Exploring Denver’s RiNo District: Murals, History, and True Crime
If you’re looking for a way to experience Denver beyond the usual tourist spots, this Cocktails, Murals and True Crime in RiNo tour offers a fascinating mix of art, local history, and intriguing crime stories. For $75 per person, you’ll spend about two hours and fifteen minutes exploring some of the most colorful murals and learning about Denver’s past, all while enjoying a couple of local drinks.
What makes this tour stand out? First, you get to see some of the most eye-catching street art in Denver, which is a real highlight for anyone who appreciates vibrant murals. Second, the stories of notorious true crimes from Colorado’s history add a dark, intriguing layer that keeps you listening. It’s an unusual blend that balances entertainment and education with a laid-back vibe.
A small caution: since the group size is limited to 10 travelers, it’s best to book well in advance—average bookings are made 41 days ahead. Also, if you’re not into true crime tales, the guide can shift the focus more toward Denver’s art and local stories, so the experience can be tailored to your interests.
This tour is well suited for travelers who enjoy street art, local history buffs, or anyone curious about Denver’s darker side. It’s also perfect if you’re visiting Denver for a few days and want an evening activity that’s both fun and insightful.
Key Points
- Vibrant murals and street art highlight Denver’s RiNo district.
- Historical insights include origins of Market Street and Denver’s red-light district.
- True crime stories feature infamous cases like JonBenet Ramsey and Columbine, with murals inspired by some tales.
- Short walking distance of 2 miles makes it accessible for most fitness levels.
- Small group size ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
- Local craft cocktails and food stops add flavor to the experience.
A Deep Dive into the RiNo Tour Experience
Location and Duration
This tour begins at the Wonderyard Garden + Table, located at 2200 Larimer Street. It lasts just over two hours, making it a manageable yet enriching activity after a day of sightseeing. The tour ends back at the starting point, so it’s easy to plan your evening around it. With a group capped at 10 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate, conversational atmosphere.
What’s Included
For $75, you get guided exploration of Denver’s street art, insights into local history, and entertaining true crime stories. The tour also includes a couple of stops for drinks and snacks, which are perfect for soaking in the atmosphere and socializing.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Stop 1: RiNo Art District
We kick off in the heart of Denver’s River North Art District, an area that has transformed from industrial warehouses into a hub of contemporary galleries and vibrant murals. Here, Jeremy, the guide, shares stories behind the murals and their significance, making the art more meaningful than just pretty pictures.
Many reviews mention how this part of the tour is a “fabulous way to see some local spots I wouldn’t have known about on my own” by Michele_S. The murals are truly stunning, and you’ll love the way they add color and life to what was once a gritty industrial zone.
Stop 2: Improper City
Next, we pause at Improper City, an expansive outdoor space filled with food trucks and lively crowds. This is the first opportunity to enjoy a drink and soak in the murals in a relaxed setting. The ambiance is casual, perfect for chatting and people-watching. Emily_N noted that Jeremy kept checking in to make sure everyone was comfortable, especially in the heat, which speaks to the tour’s personal touch.
Stop 3: The Denver Central Market
The tour continues inside the Denver Central Market, a lively food hall with a variety of vendors offering everything from fresh produce to baked goods and pizza. Here, you’ll have a chance to grab a slice of pizza or a drink, adding a casual, taste-of-local-flavor element. It’s a good spot to see more murals and get a feel for Denver’s vibrant food scene.
Stop 4: Wonderyard Garden + Table
Finally, we end at Wonderyard Garden + Table, a lush, garden-themed bar and eatery known for their creative cocktails and flatbreads. This spot brings the tour full circle, combining great drinks with more murals and conversation about Denver’s past and present. Abdul_O appreciated the “friendly, knowledgeable” guide and the laid-back vibe.
The Stories of True Crime
The true crime aspect is a standout feature for many. Stories include JonBenet Ramsey, Columbine, Chris Watts, James Holmes, Ted Bundy, and Jack Gilbert Graham. Some murals are inspired by these stories, creating visual links that make the tales more vivid. As Charles_H said, Jeremy’s storytelling is “captivating” and keeps you engaged throughout.
While some may find these stories dark, they offer a glimpse into Colorado’s most notorious moments, adding an unexpected layer of depth to the art and history. The guide’s ability to blend facts with engaging anecdotes is often praised, making these stories memorable rather than morbid.
The Value of the Experience
The tour’s price point of $75 is quite reasonable considering it includes multiple stops, expert guiding, and drinks. The small group setting guarantees personalized attention and the flexibility to adjust the focus if some participants prefer more art or more crime stories. Many reviews highlight that the tour is “just the right amount of time,” making it a perfect evening activity.
Practical Details
- Booking in advance is recommended as the tour is popular, with bookings made around 41 days prior on average.
- The tour is near public transportation, making it convenient if you’re staying downtown.
- Travelers with service animals are welcome, and the group size ensures a comfortable pace.
- Cancellation policy is flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for art lovers and true crime enthusiasts who want a relaxed yet engaging way to explore Denver’s RiNo district. It’s especially good for those looking for an evening activity that combines culture, history, and storytelling without feeling rushed. Families or groups seeking an intimate, personalized experience will find the small group size particularly appealing.
If you prefer a more outdoor-focused or physical activity, this tour’s walking distance and manageable pace make it accessible without being overly strenuous. And if you’re interested in local cuisine or craft cocktails, the stops for drinks and food add an extra layer of enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
The “Cocktails, Murals, and True Crime in RiNo” tour offers a well-balanced mix of visual art, local stories, and Colorado’s darker side, all woven together in just a little over two hours. It’s a refreshing way to see Denver through a different lens—one that emphasizes authentic city life and intriguing stories.
You’ll love the stunning murals that brighten Denver’s streets and the entertaining true crime stories that give context to the city’s more notorious moments. The guide’s friendly approach and the small-group format create an intimate atmosphere, perfect for curious travelers who want more than just a superficial overview.
In short, if you’re after an engaging, personalized tour that offers both visual treats and fascinating stories, this experience is worth checking out. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate art, history, or storytelling and want to do so in a relaxed, fun setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, covering about 2 miles of walking and standing.
What is the tour price?
The cost is $75 per person, which covers guided experiences, some drinks, and snacks.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Wonderyard Garden + Table, 2200 Larimer St, Denver.
Is there an age limit?
Most travelers can participate, but specific age restrictions aren’t listed. It’s best for adults or older teens interested in art and crime stories.
Can I customize the tour?
Yes, the guide can tailor the experience to your interests—more murals, more history, or more crime stories.
Are drinks included?
Stops at Improper City, Denver Central Market, and Wonderyard Garden provide opportunities for drinks and food, but they are at your own expense.
Is this tour suitable for families?
While most travelers can participate, the true crime stories are more suited for adults or mature teens.
Is the tour accessible?
Yes, given the short walking distance and small group size, it’s accessible for most.
How do I book?
Advance booking is recommended, especially since bookings are made an average of 41 days ahead.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, with no penalties for late cancellations.
To sum it up, this tour offers a unique peek into Denver’s art scene and its shadowy stories, making for an engaging evening that balances fun, learning, and a bit of dark intrigue. Whether you’re into colorful murals, Colorado’s infamous crime history, or simply want a relaxed way to explore the city, it’s a well-paced activity packed with authentic experiences.