Denver: RiNo Beer and Graffiti Tour

Discover the vibrant River North (RiNo) Art District in Denver on a guided tour that combines craft beer tasting with street art exploration. Priced at $55 per person and lasting 2.5 hours, this tour offers a lively mix of Denver’s industrial revival, creative murals, and local breweries. The tour departs from Ratio Beerworks, where you’ll be welcomed to sample 10 different beers and ciders, including a German-style pilsner and the well-loved Sippin Pretty sour-ale. With a high 4.9-star rating from 17 reviews, this tour is praised for its engaging guide, rich storytelling, and authentic local flavor.

While the tour emphasizes both beer tasting and street art, it caters best to those aged 21 and over, with wheelchair accessibility making it more inclusive. This experience offers a genuine glimpse into Denver’s craft brewing scene and urban art environment, making it ideal for enthusiasts of both beer and street culture.

Key Points

• Two and a half hours of guided walking in Denver’s RiNo district
• Taste 10 beers and ciders, including a German-style pilsner and a popular sour
• Visit a brewery founded by former punk-rockers
• Explore colorful street art murals with stories provided by a local guide
• Meet at Ratio Beerworks, tell the staff you’re there for the microbrew tour
• Cost is $55 per person, with a tasting glass souvenir included

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point at Ratio Beerworks in Denver

The tour begins at Ratio Beerworks, located in the heart of the RiNo neighborhood. Guests are asked to inform the bartender or host that they are there for the Denver Microbrew Tour. This convenient meeting point makes it easy to find, and the lively atmosphere of the brewery sets the tone for the experience. The price of $55, which includes beer and cider tastings plus the souvenir glass, offers good value considering the variety of drinks and insights provided. The 2.5-hour duration makes it manageable for most schedules, with options available in both morning and afternoon slots.

The Vibrant Atmosphere of Denver’s RiNo District

The River North (RiNo) Art District has become a hub of urban renewal and creative energy. Once a collection of warehouses and factories, it now hosts restaurants, galleries, and brewpubs. This transformation highlights Denver’s innovative spirit. The tour takes visitors through historic industrial buildings that serve as art galleries and breweries, showcasing the district’s transition from manufacturing to a thriving art and craft beer scene. The district’s lively, artistic vibe makes it a perfect setting for an engaging, walkable tour.

Visiting a Punk-Rock Inspired Brewery

One of the tour highlights is a brewery founded by former punk-rockers, adding a layer of countercultural authenticity. Guests get to sample 10 beers at this brewery, which offers a mix of creative styles and local favorites. The German-style pilsner stands out as a top craft lager, representing one of Denver’s best craft lager makers. The Sippin Pretty sour-ale is noted as one of the nation’s most popular, and it’s included in the tasting lineup.

Sampling 10 Beers and Ciders Along the Route

The beer tasting experience is a core part of this tour. Guests can expect to sample a variety of brews, each with its own story and flavor profile. The German-style pilsner provides a crisp, refreshing taste, while the Sippin Pretty sour-ale offers a tangy, complex flavor. Besides beer, some stops include cider samples, catering to a broader palate. The tasting glass souvenir serves as a memorable keepsake, and sampling at multiple breweries ensures a diverse experience of Denver’s craft scene.

More Great Tours Nearby

Street Art: Murals, Alleys, and Local Stories

Beyond the breweries, the tour emphasizes colorful street art murals characteristic of the RiNo neighborhood. These murals are found on buildings and in alleys, almost on every corner, creating a vibrant, outdoor gallery. The local guide shares stories behind the murals, explaining the artists’ visions and the neighborhood’s urban culture. This artistic aspect complements the craft beer experience, giving visitors insight into Denver’s creative community.

Accessibility and Practical Tips for Tour Participants

The tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing guests with mobility needs to enjoy the experience comfortably. Participants are asked to bring a passport or ID card for age verification. Since the tour is geared toward those over 21, minors are not permitted. The flexible booking option allows cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Tour starts at Ratio Beerworks, and no transportation is provided between stops, so guests should be prepared for walking around the district.

The Guide: Knowledgeable and Engaging

Reviews highlight the guide’s friendliness, knowledge, and storytelling skills. The guide provides insight into both Denver’s craft brewing and street art scenes, making the tour engaging and informative. One review praises the guide’s passion and ability to create a welcoming environment, which enhances the overall experience. Expect to learn fun facts about breweries and murals, adding depth to the sightseeing.

The Pacing and Overall Experience

The 2.5-hour pace allows for ample tasting and art exploration without feeling rushed. Guests enjoy a relaxed walk through RiNo’s streets, with stops at key breweries and murals. The experience balances drinking, learning, and visual sightseeing effectively, making it suitable for those with moderate physical activity. The tour’s timing can be flexible, with options in the morning or afternoon, fitting well into most itineraries.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour suits adults over 21 who appreciate craft beer and are curious about urban street art. It’s an excellent choice for local residents wanting to explore their city’s latest trends or visitors seeking a taste of Denver’s creative and brewing culture. Guests should enjoy walking outdoors and sampling a variety of local brews. The informative guide and vibrant neighborhood make this experience memorable for anyone interested in Denver’s modern urban scene.

Why Choose the Denver: RiNo Beer and Graffiti Tour

This tour provides a balanced mix of beer tasting and street art discovery, making it stand out from more traditional brewery visits. The high ratings reflect consistent positive feedback about the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, as well as the quality of the beers. At $55, including 10 samples and a souvenir glass, it offers excellent value for a rich, local experience. While it’s focused on adults, the tour’s accessible format ensures it can accommodate various mobility needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or minors?
No, the tour is only for guests aged 21 and over.

What is included in the price?
The $55 fee covers beer and cider tastings, a tasting glass souvenir, and the guided walking experience.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Ratio Beerworks in Denver’s RiNo district. Guests should inform the staff they’re there for the microbrew tour.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration is 2.5 hours, typically offered in morning and afternoon sessions.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour includes wheelchair accessible routes.

Are there any practical tips for participants?
Guests should bring passport or ID for age verification and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

What makes this tour different from other beer tours?
Its unique focus on both craft beer and street art murals provides a comprehensive look at Denver’s urban culture.

Is there a guide with local knowledge?
Absolutely, the guide is praised for storytelling, friendliness, and expertise on both breweries and murals.

Can I expect to see famous murals or hidden art?
The guide shares stories behind murals, which include well-known and local artists’ work, making the art both accessible and meaningful.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby