Denver Cocktails Tour

Looking for a way to spice up your Denver visit? This Denver Cocktails Tour offers a fun, relaxed way to enjoy the city’s best bars and learn about its drink culture. As a seasoned travel writer, I’ve seen plenty of city tours, but a well-curated cocktail experience like this combines history, local flavors, and a bit of fun – all in just two hours.

What I love about this tour is the chance to visit top-notch venues that many visitors wouldn’t find on their own, and the chance to sample four expertly crafted cocktails paired with tasty small bites. The intimate size—capped at just 10 people—keeps the experience friendly and personalized.

The only thing to consider? It’s a short tour, so if you’re looking for a marathon drinking session, you might find it a bit light on time, but for most, this is plenty.

Ideal for curious travelers who enjoy trying local foods and drinks, as well as those who appreciate a bit of storytelling mixed with their tasting experience, this tour suits both cocktail connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. Whether you’re in town for a weekend or just passing through, it’s a delightful way to spend a couple of hours in Denver’s lively downtown.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personal experience and better interaction with your guide
• Expertly curated venues visit some of Denver’s best cocktail bars and hidden gems
• Four craft cocktails paired with food make it both delicious and educational
• History and local stories enrich each stop, making it more than just a tasting
• Flexible options, including mocktails for non-drinkers or those who prefer alcohol-free experiences
• Ideal for first-time visitors and locals wanting to explore Denver’s drinking culture in a fun, social setting

What the Tour Entails: A Detailed Breakdown

Starting Point: Union Station

The tour kicks off at Denver’s iconic Union Station, a hub of history and modern energy. This centrally located landmark is perfect for setting the tone—combining old-world charm with current-day vibrancy. From here, the guide leads the small group to three carefully selected venues, each with its own vibe and specialty.

Stop 1: Urban Farmer Denver

Your first stop is a local steakhouse and popular cocktail bar. Here, the focus is on the Old Fashioned, one of the most recognizable whiskey cocktails. We loved the way the bar’s ambiance combined rustic charm with a modern twist — the perfect environment to start your tasting journey.

Along With the drink, you’ll enjoy light commentary on the cocktail’s origins and how Denver’s bar scene is evolving. Visitors often comment on the “very enjoyable” nature of this stop, noting that the guide (Barry, in reviews) provides “lots of information and tips” that make this a memorable start.

Stop 2: Tavernetta

Next, the group heads to a James Beard award-winning restaurant, which speaks to the level of quality you can expect. Here, we indulge in a unique spritz, paired with house-made focaccia, prosciutto, and garlic conserva.

This stop highlights Denver’s culinary sophistication, with many reviewers describing the food as “exceptional.” The combination of food and drink allows for a more complete tasting experience. Reviewers mention that the “drinks were great” and the “food tastings were exceptional,” making this a highlight of the tour.

Stop 3: Dairy Block

The third venue is the Dairy Block, a lively micro- district in downtown Denver’s LoDo neighborhood. Once home to Windsor Dairy, it’s now a bustling hub of shops, restaurants, bars, a boutique hotel, and even a coworking space.

This stop isn’t just about the drinks; it’s about soaking in Denver’s modern, trendy side. The vibrant atmosphere, colorful art, and historic charm offer a great backdrop for the next cocktail. It’s a favorite among guests who appreciate lively, well-designed spaces—many mention how “ trendy digs and colorful local art” add to the experience.

Final Stop: Poka Lola Social Club

Your tour concludes at Poka Lola Social Club, a quirky, award-winning cocktail bar. Known for its creative, one-of-a-kind drinks, this spot pairs its concoctions with pulled pork sliders, adding a hearty touch to the experience.

Guests rave about the “fantastic” drinks and the “great choices” of cocktails, with some noting the “neat” experimental drinks like the Poka Lola specials. The lively atmosphere and the playful, colorful decor make it a perfect ending.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

• Four craft cocktails — carefully selected for variety and quality, often described as “delicious” and “unique”
• Two food pairings — small plates that complement the drinks, elevating the tasting experience
• An experienced local guide — full of stories, tips, and fun facts, making the experience more personable and informative
• A guided walking tour — covering Denver’s downtown highlights, without the stress of navigating on your own

Why This Offers Good Value

At $90 per person, the tour includes not just drinks and bites but also an engaging guide and exclusive access to places you might not find alone. Multiple reviews praise the “great choices” of bars and the “careful selection” of locations, which adds to the feeling of value. The small group size fosters a more intimate experience, allowing for better interaction and questions.

