Adventure Collective
Discover Denver's History & Highlights on a Private Tour - Denver

Discover Denver's History & Highlights on a Private Tour

Denvereasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels as the walking pace is moderate and breaks are included.

Overview

Explore Denver’s rich culture and historic landmarks on a private 2-hour tour. Discover iconic sites like Brown Palace Hotel and Union Station with an expert local guide.

City Tour
Food Tour
History Tour
Sightseeing Tour
Train
Denver, Colorado

Denver History & Highlights

All Ages • 2 Hours • Great photo opportunities!

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Adventure Photos

Denver History & Highlights photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating 2-hour tour of Denver, starting at the historic Colorado State Capitol. Discover the grandeur of the Brown Palace Hotel, explore the vibrant culture of LoDo, and soak in the lively atmosphere at Union Station. Experience the city’s rich history and hidden gems through a local's eyes.

Duration

2 Hours

Highlights

  • Learn about the hotspots of Denver and the stories behind why they call it the Queen City of the Plains.
  • Walk through the picturesque Brown Palace Hotel and admire its on-of-a-kind architecture that has stood for centuries.
  • Take a walk through LoDo (Lower Downtown) and take in the vibrant culture from delicious food to local street art.
  • Wander down to Union Station and experience the hustle and bustle of the heart of Denver.
  • Experience Denver’s sights from a local’s perspective for a deeper insight into the story of this exciting city.

Inclusions: Local English-speaking guide. Exclusions: Items of a personal nature, gratuity for the guide.

Summary

You’ll meet your guide at the Colorado Veterans Monument, from there your experience will begin a mile high at the Colorado State Capitol, the perfect place to start off a tour highlighting the best of Denver. You might have a chance to step inside with your guide to take in the awe-inspiring architectural features of this historic building and learn more about the founding of the Queen City of the Plains.

From here, you’ll venture downtown to the historic Brown Palace Hotel. Built in the 1890s, this impressive building harkens back to turn-of-the-century western elite and pioneers looking for new opportunities amidst the Rockies. You’ll get a chance to marvel at the grand atrium, where taking high tea is still in fashion, as you pass through. Outside, your guide will give you the lowdown of Denver’s more salacious connections to illicit gambling, speakeasies, and the seedy underbelly that once defined the city’s image.

Next, you’ll see the more modern side of Denver, entering LoDo (Lower Downtown). Get your architecture fix as you pass through the popular 16th Street Mall, a picturesque tree-lined avenue that’s home to street food, art, and local musicians. Your guide will help you avoid the tourist traps and find the local hidden gems of Denver’s downtown food, shopping, and nightlife scene.

Continue on towards one of the most historic and photogenic Denver landmarks: Larimer Square. Hear about the founding of the city, and you’ll quickly discover why Denver has attracted people from across the country for more than a century.

Cap off your downtown Denver experience at the hub of historic LoDo, Union Station, restored to its former glory and still the main train station in town. Enjoy people-watching at its finest, as this is one of the most popular gathering places in Denver. Once your tour has ended, you’ll be in the perfect spot to continue exploring the exciting downtown district.

Adventure Tips

Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes

The tour covers several city blocks on foot, so sturdy shoes will keep you comfortable throughout.

Bring a Light Jacket

Denver’s weather can change quickly; early mornings and evenings might be cool even in summer.

Stay Hydrated

Denver’s high elevation increases dehydration risk, so carry a water bottle with you.

Plan for Limited Accessibility

Some historic buildings may have limited accessibility; notify your guide in advance if needed.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Urban red-tailed hawks often soar above downtown Denver.
  • Squirrels are a common sight in city parks and green spaces.

History

Denver was founded during the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush in 1858 and grew rapidly as a supply center for miners and settlers.

Conservation

Several local initiatives promote sustainable tourism by encouraging walking tours and protecting historic landmarks from overdevelopment.

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Adventure Hotspots in Denver

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential

Supports extended walking across city streets and uneven sidewalks.

Water Bottle

Essential

Helps stay hydrated during warm summer days and higher elevation.

summer specific

Light Jacket or Windbreaker

Essential

Provides warmth when temperatures drop or winds pick up.

spring specific

Portable Phone Charger

Ensures your device stays charged for photos and navigation.