The 12 Most Popular Food Tours In Denver

Denver is a city that’s proud of its food scene—ranging from hearty Western fare to innovative bites in artsy neighborhoods. Its mix of historic districts, thriving street art, and a booming culinary community makes it an ideal place for food tours.

We particularly like the Denver RiNo Arts District Food Tour for its focus on creative neighborhoods and award-winning eateries, and the Downtown Denver Food Tour for its combination of history and delicious bites through the city’s core. Whether you prefer a small-group experience or a bike tour, Denver offers options for every taste and pace.

If you’re a fan of craft beer, the RiNo Evening Food Tour is a great way to combine food and local brews, while the Gluten-Free Food & Brew Tours cater to those with dietary needs. These tours not only satisfy your appetite but also give you a behind-the-scenes look at Denver’s culinary evolution.

Quick Overview

Our list of the best food tours in Denver includes a variety of options, from walking tours of arts districts to private culinary adventures. You’ll find tours focusing on local specialties, craft breweries, historic landmarks, and even mystery puzzle adventures.

Whether you want to explore the trendy RiNo neighborhood, the historic downtown, or enjoy a bike ride through the city, there’s something here for every traveler.

For each experience, we highlight what makes it special, including unique stops and insider tips. Ready to eat your way through Denver? Let’s dive into the details.

1. Denver RiNo Arts District Food Tour

Starting with Denver’s RiNo Arts District, this tour offers a fantastic blend of creative neighborhoods and culinary delights. Over approximately three hours, you’ll visit five award-winning restaurants, tasting everything from fried chicken to mochi donuts.

The tour is small-group, which ensures a friendly, personalized experience, and your guide shares stories about Denver’s fast-growing food scene along the way.

Highlights include a flavorful taco at Los Chingones and a visit to a local urban farm for greens grown on-site. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the generous samples, which often add up to a hearty lunch.

The option to upgrade for alcohol pairings adds extra fun for those who want a drink with their bites. This tour is perfect for foodies who love exploring neighborhoods with a creative edge.

Bottom Line: If you want a lively, art-filled walk with great bites and insider tips, this tour delivers. It’s especially good for those who enjoy discovering Denver’s up-and-coming culinary hotspots.

2. Denver: Downtown Small-Group Food Tasting Tour

At number 2, this tour takes you through Denver’s downtown core, highlighting five top restaurants in just three hours. You’ll get to taste local dishes and learn about the city’s history, including visits to Coors Field, Union Station, and the oldest hotel and jazz club. Led by a friendly local guide, you’ll explore on foot, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace.

Reviewers emphasize how well the guide blends engaging history with food, mentioning standout bites like local specialties and the vibrant atmosphere. The tour provides a great overview of Denver’s modern culinary scene while giving a taste of its historic sites.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a mix of history and food, this tour offers a compact, flavorful introduction to Denver’s culinary and cultural heart.

3. Downtown Denver Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

For around $99, the Secret Food Tour: Denver – Downtown offers a deep dive into the city’s past and present through food. This three-hour walk explores historic streets linked to prospectors and miners of the Gold Rush. Stop at a historic bordello building and Coors Field, tasting mouthwatering local specialties along the way.

Guests rave about the engaging storytelling from experienced guides and the diverse food offerings, including hot dogs, pizza, and iconic Denver bites. The blend of history, architecture, and delicious stops makes this tour a standout.

Bottom Line: If you’re into history and authentic local flavors, this tour combines storytelling with tasty bites for an engaging experience.

4. Denver Downtown 16th Street Food Tour

Spanning just over two and a half hours, this tour explores the famous 16th Street Mall, a revitalized pedestrian corridor designed by I.M. Pei. Starting at the historic Brown Palace Hotel, you’ll visit four tasty spots, including a bison chili at Appaloosa Grill and some of Denver’s best pizza.

The tour covers key landmarks and offers insights into the city’s development. Reviewers note how well-paced it is, and the food samples are enough for a satisfying snack or light lunch.

It’s especially suited for travelers wanting a shorter, city-center experience with good food and interesting architecture.

Bottom Line: A quick, tasty tour through downtown Denver, ideal if you’re short on time but still want a flavor of the city.

5. Gluten Free Food & Brew Tours

This tour shines for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Over about three and a half hours, you’ll visit the best gluten-free spots in Denver, starting at the rooftop Avanti Food & Beverage. The tour includes a visit to Union Station and a popular food hall run by a renowned chef, with plenty of gluten-free options and craft beverages.

Reviewers love Carrie’s extensive knowledge and the inclusive atmosphere. It’s a fantastic way for gluten-free travelers to sample Denver’s culinary scene with confidence.

Bottom Line: Designed for dietary needs, this tour offers a safe, delicious way to experience Denver’s vibrant food scene.

6. Gourmet Food and Beverage Tour of Denver (LoHi)

For those looking for a more upscale experience, this LoHi tour features exquisite bites from five restaurants and beverage pairings across three and a half hours. Led by experienced guides from Dine and Dash Luxury Tours, it offers insiders’ perspectives on high-end dining and craft cocktails. Guests rave about the quality of food and the relaxed, informative atmosphere.

The tour is best suited for travelers who want to indulge in Denver’s gourmet side with a generous sampling of dishes and drinks.

Bottom Line: A luxurious, in-depth tasting that appeals to foodies seeking a premium experience.

7. Downtown Denver Private Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

This private option provides tailored attention, pairing Denver’s iconic sights with personal culinary guidance. Over three hours, you’ll explore historic streets, visit local favorites, and sample dishes that connect Denver’s past and present. The price reflects the exclusivity, making it ideal for families, small groups, or special occasions.

Reviewers note the personalized service and extensive knowledge shared by the guide, making it a flexible and memorable experience.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a customized, intimate food tour with full control over the experience.

8. Denver: RiNo Evening Food Tour with a Local Guide

In the evening, the RiNo neighborhood comes alive, and this tour captures it perfectly. Over three hours, you’ll visit four restaurants and breweries, tasting Denver’s creative cuisine and local craft beers. Pass by murals and learn about urban art as your guide shares local insights. Guests love the relaxed vibe and the chance to experience Denver’s nightlife while enjoying tasty bites.

Bottom Line: Ideal for night owls who want a lively mix of food, drink, and street art in Denver’s coolest neighborhood.

9. Mystery Puzzle Food Tour in Golden, CO

For something different, this puzzle adventure turns a meal into a treasure hunt. Over two to three hours, solve puzzles on your smartphone to find local restaurants, where your surprise dish awaits. The tour offers a full, five-course meal, making it perfect for puzzle lovers and foodies alike.

Guests mention the fun of working together and the quality of food. It’s a great way to combine sightseeing, problem-solving, and great bites.

Bottom Line: A fun, interactive way to discover Golden’s food scene for puzzle fans and groups seeking a playful challenge.

10. Denver: Arts District Walking Food Tour

This tour highlights Denver’s art and culinary talent in a lively neighborhood. Over three hours, you’ll sample savory dishes while exploring colorful murals and street art. The guide shares stories about Denver’s artistic growth alongside its food scene. Suitable for art lovers and foodies alike, it uncovers the city’s creative energy with plenty of tasty stops.

Bottom Line: Great for those wanting to combine art, culture, and food in one lively tour.

11. Denver: walking Secret Food Tour

Aimed at those wanting a comprehensive experience, this two- to three-hour tour explores Denver’s arts district and city center. You’ll enjoy a variety of local delicacies, from savory bites to sweet treats, all while learning about Denver’s evolution from cowtown to modern metropolis. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention, and the food is top-notch.

Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers wanting an intimate, well-rounded tour with a local guide.

12. Dinner Food Tour in RiNo Denver

This evening tour explores RiNo’s culinary diversity over approximately three hours. Visiting four spots, including La Diabla and Pit Fiend BBQ, you sample traditional pozole, brisket, and more. The relaxed pace and local stories create an engaging dining journey.

Reviewers appreciate the variety and the lively atmosphere, making it suitable for those who enjoy a leisurely dinner with a side of Denver history.

Bottom Line: Ideal for dinner fans wanting a mix of traditional and modern flavors in Denver’s art district.

How to Choose the Right Food Tour for You

When selecting a food tour in Denver, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. If you love art and neighborhood exploration, the RiNo Arts District Food Tour or Arts District Walking Food Tour are excellent. For those with dietary needs, the Gluten Free Food & Brew Tours ensure safe sampling. If you prefer a private experience, the Private Walking Tour offers customization.

Budget travelers might opt for the 2.30-hour 16th Street Tour or the Pub Crawl, which are lively, shorter options. For active travelers, the Bike and E-Bike Tour combines sightseeing with tasting.

Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours like the Downtown Denver Food Tour, which draws many visitors. Check seasonal schedules—some tours run only on certain days or months—and consider combining tours if you want both a neighborhood walk and a brewery experience.

Final Thoughts

Denver’s food scene is as diverse as its mountain views. From exploring historic streets to sampling gourmet bites and craft beers, there’s a tour suited to every appetite and interest.

The Denver RiNo Arts District Food Tour and the Downtown Denver Food Tour stand out for their storytelling and variety, while the Gluten Free Food & Brew Tours cater well to dietary restrictions. For a fun twist, the Mystery Puzzle Food Tour offers a playful way to discover Denver’s culinary gems.

No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance will help secure your spot in these popular experiences. With so many options, your Denver food adventure is sure to be memorable—and delicious.