Denver stands out as a food lover’s city, thanks to its mix of high-altitude innovation and a sincere appreciation for its culinary roots. The city’s neighborhoods — from the artsy RiNo district to historic LoDo — are bursting with award-winning restaurants, trendy breweries, and hidden gems. Whether you’re after a deep dive into Denver’s beer and burger scene or an art-focused tasting tour, there’s something for every palate. We particularly love the Denver RiNo Arts District Food Tour, which combines creative street art with bites from five top local restaurants, offering both visual and culinary delights.
If you’re short on time but still want a broad taste of Denver’s diverse food scene, the Downtown Food Tour offers a lively walk through award-winning eateries, with stops at iconic spots like Coors Field and Union Station. For those who prefer a more personalized experience, the Private Downtown Denver Food Tour provides a tailored look at the city’s culinary highlights with a knowledgeable guide. For a fun twist, consider the Mystery Puzzle Food Tour in Golden, turning your meal into a scavenger hunt of sorts, perfect for adventurous eaters. Whatever your style, Denver’s food scene is ready to impress.
1. Denver RiNo Arts District Food Tour
Enjoy a delectable introduction to Denver’s hip RiNo Arts District on this small-group walking tour. Led by an enthusiastic guide, you’ll visit five award-winning local restaurants, tasting dishes from fried chicken and sourdough pizza to mochi donuts and more. The tour lasts about three hours and offers enough food for a hearty lunch. The district’s mix of colorful murals, artist studios, and industrial spaces makes this tour both a feast for the eyes and the palate. Guests rave about the knowledgeable guide and the insider tips on Denver’s food and drink scene. If you love vibrant neighborhoods with a creative vibe, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of culture, food, and walking.
Bottom Line: A lively, flavorful tour combining art and cuisine with an optional alcohol pairing upgrade, ideal for those interested in Denver’s local scene.
2. Denver: Downtown Small-Group Food Tasting Tour
At number 2, the Denver: Downtown Small-Group Food Tasting Tour provides a perfect overview of Denver’s core. Over three hours, you’ll sample five dishes at top downtown restaurants while learning about the city’s history. The tour hits landmarks like Coors Field, Union Station, and the oldest hotel, adding context to your food journey. It’s a relaxed, engaging way to see the city with locals who know the ins and outs of Denver’s culinary evolution. Reviewers mention the fun, informative storytelling and delicious bites, making it suitable for first-time visitors or those wanting a quick taste of Denver’s food culture.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a compact, city-centered experience that combines history and bites.
3. Downtown Denver Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Number 3 on our list is the Downtown Denver Walking Food Tour, which earns rave reviews for its mix of history and flavor. This three-hour adventure explores notable streets made famous during the Colorado Gold Rush, with stops at historic buildings, including a former bordello and the iconic Coors Field. The tour combines local stories with food samples that pay homage to Denver’s colorful past, like local specialties and regional favorites. Many guests appreciate the personable guides and the chance to see hidden spots they wouldn’t find alone. It’s perfect for history buffs who love good food and walking at a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive tour blending Denver’s historic tales with memorable bites, ideal for those curious about the city’s roots.
4. Denver Downtown 16th Street Food Tour
The Denver Downtown 16th Street Food Tour offers a brisk two-and-a-half-hour walk along the lively 16th Street Mall. It begins at the grand Brown Palace Hotel, a Denver icon since 1892, and stops at various eateries, including a famous bison chili at Appaloosa Grill. The tour features six tastings, with highlights like Neapolitan pizza and local favorites. Guests enjoy learning about the mall’s transformation and the city’s architectural charm. This tour is ideal for those who want a shorter but flavorful downtown experience, with reviews praising its mix of history, food, and city vibes.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, urban food fix with a touch of Denver’s history in a walkable downtown setting.
