Denver’s compact downtown and walkable neighborhoods make it perfect for exploring on foot. The city’s diverse districts—from historic Capitol Hill to trendy LoDo—are packed with stories, stunning architecture, and interesting characters. Whether you’re into uncovering ghostly tales, sampling local brews, or tracing Denver’s history, there’s a walking tour that fits your style. We love how many tours combine entertainment with insider knowledge, like the Denver History and Highlights Walking Tour which offers a deep dive into the city’s landmarks, or the Haunted Denver tours that add a spooky twist after dark. These experiences let you see Denver through a local’s eyes and often include stops you’d never find alone.
Not surprisingly, Denver’s tours cover a wide spectrum—from heritage to spirits, street art, and even beer tastings. What makes this list special is how each tour emphasizes unique aspects of Denver’s character, whether it’s the historic Brown Palace Hotel or the colorful murals of RiNo. So, whether you’re after a family-friendly walk or a lively pub crawl, you’ll find options that fit your pace and interests.
1. Denver History and Highlights Walking Tour
At number 1, this Denver History and Highlights Walking Tour scores top marks for its thorough exploration of downtown Denver and beyond. It lasts about 2 hours and visits key landmarks like the Colorado State Capitol, the Brown Palace Hotel, and Larimer Square. What makes this tour stand out is its focus on storytelling—your guide shares the tales behind Denver’s architecture and history, from the late 1800s to today. Small groups or private experiences mean personalized attention, and the tour’s carbon neutrality adds an ethical touch. Reviewers love the knowledgeable guides and the mix of culture, history, and Rocky Mountain views. Perfect for first-timers who want a balanced overview without feeling rushed. Bottom line: A solid, well-reviewed option that offers a meaningful intro to Denver’s core.
2. Denver Haunted Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour – Lower Downtown
By number 2, the Denver Haunted Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour blends history and spookiness for a 2.5-hour after-dark adventure. It explores Denver’s old neighborhoods and historic bars, including the Oxford Hotel and Larimer Square, all while your costumed guide spins ghost stories. The tour offers the fun of a pub crawl combined with chilling tales of paranormal encounters, and you have the option to buy drinks along the way. The small group cap keeps things intimate and lively. Reviewers mention how entertaining and informative the guide was, with comments about the “crazy” ghost stories and the atmosphere of historic pubs. Best suited for those who enjoy a little scare with their drinks. Bottom line: An engaging way to experience Denver’s haunted side with a spirited twist.
3. Denver’s Beer and Graffiti Walking Tour
Number 3 on the list, the Denver’s Beer and Graffiti Walking Tour explores RiNo, Denver’s vibrant arts district, in about 2.5 hours. This tour combines street art—murals and graffiti—with visits to local craft breweries and cideries. It’s perfect for those who want to see colorful murals up close, as your guide points out the stories behind the artworks. Afterward, you can sample beers and ciders at hand-picked spots, making it a great blend of art and local flavor. Enthusiasts love the personalized attention from guides who are passionate about Denver’s craft beer scene and its street art. The tour is best for those who enjoy urban culture and tasting the city’s craft beverages, with the value lying in its curated stops. Bottom line: A lively, fun exploration of Denver’s creative side with delicious tastings.
4. Wild West Walking Tour
At number 4, the Wild West Walking Tour takes you to Golden, Colorado—just 20 minutes west of Denver. It’s a 2-hour adventure through a historic gold rush town, focusing on stories of the Wild West and its larger-than-life characters. Starting at the Visitors Center, your guide leads you through Golden’s Historic Park, the Astor House, and along Washington Avenue, uncovering tales of saloons, prospectors, and unscrupulous figures. This tour is ideal for history buffs or families interested in frontier lore, with lively storytelling and small-group intimacy. Reviewers commend the guide’s storytelling skill and the authentic local flavor. The value is high for those wanting a quick but comprehensive peek into Colorado’s rugged past. Bottom line: A fun, informative way to experience the old west within a short drive from Denver.
