Denver is a city that rewards explorers on foot. Its blend of historic neighborhoods, impressive architecture, and spooky stories makes it ideal for walking tours. We especially love how some tours combine history with a little thrill—like Denver’s Twilight Ghost Walking Tour, which offers a spooky stroll past Victorian mansions. Whether you’re interested in Denver’s past, architecture, or haunted legends, there’s a tour for you. Plus, most tours are short enough to fit into a busy schedule, giving you an authentic taste of the city without the hassle.
One of the reasons Denver stands out for walking tours is its diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character. From the historic Capitol Hill district to the lively downtown, walking allows you to soak in the atmosphere at your own pace. Notable options include ghost tours in Capitol Hill, architecture walks through downtown, and historic explorations that reveal Denver’s fascinating evolution—all of which we highlight below.
Quick Overview
Our list features a mix of ghost-themed tours, history and architecture walks, and comprehensive downtown explorations. All these tours are designed to give you a tangible sense of Denver’s unique character. For detailed insights on each experience, check out the links provided. Now, let’s explore the six best walking tours in Denver.
1. Denver: Twilight Ghost Walking Tour
This Twilight Ghost Walking Tour ranks high for its spooky vibe and engaging storytelling. Priced at $27 per person, it lasts about two hours and takes you through Denver’s most haunted mansions in the historic Victorian district. The tour is especially popular among visitors who enjoy ghost-hunting, Victorian architecture, and dark stories that add a thrill to your evening.
What makes this tour stand out is the mix of ghostly encounters and historical narratives, all delivered by guides like Sheila and Will, who are praised for their storytelling skills. The Victorian mansions are beautifully preserved, serving as the perfect backdrop for tales of paranormal activity. The thrill of potentially encountering spirits in a setting rich with history makes this tour a fun choice for night owls and history buffs alike.
Reviews consistently highlight the guides’ engaging personalities and detailed storytelling. One guest said, “Sheila was an amazing guide, very knowledgeable and entertaining,” which captures the experience well. For those who like a little scare with educational value, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom Line: A fun, atmospheric walk that combines Denver’s dark past with ghostly legends—best suited for those who love spooky stories and Victorian architecture.
2. Denver: History and Architecture Walking Tours
If you’re more interested in the city’s design and stories of its growth, the Denver: History and Architecture Walking Tours offer a fantastic option. For $20, you get 1.5 hours exploring Denver’s oldest buildings and learning about the key figures who shaped the city. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides and cover five different routes, each focusing on different neighborhoods or themes.
What makes this tour special is the focus on Denver’s architectural evolution, from its early days through modern developments. The guides are experts, sharing stories behind landmarks like the historic buildings on LoDo or the Capitol. If you’re into history, architecture, or urban development, this tour provides a detailed narrative that makes the city come alive.
While it’s a shorter tour, the value is high considering the depth of information and the beauty of Denver’s historic structures. Reviewers note the guides’ expertise, saying they “uncover Denver’s fascinating story.” It’s a good pick for travelers who want a concise yet insightful look at the city’s past and present.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history and architecture lovers seeking a quick, guided overview of Denver’s most iconic buildings.
3. Best of Denver Walking Tour
The Best of Denver Walking Tour gives you a taste of downtown’s highlights. Priced at $27 and lasting about 2.5 hours, this tour covers the bustling 16th Street Mall, the Colorado State Capitol, and other key attractions. It’s ideal for visitors wanting a comprehensive introduction to Denver’s core neighborhoods.
Led by friendly local guides, this tour provides insights into both historic sites and modern Denver. Guests love the opportunity to pass by popular landmarks and discover hidden gems along the way. The tour also offers stops at local eateries, making it easy to sample Denver’s cuisine while exploring. One reviewer raved, “Bill was so knowledgeable and fun—I couldn’t get enough of his personality!”
The tour balances sightseeing with storytelling, making it a well-rounded experience. Since it covers a lot in a short time, it’s best for visitors with limited time who want a broad overview of downtown.
Bottom Line: A lively, informative tour that offers a solid introduction to Denver’s most famous spots and local flavor.
4. Denver: All Ages Guided Ghost Walking Tour
This All Ages Ghost Tour is perfect if you want a family-friendly, spooky experience. For $25, it lasts about 1.5 hours and explores Denver’s eerie Capitol Hill neighborhood, including Victorian homes, haunted mansions, and ghostly legends.
Highlights include stops at the Molly Brown House Museum and the Peabody-Whitehead Mansion, where guides share stories of ghostly encounters and haunted history. The tour is designed to be accessible for all ages, making it a good choice for families or those new to ghost tours. It moves through Civic Center Park and surrounding historic sites, giving a broad sense of Denver’s haunted side.
Reviewers mention the enthusiasm of guides like Sheila and Will, who make the stories engaging without being overly scary. The tour’s focus on famous haunted sites makes it a memorable experience for those interested in Denver’s supernatural side.
Bottom Line: A family-friendly ghost walk that combines history with a fun, spooky atmosphere—ideal for kids and adults alike.
5. Denver Guided Walking Ghost / History Tour at Capitol Hill
For a more interactive experience, the Ghost / History Tour at Capitol Hill offers a 1.5-hour walk for $28. It’s designed for those interested in uncovering Denver’s darker stories through storytelling and outdoor exploration.
Guides encourage participants to take photos, ask questions, and even try some basic outdoor ghost-hunting if they bring equipment. This tour is ideal for curious travelers who want to actively participate rather than just listen. It covers sites associated with murder, scandal, and betrayal, providing a vivid picture of Denver’s grittier past.
Guests emphasize the interactive nature, saying it “felt more like a shared adventure.” If you’re comfortable with spooky stories but prefer a hands-on approach, this tour is a good pick.
Bottom Line: An engaging, participatory ghost tour that combines storytelling with outdoor exploration for a fun, interactive evening.
6. Denver’s Ghosts of Capitol Hill Walking Tour
Rounding out the list, Denver’s Ghosts of Capitol Hill offers a 2-hour exploration of Denver’s haunted history for $28. The tour visits sites like the graveyard-turned-park that inspired a Hollywood film, the foreboding Stoiberhof mansion, and the Patterson Inn’s darkened windows.
This tour emphasizes Denver’s “seedy past” and legend, with stories of poltergeists and ghostly sightings. It’s suited for travelers who enjoy a blend of storytelling and a touch of suspense. The history of the demolished mansion and the haunted mansion in the neighborhood provides tangible links to Denver’s darker side.
Reviews mention the spooky atmosphere and interesting stories, making it a good choice for those wanting an immersive ghost experience.
Bottom Line: An atmospheric walk into Denver’s haunted legends, perfect for believers and skeptics alike looking for a spooky night out.
How to Choose the Right Walking Tour in Denver
When selecting your walking tour, consider your interests and schedule. If you’re fascinated by spooky stories, the Twilight Ghost Tour or Ghosts of Capitol Hill are excellent choices. For history or architecture buffs, the History and Architecture Tour offers a concise yet thorough experience.
Budget-wise, most tours hover around $20-$28, making them accessible for most travelers. Consider the length and activity level—shorter, family-friendly options like the All Ages Ghost Tour are great for kids, while more interactive experiences suit adventurous types.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure spots on your preferred tour. Also, check availability as start times may vary, especially for evening ghost walks.
Final Thoughts
Denver offers a variety of walking tours that cover its haunted past, historic architecture, and vibrant downtown. For those interested in ghost stories, the Twilight Ghost Walking Tour and Ghosts of Capitol Hill provide memorable spooky experiences. Meanwhile, travelers wanting a broader look at Denver’s development will appreciate the History and Architecture Tour.
Whether you’re chasing spirits, uncovering history, or just taking a leisurely stroll through Denver’s lively districts, these tours make exploring Denver on foot both fun and meaningful. Book early, dress comfortably, and enjoy your walk through Denver’s past and present.