Downtown Denver Cocktails Tour

A Taste of Downtown Denver: The Cocktails Tour Experience

When it comes to experiencing Denver’s vibrant food and drink scene, the Downtown Denver Cocktails Tour offers a lively, immersive way to sample some of the best local bars and iconic landmarks. This 2-hour guided adventure takes you through the heart of the city, visiting three standout cocktail bars, each paired with small bites and engaging stories from a knowledgeable local guide. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of history, culture, and a good drink, all within a compact, well-organized format.

What truly makes this tour shine is its focus on authentic Denver establishments, from the historic Union Station to the trendy Dairy Block district. We especially appreciate the way the tour combines tasty cocktails with insider insights into Denver’s burgeoning culinary scene. However, a potential consideration is the tour’s fixed menu — if you have specific dietary restrictions like gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan, this might not be the best fit. Still, the overall experience is highly recommended for curious travelers, foodies, and those wanting a relaxed, social introduction to Denver’s downtown core.

Key Points
– Centered in Iconic Locations: Starts at Union Station, exploring Denver’s historic and modern highlights.
– Tasty Pairings: Enjoy four craft cocktails, each paired with small bites for a balanced experience.
– Expert Local Guides: Learn about Denver’s cocktail history, prohibition days, and culinary scene from knowledgeable guides.
– Intimate Group Size: Limited to 10 participants for a personalized, engaging experience.
– Flexible & Convenient: 2-hour tour with options to reserve in advance and pay later, ideal for flexible travel plans.
– Unbeatable Value: At $95, the experience combines drinks, bites, sightseeing, and insider tips, making it a worthwhile investment.

The Journey Through Denver’s Downtown

This tour is designed to give you a concentrated look at Denver’s lively downtown, blending history, architecture, and flavors seamlessly. It begins at the historic Union Station, a must-see for visitors. Picture soaring ceilings, classic architecture, and a bustling hub that’s been the city’s transportation and social center since 1881. Standing there, you’ll get a sense of Denver’s evolution from a rugged frontier town to a modern city, all while getting ready to sample some of its best cocktails.

The guided walk then takes you through the surrounding blocks, providing insights into the city’s growth, especially its recent culinary renaissance. Denver isn’t just about mountains; it’s a hub of innovative food and drink, and this tour showcases that perfectly.

First Stop: Union Station and Tavernetta

The tour kicks off at 1701 Wynkoop St, close to the Crawford Hotel within Union Station. This spot is more than just a starting point — it’s a symbol of Denver’s blend of history and design. Here, you’ll get a quick 10-minute guided tour, setting the stage for what’s to come.

Next, you’ll head to Tavernetta, a popular spot known for its Italian-inspired cuisine and craft cocktails. This stop is where the tasting begins in earnest, with a cocktail and small plates. One guest fondly remembered the guide, Barry, who was “very knowledgeable about the places we went and Denver in general,” adding a personal touch to the experience. Here, the focus is on quality drinks like a light spritz, paired with bites that complement the flavors. It’s a great way to kick off your tasting adventure, setting the tone for the rest of the tour.

Second Stop: The Oxford Hotel and Urban Farmer

After exploring Union Station, your group visits The Oxford Hotel, Denver’s oldest hotel, offering a glimpse into the city’s historic past. A quick 10-minute guided tour helps you appreciate the architecture and stories behind this landmark. The Oxford’s charm lies in its vintage decor and storied past, making it a scenic spot for sightseeing and photo opportunities.

The next stop is Urban Farmer Denver, where you’ll sample more cocktails in a modern, farm-to-table setting. Expect a 30-minute tasting session, where you’ll enjoy a craft cocktail crafted with care. This part of the tour highlights Denver’s recent culinary growth, focusing on local ingredients and innovative mixology.

Final Stops: Dairy Block and Poka Lola Social Club

The tour continues to Dairy Block, one of Denver’s newest micro-districts, known for its trendy vibe, boutique shops, and lively atmosphere. A quick guided sightseeing tour gives you a taste of this district’s distinctive character. This stop acts as a bridge between older Denver history and its modern, creative scene.

Then, you’ll visit Poka Lola Social Club, a lively, eclectic bar renowned for its inventive cocktails and retro vibe. Here, you’ll be served another craft cocktail and paired bites — a perfect setting for mingling and sharing impressions. One reviewer noted that “our guide Barry was very knowledgeable” and made the experience enjoyable. The relaxed atmosphere and diverse drink options make this a highlight for many.

Wrapping Up: Final Thoughts and Practical Details

The tour wraps up at 1850 Wazee St, a convenient spot where you can continue exploring or head back to your accommodation. Throughout the experience, you’ll learn about Denver’s history, its prohibition days, and its current culinary scene — all in a friendly, small-group setting.

The entire experience offers a good mix of sightseeing, tasting, and storytelling. Considering it costs $95 per person, the value is quite solid. You’re sampling four cocktails and enjoying three paired bites, guided by an expert, all within a compact two-hour window. This makes it a great choice for travelers short on time but eager to get a flavorful, insider perspective on Denver’s downtown.

What We Loved and What to Consider

We appreciated the knowledge and enthusiasm of guides like Barry, who brought stories from Denver’s past to life while sharing insider tips. The cocktails were well-chosen, from light, refreshing spritzes to more complex Old Fashioned variations, showcasing Denver’s diverse cocktail scene. The paired bites added a satisfying culinary element without overwhelming, making each stop a balanced experience.

However, the fixed menus and the inability to accommodate gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan diets might be a drawback for some. Also, with only minimal walking involved, it’s suitable for most mobility levels, but those expecting a long, extensive tour might find it a bit brief.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for foodies, drink enthusiasts, and history buffs seeking a relaxed, social way to explore Denver’s downtown. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers wanting an authentic taste of the city’s cocktail culture with a local guide. If you enjoy storytelling, tasty drinks, and seeing historic landmarks, this tour will hit the spot.

To sum it up, the Downtown Denver Cocktails Tour balances delicious drinks, interesting stories, and sightseeing in a way that’s both fun and educational. It offers great value for the price, especially considering the guidance, tastings, and insider tips included. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting a curated, small-group experience that captures Denver’s lively spirit.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $95 per person, which covers four cocktails, three paired bites, guiding, and sightseeing.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 2 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins near the Crawford Hotel inside Union Station at 1701 Wynkoop St and ends back at the same location, making it easy to continue exploring afterward.

Is the tour suitable for dietary restrictions?
Unfortunately, the menu is fixed, and gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan diets cannot be accommodated.

What is included in the experience?
Guests receive four cocktail samples, three paired bites, a guided tour, insider dining tips, and personalized restaurant/bar suggestions.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized and engaging experience.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
Minimal walking is involved, less than half a mile over the two hours, suitable for most people with average mobility.

Is this tour appropriate for minors or pregnant women?
No, the tour is not suitable for people under 21 or pregnant women due to alcohol consumption.

What should I bring?
Just a valid ID or passport; dress comfortably for walking outdoors.

In summary, the Downtown Denver Cocktails Tour is a well-rounded, enjoyable introduction to the city’s lively drink scene and historic landmarks. Whether you’re a local looking to discover new spots or a visitor eager to taste Denver’s best cocktails, this tour offers a memorable, value-packed experience rooted in authentic local flavors and stories.