Downtown Denver Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

If you’re thinking about diving into Denver’s food and history scene, the Downtown Denver Walking Food Tour by Secret Food Tours might just be the experience for you. While I haven’t done it myself, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary make it clear this tour offers a genuine taste of both Denver’s past and its vibrant present. From historic landmarks to mouthwatering bites, it’s designed to give you more than just a meal—it’s a window into the city’s soul.

What we love about this tour is how it combines storytelling with food. First, the guides seem to bring the history to life, sharing stories of saloon girls, bank robbers, and gold rush entrepreneurs while you stroll through lively neighborhoods. Second, the variety of food stops looks truly tempting—think smoked sausage, fried chile relleno, and Vietnamese iced coffee ice cream. However, one thing to keep in mind is the pace; it’s a three-hour walk with quite a few tastings, so if you’re not a big eater or have dietary restrictions, planning ahead might be wise.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy exploring neighborhoods on foot and appreciate a good story with their snacks. It’s also ideal for those who want to experience Denver beyond the typical tourist spots, with plenty of opportunities to soak in local atmosphere and views. While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the focus on food and walking makes it accessible to most adult visitors.

Key Points

• In-Depth Downtown Experience: The tour covers several iconic Denver spots, from historic districts to modern micro-districts, providing a well-rounded city overview.
• Tasty Diversity: Expect to sample a variety of local dishes, including unique twists on familiar favorites, along with some sweet treats.
• Expert Guides: The reviews highlight guides like Austin and Jon, who are not only knowledgeable but personable, making the tour engaging.
• Historical Insights: The stops are intertwined with stories about Denver’s gold rush past, saloons, and notable buildings, enriching the experience.
• Inclusive but Pacing: It’s designed for most travelers, but be prepared to walk and eat quite a bit over three hours.
• Good Value: The price of $99 per person includes multiple tastings and informative commentary, making it a worthwhile splurge for food lovers.

A Deep Dive Into the Denver Food & History Tour

The Starting Point and Overall Setup

Kicking things off at Billy’s Gourmet Hot Dogs on Larimer Street, the tour is thoughtfully organized. The group size appears to be private, which means your guide can tailor the experience and give more personalized attention. Starting in a lively area near Coors Field, you immediately get a sense of Denver’s sports, entertainment, and local neighborhood vibe. The walk is roughly three hours long, covering several key neighborhoods, with most stops within an easy stroll.

First Stop: The Ballpark District

This area is buzzing around Coors Field, home of the Rockies, and is full of brewpubs, pizzerias, jazz clubs, and rooftop bars. It’s a perfect spot to start your tour because it offers both the lively sports atmosphere and a peek into Denver’s nightlife scene. The highlight here is an 1889 building once operated as a bordello by Madam Jennie Rogers, which has served various purposes over the years—including a Buddhist temple. That building alone tells a story of Denver’s colorful past and evolving character.

The stadium itself is impressive, and while you won’t go inside, seeing it from the outside is a treat—especially if you catch a game or have a love for baseball venues. The walk around this neighborhood helps you get your bearings and get a feel for the city’s mix of history and modern energy.

The Historic Heart: Union Station and Dairy Block

Next, the tour hits Union Station—an iconic Denver landmark that’s been a transportation hub since 1881. Today, it’s a lively space filled with shops, bars, and eateries. The station’s transformation from a train depot to a cultural hub reflects Denver’s ability to reinvent itself while respecting its roots.

A quick stop at Dairy Block follows, a micro-district that’s a testament to Denver’s urban renewal. Once home to Windsor Dairy, now it’s a bustling area with shops, restaurants, and a boutique hotel. It’s a great place to soak in the modern, creative spirit of Denver, and the short visit here gives you a snapshot of how the city blends history with contemporary life.

Cultural and Historic Hotspots

The tour then takes you to Denver Union Station, which has seen many incarnations since 1881. Now, it’s a hub for transit, shopping, and socializing—perfect for grabbing a photo or just taking in the architecture.

