Denver: RiNo Arts District Walking Food Tour

Experience the Flavors and Art of Denver’s RiNo District

If you’re looking to combine delicious food with a taste of Denver’s vibrant art scene, the RiNo Arts District Walking Food Tour offers a compelling blend of both. This 3-hour journey takes you through Colorado’s coolest neighborhood, starting at Los Chingones, a well-known fusion restaurant, and weaving through five award-winning spots that serve everything from house-made gnocchi to street tacos with a twist. With a friendly guide sharing stories about Denver’s culinary boom and colorful murals, this experience feels more like a local discovery than a typical tourist trap.

Two things we really like about this tour: first, the chance to sample a variety of authentic dishes that highlight the neighborhood’s culinary creativity, and second, the opportunity to see some of Denver’s best street art as you walk between stops. The blend of tasting and sightseeing makes it a well-rounded experience. One consideration: while the tour includes optional alcohol pairings, if you’re not into drinking, you can still enjoy the flavors without the added cost.

This tour suits food lovers who want to explore more than just restaurants — it’s perfect for those interested in local culture, street art, and neighborhood vibe. It’s also a good pick if you appreciate knowledgeable guides who can share insights about Denver’s food scene and murals, making the whole experience more meaningful rather than just a tasting.

Key Points

• Vibrant Neighborhood: Explores Denver’s RiNo Arts District, known for street art and creative energy.
• Variety of Tastes: Tastes at five award-winning local restaurants, from gnocchi to street tacos.
• Storytelling Guides: Guides share insights about Denver’s culinary scene and mural art.
• Flexible Options: Upgrade your experience with optional alcohol pairings.
• Walking Distance: Covers less than a mile over three hours, making it leisurely and accessible.
• Suitable for Foodies: Perfect for those who love authentic local eats and urban art.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point at Los Chingones

The tour kicks off at Los Chingones RiNo, a lively fusion spot run by a notable local chef. We loved the casual yet vibrant atmosphere here — it sets the tone for a neighborhood that’s both modern and rooted in its diverse culinary identity. Our guide, whose enthusiasm and local knowledge shone through, introduced us to the city’s foodie scene and explained the neighborhood’s transformation from industrial to arts hub.

Tasting the First Dishes

Within about 40 minutes, we sampled fresh house-made gnocchi and Mexican-inspired street tacos with a creative twist. These dishes exemplify Denver’s culinary scene — innovative, flavorful, and locally beloved. The guide shared stories about the chefs and the neighborhood’s food evolution, making each bite more meaningful.

Exploring Street Art in the RiNo Arts District

Between tastings, we wandered through streets covered in vivid murals and graffiti. The guide pointed out some of the most acclaimed artworks, giving us a quick but insightful 15-minute guided tour of the street art scene. It’s a perfect way to combine visual artistry with your culinary adventure, especially since Denver’s murals are some of the most celebrated in the country.

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Redeemer Pizza and More Eats

Next, we visited Redeemer Pizza, which boasts a spot among Denver’s Top 25 restaurants. Here, we enjoyed a hearty portion of specialty sourdough pizza, and the guide explained what makes Redeemer’s approach unique. This stop was a highlight for us, blending a cozy atmosphere with top-tier ingredients.

Beer and Tasting at Local Breweries

The third tasting included local beer and more food, pairing Bavarian pretzels with house-made beer cheese, and possibly adding alcoholic drinks if you choose the upgrade. The guide described Denver’s growing craft beer scene, adding context and making the tasting more engaging.

Final Stop at Denver Central Market

The tour wraps up at the Denver Central Market, a lively hub where you can explore additional vendors and indulge in seasonal house-made ice cream. If time permits, you can browse various local stalls, making this an ideal spot to extend your visit or pick up a snack for later.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The local guide was a standout feature — friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share stories that connect the food, art, and neighborhood history. As one reviewer mentioned, “Super friendly guides with vast local knowledge, superb food, personalized restaurant recommendations, and great atmosphere!” It’s clear that the guides go beyond just serving up tastings; they aim to deepen your appreciation for Denver’s cultural landscape.

The food quality and variety also earn high marks. We appreciated that the stops included award-winning restaurants and authentic dishes that showcase the neighborhood’s culinary diversity. One traveler said, “Great food, wonderful guide, cool murals – we really enjoyed ourselves :-)”.

Limitations to Consider

While the tour offers delicious food and beautiful street art, some reviews note that the food options can be somewhat limited for dietary restrictions like vegan or gluten-free diets. Also, the liquor upgrade may not be worth the extra cost if alcohol isn’t your thing, as some found the drinks not matching the price.

Practical Details

The tour is about three hours long and covers less than a mile of leisurely walking, making it accessible for most visitors. It’s ideal for those comfortable on their feet and eager to explore without feeling rushed. The meeting point at Los Chingones is easy to find, with guides wearing bright orange buttons.

Value and Pricing

Considering you visit five distinct restaurants and enjoy guided insights, the cost is reasonable, especially if you opt for the alcohol upgrade. The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which adds a layer of flexibility to your planning. For food lovers wanting to experience Denver’s culinary heartbeat and art scene simultaneously, the value is quite good.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for foodies eager to try local dishes in a neighborhood full of character. It’s also ideal for urban art fans who enjoy discovering murals while tasting their way through a city. If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates storytelling and authentic local experiences, this tour offers a perfect mix. However, if you have strict dietary needs or prefer a more substantial meal, you might want to plan some extra snacks afterward.

Final Thoughts

The Denver RiNo Arts District Walking Food Tour offers a delightful combination of flavors, street art, and local stories. It’s a fantastic way to spend an afternoon exploring one of Denver’s most dynamic neighborhoods. The tour’s knowledgeable guides and authentic tastings ensure you leave with a deeper appreciation for the city’s creative spirit.

Whether you’re a culinary explorer or an urban art enthusiast, this tour provides a well-balanced, engaging experience that highlights Denver’s vibrant culture and innovative food scene. It’s particularly suited for those who want an interactive, informative, and tasty introduction to RiNo — a neighborhood that’s as colorful in its art as it is in its cuisine.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately three hours long, covering less than a mile of walking, making it a relaxed and manageable experience.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Los Chingones RiNo, with guides identifiable by their bright orange “Delicious Denver Food Tours” buttons.

Can I upgrade for drinks?
Yes, you can upgrade your ticket on site to include three alcoholic drinks paired with your tastings.

Is there any vegetarian or vegan option?
The standard menu doesn’t cater to vegans or gluten-free diets, which may be a consideration for some travelers.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, it’s best for those who can enjoy walking and tasting at a leisurely pace. Dietary restrictions are limited in scope.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the tour involves some walking through an urban neighborhood.

This RiNo Arts District Walking Food Tour strikes the right balance between culinary delights and cultural exploration. It’s a superb choice for anyone eager to taste Denver’s best, see its murals, and learn from passionate guides who love sharing their city.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby