Denver: LoDo Craft Beer Guided Walking Tour

If you’re a fan of craft beer and want to explore Denver’s lively downtown district, this guided walk through LoDo (that’s Lower Downtown for the uninitiated) offers a flavorful way to spend an afternoon or evening. For $55, you’ll visit four microbreweries, sample 10 or more beers, and learn about the city’s craft brewing evolution—all within about 2.5 hours. This is a lively, sociable experience designed to give you a taste of Denver’s brewing passion while offering a peek into local history and culture.

That said, it’s primarily a tasting tour, not a brewery appreciation class. If you’re mindful of your alcohol intake or have dietary considerations, plan accordingly. And with walking involved, comfortable shoes are a must.

What we love about this tour is the chance to sample diverse beers in vibrant settings, plus the engaging stories your guide will share about Denver’s rise as the ‘Napa Valley of Beer.’ On the downside, some may find that the focus on sampling could leave wanting a deeper dive into the brewing methods for beer enthusiasts interested in the craft’s technical side.

Highlights of Denver’s LoDo Craft Beer Tour

• Sampling 10+ craft beers and lagers at vibrant microbreweries
• Walking through historic neighborhoods, including the Ballpark District and LoDo
• Visiting four hand-picked breweries with behind-the-scenes access
• Hearing storied local tales from your guide about Denver’s beer scene
• Learning about special brewing processes and the city’s beer history
• Exploring lively downtown Denver, combining culture and palate-pleasing experiences

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

The tour kicks off in carefully selected locations, each chosen for their unique contributions to Denver’s brewing fame. Whether you begin at the Rock Bottom Brewery in the back bar at 16th and Curtis or the Great Divide Brewing Company’s taproom, you’re in for a flavorful journey through Denver’s beer landscape.

Each stop includes a guided behind-the-scenes visit—a real treat for those interested in the craft. For example, visiting a brewpub that grew into a nationwide franchise or a brewery founded by Colorado’s governor offers more than just a sip; it offers insight into the story behind the beer.

Participants typically sample seasonal and local ales, lagers, and stouts, giving a well-rounded glimpse of what’s hot in Denver’s microbrew scene. The souvenir taster glass is a nice touch, keeping the memories (and the keepsakes) alive after the tour.

According to review snippets, the experience is praised for knowledgeable guides—one said, “Matt was a great tour guide!” A distinct advantage of this tour is the ability to ask questions directly to someone in the know, especially since Denver has earned its reputation as the “Napa Valley of Beer.”

The Walk Between Breweries

It’s a moderate 1.5-mile walk through parts of downtown Denver and the historic Ballpark district. You’ll enjoy the sights and sounds of these vibrant neighborhoods while stopping at four carefully selected microbreweries. The walk itself isn’t strenuous, but good shoes are recommended — the city sidewalks can be uneven, and comfort makes a better experience.

The locations vary by day, but the tour always visits microbreweries with broad appeal—busy spots, where the community mingles and tales of Denver’s beer scene unfold naturally. By grouping multiple stops in a compact route, the tour minimizes downtime and maximizes tasting.

The Breweries and Their Significance

One highlight, according to reviews, is the behind-the-scenes look at each brewery. For instance, some stops allow you to see how beer is made, providing a tangible connection between the drink and its process. Along the way, guides will share fascinating stories about Denver’s history, giving you context for why city streets are dotted with successful microbreweries.

It seems that the variety of beers along this tour is diverse, with seasonal offerings giving a current snapshot of Denver’s brewing creativity. Participants rave about sampling delicious local brews that truly reflect the region’s palate.

Value for Money and Practical Details

For $55, the tour offers more than just beer tastings; it’s a cultural and social experience that offers excellent value for anyone interested in understanding Denver’s booming craft beer scene. The inclusion of a souvenir glass sweetens the deal, and the local guide’s storytelling adds depth to the journey.

No food is included, so it’s wise to eat beforehand or plan to grab a bite after the tour. It’s not a heavy drinking experience—more about enjoying a variety of beers over the walk and gaining insight into local brewing.

Booking flexibility is a plus— you can reserve now and pay later, which is perfect for flexible travel plans. Tours run on specific days and start at different locations, including Rock Bottom, Great Divide Brewing, and Wynkoop Brewing, with the meeting points ensured to be in lively parts of downtown. And yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re looking for an entertaining, social experience blending local history, culture, and craft beer, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially great if you like tasting a variety of beers and are curious about how different breweries operate. Families or groups of friends who enjoy a relaxed, laid-back vibe will find this a wonderful way to soak up Denver’s beer-centric culture.

It’s also well-suited for first-time visitors wanting an overview of downtown Denver’s neighborhoods. But, if pure technical beer education is your goal, you might find this tour a little light unless you ask lots of questions.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This craft beer walking tour provides a perfect blend of delicious tastings, engaging stories, and neighborhood exploration. It’s ideal for those curious about Denver’s reputation as the “Napa Valley of Beer”, travelers looking for a fun, relaxed way to see downtown, or aficionados wanting to sample a variety of local brews. The value is solid considering the depth of experience—you get multiple stops, great guides, and a glimpse into Denver’s brewing success story—without breaking the bank.

This tour is most beneficial for adults over 21 who enjoy social gatherings and are comfortable walking a mile or so through the city. It’s also a good choice if you prefer an experience that balances drinking, learning, and city strolling in an authentic setting.

But, bear in mind:

If you’re not keen on alcohol or have specific dietary needs, this might not be the best fit. Also, since the focus is on sampling, beer nerds looking for detailed brewing techniques might find it somewhat surface-level. Nonetheless, you’ll walk away with a better understanding of why Denver has become a craft beer hotspot, along with some memorable tastings.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically runs about 2.5 hours, but actual time can vary due to group size and brewery activity.

Where does the tour start?
Start locations depend on the day: Friday at Rock Bottom Brewing, Saturday at Great Divide Brewing, or Wynkoop Brewing on Saturday and Sunday at 3:15 pm.

Can I book the tour in advance?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and choose to pay later, offering flexibility.

What’s included in the tour?
You’ll get 10 beer samples, a souvenir taster glass, and the services of a knowledgeable local guide.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, this tour is suitable only for those 21 and over.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is accessible for wheelchair users.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a passport or ID to prove your age, and wear comfortable shoes for walking.

This walking tour through Denver’s LoDo district offers a fun, flavorful way to tap into the city’s vibrant craft beer culture—an experience best suited for those ready to enjoy good drinks, engaging stories, and city sights all in one go.