Denver’s Art District Self Guided Walking Tour

Explore Denver’s RiNo District with a Self-Guided Walking Tour

For just $5 per person, the Denver’s Art District Self Guided Walking Tour offers a flexible way to experience the city’s famed street art. Spanning approximately 45 to 55 minutes, this tour takes you through the lively River North (RiNo) neighborhood, renowned for its colorful murals and creative spirit. It begins at Denver Central Market, a popular spot for coffee and snacks, and finishes near the iconic Queen Street Mural, making it easy to explore at your own pace.

This app-based tour is perfect for those who prefer a self-directed experience free from large groups. With a mobile ticket system, you can start whenever suits you, pause, and resume as needed. While the tour offers a rundown of the murals and their artists, some reviews highlight that the guide’s information may need periodic updates, given the neighborhood’s rapid mural changes. Nonetheless, it provides an engaging way to see Denver’s street art scenes on a budget.

Key Points

• Affordable at $5 per person with no extra costs involved
• Self-guided experience using the WalknTours app
• Duration of 45 to 55 minutes, making it a quick yet enriching activity
• Begins at Denver Central Market and ends near the Queen Street Mural
• Ideal for solo travelers or small groups seeking independence and flexibility
• Some murals may have been painted over, so the tour is best for those open to updates

Starting Point at Denver Central Market

The tour kicks off at Denver Central Market, a vibrant hub located at 2669 Larimer St. This spot is easy to find and offers the chance to grab a coffee or snack before you begin your exploration. The market’s lively atmosphere sets a relaxed tone for the walk ahead. Starting at this central location also provides a convenient meet-and-start point for visitors staying nearby or arriving by public transit.

Walking Through RiNo’s Murals on Larimer Street

The first notable mural encountered is the Larimer Boy and Girl mural at 2715 Larimer St. This artwork features a three-dimensional canvas with two contrasting images: a sad girl from the south side and a lively boy from the north side. Its unique, multi-layered design makes it one of Denver’s most distinctive murals. This stop takes just a few minutes but offers a vivid introduction to RiNo’s street art style.

Social Justice Murals at Stem Ciders Patio

Next, the tour guides you to Stem Ciders, where from their patio, you can view the Breonna Taylor mural painted by artists Hiero Veiga and Thomas Detour Evans. These artists are known for using their work to advocate for social justice issues. Standing outside Stem Ciders provides an opportunity to appreciate both the art and the neighborhood’s community vibe, all while enjoying a drink or snack.

The IMAC Building’s Famous Eyes Mural

At IMAC, located at 2550 Larimer Street, the orange, blue, and red eyes mural wraps around the building’s walls. Known as the Eyes of IMAC, this mural is one of the neighborhood’s most recognized artworks. Its vibrant colors and large scale make it a striking visual highlight. The mural’s location on the building’s north and east sides means you get a comprehensive view as you walk by, and it’s a perfect photo spot.

Mural Alley and the Crush Walls Festival

A walk down Mural Alley at 1346 27th St marks a highlight of the tour. Each September, Denver hosts the Crush Walls Street Art Festival, where street artists cover the alley with fresh murals. This annual event transforms the space into a vibrant outdoor gallery, showcasing art that is constantly evolving. While some murals may change or be painted over, the alley remains a lively testament to Denver’s street art culture.

Murals Outside the Ramble Hotel

Outside the Ramble Hotel, the tour stops for a look at murals painted directly onto the hotel’s exterior walls. These artworks add character to the neighborhood and exemplify the integration of street art into Denver’s urban fabric. This stop is brief but offers a good chance to appreciate art in a hospitality setting, perfect for photo opportunities.

The Popular “Love This City” Mural

One of the most-visited murals in Denver, the Love This City Mural, is a highlight near the end of the tour. Its popularity stems from its vibrant depiction of Denver’s lively spirit. Visitors often pause here to take photos and reflect on the city’s creative energy. It’s a must-see for anyone who appreciates the visual vibrancy that murals bring to urban neighborhoods.

End of Tour at 1200 27th Street

The tour concludes at 1200 27th St, a street lined with murals showcasing some of Denver’s best street art. This location offers a final chance to see a variety of works, with the added benefit of proximity to the starting point at Denver Central Market. The ending spot also allows visitors to explore more murals or return to the market for a meal or coffee, making it an easy wrap-up.

Practicalities and Accessibility

The tour is designed to be flexible, with a duration of around 50 minutes, making it suitable for those with limited time or who prefer a leisurely pace. It begins at a well-known meeting point and is accessible via public transportation. The smartphone-based system means no in-person guide is involved, and the tour is private, catering solely to your group.

While the app provides detailed audio explanations of each mural and artist stories, some reviews note that the information may be outdated due to the dynamic mural scene in RiNo. The neighborhood’s murals are frequently painted over or refreshed, which may mean some descriptions no longer match the current artworks.

The Limitations and Potential Challenges

Several reviews mention that the tour setup can be overly detailed, requiring multiple downloads and clicks, which might be cumbersome. Plus, a few users report compatibility or technical issues, such as the audio system not working at the start. Some comments note that the murals described may have been repainted, leading to potential confusion and a less seamless experience.

However, the cost-effective price and the ability to explore at your own pace make this tour appealing, especially for those who enjoy street art and want independence from scheduled group tours. It’s best suited for visitors who are comfortable with smartphone apps and are open to occasional updates or minor inaccuracies.

Final Thoughts on Denver’s RiNo Self-Guided Tour

The Denver’s Art District Self Guided Walking Tour provides a budget-friendly, flexible way to see the city’s vibrant murals and learn about their origins. Its starting point at Denver Central Market and ending near the Queen Street Mural make for a convenient loop, perfect for a morning or afternoon activity.

While the tour’s reliance on an app means some information may be outdated due to the neighborhood’s ever-changing murals, many will appreciate the independent pace and the ability to see key artworks at their own speed. For street art enthusiasts and curious visitors alike, this experience offers a good overview of Denver’s dynamic RiNo scene, especially when paired with visits inside the Central Market or nearby galleries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for anyone with a smartphone?
Yes, the tour is delivered via the WalknTours app, compatible with smartphones, making it accessible for most users.

How long does the tour typically take?
The tour lasts around 45 to 55 minutes, depending on your pace and interest in each mural.

Can I start the tour at any time?
Yes, the tour is self-guided, and you can begin whenever you choose, starting at Denver Central Market.

Are the murals up to date?
Some murals may have been painted over or replaced, so descriptions in the app might not always match the current artworks.

Is the tour accessible for public transportation users?
Yes, the starting point at Denver Central Market is near public transit options.

What should I bring on the tour?
A smartphone with the WalknTours app installed, comfortable walking shoes, and possibly a water bottle and camera for photos.

Is there an age restriction?
The tour is suitable for most travelers; no specific age restrictions are noted.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.