5. Downtown Denver Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Number 5 is the Downtown Denver Walking Food Tour, a 3-hour culinary journey through the historic streets of Denver. It hits the highlights of the Ballpark District, Union Station, and LoDo, with stops at local eateries serving up specialties like hot dogs, fried chile relleno, and beignets. Your guide shares stories of Denver’s past as a gold rush town while you enjoy tastings at renowned spots. Designed for food lovers who want more than just bites, the tour offers a flavorful blend of history and cuisine. Reviewers love how it introduces new local foods and the personable guides. The value is excellent considering multiple tastings and storytelling. Bottom line: A delicious way to get to know Denver’s past and present in one sitting.
6. Denver – Capitol Hill Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour
Number 6 features the Denver Capitol Hill Ghost and History Tour, a 1.5-hour walk exploring Denver’s haunted sites after hours. It visits landmarks like Molly Brown House, Patterson Inn, and the Peabody-Whitehead Mansion, where ghost stories and paranormal tales are shared. This tour is ideal for those intrigued by the supernatural and architecture, with stories of apparitions and haunted mansions. Reviewers mention how knowledgeable and engaging the guide is, making the spooky tales come alive. It’s a good fit for history and ghost enthusiasts looking for a brief but atmospheric experience. The tour’s low price adds great value. Bottom line: A perfect mix of history and hauntings for a spine-tingling evening.
7. Deep Dive into Denver: Small-Group Walking Tour
Number 7 is the Deep Dive into Denver, a 2-hour experience with a focus on Denver’s cultural and historic stories. It emphasizes stories of women who shaped the West, includes a visit to the luxurious Brown Palace, and wraps up at Larimer Square. This tour is best for travelers who want a well-rounded, personal experience that combines history, architecture, and local legends. Reviewers praise the engaging guides and the small-group format. It provides a more intimate look at Denver’s most iconic sites. The value lies in its depth and personalized approach. Bottom line: An insightful tour for those seeking meaningful stories and good company.
8. Denver Ghosts: Haunts, Spirits, and Poltergeists Walking Tour
Number 8 offers the Denver Ghosts, a 1-hour walk through Denver’s oldest neighborhoods. It visits haunted hotels, the State Capitol, and historic buildings while revealing ghostly legends and paranormal activity. This tour is great for those interested in Denver’s spooky side, with stories backed by local input and historical details. Reviewers note the guide’s enthusiasm and the interesting stops. It’s a quick, affordable way to get a haunted flavor of Denver’s past. Perfect for a short evening outing. Bottom line: Fun, fast, and spooky—ideal for ghost story fans.
9. Downtown Denver Haunted Walking Tour (Family Friendly)
Number 9 features a Family Friendly Haunted Tour, lasting about 1.5 hours. It explores Denver’s haunted downtown, including the Oxford Club, Larimer Square, and other historic sites, with kid-friendly ghost stories and ghost-hunting activities. It’s designed for all ages and encourages interaction with ghost-hunting equipment. With a small group capped at 10, it offers a personalized experience suitable for families. Reviewers mention how engaging and fun it is for kids and adults alike. If you want a spooky experience that’s not too scary, this is your pick. Bottom line: A fun, accessible ghost walk for families wanting safe scares.
10. Ghosts of Denver Family Friendly Walking Tour
Number 10 is the Ghosts of Denver Family Tour, a gentle 1.5-hour walk exploring Denver’s haunted spots like the Patterson Inn and Victorian homes. It’s perfect for kids and those new to ghost stories, with interactive elements like ghost-hunting equipment and storytelling. The small group cap ensures close interaction. Reviewers highlight the fun stories and the balance of history and spookiness. This tour is ideal for families looking for a memorable, not-too-frightening experience. Bottom line: A family-friendly way to enjoy Denver’s haunted tales.
11. Historical Walking Tour Of Denver With A Haunting Twist
Number 11 features an Historical Walking Tour that combines architectural sights with ghost stories. It covers the State Capitol, Molly Brown’s house, and Millionaire’s Row, revealing the dark side of Denver’s past. Lasting about 2 hours, this tour appeals to those who love history with a spooky edge. Reviewers appreciate the guide’s storytelling and the insider details. Perfect for history lovers who want to add a ghostly twist. Bottom line: A well-rounded, atmospheric tour blending old Denver with ghostly tales.
