Denver’s Art District Self Guided Walking Tour

This self-guided walking tour of Denver’s River North Art District (RiNo) offers a chance to enjoy the city’s colorful street art scene without the fuss of large groups. For just $5 per person, you get a smartphone-based tour that takes roughly 45 to 55 minutes—perfect for fitting into a busy day or for those who prefer to explore at their own pace. The tour begins at the lively Denver Central Market and winds through some of the most iconic murals and murals that change regularly, making it a dynamic experience for repeat visitors or street art enthusiasts.

What we particularly like about this tour is its flexibility. It allows you to pause, take photos, and linger at your favorite murals without feeling rushed. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly way to get an authentic feel for the neighborhood’s artistic vibe. However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the tour could benefit from updates, as street art in RiNo is constantly evolving. This experience is ideal for travelers craving a self-directed exploration that’s both immersive and free from the constraints of a guided group setting.

If you’re someone who loves discovering urban art, appreciates social justice themes in murals, or simply wants a tailored way to see Denver’s creative side, this tour probably suits you best. Just keep in mind that the artwork can change over time and that technical hiccups have been reported, so a bit of patience might be needed.

Key Points

• Self-guided flexibility: Explore at your own pace, pausing and re-starting as needed.
• Affordable value: At $5 per person, it offers a budget-friendly introduction to RiNo’s street art.
• Rich neighborhood: Starting at Denver Central Market, the tour covers key murals and local hotspots.
• Dynamic art scene: Murals are frequently updated, so some sites may look different over time.
• Educational: Learn about the murals’ stories and the artists behind them.
• Community focus: Several murals advocate social justice, reflecting Denver’s vibrant social consciousness.

An In-Depth Look at the Denver’s Art District Self Guided Walking Tour

Starting Point: Denver Central Market

The tour kicks off at Denver Central Market, a hub of local food, coffee, and artisanal goods. This is an ideal spot to fuel up before diving into the neighborhood’s street art. Reviewers have called it a “great find,” highlighting its local vibe and inviting atmosphere. The market also provides a practical meeting point, making it easy for first-timers to locate without fuss. It’s a lively, colorful space that sets the tone for the rest of the tour.

The Murals on Larimer Street: Larimer Boy and Girl

Just a short walk from the market, at 2715 Larimer St, you’ll encounter the Larimer Boy and Girl mural. This piece stands out because of its three-dimensional elements, which give it a striking, almost sculptural feel. It’s a mural that attracts attention and invites closer inspection. The artwork beautifully depicts a girl from the south side of the block and a boy from the north, with their faces showing contrasting emotions—one sad, one animated. Reviewers have appreciated the uniqueness of this mural, calling it one of the city’s most unusual and memorable street art pieces.

Social Justice Murals at Stem Ciders

From here, a quick stop at Stem Ciders’ outdoor patio offers views of a significant piece—the Breonna Taylor mural. Painted by artists Hiero Veiga and Thomas Detour Evans, the mural speaks to social justice themes. Reviewers have noted that these artists are known for their advocacy through art, making this mural not just visually powerful but culturally meaningful. Sitting outside with a cider in hand, you can reflect on the message behind the art while soaking in the neighborhood’s lively atmosphere.

The Iconic IMAC Mural

On the walls of the IMAC building at 2550 Larimer Street, you’ll find the famous orange, blue, and red-eyed mural. This is one of RiNo’s most recognizable pieces, wrapping around multiple sides of the building. The mural’s vivid colors and bold design make it a favorite among visitors, and it’s often included in street art tours of Denver. Several reviews mention that this is one of the “most famous” murals—an absolute must-see for street art fans.

Mural Alley and the Crush Walls Festival

Walking down 27th Street into Mural Alley, you’ll experience a vibrant display of contemporary street art. During September, this alley becomes the site of Denver’s Crush Walls Street Art Festival, attracting artists from around the country. The walls here are covered with fresh, often collaborative murals, which evolve annually. Reviewers have described it as a place that “covers the alley with their work,” and it’s a real highlight for anyone interested in street art’s creative process and community aspect.

Outside the Ramble Hotel

Next, the tour stops outside the Ramble Hotel, where murals adorn the hotel’s exterior. The hotel’s design incorporates murals that blend seamlessly with the building’s aesthetic, adding an upscale vibe to street art’s raw energy. Travelers have enjoyed the chance to see how murals can elevate a space and contribute to Denver’s trendy vibe.

