Dark Side of Denver RiNos True Crime and Murals Tour

Discover Denver’s Dark Side and Artistic Flair in a 1.5-Hour Tour

The Dark Side of Denver RiNos True Crime and Murals Tour offers a compelling mix of history, crime stories, and street art. With a duration of just 1.5 hours, this small-group experience highlights dozens of murals by local and international artists while also exploring some of Denver’s most notorious and lesser-known crime cases. The tour departs from Wonderyard Garden + Table and is suitable for those interested in Colorado’s shady past as well as its vibrant art scene.

What sets this tour apart is its flexibility: it can be tailored to focus more on true crime, local history, or the murals, depending on the group’s interests. Along the way, there are options to enjoy craft beer and local food, making it a well-rounded experience for art lovers, history buffs, and curious visitors alike. The small group size of up to 10 participants ensures personalized attention, while the wheelchair accessibility makes it inclusive for most travelers.

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Key Points

• 1.5-hour guided tour starting at Wonderyard Garden + Table in Denver
• Focus on true crime stories such as the Sand Creek Massacre, Silas Soule, JonBenet Ramsey, Columbine, and more
• Pass by dozens of murals created by both local and international artists in RiNo
• Flexible itinerary that can prioritize history, crime, or art
• Options for craft beer sampling and local food stops along the route
• Small group experience limited to 10 participants with live English guide

The Tour’s Starting Point and Meeting Details

The tour begins at Wonderyard Garden + Table, located at coordinates 39.75475311279297, -104.98974609375. The meeting spot is easy to find and provides a welcoming first impression with its lush garden environment. The tour offers full flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours before and the option to reserve now and pay later, making it convenient to plan your Denver stay.

Exploring Denver’s Murals in RiNo District

The RiNo (River North) District is known for its vibrant street art scene. During the tour, you’ll see dozens of murals, many crafted by both local and international artists. These murals serve as a colorful backdrop as the guide discusses Denver’s artistic history and the stories behind some of the most iconic artworks. The walking route covers approximately 2 miles, making it an accessible and engaging way to see the neighborhood’s best murals in a short period.

Denver’s Dark Past and Notorious Cases

This tour dives into Denver’s darker history, sharing stories like the Sand Creek Massacre and Silas Soule’s efforts to uncover the truth behind it. Other true crime cases covered include the 2022 shooting rampage by a misogynist, a failed kidnapping attempt targeting Adolph Coors III, and the shady past of Market Street, once home to over 1,000 prostitutes in Denver’s largest red-light district.

The tour also touches on significant Colorado cases such as JonBenet Ramsey, Columbine, Chris Watts, James Holmes, and Ted Bundy, who famously escaped from jail in Colorado. The discussion is tailored based on the group’s interests, allowing a focus on either true crime stories or the history and murals of Denver.

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Stops for Food and Refreshments

Throughout the 2-mile route, there are opportunities to enjoy local food from a variety of restaurants and food trucks. If the group opts in, there’s also a chance to try some great craft beer, adding a social and relaxed element to the experience. These stops are not just for refreshment but also serve as moments to learn more about Denver’s culinary scene and mingle with fellow participants.

The Guide’s Approach and Group Experience

The tour is led by a live English-speaking guide who is well-versed in Denver’s history, crime stories, and art. The guide is known for tailoring the experience to suit the group’s interests, whether that’s focusing more heavily on true crime, local history, or murals. The small group size ensures attentive guidance, personalized stories, and the flexibility to adjust the route or focus as needed.

Accessibility and Practical Details

This experience is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs. The duration of 1.5 hours is manageable for most, with a moderate walking pace covering approximately 2 miles. The meeting point is convenient, and the tour is designed to be informative and engaging without feeling rushed.

Why Choose the Dark Side of Denver Tour

This tour offers a unique blend of street art, history, and true crime stories, making it an engaging choice for a wide range of interests. The flexibility to focus on different themes, combined with food and drink options, enhances the overall experience. It’s especially suitable for small groups seeking a personalized insight into Denver’s complex past and vibrant art scene.

While the tour covers a lot of ground in a short time, it’s worth noting that the 1.5-hour duration means the experience is fast-paced, with plenty of stories and murals packed into a brief window. Participants should be prepared for walking and standing, but the route remains accessible and manageable.

The Perfect Tour for Curious Minds and Art Lovers

The Dark Side of Denver RiNos True Crime and Murals Tour is a compelling way to combine Denver’s artistic vibrancy with its darker stories. It appeals most to those interested in local legends, crime cases, and street art with an appetite for learning and exploring. With expert storytelling, options for refreshments, and the chance to see some of Denver’s best murals, this tour offers a well-rounded experience.

This is an ideal activity for small groups seeking a personalized, informative tour that balances entertainment with education. Whether you’re a history buff, art enthusiast, or crime stories aficionado, this tour delivers on all fronts while allowing flexibility to focus on your specific interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the Dark Side of Denver tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Wonderyard Garden + Table, located at coordinates 39.75475311279297, -104.98974609375.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Can I choose to focus more on murals or true crime stories?
Absolutely. The tour is flexible and can be adjusted based on your interests.

Are food and drinks included?
Food from local restaurants and food trucks is available to purchase, and there are options to try craft beer if desired.

How many people are in each group?
The experience is designed for small groups limited to 10 participants.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What are some notable stories covered on the tour?
Stories include the Sand Creek Massacre, Silas Soule’s investigative efforts, the 2022 shooting rampage, and Colorado’s infamous cases like JonBenet Ramsey and Columbine.

How flexible is the tour?
The guide can tailor the experience to focus more on history, murals, or crime stories, depending on the group’s preferences.

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering added flexibility.

What is the overall rating of this tour?
It holds a perfect 5 out of 5 stars based on 5 reviews, highlighting its engaging storytelling and personalized approach.

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