5. Gluten Free Food & Brew Tours
For travelers with gluten sensitivities, the Gluten Free Food & Brew Tours is a dedicated experience. Over three and a half hours, you’ll visit places like Avanti Food & Beverage, a rooftop eatery showcasing diverse gluten-free options, and explore local breweries and food halls. The tour is led by a passionate guide who’s lived gluten-free internationally, ensuring your diet restrictions are well catered to. Many attendees comment on the high-quality, safe options available and the friendly, inclusive atmosphere. It’s especially suited for those who want to enjoy Denver’s food scene without gluten worries.
Bottom Line: An inclusive, relaxed tour that highlights Denver’s best gluten-free dishes and breweries, with a strong focus on dietary needs.
6. Gourmet Food and Beverage Tour of Denver (LoHi)
For a taste of Denver’s upscale culinary scene, the Gourmet Food and Beverage Tour of Denver (LoHi) offers a three-and-a-half-hour walk through the trendy Lower Highlands district. Guided by industry-insider guides, you’ll sample bites from five renowned restaurants paired with local drinks. It’s a more luxurious experience, emphasizing gourmet cuisine and craft beverages. Guests have praised the “surprise” element and the depth of knowledge shared about Denver’s evolving food and drink culture. Suitable for foodies seeking a more refined experience, this tour comes at a higher price point but offers premium tastings.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting an insider look at Denver’s high-end culinary and mixology scene.
7. Downtown Denver Private Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
The Private Downtown Denver Food Tour is tailored for those seeking a personalized experience. For around $339, your guide will craft a three-hour journey through the city’s best eateries, with stops at historic buildings like the 1889 Madam Jennie Rogers bordello and Coors Field. Many reviewers highlight the guide’s extensive knowledge and flexible approach, which makes this ideal for families or groups wanting an exclusive outing. The focus on history, local flavor, and private transport makes it a premium, intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a custom, in-depth exploration with a private guide.
8. Denver: RiNo Evening Food Tour with a Local Guide
Experience Denver’s RiNo neighborhood after dark with this evening food tour. Over three hours, you’ll enjoy food and drink at four different venues, passing murals, and learning about the local art scene. The evening setting lends a different vibe, with breweries and bars showcasing Denver’s craft beer movement. Guests love the relaxed, social atmosphere and the chance to see RiNo’s colorful murals by night. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy nightlife, art, and a lively food scene.
Bottom Line: A laid-back, artsy way to sample Denver’s nighttime culinary and cultural scene.
9. Mystery Puzzle Food Tour in Golden, CO
The Mystery Puzzle Food Tour in Golden transforms your meal into a puzzle-solving adventure. Over two to three hours, you’ll follow clues on your smartphone to find local restaurants and enjoy surprise dishes. It’s a fun, interactive way to explore a small Colorado town while tasting multiple courses. Reviewers mention how engaging and satisfying the experience is, especially for puzzle lovers or families with kids. Note that all restaurants are within walking distance, making this a relaxed, no-stress outing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for curious, puzzle-minded travelers looking for a playful dining experience.
10. Denver: Arts District Walking Food Tour
Number 10 offers a walking food tour through Denver’s colorful Arts District. You’ll sample local dishes while exploring murals, galleries, and studios. The three-hour tour emphasizes Denver’s artistic side alongside its culinary scene, making it perfect for art lovers who also want to taste the city’s creative cuisine. Reviewers highlight the friendly guide and the opportunity to discover lesser-known eateries. It’s a great way to combine culture and food in one afternoon.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers interested in both visual art and local eats, with a relaxed pace.
11. Denver: Walking Secret Food Tour
This Secret Food Tour is a short but sweet three-hour exploration of downtown Denver. Highlighting the city’s history from cowboy days to today, it offers tasting stops at notable spots such as Coors Field and Union Station. The guide’s storytelling and the carefully chosen food stops make it a favorite among recent reviewers. The tour is ideal for those wanting a deep dive into Denver’s past with a side of excellent local bites.
Bottom Line: A well-balanced mix of history and food, suited for travelers wanting an intimate, storytelling experience.