The “Love This City” Mural

A quick stroll to the Love This City mural provides a quintessential Denver image—bright, bold, and full of city pride. It’s one of the most visited murals, and reviewers mention it as a joyful, friendly piece that captures the city’s welcoming spirit.

Ending at 1200 27th Street

The tour wraps up at 1200 27th Street, a street lined with murals and artwork that showcase Denver’s evolving street art scene. Reviewers highlight that this area contains some of the best murals in Denver, with some noting that they learned about the city’s street art community, including events like Crush Walls and local artists. The murals here change often, which keeps the scene fresh and engaging.

What You Should Know Before You Go

While the tour offers a flexible, cost-effective way to explore RiNo, there are some caveats. Several reviewers have pointed out that the tour can feel outdated, especially since street art frequently gets painted over or replaced with new work. This means some murals described may no longer exist, and the app may not always reflect the latest art.

Plus, the technical setup has received mixed reviews—some found the app straightforward, but others experienced difficulties, especially with the audio system not working properly initially. A helpful tip is to double-check your app download and ensure you have the correct code, as one reviewer noted they lost money trying to figure it out.

Given the neighborhood’s dynamic nature, you might find that some murals are missing or replaced by newer artwork. But this is part of the charm of street art—it’s always changing, and that keeps the experience fresh for repeat visitors.

Is It Worth the Money?

At only $5 per person, the tour offers impressive value, especially considering the amount of ground it covers and the stories it shares about the murals and artists. While it doesn’t include an in-person guide, the app provides enough context and commentary to make the experience educational and engaging. For those wanting a self-driven, flexible way to see RiNo’s street art, this is a budget-friendly option that’s hard to beat.

However, travelers should be aware of its limitations: the app’s occasional outdated info, the potential for murals to have been painted over, and some technical hiccups. If you’re comfortable with a little patience and are eager to explore independently, you’ll find this tour to be a practical and enjoyable way to discover Denver’s artistic side.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re a street art enthusiast, social justice advocate, or simply someone who enjoys exploring neighborhoods at your own pace, this tour will suit you well. It’s also ideal for budget travelers or those with limited time, as it takes less than an hour but still immerses you in Denver’s vibrant mural scene.

Families, solo travelers, and couples looking for a flexible activity that combines art, culture, and city sightseeing will appreciate the freedom this tour offers. Just keep in mind that the art scene is constantly changing, so this experience is best suited for those open to discovering new murals or revisiting the neighborhood in the future.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, since it’s a self-guided walking experience, it’s suitable for all ages. Just be prepared for a walk that might involve some uneven sidewalks and street crossings.

Do I need my own smartphone?
Yes, the tour is delivered via the WalknTours app, so you’ll need your own smartphone with internet access to follow the guide.

Is there a specific start time I need to follow?
No, this is a flexible tour—you can start whenever you like during the hours the app is available (12:00 AM to 11:30 PM daily).

How long does the tour take?
It generally lasts between 45 to 55 minutes, but you’re free to spend more or less time at each mural.

Are there any additional costs?
No, the tour costs just $5 per person. However, you might want to budget for snacks or drinks at the Central Market or nearby cafes.

What happens if the app doesn’t work?
Some reviewers experienced initial technical difficulties, so it’s wise to test the app beforehand. Customer support is available via the help number provided, though responses can vary.

Can I do this tour multiple times?
Absolutely. Since street art and murals update frequently, revisiting the tour later can give you a fresh perspective or help you spot new murals.

Final Thoughts

This Denver self-guided street art tour offers a fun, affordable way to experience RiNo’s vibrant murals without the pressure of a scheduled group. It’s perfect for independent explorers, photo lovers, and those interested in social themes reflected in urban art. While some murals are subject to change and the app might need occasional updates, the overall experience remains an engaging introduction to Denver’s creative pulse.

It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate flexibility, enjoy discovering neighborhoods on foot, and don’t mind a bit of technical patience. If you’re ready to see Denver through the lens of its murals and enjoy a leisurely walk, this tour can be a memorable, budget-friendly addition to your trip.

Remember: Street art is as much about change and community as it is about the art itself. Expect some surprises, enjoy the stories, and don’t forget to keep your camera handy. Happy exploring!