Denver , United States

Denver City Highlights Tour

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(145 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

What makes Denver so special? Is it the Rocky Mountains? The altitude? The people? The art? The history? The neighborhoods? The beer?

It’s everything — and that’s what you get on this two-hour tour.

Denver has walkable neighborhoods, but our goal is to show you more than just Rino and downtown. We want to show you two hours of what it’s like to really live in Denver.

We’ve done all the work for you - a specifically curated driving route to show you the best streets, neighborhoods, and parks around town. We’ll cover much more ground than any walking tour, so buckle up! You’ll want to take notes as we recommend tons of restaurants, breweries, shops, and fun things to do that came directly from the experience of our team here at Aspire.

So sit back, relax, and get taken back through the history of Denver and how it has transformed into the unique, bustling city it is today.

Available options

Denver City Highlights Tour

What's included

Water refills and biodegradable cups will be provided

Detailed itinerary

Our meeting point and a brief overview over the historical overview.

Stop 2

The city’s first block, its first commercial district, home to its first residence and first city hall, and was the city’s first designated historic district.

Stop 3 Pass by

Drive by the Mint and learn some interesting facts

Stop 4

Get a chance to take pictures of State Capitol and Civic Center Park.

Stop 5 Pass by

Impressive architectural building commemorating the Colorado Gold Rush

Stop 6

Denver has some great museums and the guide will provide a good overview.

Stop 7

Learn about the unsinkable Molly Brown and drive by her home in Capitol Hill

Stop 8

Views of Denver's city skyline and some of the highest peaks of the Continental Divide from the iconic marble Cheesman Memorial

Open since August 12, 1892, The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa has become one of the most beloved Denver, CO hotels.

A historic, vibrant, and multicultural neighborhood with rich Black History named after the five-way intersection of Washington Street, 27th Street, 26th Avenue, and Welton Street.

RiverNorth District is full of murals and street art, vibrant, newest neighborhood, industrial feel

Stop 12 Pass by

Drive by Coors Field - learn about Denvers Sports Culture

Drive through LoHi (Lower Highlands) and Confluence Park - a great place for locals to gather in the summer. Stop for a quick bite!

What's not included

Gratuity

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

111 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.4

34 reviews

5★

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Tour Duration Includes Driving Time Through the City

Our departures are at 10:am and 1:00 pm respectively. Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to departure time to be checked in.

Guests who will be using an assistive device such as a scooter or walker, please contact us prior to your tour to ensure our vehicle has accommodating space.

Meeting point

We meet at Union Station, at the large American flagpole located at the corner of 17th St. and Wynkoop St. The address is 1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO 80202.

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