Shady Side of Denver – Rinos Dark History & Murals Tour

Denver’s RiNo district is known for its vibrant street art, but it also has a dark history that’s often overlooked. The "Shady Side of Denver – RiNo’s Dark History & Murals Tour" promises to unveil the city’s intriguing past, from the tragic Sand Creek Massacre to infamous local events. As you explore the stunning murals that adorn the neighborhood, you’ll also uncover the stories that lurk beneath the surface.

Good To Know

• The tour provides a 1.5-hour exploration of Denver’s dark history, including true crime cases and the city’s former red-light district.
• Participants can learn about significant events like the Sand Creek Massacre and the 2022 Denver shooting rampage.
• The tour also features a guided mural exploration of the vibrant RiNo neighborhood, complementing the true crime focus.
• Flexible booking and cancellation policies ensure a hassle-free experience for participants.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible and starts at the Wonderyard Garden + Table, with optional craft beer and food tastings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour, titled "Shady Side of Denver – RiNo’s Dark History & Murals Tour," offers participants a 1.5-hour exploration of Denver’s dark past and the vibrant murals that adorn the River North (RiNo) neighborhood.

Priced from $25 per person, the group is limited to 10 and is wheelchair accessible. The tour starts in front of the Wonderyard Garden + Table.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. Highlights include true crime cases, dozens of murals, and optional craft beer and food tastings along the 2-mile route.

Cancellation and Booking Policy

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour also offers a reserve now & pay later option, providing flexibility for booking. This policy aims to accommodate participants’ schedules and ensure a hassle-free experience.

Guests can easily cancel their reservation if their plans change, without any penalties. This flexibility is a valuable feature, allowing customers to book the tour with confidence and adjust their plans as needed.

The cancellation and booking policy enhances the overall customer experience, demonstrating the tour operator’s commitment to customer satisfaction.

Exploring Denver’s Dark History

Beyond the flexibility of the booking process, the Shady Side of Denver tour promises to uncover the city’s dark past.

From the Sand Creek Massacre to the 2022 shooting rampage, the tour explores significant true crime cases that have shaped Denver’s history. Participants will learn about the failed kidnapping attempt of Adolph Coors III and the Market Street’s former reputation as a red-light district.

The tour may also explore high-profile Colorado cases, including JonBenet Ramsey, Columbine, Chris Watts, James Holmes, Ted Bundy, and Jack Gilbert Graham.

The tour balances these sobering topics with the vibrant murals that adorn the RiNo neighborhood.

Significant True Crime Cases

Although the Shady Side of Denver tour covers a range of historical topics, it notably delves into several significant true crime cases that have left indelible marks on the city. From the Sand Creek Massacre to the 2022 shooting rampage by a misogynist, the tour explores these dark events and their impact on the community. Plus, the failed kidnapping attempt of Adolph Coors III and the history of Market Street’s red-light district are discussed. The tour may also cover major Colorado cases, including JonBenet Ramsey, Columbine, Chris Watts, James Holmes, Ted Bundy, and Jack Gilbert Graham.

| Case | Location | Year |

| — | — | — |

| Sand Creek Massacre | Southeastern Colorado | 1864 |

| 2022 Shooting Rampage | Denver | 2022 |

| Adolph Coors III Kidnapping | Golden, Colorado | 1960s |

| Market Street Red-Light District | Denver | Late 19th/Early 20th Century |

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Mural Tour of the RiNo District

Along With exploring Denver’s dark history, the Shady Side of Denver tour also takes participants on a mural tour through the RiNo (River North Art) district.

Visitors will view dozens of vibrant murals created by local and international artists. The tour showcases the district’s eclectic mix of urban street art, from bold, colorful designs to thought-provoking political statements.

Stops along the 2-mile route allow guests to admire the murals up close and learn about the artists and stories behind the pieces. The mural exploration complements the tour’s true crime focus, providing a visually striking contrast to Denver’s darker historical narratives.

Food and Beverage Options

Throughout the tour, guests have the opportunity to sample a variety of food and drinks from the thriving culinary scene in the RiNo district.

Along the route, the guide will point out several local restaurants, food trucks, and craft breweries where guests can stop to refuel. Options may include:

• Craft beer tastings at one of RiNo’s many microbreweries

• Artisanal wood-fired pizza from a mobile pizza oven

• Gourmet tacos or burritos from a popular food truck

• Locally-sourced seasonal bites from a neighborhood restaurant

These culinary experiences allow guests to further enjoy the vibrant culture of the RiNo neighborhood.

Flexibility of the Tour

The tour’s flexibility allows the guide to tailor the experience based on the group’s specific interests.

If the group is more interested in true crime cases, the guide can focus on discussing the historical details and significance of notable incidents covered on the tour.

Alternatively, if the group prefers to emphasize the murals and Denver’s artistic culture, the guide can shift the emphasis towards exploring the vibrant street art and the stories behind the murals.

Regardless of the group’s preferences, the tour remains adaptable, ensuring an engaging and personalized experience for all participants.

Meeting Point and Accessibility

The tour meets in front of the Wonderyard Garden + Table, which ensures the experience is accessible to all participants. The meeting point is wheelchair-friendly, making it easy for those with mobility challenges to join.

Some key details about the meeting point and accessibility:

• The location is centrally situated in the RiNo arts district.

• Nearby parking and transportation options are available.

• The tour route covers approximately 2 miles on paved, level surfaces.

• Tour guides are accommodating and happy to assist participants as needed.

• Advance notice of any accessibility requirements is appreciated to ensure a seamless experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the tour. The tour is open to participants of all ages, though the content may not be suitable for young children due to the focus on dark history and true crime cases.

Can the Tour Accommodate Large Groups or Private Bookings?

Yes, the tour can accommodate large groups or private bookings. The group size is limited to 10 participants, but the company may be able to arrange a private tour for larger groups upon request.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is allowed during the tour. Participants are encouraged to capture the murals, historical sites, and other interesting sights along the way. However, discretion is advised when photographing sensitive locations or topics related to criminal cases discussed.

What Level of Walking Is Required for This Tour?

The tour involves about 2 miles of walking at a moderate pace. Participants should be able to stand and walk for the duration of the 1.5-hour tour. The route is wheelchair accessible.

Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?

The tour does not offer any discounts for students or seniors. The pricing for the Shady Side of Denver – RiNo’s Dark History & Murals Tour is a flat rate of $25.00 per person, regardless of age or student status.

The Sum Up

The "Shady Side of Denver – RiNo’s Dark History & Murals Tour" offers a unique and captivating experience, blending the city’s intriguing past with its vibrant street art. Participants will explore significant true crime cases, while also exploring the stunning murals that adorn the RiNo district, providing a comprehensive understanding of Denver’s eclectic landscape. The tour’s flexibility and accessibility make it an engaging and informative option for visitors and locals alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: