Denver: Downtown Food Tour with 7 Tastings of Local Classics

Imagine spending three hours wandering through Denver’s historic neighborhoods, tasting seven different local dishes, and hearing stories that bring the city’s Wild West past to life. That’s exactly what you get with the Downtown Food Tour led by Secret Food Tours. Starting in the lively Ballpark District and weaving through the oldest streets of LoDo, this tour offers a flavorful blend of history and culinary innovation for around $70 per person.

What we love most? First, the diversity of tastings—from elk sausage to Big Mac pizza—that showcase both Denver’s rugged roots and its modern food creativity. Second, the location; walking through iconic landmarks like Union Station and hidden courtyards brings the city’s character into vivid focus. A potential drawback? If you’re not a fan of walking or have mobility issues, this might be a challenge, as the tour involves quite a bit of step-by-step exploration.

This experience is ideal for foodies, history buffs, and anyone eager to see Denver beyond its skyline. If you enjoy stories along with your snacks, or you’re traveling with a group looking for a comprehensive taste of Denver’s culture, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Key Points

• Authentic Denver flavors: From elk sausage to craft beer, each tasting reflects the city’s local culinary traditions.
• Historic neighborhoods: Explore LoDo and the Ballpark District, learning about Denver’s Gold Rush and Wild West days.
• Architectural highlights: See landmarks like Union Station and the Oxford Hotel, adding context to the city’s growth.
• Engaging storytelling: Guides share colorful stories of saloons, outlaws, and city legends.
• Well-paced tour: Lasts about three hours, with ample time to enjoy each tasting and stop.
• Hidden surprises: The tour ends with a “Secret Dish,” adding an element of fun and mystery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into Denver’s Downtown Food Scene

Walking into Denver’s historic downtown, you quickly realize this city’s food scene is as layered as its history. Starting in the Ballpark District, your guide—who we hear is engaging and full of fun facts—takes you to your first stop: a gourmet smoked elk sausage. It’s a prime example of how Colorado’s hunting traditions influence local cuisine. Many visitors, including one who called the guide “excellent,” appreciate how these tastings are not just snacks but stories on a plate. Anthony Bourdain’s love for elk sausage hints at its status as a local delicacy, and you’ll understand why when you bite into that juicy sausage, seasoned just right.

Next, you’ll sample Asian Fusion Soup Dumplings, a surprising yet popular choice among locals. These bite-sized treasures offer a taste of Denver’s modern, diverse food scene—something that’s often overlooked when people think of the city’s Western reputation. Your guide will share insights into why Denver’s food scene is thriving, blending traditional ingredients with innovative techniques.

Exploring LoDo and Historic Landmarks

As you head into LoDo (Lower Downtown), the tour becomes a walk through Denver’s past. Here, you’ll pass architectural icons like Union Station—the city’s historic transportation hub—and the Oxford Hotel, which has hosted celebrities and outlaws alike. Your guide will recount stories of saloon girls, confidence men, and Wild West outlaws, making the streets come alive with colorful tales.

Walking through these streets, you get a sense of what Denver’s frontier days might have felt like—rough, lively, and full of opportunity. The hidden courtyards offer quiet respites amid the bustling city, perfect spots for a quick photo or a moment to soak in the atmosphere. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guide told stories about Denver’s colorful past while pointing out architectural icons,” emphasizing how storytelling enhances the experience.

The Surprising World of Denver Pizza

You might be surprised to learn that Denver was recently crowned the top pizza city in America. As you stroll, you’ll visit a spot serving a Big Mac-inspired pizza—yes, a pizza that combines the comfort of a burger with culinary creativity. This stop showcases Denver’s innovative spirit and willingness to push culinary boundaries. The pairing of familiar comfort food with local ingredients makes for a memorable bite—and a great conversation starter.

Ending with Sweetness and a Secret

The tour wraps up with a Warm Fig Beignet, a sweet treat that balances richness and finesse. But the real highlight is the “Secret Dish,” only revealed during the tour. This element of surprise keeps the experience engaging and adds a sense of exclusivity, making each tour unique.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details

Meeting point is conveniently located in front of Billy’s Gourmet Hot Dogs at 2445 Larimer St. The guide, identifiable by an orange umbrella, ensures easy recognition. The tour lasts about three hours, making it a manageable yet rich experience. It involves a fair amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must—especially given the uneven historic streets and courtyards.

The tour is suitable for most people but not recommended for mobility-impaired or wheelchair users, due to the walking involved. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change. Payment is flexible too—reserve now, pay later—that’s handy for travelers who want to keep options open.

Tour Experience and Value

At approximately $70, the tour provides good value for those wanting an authentic taste of Denver’s food and history. The seven tastings are generous, and the stories behind each dish add depth that simple restaurant visits can’t match. As one reviewer noted, “John was an excellent guide with lots of fun facts,” making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who loves local stories, historic sights, and trying regional specialties, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Denver. It’s perfect for curious foodies, history buffs, or groups seeking a fun, cultural activity in the city center. Longer stays in Denver could even be complemented with visits to nearby attractions like the Red Rocks Amphitheatre or the Denver Aquarium, which are also easily accessible.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately three hours, providing enough time to enjoy each tasting and explore the neighborhood.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is in front of Billy’s Gourmet Hot Dogs at 2445 Larimer St, Denver.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as there is a good amount of walking involved through historic streets and courtyards.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments?
No, this tour involves a considerable amount of walking, and it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

What kinds of food will we taste?
Expect a variety of local specialties, including elk sausage, Asian Fusion Soup Dumplings, Big Mac pizza, and a Warm Fig Beignet, plus a Secret Dish only revealed on the day.

Is there any food that’s not included or recommended for dietary restrictions?
It’s advisable to contact the tour provider in advance if you have dietary requirements; they aim to cater as best as possible.

Final Thoughts

This Downtown Food Tour in Denver offers a delightful blend of culinary discovery, storytelling, and historic sightseeing, all packed into a compact three-hour experience. It’s especially suited for travelers who want an active, engaging way to get to know the city beyond its skyline and into its local soul.

You’ll walk away with a better understanding of Denver’s western roots—reflected vividly in the food you taste—and the city’s ongoing creative spirit. The tour’s well-structured stops and authentic dishes make it a valuable choice for anyone eager to connect with Denver’s culture in a fun, flavorful way. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a group, or traveling with family, this tour offers enough variety and insight to satisfy most curious minds and hungry stomachs alike.

In essence, if you’re after an experience that combines Denver’s history, innovative food, and lively streets in a manageable time frame, this tour delivers. It’s a practical choice for those who value storytelling, local flavor, and a taste of the city’s enduring wild west spirit.

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