Bikes, Brews & Hidden Bars: A Ride Through RiNo & Downtown

Bikes, Brews & Hidden Bars: A Ride Through RiNo & Downtown offers a lively way to explore Denver’s vibrant neighborhoods while sipping local drinks and soaking in the urban art scene. For just $95 per person, you’ll spend about 2.5 hours on an 8-mile ride, including stops at top breweries, murals, and historic sites—all guided by a friendly expert.

A potential consideration? This tour involves a moderate ride through some city neighborhoods, so perfect bike comfort is a plus. Visitors looking for a very relaxed or less active sightseeing option might want to prepare for some pedaling.

What we love about this experience is how it blends physical activity with cultural discovery—covering key landmarks, dynamic street art, and hidden drinking spots. The lively vibe with local stops and tasty snacks makes the tour authentic and fun. A slight drawback could be the limited time; with only 2.5 hours, some travelers might wish for longer to explore more. Still, the balance of sights, bites, and brews hits the sweet spot for many.

Highlights

• Diverse Neighborhoods: Explore both downtown Denver’s landmarks and the trendy, artsy RiNo district.
• Street Art: Discover a dozen murals that showcase contemporary Denver creativity.
• Local Breweries & Bars: Stop at 2-3 local spots like Lincoln’s Speakeasy and Improper City.
• Landmark Passes: View Coors Field, Union Station, and Larimer Square from a bike-friendly perspective.
• Historical Insights: Learn about Denver’s development and hidden stories along the route.
• Scenic Ride: Travel along the Cherry Creek River to its confluence with the Platte River.

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

This ride begins in the heart of downtown Denver, where you’ll coast past major sights like Coors Field, the home of Rockies baseball, and the bustling Dairy Block, a modern mixed-use district filled with shops and eateries. The guide will share tidbits about these local landmarks, making history accessible and engaging. As you move along, you’ll pass Union Station, restored and thriving, perfect for those who love urban architecture mixed with history.

From there, expect a transition from the city’s core to the scenic Cherry Creek River, which offers a refreshing change of pace. Riding along this waterway, you’ll head toward Larimer Square, Denver’s oldest and most charming shopping and dining district. This area still hints at its Victorian era origins, but now brims with boutiques and cafés that cater to both travelers and locals.

The journey then takes a turn into RiNo (River North) District, Denver’s hub for urban art and grit. This is where the tour really shines—dozens of murals decorate warehouse walls, turning the area into an outdoor art gallery. Our review mentions “exploring a dozen murals,” highlighting this as a major draw. One of the tour’s reviews describes this part as a “relaxing, fun vibe,” complete with opportunities for photos, especially since the murals often serve as perfect backdrops.

Hopping between art and industry, you’ll eventually settle into local drinking spots like Lincoln’s Speakeasy and the Improper City, known for their craft beers and inviting atmospheres. Many travelers enjoy these visits, noting the great variety of drinks and the chance to socialize while tasting Denver’s boutique beer scene. As one reviewer puts it, “we stopped at a local market for a beer and hung out around an open area with many murals, corn hole, taco truck, and just an all-around relaxing fun vibe.”

The culmination of the tour wraps up after about 8 miles of scenic riding, with a chance to relax and soak in the neighborhood’s ambiance before heading back. Snacks and bottled water are included, keeping everyone fueled and refreshed, while two alcoholic beverages allow for a toast to Denver’s local flavors.

The Experience: Value and Authenticity

For the price of $95, this tour offers excellent value—covering city highlights, street art, local knowledge, and a taste of Denver’s craft brewing scene. Many reviews praise the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, making the experience both educational and entertaining. One reviewer states, “He was friendly, knowledgeable about the areas, and fun to be with,” reaffirming the importance of a personable guide for such an intimate tour.

Small group size (limited to 6 participants) enhances the experience, ensuring you’re not lost in the crowd and that the guide can personalize the stops. With pick-up included in a discreet minivan, you d avoid logistics fuss, making the whole outing smooth and easy.

Practical Details and Recommendations

Timing-wise, since the tour lasts around 2.5 hours, you’ll want to check the availability for an optimal start time, especially if you plan to combine it with other activities. The tour is flexible with booking: you can reserve now and pay later, which is helpful in uncertain travel plans.

Bring your bike comfort, and be prepared for some pedaling. If you’re not comfortable on a bike or prefer less activity, this might not be your ideal choice. However, for those who enjoy active city exploration, the combination of scenery, art, and local stops is worth the effort.

One note from reviews: this is best enjoyed in decent weather—rain or intense heat might limit the outdoor stops and mural viewing. The guide’s easygoing attitude helps keep everyone engaged but remember, this is a biking adventure, not a casual stroll.

Comparing the Experience

Looking at other Denver tours, this one stands out for its combination of art, history, and local flavor, rather than just sightseeing. Some similar experiences might focus solely on landmarks or food, but this bike ride uniquely blends the two while adding craft beer tasting and hidden bar visits. Many reviews find it perfect for those arriving in Denver wanting an immediate local connection, as one said, “the time of day being in the afternoon allowed us to take it on our day of arrival.”

While some might wish for more time or a longer ride, the compact, well-planned route provides a thorough introduction to Denver’s neighborhoods without feeling rushed.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re an active traveler interested in seeing Denver from a local angle, this tour offers a perfect mix of history, street art, and craft beer, all delivered in a relaxed, small-group environment. Urban explorers will appreciate learning about Denver’s development through engaging stories and stunning murals. Those who like tasting local brews will find the bar stops delicious and fun, with options like Lincoln’s Speakeasy conveying Denver’s hidden, historical side.

It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a bit of physical activity, quirky neighborhoods, and social atmospheres. If you’re looking for a laid-back, immersive way to experience Denver’s heart, this tour checks many boxes.

On the flip side, if cycling isn’t your thing or if you prefer guided tours with substantial historical deep dives, look for options specialized in those areas. But overall, for the blend of fun, flavor, and scenery, Bikes, Brews & Hidden Bars makes for a memorable Denver introduction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour covers 8 miles of easy city riding, suitable for most levels with comfortable bikes provided.

What’s included in the price?
You get a bike, helmet, bottled water, snacks, and two alcoholic beverages, offering good value for a day’s entertainment.

Are drinks included?
Yes, two alcoholic beverages are included; additional drinks or food are extra.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 6 people, ensuring an intimate experience.

What landmarks will I see?
Highlights include Coors Field, Union Station, Larimer Square, and murals in RiNo District.

Is the tour sidewalks or bike path?
It’s city streets and scenic river paths—an urban ride with a mix of dedicated bike-friendly routes and shared streets.

Do I need to bring my own snacks?
No, snacks are provided along with bottled water and drinks.

Can I reserve now and pay later?
Yes, you can book your spot without immediate payment, offering flexibility.

What if the weather is bad?
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, so check the forecast beforehand.

Is there a guide who narrates the tour?
Yes, you’ll be accompanied by a live guide who shares local stories and insights in English.

To sum it up, Bikes, Brews & Hidden Bars offers a lively, immersive way to get acquainted with Denver’s core neighborhoods, street art, and craft beer scene. Perfect for active travelers who love authentic experiences, it’s a well-paced, small-group adventure into the city’s coolest corners. Whether you’re savoring murals or sampling local brews, you’ll leave with a great sense of Denver’s character—best appreciated in good weather and open to a bit of pedaling and socializing.