Best of Denver Tour

If you’re planning to visit Denver and want to get a solid feel for the city without spending your entire trip wandering aimlessly, the Best of Denver Tour might be just what you need. Based on stellar reviews and a solid reputation, this guided walk promises to show you the main sights along with some lesser-known secrets that even locals don’t brag about.

What we really like about this tour is its focus on storytelling—your guide shares fascinating tidbits about scandal, Wild West tales, and intriguing architecture. Plus, at just $27 per person, it offers a surprisingly comprehensive snapshot of downtown Denver. But, as with any tour, it’s worth considering some limitations before booking.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy walking, are curious about Denver’s past and present, and want a local’s perspective. If you’re looking for a relaxed, informative introduction to the city, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-reviewed, with a 5-star rating from over 160 travelers.
• Insightful guides bring Denver’s history and culture to life through engaging stories.
• Short walking distances make it accessible for most fitness levels, with many stops to keep things interesting.
• Covers major landmarks plus hidden places, giving a well-rounded city overview.
• Great for first-time visitors wanting a quick orientation or anyone interested in local stories.
• Tour length is around 2 hours 20 minutes, making it a manageable way to explore without feeling rushed.

What to Expect from the Best of Denver Tour

This walking adventure is designed to give you a broad yet detailed look at Denver’s core attractions. It’s a guided tour, so the focus is on storytelling and insight, making it more engaging than just sightseeing photos. Think of it as walking around the city with a knowledgeable friend who has plenty of fun facts and stories to share.

Starting Point: Alma Temple

Your journey kicks off at the Alma Temple, a building with a controversial past that hints at Denver’s intriguing history. Built in the 1920s, this structure is a reminder of some of the city’s scandalous stories. The guide will point out the letters “KPOF” at the top, which adds to the building’s mysterious vibe. Expect a quick stop, but it sets the tone for a tour full of surprises.

Colorado State Capitol

Next, you’ll step into the heart of Denver at the Colorado State Capitol. This building is a true showstopper with its 24-karat gold dome. Standing here, you’ll get a chance to see Denver from 1 mile above sea level and enjoy a beautiful view of the Rocky Mountains. While the exterior is impressive, the guide shares plenty of interesting facts about its history and architecture.

Reviewers love the way this stop offers insight into Colorado’s identity. One noted, “soak in a beautiful view of the Rocky Mountains,” which is exactly what you’ll get. The short time here is enough to appreciate the grandeur without feeling rushed.

Civic Center Park

A short walk takes you to Civic Center Park, a peaceful spot that exemplifies Denver’s “City Beautiful” movement. Completed in 1908, it’s the hub of government activity and also a place where you can imagine city life in the early 20th century. It’s a lovely space with plenty of photo opportunities, especially during holidays when the lights transform it into a festive scene.

Denver Art Museum

The tour continues past the Denver Art Museum, home to over 70,000 works of art, which makes it one of the largest between Chicago and the West Coast. The guide mentions the iconic “Big Sweep”—the giant dustpan and broom sculpture—that’s become a local landmark. This stop offers a quick glance at Denver’s thriving art scene and modern architecture.

CELL – The Counterterrorism Education Learning Lab

This stop might seem odd at first—it’s more of an outside view of a museum dedicated to counterterrorism education. While you won’t go inside, the guide points out a remaining piece of the World Trade Center, adding a poignant touch to the cityscape. It’s interesting to get a glimpse of the city’s role in national security history.

Local Food and Hidden Gems

A highlight for many is a quick visit to Leven Deli Co., a local favorite known for its cookies and deli fare. Here, travelers can sit down for a snack (food and drinks not included in the tour price), giving a taste of authentic Denver flavor. Reviewers rave about the deli as a “hidden gem,” and this break offers a chance to relax and chat with your guide or fellow travelers.

Iconic Buildings and Landmarks

From here, the tour explores notable civic buildings like the City and County Building, famed for its beautiful architecture, especially during the holidays. The United States Mint is another interesting stop—while you won’t go inside, you’ll see the largest producer of coins in the world, emphasizing Denver’s role in national finance.