The Experience: A Balance of Fun, Learning, and Tasting

We loved the way the tour seamlessly combines drinks, food, and stories. Each venue is carefully picked to showcase Denver’s cocktail scene—from classic takes to innovative creations. The guide’s knowledge is evident, with many travelers mentioning “Barry was very knowledgeable and gave us lots of information,” enriching the tasting with context about Denver’s drink culture and history.

The two food pairings are well-placed, with some reviewers suggesting they wish for more, like an extra appetizer at each stop, but overall, the balance feels just right for a two-hour experience. The bites add a savory component that keeps the tasting lively and satisfying.

Atmosphere and Group Dynamics

The tour caps at 10 guests, creating an environment where everyone feels included. From lively conversations to shared laughs, it’s clear that both locals and visitors enjoy the casual camaraderie. Many reviews mention the guide’s “great energy” and “funny” personality, which makes the experience feel more like a friendly get-together than a formal tasting.

Accessibility and Practical Details

Starting at 4:30 pm, the tour is timed perfectly for a post-work wind-down or early evening outing. The meeting point at Wynkoop Street is in the heart of downtown Denver, easy to reach via public transportation or a short walk from hotels. The tour ends at the Maven Hotel in Dairy Block, just two blocks from where it begins, making it convenient for dinner plans afterward.

The tour is inclusive of service animals, and mocktail options are available—something we appreciate for non-drinkers or those avoiding alcohol. The flexibility in dietary options like vegetarian choices shows thoughtful planning, though gluten-free or dairy-free options are limited.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who enjoy learning about local culture through food and drink. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting to get a feel for Denver’s lively downtown scene without the hassle of research or planning. The small-group setting makes it a great choice for couples, friends, or solo travelers looking for a social outing.

If you appreciate well-selected venues, quality cocktails, and engaging storytelling, this tour will hit the mark. It also suits those curious about the city’s history, especially related to Prohibition and modern mixology, but it’s not overly academic—more about having a good time while gaining insights.

Final Thoughts: Is the Denver Cocktails Tour Worth It?

In a word: yes. The small-group format, expert guides, and carefully curated venues combine to create a memorable two-hour journey through Denver’s cocktail scene. The inclusion of four craft cocktails paired with tasty bites delivers both flavor and value, making it a smart choice for those who want to combine a bit of education with fun.

The tour’s focus on authentic, local experiences means you’ll get a taste of Denver’s vibrant bar culture, beyond the typical tourist spots. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to enjoy a relaxed, social, and flavorful introduction to the city.

And if you’re a fan of innovative cocktails, good company, or simply looking to discover Denver’s best kept drink secrets, this tour will serve you well.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, mocktail options are available upon request, making it accessible for those who prefer not to consume alcohol.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, covering three stops with time for tasting and conversation at each location.

What’s included in the price?
You get four craft cocktails, two food pairings (small plates), an experienced local guide, and a guided walking tour of downtown Denver.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Vegetarian options are available, but gluten-free or dairy-free diets are not accommodated on this tour.

Where does the tour start and end?
Start: 1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO. End: Inside the Maven Hotel at Dairy Block, just two blocks away.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour involves walking between venues, so accessibility may depend on the venues’ facilities. It’s best to check with the provider directly.

Is this tour good for locals?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention that even Denver residents enjoyed discovering new bars and stories they hadn’t experienced before.

To sum it up, the Denver Cocktails Tour offers a lively, well-rounded experience for anyone wanting to learn about the city’s drinks scene in a relaxed, friendly setting. Whether you’re in town for a weekend or just looking for a fun evening activity, this tour is a tasty way to get a feel for Denver’s vibrant bar culture and history.