The Oxford Hotel, Denver’s oldest surviving hotel from 1891, is another highlight. Its restored interiors and storied past as a luxury transit stop make it a favorite among history buffs. The tour also visits Rockmount Ranch Wear, a family-run Western apparel company founded in 1946, known for innovations like snaps on Western shirts and bolo ties. Their items are even in the Smithsonian, and it’s fun to see how Denver contributed to the iconic Western look we see today.

Food Tastings and Local Flavors

Throughout the tour, you’ll be sampling a range of local foods that speak to Denver’s diverse culinary scene. From Colorado Elk Smoked Sausage to Fried Chile Relleno and Pork Green Chili, these dishes are hearty and flavorful, with some offering creative twists. The Big Mac Pizza sounds intriguing, and the Chinese Five Spice Donut adds a sweet, spicy touch. Plus, the Vietnamese Iced Coffee Ice Cream is a refreshing way to cool down and indulge.

What makes these tastings stand out is how they connect to Denver’s cultural mix and history. For instance, the smoked sausage pays homage to the ranching traditions, while the Asian-inspired ice cream hints at Denver’s ethnically diverse community.

The Guide’s Role and Guest Experience

Guests frequently praise guides like Austin and Jon for their knowledge and personable approach. One reviewer noted, “Jon was a GREAT tour guide. Felt like we got a good history of Metro Denver,” while others emphasize how guides keep things lively and informative. This engagement makes the experience more than just a walk-and-eat; it becomes a storytelling journey with plenty of local insights.

Practical Details: Price, Duration, and Comfort

At $99 per person, the tour offers a solid value considering the variety of stops, tastings, and stories packed into three hours. The price isn’t just about the food—it’s about the experience, the history, and the chance to see Denver through a local’s lens.

Most reviews mention that the tour allows plenty of food, with many noting the generous portions. Some suggest that offering half-sizes might help guests pace themselves if they’re not big eaters, but overall, the tastings are substantial. The tour’s schedule is convenient, and since it’s a private group activity, it feels intimate rather than crowded.

Considerations and Potential Downsides

One review pointed out that a guide seemed a little nervous and didn’t share as much information as hoped, which is something to keep in mind. The tour is primarily designed for most travelers, but if you have dietary restrictions or very specific food allergies, it’s worth asking beforehand. Also, since gratuities are not included, budgeting for tips is advisable if you feel your guide enhanced the experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love discovering new cities through their food and history, this tour is a natural choice. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want to enjoy a mix of storytelling, architecture, and local bites without having to plan individual stops. It’s also great if you’re visiting Denver for the first time and want an authentic, curated experience of the downtown area.

However, if you’re not a fan of walking or have mobility issues, you might want to check how much ground the tour covers—though most reviews suggest it’s manageable for most people. For families or travelers with small children, consider that the focus on adult-oriented history and food might not be ideal, unless your kids are good with walking and eating.

Final Thoughts

The Downtown Denver Walking Food Tour offers a balanced mix of history, culture, and delicious bites, all within a relaxed, engaging setting. With knowledgeable guides and a focus on authentic local flavors, it’s a fantastic way to spend a few hours exploring Denver beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy learning about a city’s past while sampling its contemporary culinary scene.

While it’s not perfect for everyone—some might find the pace a bit brisk or the portions quite filling—the overall experience seems to hit the right notes for most guests. Whether you’re a first-timer or a Denver local, this tour can deepen your understanding of the city and leave you with a new appreciation for its diverse, lively neighborhood fabric.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for most travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, as it involves walking through neighborhoods and sampling food. Just be prepared for roughly three hours of activity.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, this is a walking tour, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with some light strolling between stops.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
You should ask prior to booking to see if they can accommodate your dietary needs, as the tour includes specific food items.

What is included in the price?
For $99, you get multiple tastings—like smoked sausage, chile relleno, and ice cream—as well as a guided walk through Denver’s historic neighborhoods.

Is gratuity included?
No, tips are not included, so plan to tip your guide if you enjoyed the experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

If you’re keen to explore Denver’s culinary and historic sides with a friendly guide leading the way, this tour offers a quality experience that’s worth considering. It’s not just a meal; it’s a taste of the city’s story, one bite at a time.