Cocktails, Murals and True Crime in RiNo

Exploring Denver’s RiNo District: Murals, True Crime, and Cocktails

This 2-hour tour in Denver’s lively RiNo (River North) district offers a pretty unique mix: stunning murals, gripping true crime stories, and a couple of well-chosen alcoholic drinks. For $85 per person, you’ll walk a manageable 2 miles through one of Denver’s most colorful neighborhoods, learning about its street art, local history, and some infamous Colorado crime cases. And yes, pizza and drinks are included, making this a relaxed, engaging experience that appeals to a range of interests.

What really makes this tour stand out is its blend of visual art and storytelling—it’s like a living, breathing history lesson painted on walls, with a fun, casual social twist. We loved the chance to sip on beer, cocktails, or wine while wandering under colorful murals, plus the way the guide shares fascinating tidbits about Denver’s past. One of the best parts? The guides are flexible — if true crime isn’t your thing, they’re happy to focus more on the art and local history instead.

A potential consideration is the weather — since much of the tour is outdoors, a hot day might feel long if you’re not prepared. Also, this experience is best suited for those comfortable with walking and standing for a couple of hours. Overall, if you enjoy street art, local stories, and a lively, informal atmosphere, this tour offers a memorable way to spend an evening in Denver.

This experience works well for curious travelers eager to see the city’s vibrant side, fans of street art, or anyone interested in Colorado’s sometimes shocking history. It’s perfect if you like your tours lively, social, and with a bit of a twist.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Vibrant Murals: Discover some of the most beautiful street art in RiNo, with explanations about the stories and artists behind the murals.
• Local & True Crime Stories: Hear about Colorado’s infamous cases, from JonBenet Ramsey to Ted Bundy, connected visually by murals inspired by these stories.
• Relaxed Pace & Social Setting: Small groups (limited to 10 people) and friendly guides make for an intimate experience.
• Included Drinks & Pizza: Two drinks (beer, cocktails, or wine) and a slice or two of pizza help keep the mood casual and fun.
• Flexible & Customizable: The guide adapts the tour based on group interests—more art, or more true crime, as you prefer.
• Great for a Short Evening Out: At just two hours, it’s perfect for an introduction to Denver’s creative and quirky side without taking up your whole evening.

A Deep Dive into the RiNo Murals and Stories

When you arrive, you’ll meet outside a local bar, ready to explore Denver’s artistic heart. Over the next two hours, you’ll stroll roughly two miles through RiNo, a neighborhood famous for its street art, industrial vibe, and evolving culture. The guide’s insights help you understand what makes each mural special — from the bold colors to the stories they tell. Expect to see some murals inspired directly by Colorado’s notorious crimes, giving a visual punch to the chilling tales.

Murals and Art: RiNo’s walls are a living canvas. We loved the way the guide explained the art’s significance, linking it to Denver’s history and culture. For example, some murals are inspired by local legends or historical figures, adding depth beyond their eye-catching appearances. It’s an excellent way to appreciate street art as more than just graffiti—these are carefully crafted, meaningful works.

True Crime Stories: The tour’s true crime segment covers some of Colorado’s darkest moments, including the JonBenet Ramsey case, the Columbine shooting, and infamous figures like Ted Bundy who once escaped from jail in Denver. Some murals visually reference these stories, creating a haunting but fascinating connection. One reviewer mentioned, “Stories and pizza were great. Great way to see the RiNo district,” highlighting how the stories add a layer of intrigue.

Local History & Culture: Beyond crime and art, the tour shares nuggets about Denver’s past—like the origins of Market Street and the city’s red-light district. These details help paint a fuller picture of Denver’s colorful history, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

What to Expect: The Experience

The tour begins outside a local bar, with everyone gathered in a small, friendly group. Your guide, Jeremy, makes adjustments if the weather’s hot—an appreciated touch on a sunny day. As you walk along the murals, you’ll stop periodically for explanations, often with a quick story or historical note.

Drinks & Food: Two drinks—beer, wine, or cocktails—are included, along with a slice or two of pizza. This casual approach keeps the vibe relaxed and social. You’ll find that the drinks are well-chosen, and the pizza hits the spot after some walking.

Walking & Duration: The pace is comfortable, making it suitable even for those who aren’t avid hikers. The small group size enhances the feeling of intimacy, and the guide’s flexibility ensures everyone stays comfortable.

Weather & Comfort: Since much of the tour is outdoors, a hat, sunscreen, or water is recommended in summer. The guide’s effort to keep everyone comfortable was noted positively in reviews, especially on a hot day.

Authenticity and Value

What makes this tour stand out is its authenticity. It’s not a scripted, cookie-cutter experience but one tailored to the group’s interests. For the price, you get a well-rounded look at Denver’s street art scene, interesting local stories, and refreshments. Compared to other typical city tours, this one combines visual stimulation with storytelling, and the small group size ensures personal attention.

This experience offers great value—your ticket includes drinks and pizza, which would cost extra in many similar tours. Plus, the opportunity to learn about some of Colorado’s most infamous stories makes it especially memorable.

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Final Thoughts

This tour is perfect for art lovers, history buffs, or those curious about Denver’s darker side. The combination of street murals and true crime stories makes it both entertaining and thought-provoking. The relaxed pace, small groups, and included refreshments provide a welcoming, informal atmosphere that encourages conversation and connection.

If you’re looking for a fun, social way to explore Denver’s RiNo neighborhood, and appreciate a good story with your art, this tour hits the mark. It’s a lively, engaging experience that offers a fresh perspective on the city’s colorful, sometimes shocking, history.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
This tour is best for adults due to the mature nature of some true crime stories. It’s a lively, informal experience, so children or very young teens might not find it appropriate.

How much walking is involved?
The tour covers approximately two miles at a relaxed pace. It’s suitable for most people comfortable with light walking and standing.

What drinks are included?
Your ticket includes two alcoholic drinks, options being beer, cocktails, or wine. The guide can help you choose or accommodate preferences.

Can I customize the experience if I don’t want to hear about true crime?
Yes, the guide is willing to focus more on the art and local history if true crime isn’t the group’s preference.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and water are recommended. Since part of the tour is outdoors, dress appropriately for the weather.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Since much of the experience is outside, heavy rain or extreme heat might affect the comfort of the tour. The guide makes adjustments for hot days when possible.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personal, engaging experience.

Is the tour available in the evening?
Yes, the tour usually takes place in the evening, making it a nice way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Final Wrap-Up

If you’re after a fun, engaging way to explore Denver, mixing art, history, and stories with drinks in hand, this tour offers a smart choice. It’s especially good if you enjoy street art, are curious about Colorado’s darker tales, or just want a relaxed, social outing. The small group format, friendly guides, and inclusive approach make it a memorable, authentic experience.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to see your city from a different angle, this RiNo tour combines the visual and the visceral, leaving you with a deeper understanding—and plenty of conversation starters for your evening in Denver.

You can check availability for your dates here: