truly beautiful and expressive. Many of these artworks are linked in some way to Denver’s past, which makes the visual part of the tour particularly meaningful. Reviews confirm that the murals are impressive, and the stories behind some of them add a compelling narrative.
The tour wraps up back at the starting point, ending the roughly 1.5-hour journey with plenty of memories and maybe some new insights into Denver’s complex personality.
Is It Worth It?
$25 for a tour that combines street art with compelling true crime stories is a solid deal. The value isn’t just in the sights, but in the stories and local knowledge you gain. You’re paying for a guided walk that’s intimate, flexible, and packed with interesting tidbits.
The small group size (max ten people) makes the experience more personal and allows for questions and discussion. And given the reviews rave about Jeremy’s friendliness and expertise, you’re in good hands.
One potential downside? Because it’s a walking tour, you’ll want to be comfortable with a moderate amount of physical activity. Also, it’s not designed for families with young kids, as some stories are quite dark and complex.
This tour is best suited for travelers with an interest in Colorado’s darker side, street art lovers, or those looking for a different way to experience Denver’s neighborhoods. It’s particularly good if you enjoy storytelling and want to combine visual arts with history.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after an experience that’s a little off the beaten path, this tour offers a fascinating mix of Denver’s mural art and its more shadowy past. The small group format and the guide’s deep knowledge make it engaging, while the stops at popular food spots add a relaxed, social element. It’s also great value, especially if you’re interested in stories you won’t find in most city guides.
While it may not be suited for those wanting a laid-back, sit-down sightseeing experience, it’s ideal for curious travelers who love history, street art, and stories that give context to a city’s evolution. Whether you’re solo, a couple, or a small group, this tour will leave you with a richer understanding of Denver’s complex character.
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, covering about two miles on foot.
What’s included in the price?
You get a knowledgeable tour guide and the experience itself. Food and drinks are not included, but there are stops for snacks and drinks along the route.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While it’s not explicitly advertised as family-friendly, the tour involves storytelling about dark crimes and history, so it’s better suited for older teens and adults.
Can I customize the tour?
Yes, the tour is flexible and can be adjusted based on your interests, whether focusing more on murals or true crime stories.
What about accessibility?
The tour involves walking and moderate physical activity, so it’s best for travelers with a moderate fitness level.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Wonderyard Garden + Table at 5 pm and ends back at the same meeting point.
Is there a refund policy?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
How many people typically join?
A maximum of 10 travelers, making it intimate and personable.
What’s the best way to book?
You can book through Viator or the provider’s website. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during busy seasons.
If you’re eager to experience Denver’s colorful murals along with stories that reveal its darker truths, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s a memorable way to see the city’s art scene and its past, all wrapped into a lively, guided walk.
