3 Hour Whiskey and History Tour

Denver’s Top Whiskey and History Tour: A Deep Dive into the Mile-High City’s Spirit Scene

Imagine strolling through Denver’s lively streets, sharing stories of outlaws and pioneers, all while sampling some of the finest whiskey Colorado has to offer. The 3 Hour Whiskey and History Tour is a guided walk through the city’s coolest neighborhoods, visiting historic pubs and a local distillery, with plenty of tastings along the way. For $99 per person, you get roughly three hours of lively storytelling, engaging history, and a chance to sip your way through Denver’s burgeoning distilling scene.

What we particularly love about this tour is how knowledgeable guides like Will bring Denver’s history to life—blending stories of outlaws with the craft of whiskey-making. Plus, the variety of tastings, from Irish whiskies at Nallen’s Irish Pub to Colorado-made spirits at Mile High Spirits, offers a tasting experience that’s both educational and delicious. On the downside, the walk covers about 1.5 miles, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable on their feet and enjoy a bit of outdoor exploration.

This tour is ideal for whiskey lovers eager to learn about the city’s history while sampling spirits, as well as travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy and local storytelling. If you’re curious about Denver’s neighborhoods and want a taste of its craft spirits scene, this experience delivers both in spades.

Key Points

• Authentic Denver Experience: Combines history, local culture, and whiskey tasting in a relaxed walking tour.
• Expert Guide: Guides like Will provide engaging stories and detailed explanations about whiskey and Denver’s past.
• Tasting Variety: Includes Irish whiskies, bourbon, scotch, and Colorado distillery products.
• Neighborhood Exploration: Visits trendy spots like Dairy Block and historic pubs, offering both history and modern urban vibes.
• Value for Money: All tastings and fees included, making it a comprehensive and affordable experience.
• Small Group: Max of 10 travelers ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

A Closer Look at the 3-Hour Whiskey and History Tour

Starting Point: Nallen’s Irish Pub

The tour kicks off at Nallen’s Irish Pub, Denver’s oldest Irish pub and the only true Irish pub in town. Here, you’ll sample Irish whiskies while your guide shares stories about whiskey’s role in Irish culture and Denver’s history. This spot sets the tone for the tour, blending tradition with local flavor. According to reviews, Will, our guide, “was awesome” and knowledgeable, making the history fun and engaging from the very start.

This pub offers a glimpse into Denver’s Irish roots, and with about 30 minutes here, you get a solid introduction without feeling rushed. The fact that it’s a historic hotel adds a sense of authenticity many travelers appreciate.

The Dairy Block: Modern Whiskey Heaven

Next, you’ll visit Seven Grand within Denver’s trendy Dairy Block. This bar boasts over 750 types of bourbons, scotches, and whiskeys, making it a whiskey lover’s paradise. Here, you’ll sample a carefully selected few of these spirits, learning about different types and how they’re made.

Reviews highlight the value of this stop: “We enjoyed the route, history, and whiskey as well,” with many mentioning how impressive the selection was. The atmosphere is modern and lively, a stark contrast to the more historic pub, offering a taste of Denver’s contemporary drinking scene.

Mile High Spirits: Distillery Tour

The final stop is at Mile High Spirits, where you get a behind-the-scenes look at a working distillery. This is where things get particularly insightful — you see the actual process of distilling and get to taste spirits directly from the source. The tour includes a tasting of Mile High Spirits’ own products, and many reviewers praise the “behind the scenes” aspect as both educational and fun.

This part of the tour provides the most direct connection to whiskey-making, with visual aids and explanations that demystify the process. It’s a highlight for those who love to understand how their favorite spirits are crafted.

What the Reviews Say: Authenticity and Enjoyment

The overwhelmingly positive reviews— a perfect 5-star rating based on 146 comments— emphasize the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm. Travelers repeatedly mention how Will’s storytelling makes the experience engaging, blending humor with facts.

Comments like, “We loved all the history that was given,” and “The whiskey tastings were delicious and very informative,” reflect the balance of education and fun. Several mention how the tour exceeded expectations, with many stating they’d do it again or recommend it to friends.

A common theme among reviews is the generous tastings: many commenters noted they had to decline some pours or ask for smaller servings— which speaks to the tour’s abundance of samples. The tour is also praised for its friendly atmosphere, making it suitable for both couples and small groups looking for a relaxed, social experience.

Practical Details for Visitors

The tour begins at Nallen’s Irish Pub at 3:00 pm, making it a good late-afternoon activity. It’s a walkable route, covering about 1.5 miles, and is suitable for most travelers who can walk comfortably. The tour runs in the afternoon, ending at Mile High Spirits on Lawrence Street.

Tickets include all tastings, a knowledgeable guide, and entrance fees to the distillery. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk outside between stops. Since the tour is small (max 10 travelers), you’ll enjoy personalized attention and plenty of opportunities for questions.

Public transportation is nearby, making it accessible without a car. It’s worth noting that lunch isn’t included, but there are plenty of food options along the route if you want to grab a snack.

What We Think: Who Should Book This?

This tour is perfect for whiskey enthusiasts wanting a fun, informative afternoon that combines Denver’s history with its modern spirits scene. It’s also well-suited for travelers who enjoy small-group settings and value knowledgeable guides who can weave local stories into the tasting experience.

It’s especially good if you’re interested in learning how whiskey is made or just want to sample a variety of spirits in a relaxed, friendly environment. The mix of historic pubs and a working distillery offers a well-rounded perspective on Denver’s beverage culture.

However, if you’re not a fan of walking or have difficulty standing, consider your pace before booking, as the tour does involve some outdoor strolling. For those who prefer less walking, the private or driveable options might be more suitable.

Final Thoughts: Is the Whiskey and History Tour Worth It?

In a nutshell, this tour offers excellent value for those keen on whiskey tasting and local history. The combination of expert storytelling, diverse tastings, and a chance to see a real distillery makes it a memorable experience. It’s a wonderful way to get to know Denver beyond the usual tourist spots and to enjoy an afternoon in good company.

Travelers who love learning about local culture while sipping spirits will find this tour engaging and satisfying. It’s a great choice for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet informative introduction to Denver’s booming distilling scene.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 3:00 pm and ending at Mile High Spirits, with about 30 minutes at each stop.

Is it suitable for all ages?
Since the focus is on whiskey tastings, the tour is best suited for adults. Most travelers should be able to walk 1.5 miles comfortably.

Are all tastings included in the price?
Yes, all samples and entrance fees are included in the $99 price. Expect generous tastings at each stop.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. You can get a full refund if you cancel on time.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking outdoors. The tour weather-dependent, so check the forecast and dress accordingly.

Is food provided?
No, food isn’t included, but there are plenty of snack options along the route if you want to grab something to eat nearby.

To sum it up, this whiskey and history tour offers a rich blend of Denver’s past, its vibrant neighborhoods, and its craft spirits scene. It’s especially ideal for those who want to combine education, socializing, and tasting in a relaxed, small-group setting. Whether you’re a whiskey aficionado or just curious about Denver’s local flavors, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.