Downtown Denver Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

The Downtown Denver Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours offers a compelling journey through the city’s lively streets, blending culinary delights with intriguing local lore. Priced at $99 per person, this 3-hour guided experience is designed for those interested in savoring Denver’s diverse flavors while exploring its historic neighborhoods. With a 5.0-star rating from 78 reviews and an impressive 97% recommendation rate, this tour stands out as a top choice for food lovers and history buffs alike. Its frequent booking, often 40 days in advance, suggests a well-loved and highly organized experience.

This tour begins at Billy’s Gourmet Hot Dogs on Larimer Street and concludes at ChoLon Downtown on Blake Street, taking you on an engaging walk through some of Denver’s most iconic locations. The guide leads you through LoDo (Lower Downtown), a neighborhood famous for its blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy. Expect to indulge in a variety of local dishes including smoked sausage, fried Chile relleno, and Vietnamese iced coffee ice cream. While the tour covers significant ground and features many stops, participants should be prepared for a substantial amount of walking and ample food portions.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $99, this 3-hour tour provides a thorough taste of Denver’s culinary and historic scene.
• Highlights: Visits to Ballpark District, Union Station, Dairy Block, Denver Union Station, and historic sites like the Oxford Hotel and Rockmount Ranch Wear.
• Food Highlights: Enjoy Colorado Elk Smoked Sausage, Fried Chile Relleno, Pork Green Chili, Big Mac Pizza, and Vietnamese Iced Coffee Ice Cream.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Austin, Jon, and Alexis are praised for their local knowledge, personable approach, and engaging storytelling.
• Tour Format: The tour is private for your group, includes free stops, and most travelers can participate.
• Booking and Cancellation: Reserve well in advance, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the start.

Exploring Denver’s Historic Districts and Landmarks

This walking tour delves into the heart of Denver’s Lower Downtown (LoDo) neighborhood, a district rich with history dating back to 1858, when gold was discovered at the confluence of the South Platte River and Cherry Creek. The tour’s first stop is the Ballpark District, a lively area around Coors Field that combines sports, brews, and lively nightlife. Here, you’ll see the historic building constructed in 1889 by Madam Jennie Rogers, once considered the most elegant bordello in the Rocky Mountain West. The building later served as a Buddhist temple and warehouse until 1998, adding layers to Denver’s colorful past.

The tour continues to Coors Field, home of the Colorado Rockies, which opened in 1995 and accommodates over 50,000 spectators. It’s a chance to see the city’s sports pride and enjoy views of the nearby mountains. These stops set the scene for Denver’s transformation from a frontier town to a modern city.

Union Station and the Vibrant Micro-District of Dairy Block

Next, the tour reaches Union Station, a hub of both history and contemporary Denver. Opened in 1881 and revitalized in 2014, it now functions as a transportation hub, hotel, and social space. Its architecture and bustling atmosphere reflect Denver’s blend of past and present. Walking a short distance, visitors explore the Dairy Block, a lively micro-district once home to Windsor Dairy. Today, it hosts 15 shops, 19 restaurants, and a boutique hotel, showcasing Denver’s modern urban renewal.

The Dairy Block offers a snapshot of Denver’s adaptive reuse of historic spaces, with each shop and restaurant adding to the neighborhood’s charm. The tour’s brief stop here highlights its significance as a lively hub that combines history with contemporary culture.

The Oxford Hotel and Western Wear Heritage

The Oxford Hotel, established in 1891, is Denver’s oldest surviving hotel. Designed by Frank Edbrooke and developed by Adolph Zang, it was originally built for travelers arriving via Union Station. Restored in the early 1980s, it became a pioneer in Denver’s boutique hotel scene. This stop showcases the city’s preservation efforts and its appreciation for historic architecture.

The tour also visits Rockmount Ranch Wear, founded in 1946 by Papa Jack Weil, who served as the world’s oldest CEO until his passing at 107 years old. This historic Western wear company first introduced snap buttons on shirts and bolo ties—items now familiar as symbols of Western style. Its Smithsonian collection presence underscores its cultural significance.

Culinary Highlights: Sampling Denver’s Local Flavors

Throughout the tour, guests sample a range of local specialties. The Colorado Elk Smoked Sausage offers a taste of regional game meat, while the Fried Chile Relleno provides a spicy, cheesy bite. The Pork Green Chili is a Denver classic, perfect for warming up during the walk. The Big Mac Pizza introduces a fun twist on familiar comfort food, and the Vietnamese Iced Coffee Ice Cream offers a refreshing, caffeinated dessert.

Each dish is thoughtfully chosen to represent Denver’s diverse food scene, paying homage to its Western roots and modern cosmopolitan flair. The secret dish adds an element of surprise, rounding out the culinary journey.

The Guide’s Role and Tour Pacing

Guides such as Austin, Jon, and Alexis earn praise for their knowledgeable, personable, and engaging style. They weave stories about Denver’s gold rush past, share fun facts about local landmarks, and recommend spots for further exploration. The tour maintains a comfortable pace, balancing walking with food breaks, and is suitable for most travelers.

While the tour covers multiple stops, the substantial food portions mean participants often feel satisfied by the end. Review feedback suggests the tour is well-organized, with helpful tips from guides and a good rhythm.

Logistics and Accessibility

The tour departs from Billy’s Gourmet Hot Dogs and ends at ChoLon Downtown, making it convenient for those using public transportation. The experience is private for your group, and most people can participate, though specific dietary needs should be discussed beforehand.

Participants should be prepared for a moderate walk around downtown Denver and be comfortable with large food portions, which sometimes could be offered in half sizes for those with smaller appetites. The tour is weather-dependent, with a full refund if canceled due to poor conditions.

Final Thoughts on Value and Suitability

Priced at $99, the tour offers an excellent combination of food, culture, and city exploration. The high ratings and consistent praise for the guides’ storytelling and food quality make it a reliable choice. It’s especially appealing for those interested in Denver’s history, diverse cuisine, and urban charm.

The tour’s main limitation may be the food portions, which are generous and might be challenging for those with small appetites. Plus, the 3-hour duration requires comfortable walking and an interest in outdoor urban environments. This tour suits foodies, history buffs, and visitors eager to see Denver beyond the typical tourist spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or specific dietary needs?
You should inquire prior to booking to see if accommodations are possible. The tour emphasizes local foods, but dietary restrictions can typically be discussed.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, transportation is not included. The tour starts at Billy’s Gourmet Hot Dogs and ends at ChoLon Downtown, both accessible by public transit.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Are the food portions large?
Yes, the portions are substantial, often enough to be considered filling. Some stops may offer half-size options if requested.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
Its combination of historic sites, local culinary favorites, and personalized guides like Austin and Jon make it a standout experience. The private group format ensures tailored attention.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Participants should be comfortable with moderate walking over a few hours, with some standing and strolling through downtown Denver.

What is the best time to book this tour?
Most bookings are made around 40 days in advance, which suggests securing a spot early is wise to ensure availability.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Most travelers can participate, though very young children or those with mobility issues should consider the walking aspect and food choices.

Are tips included?
No, gratuities are not included and are customary if you wish to thank your guide for excellent service.