Mile-High Mysteries: A 90-Minute Audio Adventure Through Denver's Streets
A brisk, app-led urban hunt through Denver’s history, neighborhoods, and riverfront
The headphones click into place and the city leans in. At street level Denver is compact and candid — a sprawl of sandstone facades, craft-beer patios, and the steady shuffle of commuters — but the audio tour peels back a second layer: stories of gold rush gambits, railway fortunes, and the small, stubborn neighborhoods that stitched the Mile High City together.
Trail Wisdom
Charge your device
Bring a portable battery and fully charge your phone—audio and GPS drain power quickly.
Bring comfortable shoes
Expect 1.8–2.5 miles on pavement—supportive walking shoes will keep you moving easily.
Hydrate at altitude
Denver sits at 5,280 ft—sip water before and during the walk to avoid mild altitude effects.
Download offline
Download the tour content and map before you start to avoid data issues and ensure smooth playback.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Alley murals off Larimer Square
- •River overlook at Confluence Park
Wildlife
Peregrine falcons nesting on downtown buildings, Ducks and occasional herons along the Platte River
Conservation Note
River restoration projects along the South Platte and Cherry Creek focus on habitat and public access—stick to designated paths and support local conservation groups.
Denver grew quickly after the 1858 Colorado Gold Rush and was shaped by railroads and mining fortunes; Union Station and LoDo preserve much of that 19th-century character.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild temperatures, Blooming parks, Fewer tourists
Challenges: Unpredictable showers, Cool evenings
Spring brings comfortable walking weather and flowering trees, though brief rain showers are common—dress in layers.
summer
Best for: Long daylight hours, Outdoor patios, Evening events
Challenges: Afternoon thunderstorms, Strong sun at altitude
Summer evenings are long and lively; start earlier to avoid sudden storms and use sunscreen for high-altitude sun.
fall
Best for: Crisp air, Fall foliage, Festival season
Challenges: Shortening days, Variable temps
Fall is ideal for clear skies and mild weather; pack a light jacket for cooler mornings and nights.
winter
Best for: Snow-dusted cityscapes, Fewer crowds, Holiday markets
Challenges: Icy sidewalks, Cold temps
Winter offers stark beauty and quieter streets—wear traction-friendly boots and an insulated layer.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Supportive shoes handle pavement and short city steps comfortably.
Headphones (in-ear or on-ear)Essential
Clear audio improves narration and puzzle prompts—choose comfortable, ambient-noise-blocking models.
Portable battery packEssential
Keeps your phone charged for the full 90-minute tour and extra photos or maps.
Light pack or daypack
Holds water, layers, and any purchases from local shops along the route.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and how far will I walk?
The experience is 90 minutes and typically covers about 1.8–2.5 miles of mostly flat urban terrain.
Do I need to download the app before I arrive?
Yes—download the tour content and any maps before you start to ensure offline playback and avoid data charges.
Is this suitable for families or children?
Yes—puzzles are family-friendly, but keep in mind the walking distance and urban traffic for younger children.
Can I take the tour at my own pace?
Absolutely—the private option makes it easy to pause, linger at a café, or extend the route without losing access to the narrative.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Most of the route is on paved sidewalks and is generally accessible, but check specific start/end points or side streets for curb cuts and temporary obstructions.
Are guides or live narrators included?
This is an app-led audio experience, not a live guide; the audio provides context, puzzles and location cues.
What to Pack
Phone with charged battery and portable charger; headphones for clear audio; reusable water bottle for hydration at altitude; light jacket for variable weather
Did You Know
Denver’s State Capitol has a step on its exterior marked at exactly 5,280 feet above sea level — the origin of the city’s ‘Mile High’ nickname.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive early to secure seating at popular cafés; download the tour before you start; carry a small amount of cash for small shops; watch afternoon weather forecasts in summer
Local Flavor
After the tour, grab a sandwich or pastry at Denver Central Market, stroll Larimer Square for historic brick and boutique shopping, then finish with a beer at Wynkoop Brewing Company near Union Station to taste a slice of local history.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Denver International Airport (DEN) — ~25–30 miles to downtown; Start point: Union Station, Downtown Denver; Driving: 25–40 minutes from DEN depending on traffic; Cell service: Reliable in downtown area; Permits: None required for the public audio tour
Sustainability Note
Support local businesses along the route, use public transit to reach the start, and avoid littering—urban ecosystems like the Platte River corridor benefit from responsible visitor behavior.