12. Dinner Food Tour in RiNo Denver
The Dinner Food Tour in RiNo combines a relaxed, 2-mile walk with four culinary stops in Denver’s artsy RiNo neighborhood. The focus is on evening dining, with tastings like pozole, brisket, and local craft beers. Many reviews praise the guide’s storytelling and the quality of the food, especially the pozole and brisket. It’s suitable for those who want a casual, dinner-focused experience with a lively atmosphere and street art.
Bottom Line: An informal, tasty evening tour ideal for lovers of Mexican, barbecue, and local brews.
13. Denver: Taste of the City Food Tour by Bike or E-Bike
The Taste of the City Food Tour by Bike or E-Bike offers an active way to explore Denver’s main sights. Covering about 8 miles, you’ll visit iconic locations like Coors Field, Union Station, and the Colorado Capitol while sampling local eats. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour is perfect for active travelers who want to combine sightseeing with food tasting. Past reviews praise the fun of riding through the city’s neighborhoods while discovering its diverse cuisine.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a physically engaging tour with a comprehensive taste of Denver.
$125 per person
14. Downtown Denver Pub Crawl – Food & Drinks Included!
For an evening of lively fun, the Downtown Denver Pub Crawl takes you through 5-6 venues with free shots and VIP access. It’s a no-pressure way to experience Denver’s nightlife, with plenty of opportunities to meet fellow travelers. Reviewers love the energetic atmosphere and the variety of venues. It’s perfect for night owls and those looking for a social, drink-focused experience.
Bottom Line: A spirited way to enjoy Denver’s bar scene with a guided, lively group.
$50 per person
15. Downtown Denver Food Tour
Arguably the most popular on our list, the Downtown Denver Food Tour boasts over 1,580 reviews. It covers five restaurants in three hours, with tastes ranging from wood-fired pizza to green chili and empanadas. The tour’s emphasis on local stories and insider tips makes it a favorite among first-time visitors. Guests appreciate the variety and the knowledgeable guide, making it worth the price for a true taste of Denver’s culinary scene.
Bottom Line: An all-around excellent choice for a comprehensive, city-wide food experience in Denver.
$85.00 per person
16. Token and Tacos Cannabis Lover Foodie Tour
Rounding out our list, the Token and Tacos Cannabis Lover Foodie Tour offers a unique experience. Over two hours, you’ll explore cannabis products at Native Roots, then finish with tacos at Torchy’s. The guided bus tour includes discounts, goodie bags, and the opportunity to enjoy cannabis while riding. It’s a fun, different way to see Denver’s evolving scene, perfect for adventurous travelers interested in both food and cannabis culture.
Bottom Line: A distinctive tour combining culinary treats with cannabis, ideal for open-minded explorers seeking something different.
How to Choose
When deciding which Denver food tour best fits your interests, consider your time, budget, and what you want from the experience. For a quick city overview with historic sights, the Downtown Food Tour offers excellent value. If you prefer art and street murals, the RiNo Arts District combines visual art with flavorful bites. For those with dietary restrictions, the Gluten Free Food & Brew Tours provides a safe, inclusive environment. Adventure seekers might enjoy the puzzle-based Mystery Food Tour or the active Bike Food Tour. Lastly, if nightlife and socializing appeal, the Pub Crawl offers a fun, energetic evening.
Always check availability and book early, especially during peak months or holidays, to guarantee your spot on these popular tours.
Denver offers a rich variety of food tours that show off its neighborhoods, history, and inventive cuisine. Whether you want a detailed city walk, an art-focused experience, or a private guide, there’s an option for you. For those looking for a mix of culture, history, and food, the Downtown Food Tour and the RiNo Arts District Food Tour are especially recommended. For travelers with special diets or seeking unique experiences, the gluten-free and puzzle tours are standouts. Whatever your style, booking early will help you secure a spot and get ready for a delicious exploration of Denver.