Best of Denver Bus Tour: Highlights, Views & Local Favorites

The Best of Denver Bus Tour: Highlights, Views & Local Favorites offers an engaging way to discover the city’s most beloved sights in about 1 hour 45 minutes. For $39 per person, this small-group experience departs from Union Station and is ideal for visitors seeking a brief yet informative overview of Denver’s landmarks. Rated 4.5 out of 5 from 30 reviews, it’s a highly recommended option for first-timers and those wanting a quick introduction to the Mile High City. The tour is booked on average 14 days in advance, which speaks to its popularity.

This local favorite provides a mix of scenic views, historical stories, and fun facts, all delivered from a comfortable 14-passenger bus. While weather can affect mountain views, the tour’s itinerary covers key neighborhoods and landmarks, making it a practical choice for travelers with limited time. With the group size capped at 14, the experience remains intimate, allowing for questions and personalized attention.

Key Points

• Duration: About 1 hour 45 minutes, including travel time
• Price: $39 per person with included taxes and fees
• Meeting point: Union Station in Denver, easily accessible by public transport
• Stops include: Larimer Square, City Park, Molly Brown House, Colorado State Capitol, and the U.S. Mint
• Highlights: Stunning city skyline and mountain views, stories about Denver’s history, and local favorites
• Guide: Friendly, knowledgeable local guides lead the tours, sharing engaging stories and jokes
• Group size: Limited to 14 travelers for a personalized experience
• Weather considerations: Mountain views depend on visibility; cloudy days may limit scenic outlooks
• Booking: Recommended 14 days in advance for best availability

Starting at Denver’s Historic Union Station

The tour begins at Denver’s iconic Union Station, a building rich with history and architecture. This lively hub serves as a perfect launching point for exploring the city’s highlights. Admission is free to enter the station, and the meeting point is straightforward, making it easy for travelers unfamiliar with Denver to locate. The station’s impressive structure immediately sets the tone for a tour rooted in local character.

From here, the bus departs on a carefully curated route that weaves through Denver’s neighborhoods, passing notable landmarks and scenic spots. The small bus ensures comfort and an intimate atmosphere, ideal for listening to stories while enjoying the city’s sights.

Exploring Larimer Square and Its Public Art

The first stop is Larimer Square, a historic district filled with picturesque 19th-century architecture. The area charms visitors with its gorgeous old buildings and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors will see public art pieces that add color and character to the streets, making it a favorite photo spot.

Here, the guide shares insights into the area’s history and development, giving context to Denver’s early days. The five-minute stop allows plenty of time to snap photos of the iconic Big Blue Bear and absorb the lively ambiance of this well-preserved neighborhood.

City Park and Mountain Skyline Views

Next, the tour takes a scenic pass by City Park, a large green space adjacent to Denver Zoo. This stop offers spectacular views of the mountains and the Denver skyline. With around 10 minutes at this location, visitors can enjoy photo opportunities and take in the scenery.

While the bus drive passes by the zoo, the emphasis remains on the panoramic vistas of Denver’s urban sprawl against the backdrop of towering mountains. This stop is especially popular on clear days, but weather can impact mountain visibility.

The Historic Molly Brown House

Travelers then visit the Molly Brown House Museum in Capitol Hill, the former residence of Margaret “Molly” Brown, a Titanic survivor and local personality. The five-minute viewing allows for a quick glimpse at her mansion, which highlights Denver’s historic architecture.

Note that admission is not included for this stop, so visitors who wish to tour the interior can plan accordingly. The guide shares stories about Molly Brown’s life and her connection to Denver, adding a layer of local history.

Standing on the Mile High Steps at Colorado State Capitol

The Colorado State Capitol stands as a centerpiece of Denver’s civic life. The famous Mile High Steps at the building’s entrance mark 5,280 feet above sea level—a fun fact that encapsulates Denver’s nickname as the “Mile High City.” Visitors are encouraged to snap pictures here during a 10-minute stop.

The architecture of the Capitol echoes Parisian design, and the guide discusses its history and significance. This stop offers a blend of educational content and photo opportunities, perfect for those wanting a quick but meaningful visit.