12. Denver: History and Architecture Walking Tours
Number 12 offers a straightforward History and Architecture Walk for about 1.5 hours. It’s ideal for travelers who want to learn about Denver’s oldest buildings and the people behind them. The guides’ expertise makes this a practical choice. Reviewers note the informative nature and the opportunity to see Denver’s architectural gems. Perfect for architecture buffs and history enthusiasts. Bottom line: A concise, informative tour focused on Denver’s built environment.
13. Denver Wine Walking Tour
Number 13, the Denver Wine Walking Tour, combines wine tasting with city strolling for 2.5 hours. It visits three local wine bars, including Blanchard Family Wines, for tastings paired with food like French Asian fusion bites and chocolates. Rob, the guide, is praised for his engaging personality and wine knowledge. This tour suits wine lovers wanting to combine good drinks with urban exploration. Reviewers love the curated experience and the quality of wines sampled. It’s a relaxing, refined way to see Denver’s downtown. Bottom line: Perfect for wine fans seeking a leisurely, social outing.
14. Denver: LoDo Craft Beer Guided Walking Tour
Number 14 features the LoDo Craft Beer Guided Walking Tour, a 2.5-hour foray into Denver’s microbrew scene. It includes tastings of more than 10 beers, visits to several breweries, and stories about beer brewing history. It’s great for beer aficionados who want to sample multiple styles and learn about the local craft scene. Reviewers praise the guide’s enthusiasm and the variety of beers. Suitable for those who want an active, flavorful experience with a social vibe. Bottom line: A must-do for craft beer lovers wanting insider knowledge and tastings.
15. Downtown Denver Private Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Number 15 offers an exclusive Private Food Tour lasting 3 hours. It visits top spots like Coors Field, Union Station, and local eateries, with carefully curated bites like historic bordellos and specialty foods. Led by a guide who tailors the experience, this tour is perfect for those wanting a personalized culinary adventure in Denver’s most iconic districts. Reviewers note the high-quality bites and personalized service. It’s a premium option, best suited for foodies with a larger budget. Bottom line: An upscale, customizable tasting tour for serious food fans.
16. The Best of Denver: Private Half-Day Walking Tour
Number 16, the Private Half-Day Tour, covers Denver’s core in about 3 hours. It includes landmarks like Union Station, Molly Brown House, and the big blue bear, with a private guide ensuring a tailored experience. It’s ideal for visitors who want a flexible, quick overview with personalized attention. Reviewers highlight the guide’s friendliness and local knowledge. It’s especially good for first-time visitors or those with limited time. Bottom line: A flexible, private introduction to Denver’s highlights.
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour for You
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and available time. If history is your priority, the Denver History and Highlights Walking Tour or the Deep Dive into Denver offer in-depth stories. For a spooky night out, the Haunted Denver and ghost tours provide atmospheric tales, while families can opt for more lighthearted options like the Family Friendly Haunted Tour.
For food and drink enthusiasts, the Downtown Food Tour and Wine Tour are excellent. Craft beer lovers should consider the LoDo Beer Tour, which highlights Denver’s brewing scene. Budget travelers might prefer shorter or group tours, while those seeking a personalized experience should look at private options.
Booking early is recommended during peak seasons, especially for popular tours like the Private Half-Day Tour or Family Ghost Tour. Consider your fitness level and interests—some tours involve more walking or are more thematic.
Final Thoughts
Denver offers a surprisingly wide variety of walking tours, each with its own flavor. Whether you’re curious about the city’s historic landmarks, eager to hear about ghostly encounters, or want to enjoy local eats and drinks, there’s a tour for you. For history buffs, the Denver History and Highlights Walking Tour provides a well-rounded introduction, while those seeking something more playful might prefer the Haunted Denver or family-friendly ghost tours.
If you’re pressed for time, the Private Half-Day Tour packs in the essentials with the benefit of personalized attention. For those wanting an immersive experience, combining a food tour with a craft beer adventure can make your visit memorable.
Denver’s walkable neighborhoods and friendly guides make exploring easy and enjoyable. Be sure to book early, especially during busy seasons, and choose a tour that matches your curiosity and energy level. Whatever your style, these tours add a new dimension to experiencing the Mile High City—so lace up your walking shoes and start exploring!