The Center for Colorado Women’s History and the Curry-Chucovich House offer a peek into the city’s historical homes and important figures, with the latter being the oldest residence still standing in Denver. It’s a great photo op with its Victorian charm and history of scandal.

Firefighters Museum and the Brown Palace Hotel

Moving on, the Denver Firefighters Museum offers a glimpse into the city’s firefighting history, with antique trucks and a souvenir shop. The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa is the crown jewel of the tour, with its Titanic-like architecture and history of hosting presidents and dignitaries. The guide sometimes invites guests inside, making this a memorable stop.

The Action on 16th Street Mall and Pavilions

The tour wraps up on the lively 16th Street Mall, a pedestrian-friendly stretch packed with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. It’s the perfect place to continue exploring or grab some lunch. The nearby Regal UA Denver Pavilions offers additional entertainment options, from movies to bars.

How the Tour Works and What It Means for You

The duration, roughly two hours and 20 minutes, makes it a great way to stretch your legs while soaking in Denver’s vibe. The tour is held with a mobile ticket, and most stops are just a few minutes long, keeping the pace brisk but manageable. The group size is limited to 20, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

One reviewer shared, “Bill, our tour guide, was energetic, knowledgeable, and very helpful,” emphasizing the importance of a good guide. Many describe their guides as friendly, enthusiastic, and full of interesting stories, which makes all the difference in turning a simple walk into a memorable experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price covers all taxes, fees, and the guide’s services, but food, drinks, and entrance fees to certain attractions are not included. This means you get a guided overview, but you’ll need to budget extra if you want inside visits to places like the Denver Firefighters Museum or the Mint.

Weather and Cancellations

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately. If weather cancels your experience, or if the minimum number of travelers isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Cancellation policies are clear, allowing full refunds if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

The Value of the Best of Denver Tour

At just $27, the value here is quite high considering the number of landmarks covered and the stories shared. Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the personalized approach, often mentioning that it’s a great introduction to the city. The reviews highlight that you’ll learn fun facts like the origin of the Teddy bear or hear about Denver’s haunted buildings, which adds a layer of intrigue to your sightseeing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re new to Denver or simply want a quick but informative overview, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially ideal if you appreciate storytelling and enjoy walking at a relaxed pace with plenty of interesting stops. It’s suitable for people with moderate physical fitness, as it involves some walking but nothing too strenuous.

While it’s not specifically aimed at families, adults and older children who love history and architecture will find it engaging. The short duration and variety make it a good choice for a morning activity before heading off to other adventures.

Final Thoughts

The Best of Denver Tour offers a well-rounded, budget-friendly introduction to one of Colorado’s most vibrant cities. It’s a chance to see both iconic landmarks and hidden spots, all narrated by guides who genuinely love Denver and want to share its stories. The reviews confirm that most guests walk away feeling more connected to the city, with some even falling in love with Denver’s charm.

While it might not cover every attraction in depth, it’s a solid way to orient yourself, pick up fun trivia, and discover local favorites. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace, enjoy learning on the go, and appreciate a guide with enthusiasm and knowledge.

If you’re looking for a lively, friendly walk that packs a lot of Denver into a short time, this tour is worth considering. It’s an affordable, enjoyable way to start your trip or get a quick glimpse of the city’s character.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically designed for children, older kids who enjoy walking and history will likely find the tour engaging. Always consider your child’s stamina for walking.

What’s the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, with many stops along the way to explore landmarks and hear stories.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and beverages are not included. There’s a stop at Leven Deli Co. where you can purchase snacks, but these are optional.

Can I get inside the attractions?
Some stops, like the Brown Palace Hotel, may allow inside visits, but most attractions are viewed from the outside. Entrance fees are not included in the ticket price.

What should I wear?
Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, dress appropriately for the forecast, including comfortable walking shoes.

How do I get back after the tour?
The tour ends at the Denver Pavilions on the 16th Street Mall. You can hop on the free Mall shuttle or take a short Lyft or Uber back to your starting point.

Exploring Denver with this tour strikes a nice balance between fun, education, and affordability. Whether you’re a first-timer or a local wanting a fresh perspective, it’s a solid choice to kick off your Denver adventure.