The U.S. Mint and Its Stories of Heists

The tour then passes by the U.S. Mint in Denver, a site with stories of notorious heists and the process of money production. A five-minute stop near the building allows for photos and an appreciation of its role in national currency manufacturing.

While admission is not included, the guide shares entertaining stories about historic thefts related to this landmark, adding a local flavor to the tour.

Artistic Marvel at the Denver Art Museum

While the tour does not stop inside, the Denver Art Museum is highlighted for its unique architecture and the surrounding public art. The guide discusses the building’s design, inspired by the region’s natural beauty, and the inspiring art pieces that adorn the vicinity.

This stop emphasizes Denver’s cultural side and provides context for the city’s vibrant arts scene, even if only viewed from the outside.

Crossroads of Old and New Downtown

The route includes a drive through LoDo (Lower Downtown), a lively area filled with historic warehouses, trendy shops, and eateries. The guide shares stories about Denver’s evolution from a railroad hub into a modern city. While no specific stop is designated here, the drive offers a sense of the city’s dynamic character.

Practicalities and Tour Pacing

The bus is air-conditioned, a welcome feature on warmer days. The total duration is approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, including driving and stops, with most travelers completing the experience comfortably. The pacing allows for both sightseeing and learning without feeling rushed.

Some reviews note that the bus is an older model needing some exterior work, and the tour duration is slightly under 2 hours. Weather can influence scenic views, but the guided narration compensates with stories and facts, making it suitable even during less-than-perfect weather.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience appeals most to first-time visitors seeking a rundown of Denver’s top sights in a short time. The small-group format fosters interaction, and the knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with stories, jokes, and local insights.

While the itinerary covers key highlights, travelers expecting a long or in-depth tour may find it somewhat brief. The price offers good value for the quality of storytelling and scenic views packed into this compact outing.

Denver City Highlights: A Compact, Informative Tour

The Best of Denver Bus Tour provides a cost-effective and well-curated introduction to the city’s most recognizable landmarks. The small group size and friendly guides make for a comfortable and engaging experience, especially for those new to Denver.

While the tour’s duration limits time at each stop, it hits the major highlights: Union Station, Larimer Square, City Park, the Mile High Steps, and the U.S. Mint. The scenic views, combined with stories about Denver’s history and architecture, give a well-rounded picture of the city’s character.

Weather can be a consideration, particularly for mountain views, but bright days enhance the experience. The booking recommendation of 14 days in advance ensures you secure a spot for this popular, affordable tour.

This tour suits those looking for a quick, engaging introduction to Denver without the hassle of larger, long-duration sightseeing. It’s especially useful for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a small-group, intimate setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $39 per person, which includes fees and taxes.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 1 hour 45 minutes, including driving and stops.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs and ends at Denver’s Union Station, 1701 Wynkoop St.

Is admission included at each stop?
Admission is not included for the Molly Brown House or the U.S. Mint. Stops at Union Station, Larimer Square, City Park, and the Colorado State Capitol are free.

What are the main highlights of the itinerary?
Key stops include Larimer Square, City Park, the Mile High Steps, Molly Brown House, and the U.S. Mint. The tour emphasizes scenic city views and local stories.

Is this tour accessible and suitable for most travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, as the tour is designed to be manageable within 1 hour 45 minutes. The bus is air-conditioned, and the small group size enhances comfort.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Reviews highlight guides as energetic, friendly, and well-informed, sharing stories and jokes to keep the experience lively.

Can I see the mountains?
Mountain views depend on weather conditions. Clear days offer the best vistas, but the narrative and city sights remain compelling even if the mountains are obscured.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking 14 days ahead is recommended, as this tour is quite popular and fills up quickly.

What should I expect in terms of group size?
A maximum of 14 travelers ensures an intimate, personalized experience.

Are there any physical requirements or considerations?
The tour involves minimal walking, mainly at the stops, making it accessible for most participants. Weather can impact comfort, so dressing appropriately is advised.

This Best of Denver Bus Tour offers a practical and enjoyable overview of the city’s most famous sights, perfect for newcomers and those short on time. Its affordable price combined with friendly guides and scenic highlights makes it a solid choice for a quick Denver introduction.