Denver: LoDo Craft Beer Guided Walking Tour

If you’re heading to Denver and have a soft spot for good beer, this LoDo Craft Beer Guided Walking Tour could be just what you’re looking for. Promising to take you through the vibrant downtown district, it combines history, local flavor, and a bit of walking to keep things lively. While I haven’t personally been on this tour, the consistently high ratings and detailed reviews suggest it’s a solid choice for beer lovers wanting a taste of Denver’s brewing culture.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the delightful variety of tastings—you get to sample over 10 different craft beers, including seasonal and local brews. Second, the guided storytelling really adds flavor, offering insights into Denver’s evolution as the “Napa Valley of Beer.” A small caveat? It’s a walking tour, so if you’re not keen on a little exercise or have mobility concerns, it’s worth considering. This tour suits those who enjoy a good story alongside their beer, and who are curious about the city’s brewing roots.

Key Points

• Tastings of over 10 craft beers including lagers, stouts, and seasonal brews.
• Visit 4 carefully chosen microbreweries with behind-the-scenes views.
• Learn about Denver’s beer history and why it’s called the Napa Valley of Beer.
• Enjoy a guided walk through LoDo and the Ballpark district, covering about 1.5 miles.
• Includes a souvenir glass to remember your experience.
• Accessible for wheelchairs and suitable for most guests over 21.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

The LoDo Craft Beer Guided Walking Tour is designed to blend history, local culture, and taste. It runs for about 2.5 hours, covering roughly 1.5 miles, which means you’ll get some steps in without it feeling like a workout. The tour visits four different microbreweries, each offering a unique atmosphere and brewing style.

Starting Points and Schedule

Depending on your schedule and starting location, the tour kicks off at one of three spots:
– On Fridays at Rock Bottom Brewery near 16th and Curtis, a well-known spot in downtown.
– On Saturdays at Great Divide Brewing Company, famous for its innovative beers.
– On Sundays and Saturdays at Wynkoop Brewing Company, a historic brewery founded by Denver’s mayor.

This flexibility is a plus, allowing you to choose a time that fits your plans. While the start locations are central, be prepared to walk about 1.5 miles during the tour, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Visiting Microbreweries & Behind-the-Scenes

The highlight for many is visiting four hand-picked microbreweries. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes peek into the brewing process—something fans of craft beer really appreciate. One review mentions that just a few stops reveal the secrets behind how beer is made, including visits to brewpubs that have become part of the city’s landscape, like one that started a nationwide franchise.

Beer Tastings & Samples

Expect to sample more than 10 beers—covering lagers, ales, stouts, and seasonal options. The guide helps you navigate the flavors, giving you the chance to try a variety that suits your palate. Many reviews emphasize the “wide range of flavors,” which makes this experience appealing whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or just someone curious about craft brews.

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Stories and Local Color

Your guide doesn’t just serve up beer; they share stories about Denver’s rise as a craft beer hub. One reviewer particularly appreciated how the guide kept everyone entertained with fun facts and city tidbits. It’s an added bonus if you enjoy learning about the places you visit.

What’s Included & What’s Not

For $55, you get:
– Over 10 beer samples
– A souvenir taster glass
– A knowledgeable local guide

However, food isn’t included, so eat beforehand or plan to skip a big meal afterward. Also, note that hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t part of this tour, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the starting point.

The Value of the Experience

At $55, this tour offers a pretty good bang for your buck. Considering the various breweries visited, the behind-the-scenes access, and the number of samples, it’s a comprehensive way to spend an afternoon or early evening. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in learning about Denver’s brewing history as well as tasting some of the city’s best beers.

What Travelers Say

Justin, one of the reviewers, appreciated the guide “Matt,” calling him a “great tour guide,” which hints at the friendly, engaging nature of the experience. Crystal mentioned that the “great guide” made the tour fun, and Lauren praised the wide range of flavors and how the guide kept everyone entertained while sharing city stories.

A common theme among reviews is that this tour offers both education and fun, making it suitable for those who want a relaxed, informative experience rather than just drinking at bars on their own.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for beer lovers, of course, but also for anyone interested in Denver’s local culture and history. It’s great for small groups, couples, or friends traveling together who enjoy a mix of walking, learning, and tasting. Since it’s wheelchair accessible, even guests with mobility concerns should find it manageable.

If you’re traveling solo, the social aspect can be a plus, as tours often bring together like-minded people. Just remember, this isn’t a family-friendly activity—participants need to be over 21 to enjoy the tastings.

Final Thoughts

The LoDo Craft Beer Guided Walking Tour offers a friendly, well-rounded look into Denver’s craft beer scene. You’ll get to sample some of the city’s best brews, see a few breweries behind the scenes, and learn about Denver’s rise as a beer capital—all in a comfortable, walkable setting.

For those who enjoy discovering local flavors while soaking in a city’s vibe, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for curious travelers eager to combine sightseeing with a few good drinks and engaging stories. Just remember to eat before, bring your ID, and wear comfortable shoes—then sit back and enjoy Denver’s brewing story.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t drink alcohol?
No, unfortunately, this tour is only for guests over 21 due to the alcohol tastings involved.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll get over 10 beer samples, a souvenir taster glass, and a guided tour led by a knowledgeable local.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 2.5 hours, covering about 1.5 miles of walking.

Are food options included?
No, food isn’t included, so plan to eat before the tour starts to make sure you can enjoy the tastings.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later if you prefer flexibility.

Where does the tour start?
Start locations vary by day—on Fridays from Rock Bottom Brewery, and on Saturdays and Sundays from Great Divide Brewing or Wynkoop Brewing, all in central Denver.

If you’re keen to explore Denver’s craft beer landscape with a friendly guide and a good group, this tour seems like a smart pick. It balances fun, education, and a bit of city exploration—something that’ll likely add a memorable touch to your Denver trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: