Private: Combo, Best of Denver/Capitol Hill History & Ghost Tour

If you’re looking for a way to really get a feel for Denver, this private combo tour promises a mix of the city’s vibrant history and some eerie ghost stories. It’s geared toward travelers who want a balanced experience—covering iconic landmarks without feeling rushed, and adding a spooky twist that keeps things interesting.

What stands out most about this tour is the way it combines cultural highlights like the Denver Mint and Art Museum with haunted sites like the Peabody-Whitehead Mansion. Plus, the tour is private, so it feels more personalized and flexible. One minor thing to keep in mind: at a cost of $145 per person, it’s not the cheapest option out there, but the depth of insight from the guide and the variety of stops can make it well worth the price for many.

This tour is likely a good fit if you want an in-depth look at Denver’s past and present, with enough spooky stories to add some fun to your day. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate history, are curious about ghost lore, and prefer a guided experience that touches on multiple aspects of the city rather than just one theme.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: Only your group participates, making it flexible and more engaging.
• Balanced Itinerary: Mixes key Denver sites with haunted locations, offering both culture and chills.
• Knowledgeable Guide: Guests rave about the guide’s expertise and storytelling skills.
• Tasty Breaks: Stops at popular deli and snacks add a delicious local flavor.
• Varied Stops: From historic buildings to lively streets, the tour covers Denver’s diverse personality.
• Approx. 3 Hours: Perfect for a quick, yet thorough exploration without feeling overwhelmed.

This tour offers a solid way to see Denver’s top sights while weaving in some spine-tingling stories. It’s designed to give you a broader view of the city’s past, its architecture, and its ghostly legends—all with a friendly guide leading the way.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

The tour kicks off at the Denver Firefighters Museum, a site that symbolizes the city’s firefighting legacy. Although the museum itself isn’t entered, standing outside gives you a sense of Denver’s bygone days of firefighting heroes. The guide shares stories about the fires that shaped the city, which adds context to the city’s development.

Next, you’ll visit the U.S. Mint, one of only four in the country. Here, the focus is on Denver’s long-standing role in gold and silver mining and how this building has been a fortress to protect treasures. Even if you don’t go inside, the exterior alone is impressive, and the guide will share insights that bring the history alive.

The tour then moves to the City and County Building with its distinctive curved architecture, followed by Civic Center Park, a hub of Denver’s events and celebrations. These stops are free to visit, but they set a scenic scene for understanding Denver’s civic pride and diversity.

Denver’s Artistic and Cultural Heart

You’ll get a quick peek at the Denver Art Museum, where over 70,000 pieces form a broad collection—particularly strong in Native American and Western art. While no entry fee is included in the tour, just knowing the museum’s significance adds depth to your appreciation of Denver’s cultural scene.

A brief stop at CELL – The Counterterrorism Education Learning Lab features a remnant of the World Trade Center, offering a sobering moment that ties Denver’s story to a broader national narrative. Again, no entry is included, but the exterior view and overview are impactful.

Food, Fun, and Photo Opportunities

A highlight for many is the visit to Leven Deli Co. for a quick snack. Guests can sample their famous cookies, coffee, or snacks—perfect for recharging amid the busy day. The tour designates about 15 minutes here, making it a relaxed coffee break in the middle of your adventure.

The Scottish Angus Cow & Calf sculpture makes for a fun photo op, connecting you to Denver’s Old West roots. This larger-than-life depiction of a western landscape is a favorite among guests, giving you a chance to snap some memorable shots.

Haunted Denver: Spooky Stops

The ghostly portion of the tour kicks in with visits to supposedly haunted buildings like the Montgomery Court Apartments (over 120 years old), where the sound of children is often heard. The guide shares ghost stories rooted in the building’s history, stirring the imagination.

The Sheedy Mansion, a Victorian masterpiece, is the largest haunted house on the tour, with stories of a spectral lady believed to haunt its halls. This house’s history as a home to Denver’s wealthiest adds a touch of glamour to its ghostly reputation.

The Peabody-Whitehead Mansion is perhaps the most famous haunted residence, frequently featured on paranormal TV shows. Paranormal enthusiasts often come here, drawn by its reputation. The guide’s storytelling makes these stops feel alive, even if you’re just listening outside.

Further stops include the Patterson Inn, styled after a French château and known for its hauntings; the Dodge-Gregory Mansion (a former hospital with ghostly experiments), and the Dunning-Benedict mansion, which resembles something out of “Game of Thrones.” These locations add a sense of mystery, with stories of spectral apparitions and unexplained sounds.

The tour concludes with inside access to the Capitol Hill Mansion Bed & Breakfast Inn (if no unforeseen events occur), a beautifully preserved Victorian house that offers a glimpse into Denver’s opulent past.

The Final Stretch

After the haunted stops, you’ll end your tour at the Brown Palace Hotel—a historic, grand Victorian hotel considered Denver’s “Grand Dame.” It’s not only beautiful but also known for its own ghost stories, making it a fitting conclusion that ties together the city’s elegance and its haunted reputation.

Adjacent is the lively 16th Street Mall, which you can explore on your own after the tour. Spanning nearly two miles, this outdoor shopping and entertainment strip is full of street performers, shops, bars, and restaurants, giving you plenty of options to extend your Denver experience.

Practical Details: Making the Most of Your Tour

This tour is priced at $145 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. But with the extensive list of stops, the guided commentary, and the private format, many find it offers good value—especially when considering the personalized attention and insider stories.

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and begins at 10:00 am at the Denver Firefighters Museum. It ends conveniently near the Brown Palace Hotel, placing you right in the heart of downtown Denver, close to shopping and dining options.

Because it’s a private tour, your group will enjoy a more relaxed pace and the chance for your guide to tailor the experience a bit. The tour includes group discounts and mobile tickets, making it easy to book and coordinate.

Snacks and drinks are not included in the price, but there are plenty of spots along the route to pick up a quick treat—like the popular Leven Deli or the optional stop at SubCulture.

What Travelers Say

The reviews are glowing, with an average rating of 5 out of 5. One reviewer shared how much they enjoyed the knowledge and storytelling of their guide, Bill, calling the experience “the perfect tour for our family” and highlighting that even teens had a great time. This suggests the tour’s narrative style is engaging enough for a wide age range.

Another reviewer appreciated the combination of Denver’s fascinating history and ghost stories, emphasizing the guide’s expertise and the enjoyable mix of culture and spooky tales.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of Denver. It’s perfect if you’re interested in history, architecture, and ghost lore—and want someone to bring stories and sights to life. The private format makes it flexible and more personal, which many travelers find appealing.

It’s a good pick for those who aren’t looking for an overly adventurous or physically demanding activity; the stops are mostly short, and the focus is on storytelling and sightseeing. If you enjoy history with a side of mystery or ghost stories, you’ll likely find this tour engaging and fun.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour is described as family-friendly, especially since the guide shared stories that appealed to all ages, including teens.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, giving you a good mix of sightseeing and storytelling without feeling rushed.

Are admission fees included?
No, most sites like the Firefighters Museum, U.S. Mint, Art Museum, and haunted mansions require separate tickets, which are not included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, allowing some flexibility if your plans change.

What’s the start point?
The tour begins at the Denver Firefighters Museum at 10:00 am.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, making it more personalized.

Will I get to inside any haunted houses?
Yes, if there are no unforeseen issues, you might go inside the Capitol Hill Mansion Bed & Breakfast Inn, which is a highlight for many.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring a camera, and be ready for some light walking and storytelling. Snacks or drinks are not included, but there are stops along the way.

Is transportation provided?
Transportation between stops is not mentioned, but since the stops are close together in downtown Denver, you’ll be walking or possibly moving on foot with your guide.

All in all, this private combo tour offers a thoughtful mix of Denver’s history, culture, and ghostly tales, wrapped into an engaging 3-hour experience. It’s a great way to see the city’s highlights with a personal touch, especially if you enjoy stories that blend fact and folklore.