Denver: RiNo Beer and Graffiti Tour

Discover Denver’s RiNo District with the Beer and Graffiti Tour

Imagine wandering through a neighborhood bursting with color and creativity, where industrial warehouses have transformed into lively breweries and art galleries. That’s exactly what you get on the RiNo Beer and Graffiti Tour in Denver. This 2.5-hour guided experience offers a perfect mix of street art appreciation and craft beer sampling—a combo that appeals to both culture vultures and beer enthusiasts.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances informative storytelling with relaxed, flavorful tasting. You’ll get to walk through vibrant alleys filled with mural art, while your guide shares fascinating stories behind each piece. Plus, the chance to sip some of America’s top craft beers, including a German-style pilsner and the popular Sippin Pretty sour-ale, makes this tour a genuine highlight.

One potential consideration is that the tour may lean more toward the brewing experience than detailed graffiti exploration—though you’ll still see plenty of colorful murals. This makes it ideal for those who want an engaging mix of urban art and craft beer culture. If you’re visiting Denver and want a taste of its innovative, creative scene, this experience suits both first-time visitors and locals eager to see their city in a new light.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines street art insights with beer tastings for an authentic neighborhood vibe.
• Local Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Jay and others bring stories to life, making the tour engaging.
• Diverse Beer Selection: Sample 10 beers, including a German-style pilsner and a renowned sour-ale.
• Vibrant Atmosphere: Walk through colorful alleys, murals, and historic warehouses turned trendy spots.
• Value for Money: At $55 per person, with tastings and a souvenir glass included, it offers great value.
• Wheelchair Accessible: The tour accommodates mobility needs, making it inclusive for many travelers.

Exploring the RiNo District: What You Can Expect

The River North Art District (RiNo) has undergone a remarkable transformation over recent years. Once primarily an industrial hub, it now pulses with creativity and innovation. The tour begins at Ratio Beerworks, a popular local brewery founded by former punk-rockers, setting the stage for a dive into Denver’s craft beer scene. When you arrive, simply tell the staff you’re there for the Microbrew Tour, and you’ll be welcomed into this vibrant space.

At Ratio Beerworks, you’ll enjoy tastings of some of their finest brews, with the guide sharing stories about the brewery’s roots and unique brewing philosophy. The highlight here is the chance to sample 10 beers or ciders, including a German-style pilsner and Sippin Pretty, one of America’s most beloved sour-ales. As one reviewer noted, they appreciated the “friendly, personable” guide who created a warm atmosphere, making the tasting more enjoyable.

From there, the tour meanders through neighborhoods filled with colorful murals, graffiti art, and restored warehouses. Expect to see murals painted on almost every corner, many created by local artists. The guide, often someone like Jay, provides stories behind the murals, revealing the neighborhood’s artistic identity and history. This mix of visual art and history offers a layered understanding of RiNo’s cultural significance.

You’ll also love the way the tour showcases Denver’s brewing industry—many of the breweries here are new and innovative, created by passionate entrepreneurs who see the neighborhood as an incubator for craft beer. The experience offers a great opportunity for both locals and visitors to discover breweries they might not encounter independently, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Denver’s vibrant craft scene.

The Beer Tasting Experience

Sampling 10 different beers or ciders makes this tour a real treat for beer lovers. The selection is well-curated, highlighting styles that showcase the district’s brewing diversity. The German-style pilsner, for instance, offers a crisp, clean taste that pairs beautifully with the neighborhood’s urban aesthetic. Meanwhile, Sippin Pretty, a fruity sour-ale, has been praised for its popularity across the nation.

Guests frequently mention how the tastings are generous—you’re definitely getting good value for the $55 price tag. The souvenir tasting glass is a nice touch, allowing you to remember the experience long after the tour ends.

Reviewers like Stephanie appreciated that while the focus was more on the breweries, the tour still managed to talk about street art as well. She recommended it highly, especially for those who want to combine urban culture with local craft brews on a single outing.

Street Art and Murals: An Urban Gallery

The RiNo district is often called an outdoor art gallery. The murals are everywhere—on alleyways, building facades, and even inside some breweries. The guide points out specific pieces, sharing stories about the artists and the meanings behind their work. This storytelling aspect is what elevates the experience from just a casual walk.

One reviewer, Emena, mentioned how she, a local herself, was able to discover new breweries she hadn’t visited before and appreciated the friendly, outgoing guide who fostered a relaxed environment. She found it a “really amazing tour” that combined her love of her city’s art scene with the chance to try new beers.

The murals are not only visually striking but also tell stories about Denver’s evolving identity. Many artworks are vibrant, bold, and sometimes playful, reflecting the neighborhood’s creative spirit. You’ll find murals that are both inspiring and Instagram-worthy, perfect for snapping some memorable photos.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

This tour is priced at $55 per person, which provides access to tastings, a knowledgeable guide, and a souvenir glass. It runs for approximately 2.5 hours, making it a manageable outing without feeling rushed. Availability varies, so early booking is recommended to secure your preferred start times.

The tour departs from Ratio Beerworks, a lively brewery that’s easy to find, and the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a variety of mobility needs. You’ll be walking around the neighborhood, so comfortable shoes are advised.

What to bring: A valid ID or passport is necessary since alcohol consumption is involved. Dress for the weather, as much of the tour takes place outdoors, especially when exploring murals and alleys.

Cancellation policy: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for beer enthusiasts eager to explore Denver’s craft scene and art lovers interested in street murals. It’s also a fantastic choice for culture seekers who want an authentic look at RiNo’s transformation from industrial to innovative.

Travelers looking for a relaxed, social atmosphere will enjoy the friendly guides and the opportunity to sample a variety of beers. The tour is especially suited for those who appreciate storytelling—both about the art and the brewing process.

However, if you’re traveling with younger visitors under 21 or seeking a more traditional sightseeing tour, this might not be the best fit. Also, because it involves alcohol tastings, it’s not suitable for minors.

Final Thoughts: Is the Denver RiNo Beer and Graffiti Tour Worth It?

For a balanced mix of urban art and craft beer, this tour offers genuine value. The guides’ local knowledge shines through, making the experience engaging and informative. We loved how accessible and inclusive it is—wheelchair friendly and accommodating to various needs.

The stunning murals combined with diverse beer options create a lively, colorful atmosphere that captures the spirit of Denver’s creative scene. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for new breweries, you’ll find something to enjoy here.

Most importantly, this tour provides a unique way to experience Denver’s evolving identity, blending art, culture, and flavor on a walk through one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No, it’s designed for guests 21 and over due to alcohol tastings. If you’re traveling with minors, this tour wouldn’t be appropriate.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, giving enough time to enjoy tastings and explore the murals without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Ratio Beerworks and ends back at the same spot, making it easy to plan your day.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and the walking is moderate, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

What should I bring?
A valid ID or passport is necessary for alcohol tastings, along with weather-appropriate clothing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for travelers’ schedules.

Whether you’re exploring Denver for the first time or a local eager to rediscover your city’s artistic and brewing treasures, the RiNo Beer and Graffiti Tour delivers a memorable experience that’s worth adding to your itinerary.