Denver: Holiday Lights and Sights Walking Tour

Experience the Magic of Denver’s Holiday Lights with a 2-Hour Walking Tour

If you’re looking to soak up the festive spirit in Denver without the hassle of driving or crowds, the Denver: Holiday Lights and Sights Walking Tour offers a delightful way to do just that. This guided stroll through Denver’s most illuminated landmarks combines storytelling, local lore, and plenty of photo opportunities, all in a cozy two-hour window.

What makes this tour stand out are the stunning light displays at the Denver City and County Building, the interactive Mile High Christmas Tree, and the charmingly decorated Larimer Square. We love how the knowledgeable guide shares holiday traditions rooted in Denver’s history, adding a personal touch to the visual spectacle. Plus, the ending at Civic Center Park offers a perfect spot for soaking in the light show or grabbing a quick warm drink nearby.

One thing to consider is that this outdoor experience requires warm clothing and good walking shoes, especially since it takes place mostly outside in the cold winter air. If you’re travel-savvy and enjoy exploring cityscapes lit up for the holidays, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for those seeking a relaxed, informative, and festive activity that’s both fun and visually captivating.

Key Points

• Perfect for winter evenings: Cozy up and enjoy Denver’s sparkling holiday displays.
• Guided storytelling: Learn fun Christmas stories and traditions unique to Denver.
• Photographic moments: Plenty of opportunities for stunning holiday photos.
• Accessible landmarks: See famous sites like Larimer Square and the Daniels and F Fisher Tower.
• Value for the price: At $34, it offers a memorable, guided experience with a knowledgeable guide.
• Ideal for festive spirits: Suitable for anyone wanting a cheerful, cultural holiday activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Festive Guide to Denver’s Best-Lit Landmarks

This walking tour, provided by Discover Denver Tours, takes you on a curated path through Denver’s holiday highlights. Starting at Union Station, you’ll immediately feel the seasonal cheer with its ornately decorated Great Hall and glowing lights. It’s a warm welcome and sets the tone for the evening ahead. The guide, easily recognizable with a festive necklace or hat, shares stories and lore about Denver’s holiday customs, giving you a richer appreciation of the city’s traditions.

From there, the tour moves to the Denver City and County Building, where the dazzling light show is a true crowd favorite. Its grand architecture becomes even more impressive when lit up, making it a prime photo spot. Reviewers, like Laura, mention how ending at this spot allowed them to enjoy the light display and visit the nearby Christkindl Market—adding an extra layer of holiday fun.

Next, the group explores Larimer Square, Denver’s oldest block and a favorite for its string lights and historic atmosphere. It’s a lively area full of twinkling trees and festive window displays, perfect for casual strolling and picture taking. According to reviews, the guide’s storytelling brought new insights to these familiar sights, making even regular visitors see them in a new light.

The tour also features a visit to the Mile High Christmas Tree, a centerpiece adorned with thousands of Denver’s own Christmas lights. The interactive aspect of this ornamented wonder makes it a highlight for families and holiday aficionados alike. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge shine during this part, turning a simple decorated tree into a memorable experience.

What to Expect on the Tour

This experience is all about combining visual splendor with storytelling to create a cozy, engaging winter outing. The two-hour walk is relaxed, allowing plenty of time for questions, photos, and chatting with your guide. It starts at Union Station at 4:50 p.m., ensuring you have ample time to settle in before the tour kicks off at 5:00 p.m..

Your guide leads you along a route that includes the D&F Clock Tower, illuminated in holiday splendor, and culminates at the City and County Building, which transforms into a spectacular light display. Throughout the walk, you’ll hear stories about Denver’s holiday traditions, learn about the history behind these landmarks, and get insider tips on the best nearby spots for food and drinks after the tour.

Expect to spend the majority of your time outdoors, so layering is essential. The tour is designed for people who enjoy walking and don’t mind a bit of winter chill. As one reviewer noted, “Mikey was a great guide! I liked the new path, ending at the City & County building to see the light show was great, and gave us time to visit the Christkindle market.”

