The River North Art District — located north of downtown and known to locals as RiNo — hosts some of Denver’s favorite restaurants, breweries, wineries, distilleries, coffee shops, clubs, concert venues and, as the name implies, art galleries and artist studios.
One of the most popular times to explore this artsy neighborhood is during the monthly First Friday art walks, when galleries, studios and other cultural attractions stay open late and offer free admittance (and sometimes even free snacks and drinks).
But it’s not all about what’s inside RiNo’s numerous galleries and studios. You’ll discover some of the neighborhood’s most impressive art just strolling down the sidewalks since RiNo is also known for its colorful outdoor murals and graffiti. Here are some favorite guided tours of this creative district.
Denver Graffiti Tour
These walking tours of RiNo’s distinctive street art will blow your mind! The tours take about two hours and cover 1.5 to 2 miles of easy walking on sidewalks. You can also book private tours.
Mural Tour
Learn the stories behind some of Denver's best murals and the artists who painted them. Each tour covers 25-35 murals and ends at Denver Central Market, an upscale food hall where you can grab a drink or a bite to eat. Easily one of the city’s most Instagrammable tours!
Wine & Walls Tour
Similar to the Mural Tour, the Wine & Walls Tour exposes guests to some of Denver’s best murals and street art, but with one important addition: a mid-tour stop for drinks and snacks. (Despite the tour name, you aren’t limited to wine — the bar also has an extensive cocktail and beer menu, along with non-alcoholic beverages. Drink and food purchases are not included in the price of the tour.) The Wine & Walls Tour starts at Improper City and ends at Denver Central Market.
Denver Central Market
Denver Local Tours
On this 1.5-hour walking tour, you'll trace the neighborhood's evolution, hit the hotpots and get to eat, drink and shop. A portion of your ticket price will go toward local organizations that support artists and the community at large.
Denver Microbrew Tour
Take a guided, 1.5-mile walk to three local breweries and one craft cidery on the RiNo Beer and Graffiti Tour. Along the way, you’ll learn about the brewing process, Denver history, and the stories behind the vibrant street art and murals around RiNo. Make sure to bring your ID, since you’ll receive beer and cider samples at each stop.