Denver’s Twisted History Tour

If you’re looking to add a little edge to your Denver visit, the Denver Twisted History Tour might be just what you need. This two-hour walk takes you through some of the city’s most famous sights, but with a twist—expect stories of crime, scandals, and the city’s shadowy past that you won’t find in typical sightseeing guides. We’ve heard from those who’ve experienced it firsthand, and it seems like a real treat for curious minds and history lovers alike.

What makes this experience particularly appealing are the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see Denver’s top landmarks with intriguing stories woven in. The tour’s focus on darker tales offers a fresh perspective, and the photo opportunities are plentiful. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the content is aimed at adults—so if you’re traveling with kids, this might not be the best fit.

One potential consideration is the weather—since it’s outdoors and rain or shine, dressing in layers and being prepared for Colorado’s variable climate is key. This tour suits those who love a good story, enjoy exploring on foot, and want a little more than just the usual sightseeing.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling brings Denver’s darker side to life with historical tales of crime, scandals, and intriguing characters.
• Top sights like Union Station, Larimer Square, and the Daniels & Fisher Clocktower are explored with a new, often mysterious twist.
• Expert guides enhance the experience, sharing both facts and entertaining stories, making the walk engaging throughout.
• Affordable at $34, offering good value considering the in-depth stories and photo opportunities.
• Accessible and flexible, the tour operates rain or shine and is wheelchair and stroller friendly, with a bit of caution during winter or icy conditions.
• Perfect for adults who enjoy history, mystery, and a bit of Denver’s underbelly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at Denver’s Twisted Past

If you’re like us, you probably appreciate a good story—especially the kind that reveals Denver’s less-glamorous, more intriguing history. The Denver Twisted History Tour offers just that. It’s billed as an adults-only experience that combines sightseeing with stories of women of the night, notorious gangs, vagrants, criminals, and chilling murders. But don’t worry—while the tales are darker, the tone remains entertaining and lively.

Priced at $34 per person, the tour is quite reasonable for a two-hour experience that mixes history, storytelling, and sightseeing. When you consider the depth of stories and the opportunity to ask questions, it offers solid value. Plus, your guide is described as engaging and knowledgeable, which makes all the difference when it comes to keeping the tour lively and memorable.

The Itinerary: What Stops Make the Cut?

The tour kicks off at Union Station, one of Denver’s architectural gems. But instead of just admiring the impressive structure, your guide will reveal the threats and conspiracies that shadowed its history. It’s a chance to see an iconic landmark with a new perspective, as the guide shares stories of threats and secrets from Denver’s past.

Next, you’ll walk to Larimer Square, the city’s historic heart. Here, the guide points out hidden secrets tucked away among the shops and restaurants. It’s a lively area, but the focus is on the stories that lurk beneath the surface—stories of crime, vice, and some of Denver’s more notorious characters. One reviewer mentioned that they appreciated how the guide came prepared with photographs, making the stories more vivid and tangible.

The Daniels & Fishe r Clocktower is another highlight. Known as a defining Denver landmark, the guide shares tales that add a bit of mystery and intrigue to its long history. You won’t just see a clocktower—you’ll understand its role in Denver’s darker episodes.

Then, the tour takes you through the Dairy Block and Denver Milk Market, where your guide might share stories about the city’s old cold case and other unsolved mysteries. Walking through the historic LoDo Area is a chance to see where Denver’s old Chinatown once stood, with stories of its vibrant history and eventual decline.

What to Expect from the Experience

The tour is engaging and fast-paced, with a mix of storytelling and sightseeing woven seamlessly. You’ll walk through Denver’s streets, stopping at key points while your guide shares stories of crime, scandal, and legend. The guide’s storytelling style is described as both humorous and entertaining—making even the darker tales fun to listen to.

The group size is manageable, allowing for questions and one-on-one chats with the guide. Though the tour covers a fair amount of ground, there’s not overwhelming walking involved—reviewers mentioned that seating is available during the in-depth stories, which is helpful if your legs tire easily or you’re adjusting to altitude.

Weather can be a factor—since the tour operates rain, snow, or shine, dressing in layers and bringing sunscreen or water is advisable. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, which broadens its appeal, but icy conditions could pose some challenges.

How Does It Hold Up in Real Life?

According to reviews, guides like Sue, Max, and Anthony shine with their knowledge and engaging storytelling. One reviewer said, “Our guide Sue was extremely knowledgeable about the history of the city and came prepared with photographs,” which makes the experience more vivid. Others praised guides like Max for being super friendly and fun, making the stories come alive.

Participants also appreciated the balance of entertainment and education—the stories aren’t just grim tales but are told with humor, making the two hours fly by. The fact that many reviewers say they’d highly recommend it indicates that the experience resonates well with guests.

However, keep in mind that it’s an adults-only tour, so no kids under 18. If you’re into exploring Denver from a different angle—seeking stories that reveal its more mysterious and darker history—this will be right up your alley.

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Practical Details & Tips

The tour departs from the flagpole in front of Union Station, on the west corner of 17th and Wynkoop. Arrive at least 10 minutes early—timing is on point, and tours start promptly. It’s a two-hour walk, usually scheduled for afternoons or evenings, making it a nice way to wind down or add some excitement to your day.

Tickets cost $34, which is very reasonable considering the depth of stories and the chance to see multiple landmarks. The tour price includes taxes, fees, and a knowledgeable local guide. No need to worry about transportation at the end—most people plan to explore nearby spots afterward or grab a bite.

What should you bring? Comfortable shoes, water, and sunscreen are recommended. The outdoor nature of the tour means you’ll want to be prepared for Colorado’s changing weather. Restroom breaks aren’t along the route, so plan accordingly before you start.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect if you’re interested in Denver’s lesser-known stories and want to see the city through a different lens. History buffs who enjoy crime and scandal, or travelers looking for a unique, adult-oriented activity, will find this especially compelling. It’s also a good option for those who enjoy storytelling and don’t mind a bit of darkness mixed with their sightseeing.

It’s not aimed at children or families, and the stories can be pretty intense, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling with sensitive audiences. Also, if you’re hoping for a leisurely, relaxed walk with plenty of time for photos, this tour offers lots of great shots along the way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for adults 18 and over due to the mature content and themes discussed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, and dressing in layers is advised due to Colorado’s fluctuating weather. Bring sunscreen and water too.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, it runs rain, snow, or shine. Just be prepared for outdoor conditions.

Are there bathroom stops along the route?
There are no public restrooms on the route, so it’s best to use facilities beforehand.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable length with plenty of interesting stories.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, it’s wheelchair and stroller accessible, though icy conditions might pose challenges in winter.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Denver Twisted History Tour offers a compelling blend of sightseeing, storytelling, and a peek into Denver’s darker corners. For those who love uncovering the city’s hidden secrets, this experience delivers with engaging guides, a reasonable price, and plenty of photo opportunities. It’s a perfect way to deepen your appreciation for Denver’s vibrant, complex history without it feeling like a typical tour.

If you enjoy stories about crime, scandal, and the city’s shadowy past, and you’re comfortable with a bit of adult content, this tour might just be the highlight of your visit. It’s also a great way to see key landmarks while learning about Denver’s more mysterious episodes—an experience that sticks with you long after the walk ends.

Whether you’re a history buff, a curious traveler, or someone looking for an offbeat activity, this tour offers a fresh perspective on Denver. Just remember to dress appropriately, bring your camera, and get ready for some surprisingly entertaining tales that will make you see the city in a whole new light.

You can check availability for your dates here: