Self Guided Audio Tour of Denver's Historic LoDo District
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Self Guided Audio Tour of Denver's Historic LoDo District

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(1 reviews)
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Uncover the rich history of Denver on this self-guided walking tour through Lower Downtown (LoDo), where the city's origins took shape.

Walk along the banks of Cherry Creek and the South Platte River, exploring preserved warehouses, jazz clubs, and modern art spaces that reflect both the historic heart and the evolving spirit of Denver.

This tour reveals the fascinating narrative of gold seekers, the rise of railroads, and the district's transformation from a bustling commercial center to a vibrant cultural hub.

— Discover the birthplace of Denver at the confluence of two rivers
— Explore historic architecture, including Italianate and Romanesque buildings
— Learn about the impact of the gold rush and the transcontinental railroad
— Enjoy a flexible pace, perfect for history enthusiasts and casual strollers alike

Available options

Self Guided Audio Tour of Denver's Historic LoDo District

What's included

Flexible Usage (unlimited access)
Audio Guide
App and Tour Download

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

16th Street Mall is the gateway to downtown’s pulse. A bustling pedestrian corridor just east of LoDo, this mile-long promenade links Union Station to Colorado’s Capitol with shops, public art, and city energy.

2

One of Denver’s oldest surviving structures, this 1863 brick building once housed a saloon owned by African American entrepreneur Barney Ford. The presence of the Barney Ford Building connects Denver’s frontier days with stories of resilience.

3

At the meeting point of Cherry Creek and the South Platte River, this urban Confluence Park invites walkers, paddlers, and nature lovers to experience Denver’s natural origins in the heart of the city.

4
Stop 4

A trendy micro-district of boutique shops, hidden bars, and cozy courtyards, Dairy Block represents LoDo’s reinvention of historic spaces into modern urban gems.

5

This sleek pedestrian cable bridge soars over I-25, linking LoDo with Riverfront Park and offering panoramic views of the skyline and rail yards below.

6

More than a transit hub, Union Station is a restored Beaux-Arts landmark with shops, restaurants, and a grand Great Hall—a living centerpiece of LoDo’s revival.

7

Once warehouses, today these lofts offer modern urban living inside historic walls. They exemplify how LoDo has repurposed industrial bones for contemporary life.

8

This distinctive structure recalls LoDo’s past as a storage and ice distribution hub, now adapted to retail, dining, or office use—where history meets utility.

9
Stop 9

Denver’s first designated historic district, Larimer Square is lined with restored Victorian buildings turned into restaurants, boutiques, and nightlife venues.

10

A modern counterpoint in LoDo, this museum spotlights bold, current art inside historic bones. It bridges Denver’s past and present creative identities.

11

Established in 1891, the historic Oxford Hotel has hosted presidents, celebrities, and seekers. Its vintage charm anchors the neighborhood’s architectural heritage.

12

A LoDo legacy brand, Rockmount creates Western apparel with style and history. Their storefront keeps Denver’s cowboy and craftsmanship spirit alive.

13

The Sugar Building showcases how LoDo preserves texture even as it evolves, and is a converted industrial building now used for retail or creative space.

14

A treasured independent bookstore, this LoDo branch continues the city’s literary tradition inside a building that once housed the commerce of an earlier era.

15

Colorado’s first modern brewpub, founded in 1988, Wynkoop helped spearhead LoDo’s revitalization. This is a great place to taste history—alongside a craft beer.

16
Stop 16 Pass by

Built in 1995 at LoDo’s edge, this vintage-style ballpark captures the spirit of the neighborhood—with brick facades echoing a former warehouse district.

17

A small block preserving LoDo’s original street pattern and building scale, this park offers a moment of calm amidst the urban fabric.

18

This tap house revives the historic Tivoli Brewing legacy in Denver, combining craft beer, heritage, and LoDo’s evolving story.

What's not included

Smartphone (bring your own)

Available languages

Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
1 reviews
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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Works entirely offline once downloaded—no cell service required
GPS-triggered audio plays automatically based on your location
Flexible - Buy once, use any day/time—access never expires
Get the Drives & Detours app download the tour ahead of time

Meeting point

The tour starts in the plaza of Confluence Park, near the meeting point of Cherry Creek and the South Platte River. It is close to the junction of 15th Street and Little Raven Street.

Important notes

IMPORTANT – YOUR ACCESS CODE IS: SPF907 - PLEASE READ STEPS BELOW -

To access your tour, you’ll need the Drives & Detours App. We recommend downloading the tour in advance in case cell service is unreliable.

DOWNLOAD THE APP:
iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/drives-detours/id6443681888
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mytoursapp.android.app6506

UNLOCK YOUR TOUR:

1. Open app, tap "Walking Tours", then "Self-Guided Walking Tour of Denver's Historic LoDo District"
2. Enter Your Access Code (on iPhone tap "Login to Download" then "Login")
3. Tap "Download Tour" and wait until complete (1-2 minutes)

STARTING THE TOUR:

1. Open app, select your tour
2. Go to start location shown
3. Tap “Start Tour”

ADDITIONAL NOTES:
Tour is valid for 180 days, no need to reschedule
Questions? TEXT us at 619.324.9920

About Denver

Denver, Colorado, is a vibrant city nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Known for its outdoor recreation, craft breweries, and thriving arts scene, Denver offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. The city's high altitude and sunny climate make it an ideal destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax in a picturesque setting.

Top Attractions

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is a unique outdoor concert venue nestled in stunning red rock formations. It's a must-visit for music lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Nature/Entertainment 2-4 hours Free to enter the park, concert ticket prices vary

Denver Art Museum

The Denver Art Museum is one of the largest art museums between Chicago and the West Coast, featuring a diverse collection of art from around the world.

Museum 2-3 hours Free for Denver residents, $13-$20 for non-residents

Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens is a 24-acre oasis in the heart of the city, featuring a diverse collection of plants and beautiful landscapes.

Nature 1-2 hours $9.50-$12.50

Union Station

Union Station is a historic landmark and transportation hub in downtown Denver. It features beautiful architecture, dining, shopping, and a bustling public space.

Architecture/Transportation Hub 1-2 hours Free to explore

Denver Zoo

The Denver Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in the city, featuring over 4,000 animals and a commitment to conservation and education.

Zoo 2-4 hours $21-$26

Must-Try Local Dishes

Green Chile

A spicy sauce made from green chiles, often served over burritos, enchiladas, or other Mexican dishes. Denver's green chile is a regional specialty and a must-try for visitors.

Main Dish Contains dairy (cheese) and can be made vegetarian or vegan

Bison

Bison is a lean, flavorful meat that is often served as steaks, burgers, or in stews. Denver is known for its bison dishes, which are a unique and delicious local specialty.

Main Dish High in protein and low in fat, can be made to accommodate various dietary restrictions

Rocky Mountain Oysters

A regional delicacy made from deep-fried bull testicles, often served with a side of sauce. This dish is a unique and adventurous option for visitors looking to try something new.

Appetizer Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Palizzi's Famous Hot Chicken Sandwich

A spicy chicken sandwich that has become a local favorite. The sandwich is made with crispy fried chicken, spicy sauce, and served on a toasted bun with lettuce and pickles.

Main Dish Contains gluten and can be made to accommodate various dietary restrictions

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Rock climbing Whitewater rafting Skiing and snowboarding Spa treatments Yoga classes Picnicking in the park

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Denver, offering warm weather perfect for outdoor activities. The city hosts numerous festivals and events during this time.

18-32°C 64-90°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: Spanish
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone (MT), UTC-7 (Standard Time), UTC-6 (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Denver is generally a safe city for visitors, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any city, it's important to take precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of your belongings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
  • • Use licensed taxis or rideshare services

Getting there

By air
  • Denver International Airport • 25 miles (40 km) from city center
By train

Denver Union Station

By bus

Denver Bus Center

Getting around

Public transport

The RTD Light Rail system is efficient and covers most of the city and nearby suburbs. It includes the A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and H lines.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

LoDo (Lower Downtown) RiNo (River North Art District) Capitol Hill Highlands LoHi (Lower Highlands)

Day trips

Rocky Mountain National Park
75 miles (120 km) from Denver • Full day or overnight

Rocky Mountain National Park offers stunning mountain scenery, wildlife viewing, and numerous outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing.

Boulder
25 miles (40 km) from Denver • Half day or full day

Boulder is a charming college town located at the foot of the Flatirons, offering a mix of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and diverse dining options.

Golden
15 miles (24 km) from Denver • Half day or full day

Golden is a historic town located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, offering a mix of outdoor recreation, historical attractions, and local breweries.

Festivals

Great American Beer Festival • Late September Denver Arts Week • Early November National Western Stock Show • Mid-January

Pro tips

  • Visit the Denver Union Station for a unique and historic experience, including dining, shopping, and public events
  • Explore the city's vibrant arts scene by visiting museums, galleries, and cultural festivals
  • Take advantage of the city's numerous outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and skiing in the nearby Rocky Mountains
  • Try local specialties, such as green chile, bison, and craft beer
  • Be mindful of the city's high altitude and take precautions to avoid altitude sickness, such as staying hydrated and taking it easy on your first day
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 11-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 10
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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