Downtown Denver Cocktails Tour

If you’re considering a fun way to explore Denver’s lively downtown while sipping on some of the city’s best cocktails, the Downtown Denver Cocktails Tour might just be your ideal choice. While we haven’t been on it ourselves, reviews and descriptions suggest it offers a well-balanced mix of tasty drinks, insider stories, and some of the most popular spots in Denver’s core.

What really stands out are the knowledgeable guides who bring the city’s cocktail history to life and the carefully curated stops that showcase both historic and modern bars. Plus, the pairing of delicious bites with drinks makes this experience feel more complete than a simple bar crawl. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is not suited for vegans, gluten-free, dairy-free, or pregnant travelers, which could be a dealbreaker if you have specific dietary needs.

This tour is best for adventurous foodies, history buffs, or anyone wanting a relaxed but insightful taste of Denver’s downtown. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a local looking for a new way to see the city, it offers a charming, adult-oriented experience that blends culture, cuisine, and cocktails.

Key Points

• Taste and learn: Sample four craft cocktails paired with small bites at three different spots.
• Cultural insights: Guides share stories about Denver’s cocktail scene, its history, and recent culinary renaissances.
• Convenient & compact: The tour lasts just 2 hours, perfect for an afternoon activity.
• Well-selected venues: From Union Station to the Dairy Block, each stop showcases Denver’s evolving drinking culture.
• Limited group size: Small groups (up to 10 people) mean more personalized attention.
• Cost and value: Priced at $89 per person, you’re paying for quality drinks, snacks, and insider knowledge—definitely a reasonable price for the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The Downtown Denver Cocktails Tour offers a curated journey through some of the city’s most iconic and trendy spots, starting at the historic Union Station. This grand train terminal isn’t just a transportation hub; it’s a vibrant gathering place with a timeless elegance. Arriving here, you’ll find yourself surrounded by architectural beauty and a bustling atmosphere that sets the perfect tone for a cocktail adventure.

From Union Station, the tour guides you to Denver’s oldest hotel—an hotel that’s been a part of the city’s fabric for generations. Here, you’ll get to sample a refined, smooth Butter Pecan Old Fashioned—a cocktail that balances tradition with modern flair. The guide will fill you in on the city’s Prohibition days, adding some engaging stories to the sip.

The final stop is in the Dairy Block, Denver’s newest micro-district known for its innovative eateries, boutique shops, and vibrant street scene. This area embodies Denver’s recent culinary and cocktail renaissance. It’s the perfect setting for a variety of creative cocktails, and you’ll enjoy paired bites that complement each drink, enhancing the tasting experience.

What You Can Expect at Each Stop

Union Station: Expect an elegant start, learning about Denver’s history through stories about its iconic train station and early cocktail culture. The first cocktail is typically light and crisp, like a spritz, which is refreshing after the journey.

Oldest Hotel: The focus here shifts to craftsmanship and tradition. The Butter Pecan Old Fashioned is a highlight, blending heritage with contemporary mixology. The pairings often include small bites, possibly savory or slightly sweet, designed to enhance the cocktails.

Dairy Block: The most modern venue, showcasing Denver’s creative side. Expect innovative cocktails and a lively vibe. The bites here often reflect Denver’s culinary renaissance—think small plates inspired by local ingredients.

The Drinks and Food

Each stop features four different cocktails, giving you a taste of Denver’s best mixology. The drinks are thoughtfully curated, with options that might range from light, refreshing spritzes to more serious, spirit-forward creations like the Butter Pecan Old Fashioned. The pairing bites are designed to complement the drinks—small, flavorful plates that turn drinking into a mini meal.

According to reviews, the guides are quite knowledgeable, often sharing fun facts and stories from Denver’s past. One reviewer mentioned that their guide was “very knowledgeable about the places and Denver in general,” making the experience both educational and entertaining.

The Value for Your Money

At $89 per person, the tour represents a solid value for those who enjoy tasting different drinks and learning about their city’s history. For this price, you get three stops, four cocktails each, and paired bites, plus the guidance of a local expert. If you consider the cost of drinks and bites separately, the tour offers a convenient way to sample Denver’s best without the hassle of planning.

However, keep in mind that cocktails and tastings are set in advance and cannot be customized. Also, this experience isn’t suitable for those with specific dietary restrictions like vegan or gluten-free diets, so it’s best to plan accordingly.

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The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• The small group size enhances the experience, allowing more interaction and personalized attention.
• Insightful guides bring Denver’s history and cocktail culture vividly to life.
• The venue choices are thoughtfully selected, representing both historic and trendy parts of downtown.
• The paired bites add a satisfying element, making it more than just a drinking tour.
• The tour’s timing—around 2 hours in the afternoon—is perfect for a relaxed, yet engaging activity.

Cons:

• Limited dietary options mean vegans, gluten-sensitive, or dairy-free travelers might not find suitable choices.
• The tour relies on pre-set tastings, so if you’re looking for customization or specific drinks, this might feel restrictive.
• Since it’s only 2 hours, those wanting a more extensive experience might find it a little brief.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is perfect for adults who enjoy cocktails, food, or history. It’s especially suited for visitors wanting an introduction to Denver’s evolving downtown scene without committing to a full night out. It also works well for locals looking for a fun, new perspective on their city.

If you’re celebrating a special occasion like a honeymoon or anniversary, the intimate, guided aspect makes it a memorable choice. However, if you’re a vegan or have strict dietary restrictions, or if you’re just looking for a more extensive or customizable tasting, you might want to explore other options.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or minors?
No, the tour is designed for adults over 21, and proof of ID is required. It’s focused on cocktails and tastings meant for grown-ups.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, mostly in the afternoon, making it a perfect short activity.

Can I reserve the tour now and pay later?
Yes, the booking system allows you to reserve your spot with the flexibility to pay later, which is helpful if your plans are still uncertain.

What if it rains?
The tour will proceed rain or shine, so dress accordingly. The venues are indoors, so weather won’t spoil the experience.

Is there any walking involved?
Yes, you’ll walk under a half mile over the course of the tour, which is manageable even if you’re not very active.

Can I customize my experience or dietary options?
Unfortunately, the tastings and pairings are set in advance, and dietary restrictions like gluten-free or vegan options cannot be accommodated.

Final Thoughts

The Downtown Denver Cocktails Tour offers an enjoyable, well-rounded look at Denver’s vibrant cocktail scene, wrapped in a friendly, educational package. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon if you love trying new drinks, learning local stories, and exploring a city’s highlights in a relaxed setting.

While it’s not a deep dive into Denver’s culinary scene, it hits the sweet spot for adult travelers seeking a blend of taste, culture, and fun. If you’re in Denver for a short visit or are a local wanting to see your city through a different lens, this tour is likely to leave you with new favorites and a few good stories to tell.

Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or just looking for a unique way to experience Denver’s downtown—this tour offers a taste of both, with a friendly guide and a cozy group setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: