Denver’s Art District Self Guided Walking Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Denver and want to get a real taste of its creative pulse, this self-guided walking tour of RiNo (River North Art District) offers a unique way to experience the city’s colorful street art. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve looked into what it offers, and it seems like a solid option for those who prefer exploring independently without the crowds of larger tours.

One of the things I love about this tour is its affordability—at just $5 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to learn about Denver’s mural scene. Plus, the flexibility it offers, letting you start whenever you want and go at your own pace, makes it a good fit for travelers with busy schedules or those who prefer to avoid large groups.

Of course, a potential drawback is that the tour can get outdated quickly since street art is constantly changing. Some murals may have been painted over or replaced, so don’t expect to see every piece exactly as described. Still, this kind of tour is best suited for folks who enjoy a bit of spontaneity and are okay with a little bit of wandering and discovery on their own.

All in all, if you’re interested in exploring Denver’s creative street art scene with flexibility and a small budget, this tour could be just the right fit. It’s particularly appealing if you love street art, want to avoid big crowds, and appreciate a casual, self-paced experience.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $5, it’s a budget-friendly option for art lovers.
• Self-Guided Flexibility: You control your start time and pace.
• Focus on Street Art: The tour highlights murals and local artists in RiNo.
• Location Convenience: Starts and ends near Denver Central Market, a lively spot for food and drinks.
• Up-to-Date Expectations: Street art is constantly changing, so some murals might be different from the description.
• No In-Person Guide: This is purely app-based, which offers independence but may lack personal interaction or immediate help if tech issues arise.

This tour is designed for those who want to see Denver’s street art without the constraints of a traditional guide. You’ll use a smartphone app (WalknTours) to navigate through the RiNo district, exploring murals at your own speed and hearing stories about the art and artists along the way.

The tour lasts roughly 45 to 55 minutes, making it a quick, manageable activity that leaves plenty of time for other adventures. Starting at the Denver Central Market, it’s easy to find and offers a great opportunity to grab a coffee or snack before heading out.

Starting Point: Denver Central Market

This spot is more than just the starting line—it’s a local favorite with an array of food options. You can fuel up here before setting off to see the murals. The tour begins with a brief introduction to the neighborhood’s vibrant street art scene, setting the stage for what’s to come.

Key Stops and Highlights

Stop 1: Larimer Boy and Girl Mural
This mural is a real eye-catcher, featuring a three-dimensional artwork that shifts between a girl’s sad face from the south side of the wall and a boy’s animated face from the north. As one reviewer noted, “We loved the way this mural uses depth and storytelling,” which makes it a memorable first impression.

Stop 2: Stem Ciders and Breonna Taylor Mural
From Stem Cider’s patio, you’ll take in a powerful piece by Hiero Veiga and Thomas Detour Evans, who are known for social justice themes. This mural not only adds visual interest but also sparks conversations about social issues, which many find meaningful.

Stop 3: IMAC Mural
This building is famous for wrapping its facades in vibrant murals, particularly the “orange, blue, and red eyes” piece. Its notoriety among street art fans makes this a must-see stop, especially for those interested in iconic Denver murals.

Stop 4: Mural Alley and Crush Walls
Walking down 27th Street’s alley, you’ll see works from Denver’s annual Crush Walls Festival, where street artists from across the country contribute. It’s a lively, ever-changing display of creativity, and many appreciate the opportunity to see such a concentrated area of murals.

Stop 5: The Ramble Hotel and Denver’s Love This City Mural
The hotel’s exterior murals are vibrant and worth a quick stop. The “Love This City” mural is among Denver’s most visited artworks, often capturing visitors’ attention with its bold colors and message.

Final Stop: 1200 27th Street
This stretch of murals showcases some of Denver’s best current street art. The tour concludes here, leaving you with a good sense of the neighborhood’s artistic energy and a few more pieces to ponder or revisit.

What the Tour Offers

Participants will learn about the murals’ stories and the artists behind them, providing context and depth to what might otherwise be just visual. Several reviews mentioned that the narration is informative and engaging, adding meaning to the murals and making the experience more enriching.

Limitations and Considerations

Some reviews point out that the tour’s information can become outdated, especially because murals are frequently painted over or altered. One reviewer mentioned, “This needs to be updated; a lot of the art has been painted over.” It’s worth noting that street art is a live art form, so expect some discrepancies.

Another challenge is the tech setup. A few users experienced trouble with audio systems or app downloads, and support wasn’t always able to resolve issues immediately. For example, one reviewer shared, “The auditory system didn’t work, and when I called the help number, the person couldn’t assist,” which might be frustrating if you’re eager to get the full experience.

Value for Money

At just $5, this tour offers excellent value, especially for curious travelers who prefer the autonomy of exploring at their own pace. While it doesn’t include an in-person guide or support, many find that the stories and images are enough to make it worthwhile.

For those who want a curated, informative introduction to Denver’s murals without paying for a guided tour or joining a large group, this could be a good choice. Just keep expectations in check regarding the ever-changing murals and technical hiccups.

This self-guided street art walk is best suited for independent travelers, art enthusiasts, and budget-conscious visitors who enjoy discovering neighborhoods on their own terms. If you’re comfortable with using your phone for navigation and are okay with some murals possibly no longer being there, you’ll probably find this tour enjoyable.

It’s less ideal for those who prefer personalized interaction, detailed historical commentary, or a fully updated, professionally curated experience. Also, if you’re visiting during times when murals are frequently painted over, be prepared for a few surprises—or disappointments.

This Denver street art tour offers a pocket-friendly, flexible way to experience the creative spirit of RiNo. It’s perfect for those who want to see murals at their own pace, learn about the artwork, and enjoy a casual exploration without the pressure of a scheduled guide.

While it might not be perfect—outdated murals, potential tech issues—it does encourage you to wander and discover street art that might otherwise be overlooked. If you’re happy to handle a bit of unpredictability, this tour will give you a taste of Denver’s vibrant mural scene with minimal fuss and a lot of character.

• How long does the tour last?
  It takes about 45 to 55 minutes, but you can extend or shorten your visit depending on how much time you spend looking at murals and listening to the stories.

• Where does the tour start and end?
  It begins at the Denver Central Market and ends at the 1200 27th Street murals, close to the starting point.

• What’s included in the tour?
  You get a smartphone-guided street art experience through the WalknTours app, with insights about murals and artist stories.

• Is there an in-person guide?
  No, this is a self-guided, app-based tour, so you’re on your own with your device.

• Can I do this tour at any time?
  Yes, you can start whenever you like, thanks to the flexible nature of a self-guided tour.

• Is this tour suitable for kids?
  It’s designed for general audiences; there’s no specific age restriction mentioned, but younger kids might need extra encouragement or supervision.

• What if the murals have been painted over?
  This is common with street art. Some murals described might no longer exist, which other reviewers have noted. Be prepared for some discrepancies.

• What do I need to participate?
  A smartphone with internet access and the WalknTours app installed are necessary to navigate and listen to the tour.

• Are there any additional costs?
  No, the ticket is $5 per person, and no extra fees are mentioned.

• What if I encounter tech issues during the tour?
  Support might be limited. Some users have experienced difficulties, so it’s a good idea to test your app beforehand or have a backup plan.

This self-guided mural tour in Denver offers a fun, low-cost way to see some of the city’s best street art. Just keep in mind it’s a snapshot in time—perfect for those eager to explore at their own pace but aware that murals may change. If you enjoy discovering neighborhood gems without a guide, this could be a rewarding addition to your Denver itinerary.