Cocktails, Murals and True Crime in RiNo

Cocktails, Murals and True Crime in RiNo: A Friendly Guide to an Unusual Denver Tour

If you’re visiting Denver and looking for a way to combine art, stories, and a little local flavor, this Cocktails, Murals and True Crime in RiNo tour might just catch your eye. We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but from what’s shared, it sounds like a lively and uniquely Denver experience that blends visual art, storytelling, and a relaxed social vibe. It’s designed for those who enjoy a bit of everything—colorful street murals, intriguing true crime tales, and a splash of local culture, all wrapped up in a friendly, small-group setting.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to see some of Denver’s most stunning murals up close while hearing about the neighborhood’s history. Second, the inclusion of drinks and pizza makes it feel more like an evening out with friends rather than a typical city tour. But, a potential caveat? Since part of the tour involves walking through a neighborhood with lively street art and stories, if you prefer quiet, structured museum visits or more traditional sightseeing, this might feel a bit offbeat.

All in all, this tour seems like a great pick for those curious about Denver’s local scene, art lovers wanting behind-the-scenes stories, or anyone who appreciates a relaxed social outing. It’s particularly suited for adults who enjoy a mix of culture and conversation, and who aren’t shy about a couple drinks along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Vibrant Murals: You’ll see some of the best street art RiNo has to offer, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a visual tour of Denver’s creative side.
• Unique Storytelling: The tour weaves in true crime stories, adding a surprising historical twist that’s both engaging and a little dark.
• Local History & Culture: Learn about Denver’s past—like the origins of Market Street and the red-light district—in a casual, approachable way.
• Inclusions & Price: Two drinks, pizza, and a friendly guide make the $85 price tag feel reasonable for an immersive 2-hour experience.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 10 participants, so you get a more personal experience, with plenty of room for questions and interaction.
• Flexible & Bookable: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance if plans change, and reserve now with the option to pay later.

Exploring the Tour Itinerary in Detail

Starting Out — Meeting Point & First Impressions

The tour kicks off outside a bar in the RiNo district, a lively and colorful neighborhood packed with murals. Meeting in front of a bar sets a relaxed tone, encouraging social interaction from the start. The small group size (max 10 people) promises an intimate vibe, perfect for asking questions and getting personalized insights. Our sources mention that Jeremy, the guide, is attentive and makes adjustments for comfort, especially on hot days—something we appreciate in a city with unpredictable weather.

Murals & Art: The Visual Feast

As you walk around about 2 miles through RiNo, you’ll pass some of Denver’s most eye-catching murals. These vibrant works of street art aren’t just pretty pictures—they’re often inspired by stories or themes that tie into Colorado’s culture. The guide shares details about each mural, giving you context on the artists and what the art means for the neighborhood. We loved the way the tour emphasizes the neighborhood’s creative spirit, making the art feel more meaningful rather than just decoration.

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True Crime Stories: A Darker Side

Here’s where things get really intriguing. The tour features tales of Colorado’s infamous cases, like JonBenet Ramsey, Columbine, Chris Watts, James Holmes, Ted Bundy, and Jack Gilbert Graham. Some murals are even inspired by these stories, creating a visual connection that might surprise you. The guide, Jeremy, seems well-versed in the details, and according to one reviewer, he “made adjustments in the tour to keep us cool,” which suggests a flexible, thoughtful approach.

Hearing about these crimes in the context of Denver’s streets adds an unexpected layer to what might otherwise be just a sightseeing tour. It’s a way to see the city’s darker history while understanding the stories that have shaped Colorado’s culture.

Local History & Neighborhood Stories

Beyond murals and true crime, the tour touches on Denver’s local history, like the origins of Market Street and the red-light district. These stories add depth, showing how the neighborhood evolved over time. It’s a good reminder that every city has its hidden tales, and RiNo’s mix of art and history makes it a fascinating place to explore.

Food & Drink

One of the best parts? The inclusion of two alcoholic drinks (beer, cocktails, or wine) and some pizza. This makes the tour feel more like a relaxed night out than a traditional sightseeing experience. We loved the idea of sipping a drink while soaking in street art and listening to stories—it’s a casual, enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours.

Ending & Overall Atmosphere

The tour wraps up back at the starting point, but the conversations and photos often linger. The small group environment invites friendly chats and questions, making it a personalized experience. One reviewer even mentioned how the tour was adjusted to keep everyone comfortable on a hot day, which shows the guides are attentive to guests’ needs.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $85 per person, considering it includes art viewing, storytelling, two drinks, pizza, and a knowledgeable guide, the value seems fair. The experience isn’t a rushed, large-group affair; it’s intimate, relaxed, and packed with local flavor. If you’re into street art, history, true crime stories, or simply want a different perspective on Denver, this tour gives you a lot for your money.

The Downside?

If you’re someone who prefers more traditional, museum-style tours or wants a more structured itinerary, this may not be your ideal choice. Also, since it involves walking outside, it might not be suitable on very hot days or if you have mobility issues. But the guide’s willingness to adapt suggests they’re mindful of comfort.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is particularly well-suited for adults who enjoy a mix of urban art, storytelling, and socializing. It’s great for curious travelers who want to connect with Denver’s local scene while enjoying some drinks. If you love intriguing stories—especially true crime—and appreciate visual art, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also a fun, casual outing for groups or couples looking for an engaging way to spend an evening.

FAQ

Is there a specific dress code for the tour?
Not really. Since it’s an outdoor walking tour, comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. If it’s hot, bring water and sun protection.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, covering around 2 miles of walking through RiNo.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the price covers two alcoholic drinks—choices include beer, cocktails, or wine—as well as pizza slices.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers nice flexibility when planning trips.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
The tour is geared toward adults, especially due to the true crime stories and alcohol. It’s not designed as a family-friendly activity.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The guide speaks English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a relaxed, engaging way to explore Denver’s RiNo neighborhood, this tour hits the right notes. It offers a blend of visual art, local history, and compelling true crime stories, all while providing a social atmosphere with drinks and pizza. The small-group setting means you’ll get personalized insights and plenty of chances to ask questions or snap photos.

This experience is particularly perfect for adults who enjoy discovering the city’s hidden stories in a casual, friendly environment. While it might not be the best fit if you’re seeking a traditional museum visit or traveling with young children, for those wanting a taste of Denver’s creative and darker side, it offers a memorable way to spend a couple of hours.

All in all, it looks like a worthwhile outing—lighthearted, interesting, and uniquely Denver. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, it’s a fun way to see a different side of the city you might not find on your own.

You can check availability for your dates here: