Denver After Dark Adults Only Walking Ghost Tour

If you’ve ever wondered what secrets lie beneath Denver’s lively streets after sunset, the Denver After Dark Adults Only Walking Ghost Tour promises a spine-tingling journey through the city’s darker, more scandalous history. Marketed as an adults-only experience, this tour aims to blend ghost stories with real historical context, offering a different way to explore Denver’s past. Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of ghost stories, or just looking for something out of the ordinary, this 1.5-hour walk might be just what you need.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on local stories and the personalized experience provided by a small group—limited to just nine travelers. This means more interaction with your guide and a greater chance to ask questions or hear details that might get lost in a larger crowd. We also like the cost, which is quite reasonable at $34.99 per person, especially considering the depth of storytelling and the historic sites you’ll visit. A potential downside? Some reviews suggest that the storytelling can vary depending on the guide, so your experience may depend on who’s leading it that night.

This tour is best suited for adults who love history, ghost stories, or a little mystery with their city walk. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a more intimate, personalized experience that avoids the typical cookie-cutter tours. However, if you prefer a very gory or detailed horror experience, you might find this tour leans more toward storytelling than scares.

Key Points

• Small group size (up to 9 people) ensures a personalized experience
• Focus on Denver’s haunted sites, scandals, and historic buildings
• Tour length of about 1.5 hours makes it a manageable evening activity
• Cost-effective at under $35 per person
• Offers a mix of history, ghost stories, and local legends
• Guided by knowledgeable locals, but storytelling quality varies

Exploring the Itinerary: What You’ll See and Experience

Start at Union Station (1701 Wynkoop St)

The tour kicks off at Denver’s iconic Union Station, a hub rich in history. Your guide will shed light on the Gold Rush of 1858 and the Silver crash of 1893, two pivotal events that shaped Denver’s development. The station itself, with its vintage architecture and bustling atmosphere, sets a fitting stage for tales of Denver’s boom-era scandals and ghostly whispers. This initial stop is brief—about 15 minutes—but serves as a solid foundation for the stories that follow. The tour’s emphasis on history intertwined with ghost lore makes these first stories all the more compelling.

The Crawford Hotel

Next, you’ll visit this historic hotel, which was once Denver’s first railroad station. The Crawford Hotel’s haunted past is a highlight, with stories of past guests and unexplained phenomena. The hotel combines vintage charm with a reputation for ghostly activity, making it a perfect stop for those intrigued by the supernatural. Here, your guide might share tales of mysterious apparitions or unexplained noises, adding a layer of intrigue to the beautifully restored interiors.

Icehouse Tavern

This former cold storage facility in the Rocky Mountain region now functions as a lively tavern. But the real draw here is its role in Denver’s industrial and commercial history. You’ll learn about the largest cold storage in the region and hear stories that mix economic triumphs and tragedies. The tavern’s ambiance, combined with its dark past, makes it a memorable stop. Be prepared for stories of businesses lost to fire, ghostly sightings, or secret dealings that once took place behind its walls.

18th Street & Lawrence Street

Here, your guide will discuss Denver’s Cable Railway Co., which played a key role in the city’s transportation history. This stop offers insights into Denver’s growth and urban development, with tales of scandal, accidents, and perhaps some ghostly hitchhikers. The intersection itself is lively, but the stories you hear will transport you back to a time when Denver was rapidly expanding.

18th Street & Market Street

This spot introduces the story of The Equitable Life Assurance Society of New York’s expansion into Denver, alongside the economic downturn following the silver crash. Expect stories of financial ruin, corporate intrigue, and perhaps some ghostly echoes of those who suffered during those turbulent times. The mix of business history and ghostly lore keeps the storytelling engaging, especially in this historic part of downtown.

Bryan White US Courthouse (1823 Stout St)

Your tour wraps up at this historic courthouse, famed for its haunted reputation. The building’s legal dramas and stories of unsolved mysteries make for a fitting conclusion. Here, you’ll hear about the courtroom ghosts and the historic figures associated with the courthouse who might still linger in the shadows. This final stop offers a satisfying blend of history and supernatural tales, leaving you with a lingering sense of Denver’s darker past.

What to Expect During the Tour

Group Size & Atmosphere: With a maximum of nine travelers, the tour maintains an intimate, friendly vibe. This means more direct interaction with your guide, who can tailor stories to interest the group. Many reviews highlight the energy and knowledge of guides, with some guides standing out for their enthusiasm and storytelling flair.

Pace & Duration: The 1 hour 30-minute walk covers roughly 1.5 to 2 miles, making it a brisk but comfortable pace. Participants should be prepared for some light walking and standing, but it’s suitable for most ages and fitness levels. The tour is conducted outdoors, so dress for the weather—layers are recommended, especially in the evening.

Stories & Content: The stories are a mix of historical facts, local legends, and ghostly tales. While some reviews praise guides like Logan for their enthusiasm and knowledge, others note that storytelling quality can vary. One reviewer mentioned that some stories felt “bland and obviously fake,” highlighting that this experience can depend on your guide’s style.

Price & Value: At $34.99 per person, this tour offers great value for a themed, guided walk. You’re paying not just for the stories but for the opportunity to see historic sites in an engaging way. Plus, the small group size adds to the personalized feel, making it more than just a standard tour.

Authenticity & Experiences: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Historical accuracy is emphasized by the tour provider, Ghost City Tours of Denver. They aim to blend accurate history with ghost stories, giving you a layered understanding of Denver’s past. Many guests appreciated the local insight and the ability to see Denver through a different lens, beyond the typical sightseeing.

Stories of ghosts and scandals are told without over-the-top gore, focusing instead on the lurid and intriguing aspects of Denver’s darker side. This makes it suitable for adults who enjoy a good story without the horror being too intense or graphic.

Several reviews praise guides like Madison and Megan for their enthusiasm and knowledge, which significantly enhances the experience. Conversely, less engaging guides might make the stories feel less compelling, so your enjoyment could depend on the guide’s style.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Book early—the tour is popular, with bookings typically happening 13 days in advance.
• Arrive prepared for the weather, as it’s an outdoor walking tour.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket if needed, especially in cooler months.
• Tip your guide—most reviews suggest the guides are worth a gratuity, especially if they deliver a memorable experience.
• Bring a sense of curiosity and humor—these stories are meant to entertain and surprise.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This ghost tour is ideal for adults interested in history, ghost stories, or Denver’s shadowy past. Its small-group format appeals to those who prefer a more personal experience, and it’s perfect as an evening activity after a day of sightseeing. If you’re looking for an authentic, locally guided walk with a spooky twist, you’ll find it here.

However, if you’re after genuine horror or gory details, this might not satisfy. The stories tend to be more atmospheric and historical rather than intensely frightening. Also, if you’re not comfortable walking or standing outdoors in the dark, you might want to consider your comfort level.

For those who enjoy a mix of history and ghost tales, combined with a small, intimate group, the Denver After Dark Adults Only Walking Ghost Tour offers a solid, affordable option. It’s a chance to explore Denver’s haunted sites and scandalous past with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. While storytelling quality may vary depending on the guide, many guests find the experience enthralling and fun, especially when guided by a passionate storyteller.

This tour is best suited for adults who appreciate history with a spooky twist and prefer a personalized experience over large, impersonal group tours. It provides a unique perspective on Denver—one that blends urban exploration with ghostly legends—making it a memorable part of any Denver visit.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, covering about 1.5 to 2 miles of walking.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Denver Union Station and ends at 1823 Stout Street.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s an adults-only tour, mainly because of the content and themes.

What’s included in the price?
You get a historically accurate ghost tour led by a knowledgeable guide. No additional tickets are required for the stops.

Are there any accommodations for special needs?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. However, since it’s a walking tour, it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

Is there a dress code or specific attire?
Dress comfortably for the weather, as the tour takes place outdoors in the evening.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellations are available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How many people typically join?
The group is limited to a maximum of 30, but most small groups are around 9 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

In the end, whether you’re a local or just passing through Denver, this ghostly walk offers a fun, insightful way to see the city’s haunted side and get a taste of its historic scandals—all in a manageable, affordable package.