Downtown Denver Food Tour

Discover Denver’s Culinary and Cultural Heart in Just Three Hours

The Downtown Denver Food Tour offers an engaging way to explore the city’s vibrant culinary scene and historic landmarks in a compact, three-hour walking experience. Priced at $85 per person, this tour is guided by knowledgeable local guides and features five tastings from some of Denver’s top restaurants. The tour departs from Marco’s Coal Fired and winds through iconic neighborhoods like Ballpark District and LoDo, passing by standout sights such as Coors Field and Union Station.

What makes this tour especially appealing is its blend of delicious local food and Denver’s rich history. With an average booking window of 24 days in advance and a maximum group size of 15 travelers, the experience feels intimate and well-paced. While the price includes all taxes and fees, optional 3-beverage pairings are available for an extra $26. This tour suits food lovers eager to taste Denver’s best bites while discovering the city’s story.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $85 per person for a 3-hour guided walking tour.
• Stops and Tastings: Includes five food tastings at top local restaurants, such as Marco’s Coal Fired, Cherry Cricket, and Kachina Cantina.
• Landmarks Explored: Pass by Coors Field, Union Station, McGregor Square, and the historic Dairy Block.
• Guide Expertise: Led by passionate guides like Barry and Forrest, known for their local knowledge and engaging storytelling.
• Insider Tips: Receive a dining insider’s guide and suggestions for the rest of your stay in Denver.
• Optional Add-Ons: Upgrade to include three drink pairings for $26.

Starting Point at Marco’s Coal Fired Pizzeria

The tour kicks off at Marco’s Coal Fired on Larimer Street, a Michelin Guide-recommended spot famous for its Neapolitan wood-fired pizza. Here, you meet your guide and small group, ready to explore downtown Denver’s food scene. The restaurant’s authentic pizza sets the tone for the day, showcasing Denver’s appreciation for quality ingredients and traditional methods.

Sampling Top-Rated Pizzeria and Neighborhood Highlights

Following the start at Marco’s, the walk leads into the bustling Ballpark District, an energetic neighborhood named after Coors Field, the home of the Colorado Rockies. While passing by the stadium, visitors enjoy a quick view of this lively area filled with bars and restaurants. This part of the tour provides context about Denver’s sports culture and vibrant nightlife.

Authentic Empanadas from Lazo Empanadas

A highlight is the visit to Lazo Empanadas in the Ballpark area, where Argentinian brothers serve some of Denver’s best freshly baked empanadas. This stop emphasizes Denver’s diverse culinary influences, and the empanadas are praised for their authentic flavor and delicious fillings. The 20-minute visit allows enough time to savor these authentic Argentine treats and learn about their origins.

Denver’s Favorite Green Chili at Cherry Cricket

Just steps from Coors Field, the Cherry Cricket offers a chance to taste Denver’s prized green chili. Known as a local staple, the green chili here is considered among the city’s best, making it a must-try. The 20-minute stop allows guests to enjoy a hearty scoop and absorb the lively atmosphere of this popular eatery.

Visiting Coors Field and Passing Landmarks

The tour includes a quick stop at Coors Field, an iconic Denver baseball stadium built in 1995. Though there’s little time for a tour inside, the exterior view adds a layer of sports history to the experience. Visitors also walk past hotspots like McGregor Square, a recent development with a stadium-sized LED screen, and the historic Dairy Block, a district filled with shops, restaurants, and bars.

Exploring Lower Downtown (LoDo)

The walk continues into LoDo (Lower Downtown), Denver’s bustling core. This neighborhood boasts some of the city’s finest local restaurants and bars. The guide shares stories about Denver’s raucous past and the area’s transformation, giving context to its lively modern vibe.

Mexican Fusion and Tapas at Kachina Cantina and Ultreia

At Kachina Cantina in the Dairy Block, guests indulge in Native American-inspired tacos and colorful Mexican fusion cuisine. The 25-minute stop highlights Denver’s inventive food scene and the chef’s creative use of local ingredients. Later, inside Union Station, Ultreia offers a Spanish/Portuguese tapas-style dessert, providing a sweet conclusion to the tasting journey.

Celebrating Local Brews and Historic Hotel

The tour also includes a visit to The Wynkoop Brewery, known for its local beers and flavorful dishes, giving insight into Denver’s craft beer culture. The final stops feature Union Station, a historic landmark revitalized into a cultural hub with exceptional dining options and the Crawford Hotel. Guests have free time to explore the station’s shops or relax after the walk.

Tour Logistics and Additional Details

The meeting point is at Marco’s Coal Fired on Larimer Street, with the tour ending at Union Station on Wynkoop Street. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available with advance notice. Rain or shine, the tour runs, and most guests can participate comfortably, given the flat and walkable route. For those not wanting to walk back after, parking options near the endpoint are available, with a detailed parking map provided.

Guide Quality and Guest Experience

Reviews consistently praise guide enthusiasm and knowledge, with guides like Barry and Forrest standing out for their storytelling. Guests appreciate the delicious tastings, which include local favorites like wood-fired pizza, empanadas, and green chili. The tour also receives high marks for insider tips on dining and attractions, making it a valuable resource for visitors seeking both food and city insights.

Value for Money and Extra Perks

At $85, the tour offers a well-curated experience of Denver’s food and landmarks in just three hours, with five tastings included. Guests receive an insiders’ guide to Denver dining, plus optional beverage pairings. The tour’s small group size and passionate guides create an intimate and engaging atmosphere, often leading to new connections and a deeper appreciation of Denver’s local scene.

Final Thoughts on the Downtown Denver Food Tour

This tour presents a comprehensive snapshot of Denver’s vibrant culinary and historic landscapes. It’s especially suited for food lovers, history enthusiasts, and those wanting a guided introduction to downtown Denver. The delicious food stops, combined with insights into Denver’s past and present, make it a worthwhile investment for a memorable afternoon.

While the price is competitive, the tour’s duration means you’ll experience a lot in a short time, with the flexibility to extend your Denver exploration afterward. The guide’s enthusiasm and local knowledge shine through, ensuring an enjoyable and educational outing. If you’re after great food, insider tips, and a lively walk through Denver’s core, this tour offers an authentic taste of the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or those with food allergies?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free tastings are available with advance notice to accommodate dietary restrictions.

How long is the tour and what does it include?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and includes five food tastings, a guiding experience, and a Denver dining insider’s guide.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Marco’s Coal Fired on Larimer Street and concludes at Union Station on Wynkoop Street.

Can I purchase drinks during the tour?
Yes, three-beverage drink pairings can be added for $26, though they are not included in the base price.

Is the tour accessible for most people?
Yes, the route is flat and walkable, suitable for most travelers. Most guests can participate comfortably.

What’s the recommended booking window?
Most bookings are made 24 days in advance, but availability depends on demand.

What do guests say about the guides?
Guests frequently praise guides like Barry and Forrest for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and storytelling.

What landmarks will I see along the way?
You’ll pass by Coors Field, McGregor Square, Dairy Block, and Union Station, among others.

Is this tour good for first-time visitors to Denver?
Absolutely, it’s a perfect way to get an introduction to downtown Denver’s food scene and landmarks in one afternoon.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a curiosity for Denver’s food and history are all you need.