The tour is suitable for most, but not recommended for very young children under 6, wheelchair users, or babies under 1, as it involves outdoor walking in cold weather.

The Experience and Its Highlights

Guides and Stories: The tour’s success largely hinges on the guide’s storytelling abilities. Audience reviews praise Mikey, the guide, for being knowledgeable and engaging, making the experience educational and fun. The stories about holiday traditions that started locally add a unique Denver flavor to the event, giving it a more authentic and personalized feel.

Landmarks and Lights: The lighting displays are the main attraction—and for good reason. The Denver City and County Building’s light show is a visual treat. The Mile High Christmas Tree offers a festive photo backdrop, especially since it’s decorated with thousands of lights. Larimer Square’s historic charm, with twinkling trees and decorated storefronts, creates a lively holiday atmosphere.

Photo Opportunities: Every stop provides a chance to snap memorable photos. Whether it’s the illuminated clock tower, the glowing Larimer Square, or the intricate lights on the Denver buildings, you’ll find plenty of chances to capture the holiday magic.

Post-Tour Recommendations: After the walk, the guide shares tips on nearby dining options and cozy cafes. For instance, you might want to visit the Christkindl Market if you’re still in the mood for festive treats and handmade gifts. Plus, with the free 16th St. Mall shuttle nearby, getting back to your accommodation is convenient, especially after a chilly evening.

Analyzing the Value

At $34 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. For a guided walk through some of Denver’s most iconic holiday sights, the price is quite reasonable, particularly when you consider the insider stories and photo opportunities included. It’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy the city’s holiday ambiance without the hassle of parking or navigating unfamiliar streets at night.

While food and drinks are not included, the tour’s focus on the sights and stories makes it a perfect activity for those who want a relaxed, informative experience. If you’re traveling on a budget but crave a meaningful holiday activity, this tour hits the mark.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This walking tour is tailored for travelers who appreciate a combination of visual spectacle and storytelling. It’s ideal for couples, families, or solo visitors looking for a relaxed way to enjoy Denver’s holiday lights. Those who enjoy photography, history, or holiday traditions will find plenty to love here.

It’s also perfect for visitors who prefer a guided experience that takes the stress out of holiday sightseeing, with the bonus of learning about Denver’s unique traditions along the way. However, those with mobility issues or very young children should be aware of the outdoor walking and winter weather.

Final Thoughts

The Denver: Holiday Lights and Sights Walking Tour offers a charming, festive way to explore the city’s most dazzling holiday displays. The combination of expert storytelling, beautiful landmarks, and relaxed pacing makes it a standout activity for the winter season.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a mix of cultural insight and visual delight without the expense or complexity of larger tours. For those seeking a cozy, memorable holiday outing, this walk hits all the right notes.

Whether you’re visiting Denver for the holidays or just want to enjoy some winter cheer, this tour can add sparkle to your season and create lasting memories.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, starting at 5:00 p.m. and ending back at the meeting point.

Where do I meet the guide?
Meet at the flagpole in front of Union Station, at the intersection of Wynkoop and 17th Streets. Arrive by 4:50 p.m. to check in.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6, as the walk is outdoors and involves winter weather. It’s also not suitable for wheelchair users or babies under 1 year.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly with layered clothing, comfortable shoes, a hat, gloves, and warm footwear. It can get quite chilly in the evening.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but the guide will suggest nearby spots if you wish to grab a warm beverage afterward.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there parking nearby?
Public parking options are available near Union Station, but consider arriving early to find parking and avoid the evening rush.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the tour is outdoors, check the weather forecast beforehand. Heavy rain or snow may lead to rescheduling or cancellation, with full refunds provided.

In brief, this tour offers a cozy, spirited way to see Denver’s holiday lights, learn some local traditions, and capture beautiful photos. It’s a fantastic choice if you want a relaxed, guided experience that celebrates the season’s best sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: