If you’re looking for a way to see Denver that goes beyond the usual sightseeing, the Dark Side of Denver RiNos True Crime and Murals Tour offers a compelling mix of street art, local history, and some of Colorado’s most infamous crimes. This 1.5-hour walk isn’t just about pretty murals; it’s about understanding the city’s complex past — with a dash of true crime thrown in for good measure.
What we love about this tour is how it balances stunning, contemporary murals with fascinating stories of Denver’s darker moments. Plus, it’s flexible enough for different interests — whether you’re more into the art, the history, or the true crime stories. The second highlight? The small-group experience, which makes it intimate and engaging.
A potential consideration? The tour’s focus on darker history might not be suitable for travelers looking for a light, purely visual experience. It’s also worth noting that the route includes some walking and standing, so moderate physical fitness is advised.
This tour is best suited for curious travelers who appreciate street art and want a more nuanced view of Denver’s past. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in stories that aren’t usually covered in typical city tours.
- Key Points
- The Itinerary in Detail
- Starting Point: RiNo Art District
- Denver Central Market
- Improper City: The Hangout Spot
- The Dark Stories and True Crime Tales
- Authenticity in Storytelling
- Practical Details
- Group Size and Duration
- Price and Value
- Accessibility and Logistics
- What’s Not Included
- What Past Participants Say
- Who Will Love This Tour?
- The Bottom Line
- FAQ
Key Points
- Unique blend: Combines murals with true crime stories for an engaging, authentic experience
- Small group: Ensures personalized attention and plenty of opportunities for questions
- Flexible content: Can focus more on art, history, or crime depending on your interests
- Value for money: At $25, offers an affordable way to explore both cultural and dark aspects of Denver
- Guided insight: Knowledgeable guides provide context and storytelling that enrich the walk
- Convenient itinerary: Includes stops at popular RiNo spots like Denver Central Market and Improper City for snacks and drinks
The Itinerary in Detail
Starting Point: RiNo Art District
Our journey begins in Denver’s River North (RiNo) Art District, a neighborhood bursting with contemporary murals and creative energy. It’s a good place to get a visual sense of Denver’s modern art scene, with galleries and concert venues housed in revamped industrial buildings. The tour guide’s commentary here nicely ties the vibrant street art to the area’s transformation from industrial to arts hub.
A common sentiment from reviewers: “If you love seeing fun & interesting murals, this is the tour for you!” (Gail). The murals aren’t just pretty pictures—they tell stories and reflect the neighborhood’s evolving identity. You’ll get some background on the murals’ themes, which sets the stage for the darker tales to come.
Denver Central Market
Next, we head to the Denver Central Market, a lively indoor food hall. Here, you get a chance to grab a quick snack or a drink, and soak in the local flavor. From meat and fish counters to bakeries, this spot is ideal for tasting Colorado’s culinary side. Reviewers appreciate this stop as a chance to relax, refuel, and enjoy the bustling atmosphere. It’s also perfect for those who want a quick sip or bite before continuing the tour.
Improper City: The Hangout Spot
Our third stop is Improper City, an outdoor space ringed with food trucks and a lively crowd. It’s a perfect spot for a first break, offering a casual vibe where you can grab drinks (if you wish) and enjoy views of the neighborhood. The large outdoor area provides a relaxed environment ideal for discussing what you’ve seen so far and gearing up for the darker stories ahead.
The Dark Stories and True Crime Tales
The real highlight of this tour lies in its stories of Denver’s darker past. These include tragic events like the Sand Creek Massacre, the efforts of Silas Soule to uncover the truth, and infamous incidents like the 2022 shooting rampage. The guide will also discuss Market Streets’ shady history, which once hosted over 1,000 prostitutes in the city’s largest red-light district — a fascinating insight into a less glamorous but very real part of Denver’s history.
The tour touches on some high-profile cases, which might resonate with true crime fans: the JonBenet Ramsey case, Columbine, Chris Watts, and the JFK shooter James Holmes. The stories are told with sensitivity but also with enough detail to make them compelling.
What makes this aspect valuable is how it contextualizes Denver’s past—showing that behind the murals and modern development, there are stories of tragedy, resilience, and sometimes darkness.
Authenticity in Storytelling
Guests report that the guide is “very knowledgeable,” with reviews praising the storytelling skills that make complex or dark stories approachable. For example, one reviewer mentions how Jeremy tied in murals to the city’s history, making the stories more vivid and memorable.
Practical Details
Group Size and Duration
With a maximum of 10 travelers, the small-group setting allows for personalized attention and plenty of interaction. The tour lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it manageable even on a busy schedule. The flexible schedule starting at 5:00 pm means you can enjoy the city’s evening atmosphere.
Price and Value
At $25 per person, this tour offers excellent value. For less than the cost of a meal or a drink, you get expert insights, a walk through vibrant neighborhoods, and a chance to learn about Denver’s lesser-known stories. The inclusion of stops for snacks and drinks adds to the relaxed, social feel.
Accessibility and Logistics
The tour begins at Wonderyard Garden, a location near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers. It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking a bit of distance—around two miles—over the course of the tour.
What’s Not Included
Alcoholic beverages and snacks aren’t included, so plan to bring some extra cash if you want to indulge. The tour guide can recommend local spots to continue your evening afterward.
What Past Participants Say
The glowing reviews speak volumes: “Jeremy was very knowledgeable and personable,” says one. Others mention how the murals and dark stories created a memorable mix. Travelers appreciated the small group size for question-asking and the interesting mix of art and history. Several reviewers also noted that the tour was tailored to their interests, making it engaging and fun.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for art enthusiasts interested in murals, history buffs curious about Denver’s past, and true crime fans eager for stories beyond the surface. It suits those who enjoy walking tours with a relaxed pace, a dose of local flavor, and engaging storytelling. If you’re traveling with folks who appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, this tour will fit right in.
The Bottom Line
The Dark Side of Denver RiNos True Crime and Murals Tour offers a richly textured glimpse into Denver’s arts scene and its darker history. It’s a great value for the price, especially given the small-group intimacy and knowledgeable guide. The mix of stunning murals and fascinating true crime stories ensures there’s something for all interested in understanding Denver beyond its surface.
It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want an authentic, engaging experience that’s both educational and entertaining. Whether you’re into street art, Colorado’s history, or true crime, this tour gives you a layered perspective that will stay with you long after you leave.
FAQ
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable activity, especially if you’re planning other parts of your day.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at Wonderyard Garden, 2200 Larimer St, Denver, a convenient spot near public transportation.
Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The focus on dark stories might not be ideal for young children, but it’s suitable for adults and older teens interested in Denver’s history and street art.
Are drinks or snacks included?
No, but the tour includes stops at places like Denver Central Market and Improper City, where you can purchase food and drinks.
What about physical activity?
The tour involves walking around the RiNo neighborhood, amounting to about two miles. Travelers should have moderate physical fitness.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before will not be refunded.
Is the tour appropriate for those interested only in art?
Absolutely. If you prefer a focus solely on murals and local art, the tour can be adjusted accordingly, but the true crime stories add a unique layer of depth that many find compelling.
In all, this tour combines Denver’s street art with stories of its darker past for a genuinely memorable experience. It’s a perfect way to see a different side of the city, especially if you enjoy stories that challenge the surface and reveal the city’s more complex character.