Cocktails, Murals and True Crime in RiNo

This tour offers a fascinating mix of street art, Denver history, and true crime tales in the trendy RiNo district. Spanning just over two hours, it combines visual delights with storytelling that keeps you engaged from start to finish. Led by Jeremy, a knowledgeable and friendly guide, the experience is designed for those interested in art, history, or chilling stories from Colorado’s past.

One of the standout features of this tour is its ability to seamlessly blend visual and narrative storytelling—the murals are stunning, and the true crime stories are gripping. The small group size (max 10 people) ensures a relaxed, personalized atmosphere. However, it’s worth noting that the itinerary involves walking roughly 2 miles, so comfort with moderate activity is ideal. This experience is perfect for travelers who want a laid-back, immersive look into Denver’s creative neighborhoods and dark history, all while enjoying some expertly curated drinks.

Key Points

• Unique blend: Combines street art, local history, and true crime stories for a well-rounded experience.
• Small group vibe: Max 10 travelers for a more intimate and flexible tour.
• Food and drinks: Multiple stops at popular venues for cocktails, pizza, and local bites.
• Flexibility: The tour can adjust focus depending on the group’s interests—less true crime if preferred.
• Duration & pace: Around 2 hours 15 minutes, walking about 2 miles at a comfortable pace.
• Authentic insights: The guide, Jeremy, is praised for his storytelling and friendly attitude.

The tour kicks off in Denver’s River North Art District (RiNo)—a hotbed of creativity set amid former industrial buildings. As you walk along Upper Larimer Street, you’ll encounter eye-catching murals that turn the neighborhood into an outdoor gallery. The vibrancy of the street art is immediately apparent, with colorful, large-scale murals that often serve as a visual narrative connecting with the stories you’ll hear later.

Jeremy shares insights into the history of RiNo, explaining how this area transformed from gritty warehouses into a hub for artists, musicians, and foodies. The district’s revival is visible everywhere, from the renovated buildings to the eclectic food halls like the Denver Central Market and The Source. These venues add local flavor, offering everything from craft beers to artisanal foods, making stops along the way a highlight in themselves.

Murals and Food Stops: Visual Feast and Local Flavors

The tour’s first major stop is Improper City, a sprawling outdoor space surrounded by food trucks and bustling with energy. Here, you’ll enjoy your first cocktail or local beer while admiring some of the district’s most iconic murals. The setting offers a fantastic combination of urban art and lively social vibes. Reviewers often mention how Jeremy’s relaxed approach made the stop feel natural, with plenty of time to soak in the art and chat with fellow travelers.

Next, the group heads into Denver Central Market, an airy marketplace where meat, fish, fresh produce, and baked goods are on display. Here, you might want to grab a slice of pizza or a refreshing drink before continuing the walk. It’s a place that captures the essence of Denver’s local food scene—fresh, flavorful, and community-oriented.

The Lush Garden and Final Drinks

The last stop is Wonderyard Garden + Table, a lovely garden-themed bar and restaurant. It’s an ideal spot for winding down, with options for flatbreads, shareable dishes, and inventive cocktails or zero-proof drinks. The lush setting creates a relaxed, almost retreat-like atmosphere that lets you reflect on the day’s sights and stories. It’s also flexible—if some guests prefer to head out sooner, they can do so without feeling rushed.

One of the most distinctive features of this tour is its true crime component, which sets it apart from typical art walks. Jeremy shares stories about Colorado’s infamous cases like JonBenet Ramsey, Columbine, Chris Watts, and even Ted Bundy, who famously escaped from jail in Denver. The stories are woven into murals or historical context, providing visual anchors that make the tales even more compelling.

Multiple reviewers mention how Jeremy’s storytelling is captivating without sensationalism. As one reviewer notes, “His storytelling is captivating, blending historical facts with riveting anecdotes that keep you engaged throughout.” These stories add a layer of intrigue, especially for those fascinated by the darker side of urban history.

If true crime isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, Jeremy is flexible and can shift the focus more towards Denver’s art or local history. This flexibility makes the tour adaptable and enjoyable for a wider audience.

At $75 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the amount of time, the curated stops, and the personalized touch. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, where Jeremy can answer questions and tailor the tour to your interests.

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours 15 minutes and covers about 2 miles, making it accessible for most travelers with moderate walking ability. The meeting point is central at Wonderyard Garden + Table, and the tour ends right back at the start, making logistics simple.

Pre-bookings are recommended, with bookings typically made about 3 weeks in advance. Given its popularity, especially among art and true crime enthusiasts, securing your spot early is wise.

What Travelers Appreciate

• The blend of visual art and storytelling keeps the tour engaging.
• The stops at popular venues add local flavor and relaxed pacing.
• Many mention Jeremy’s friendly demeanor and deep knowledge.
• The opportunity to see Denver’s stunning murals up close is a real highlight.
• The flexibility to shift focus makes it suitable for different interests.

This experience is best for travelers seeking an authentic and relaxed introduction to Denver’s RiNo neighborhood. It’s ideal for those who appreciate street art, local cuisine, and engaging stories, including true crime aficionados. The mix of visual and narrative content creates a well-rounded glimpse into Denver’s vibrant urban culture.

Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers looking for a smaller, more personal tour will find this a worthwhile outing. Those with mobility concerns should note the walking involved, but overall, it’s a comfortable, accessible experience.

The Cocktails, Murals and True Crime in RiNo tour delivers a lively, insightful look into Denver’s artistic and darker side. Jeremy’s friendly, engaging style makes it a fun and educational outing, especially if you enjoy stories that add depth to the visual feast of murals. The stops for drinks and food are thoughtfully chosen, giving you a taste of Denver’s local scene along the way.

While the true crime stories are a key feature, the flexibility to focus more on art or history means it appeals to a broad range of interests. The small-group setting enhances the experience, making it feel more like a social outing than a typical tour.

If you’re after a balanced exploration of Denver’s creative neighborhoods, with added storytelling and a few drinks, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s memorable, authentic, and packed with enough surprises to keep you engaged from start to finish.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but because it involves walking and some mature true crime stories, it’s best for older teens and adults.

Can I book this tour for a private group?
It appears to be a small group experience with a maximum of 10 travelers, so you might be able to arrange a private booking—it’s best to check directly with Amazing Adventures.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, the $75 fee covers the tour itself, but stops at venues like Improper City and Wonderyard Garden offer drinks for purchase.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since you’ll walk about 2 miles through the district. Dress for the weather, as some stops are outdoors.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour involves walking, so mobility concerns should be considered. It’s best to contact the provider for specific accessibility questions.

Can I customize the focus of the tour?
Yes, Jeremy can tailor the experience if true crime isn’t everyone’s preference, focusing more on murals, history, or other local stories.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 21 days ahead, especially during busy seasons, to secure a spot.

This tour offers a distinctive mix of art, history, and storytelling—perfect for those who want a genuine, engaging look at Denver’s coolest neighborhood with a twist of dark intrigue.