Denver stands out as a top destination for craft beer lovers. With more than 150 breweries calling the city home, Denver’s craft beer culture is a living, breathing part of its identity. What makes Denver especially appealing is the variety — from historic breweries to modern taprooms, all within easy reach downtown.
Among the many options, we particularly like the Denver Craft Beer Tour in Lower Downtown for its small-group atmosphere and in-depth tasting experience, and the LoDo Craft Beer Guided Walking Tour for its relaxed pace and historic setting.
Both tours offer unique insights into Denver’s brewing scene and are perfect for visitors wanting an authentic taste of the city’s beer culture.
Quick Overview
To help you navigate Denver’s craft beer scene, we’ve rounded up the top two tours. The first is a small-group brewery tour that dives into Denver’s brewing roots, with visits to four top breweries and over 10 samples. The second is a guided walking tour that combines history and beer tasting in downtown Denver’s lively LoDo district.
Both are renowned for their knowledgeable guides, extensive tasting opportunities, and a chance to learn how Denver became a craft beer capital. Now, let’s explore each tour in detail.
1. Denver Craft Beer Tour in Lower Downtown
This tour is designed for those who want a personalized and in-depth experience of Denver’s brewing scene. For around $58 per person, you’ll spend approximately 2.5 hours exploring four of Denver’s best breweries, tasting more than 10 samples of Colorado craft beer.
What sets this tour apart is the intimate group size — capped at 14 — ensuring a relaxed pace and plenty of opportunities for questions.
The tour includes a visit to iconic spots like Rock Bottom Brewery, where a local Brewmaster taps unique beers brewed on-site, giving you insight into Denver’s innovative brewing techniques. The stops are carefully selected to show a range of styles, from classic to experimental.
Highlights include learning about Denver’s rise as the “Napa Valley of Craft Beer”, understanding the brewing process, and walking through the historic Lower Downtown neighborhood. A souvenir tasting glass is included, so you can remember your trip long after the last sip.
The reviews consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, with one reviewer noting, “Matt was amazing and made it a memorable experience.” This tour is ideal for beer enthusiasts who enjoy a mix of education and tasting, in a small group setting.
Bottom Line: If you want a personalized, fun, and in-depth look at Denver’s beer scene, this tour delivers. It balances quality breweries, storytelling, and a comfortable pace — perfect for those who prefer small groups.
2. Denver: LoDo Craft Beer Guided Walking Tour
At $55 per person, this 2.5-hour guided walking tour offers a slightly different experience, focusing on the historic LoDo district’s microbreweries and stories. This tour is best suited for visitors who love a leisurely stroll through a city neighborhood while sampling 10 or more craft beers. It’s perfect for those who want a casual, social atmosphere with a dash of Denver history thrown in.
Your guide will share interesting anecdotes about the area, highlighting its evolution from old warehouses to a vibrant hub for craft brewing.
Stops include several microbreweries, where you’ll taste a variety of craft beers and lagers. The tour emphasizes education on the brewing process and local flavor profiles, making it ideal for those new to craft beer or looking to expand their palate.
Since it’s a walking tour, comfortable shoes are recommended, and it’s a great way to combine sightseeing with tasting. With a high rating of 4.9/5, travelers frequently comment on the engaging storytelling and the relaxed vibe.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a laid-back, historic downtown experience with substantial beer tastings and interesting stories, this guided walking tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for those who want to explore Denver’s core without feeling rushed.
How to Choose Between These Two Great Denver Beer Tours
When deciding between the Denver Craft Beer Tour in Lower Downtown and the LoDo Craft Beer Guided Walking Tour, consider your interests and travel style. If you’re a serious beer enthusiast wanting a more intimate, educational experience with a focus on brewery techniques and innovation, the small-group tour is a solid choice.
On the other hand, if you prefer a relaxed, scenic walk through Denver’s historic district, with plenty of chances to chat and people-watch, the guided walking tour offers a fun, social atmosphere.
Budget-wise, they’re quite similar, but think about what kind of experience you want: a structured brewery visit or a leisurely stroll with storytelling. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak travel seasons, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Denver offers a dynamic beer scene that’s easy to explore through guided tours. Both options on our list provide a chance to taste local brews while soaking in the city’s history and character. For travelers who want a personalized deep dive into Denver’s brewing innovations, the Craft Beer Tour in LoDo is hard to beat.
For those seeking a casual and scenic experience in the city’s historic neighborhood, the LoDo Guided Walking Tour offers a laid-back way to enjoy Denver’s craft beer culture.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance is wise—Denver’s craft beer tours tend to fill up quickly, especially during the busy seasons. Cheers to discovering Denver’s vibrant brewing scene—your taste buds will thank you!