Small-Group Cocktail Tour in Denver

Many travelers are curious about Denver’s vibrant bar scene and its connection to the city’s history. This Small-Group Cocktail Tour promises a flavorful journey through downtown Denver’s best bars, blending history, craftsmanship, and local flavor into one engaging experience. Although I haven’t taken this tour myself, the positive reviews and detailed itinerary paint a pretty enticing picture.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it offers a chance to learn about Denver’s past and its role in the evolution of cocktails. The guides are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling. Second, it includes three well-chosen stops that balance historic bars, modern speakeasies, and local favorites. Lastly, the small-group format ensures a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere, making it perfect for those wanting a personal touch.

However, one point to consider is that, despite the tour’s focus on cocktails, food isn’t included. If you’re expecting snacks or meals, you’ll need to plan accordingly.

This tour seems best suited for cocktail enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone wanting a fun, relaxed way to explore Denver’s lively bar scene without the hassle of navigating the city on your own.

Key Points

• Historical insights make each drink more meaningful and memorable.
• The small-group size (max 12) guarantees personalized attention and camaraderie.
• Three included cocktails provide a good taste of Denver’s diverse drink offerings.
• Starting at Union Station, the tour offers a scenic introduction to downtown Denver.
• The guides’ expertise and storytelling receive high praise, adding depth to the experience.
• No food included, so plan to eat before or after the tour.

Introduction: What to Expect from the Denver Cocktail Tour

If you’re on the hunt for a unique way to spend an evening in Denver, this small-group cocktail tour combines history and the local bar scene in a relaxed, approachable way. It’s not your typical pub crawl — instead, it’s a carefully curated experience that weaves stories of Denver’s past with tastings of craft cocktails.

What we love about this experience? First, the knowledgeable guides like Kristina and Patrick are praised for their storytelling, making each stop more than just a drink — it’s a lesson in Denver’s history. Second, the handpicked bars are often hidden gems, some with roots dating back to the city’s earliest days. Third, the inclusive price covers three carefully chosen cocktails, allowing you to sample a nice variety without feeling overwhelmed.

One possible drawback? The tour is only about 2.5 hours long, so if you’re looking for a full night out, you’ll want to plan additional drinks or dinner afterward. Still, for a balanced introduction to Denver’s drink scene, it hits the mark.

This experience is ideal for those interested in cocktails and local history, small groups seeking a personalized experience, and visitors wanting to combine sightseeing with a taste of Denver’s spirited culture.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Denver Union Station

The tour begins at Denver’s iconic Union Station, a landmark that embodies the city’s history. Here, your guide will introduce you to Denver’s early days and its long association with alcohol. One reviewer mentioned that Kristina’s friendly approach and wealth of knowledge made this initial stop especially engaging, setting a warm tone for the evening. You’ll have about 15 minutes to soak in the architecture and get your first glimpse of the city’s lively downtown.

LoDo: The Heart of Denver’s Historic Bar Scene

Next, the group steps into Lower Downtown (LoDo), an area known for its brick buildings and vibrant nightlife. The guide will lead you through the streets to a few favorite local bars, some of which might be among Denver’s oldest or have a speakeasy vibe. Several reviewers highlighted the atmosphere, noting that many bars are non-touristy and rich in character, which enhances the authenticity.

Expect to visit a place that could be a historic tavern, where stories of early pioneers are shared, or a hidden underground speakeasy that whispers secrets of Prohibition. The guide will explain the ingredients and the stories behind each drink, adding layers of meaning to your tastings. Multiple reviews praise the delicious cocktails and the informative storytelling that makes each sip special.

Larimer Square: The Final Stop

Your tour concludes at Larimer Square, a lively area filled with boutique shops, galleries, and some of Denver’s best craft cocktail bars. This stop gives you the chance to appreciate Denver’s modern cocktail scene while exploring a historic district. The guide will offer recommendations for more drinks, local beers, or dining options, perfect for extending your evening if you wish.

The Included Tastings: Three Cocktails

Throughout the tour, you’ll sample three different drinks — each with a story. These aren’t just random cocktails; they’re carefully selected to match the historical timeline, with some reviewers noting that the pairings are thoughtful and well-made. The drinks often reflect pre-Prohibition, Prohibition-era, and post-Prohibition eras, giving you a taste of how cocktails evolved with Denver’s history.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Engaging

A key highlight from reviews is the quality of guides like Kristina and Patrick. Guests rave about their friendly demeanor, deep knowledge, and storytelling skills. Patrick, for example, was described as entertaining and well equipped to quiz guests, making each stop both fun and educational. Kristina’s research and personable approach made her stand out, making the experience feel intimate and personalized.

Value and Experience: Is It Worth the Price?

At $99 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience combining history, local flavor, and cocktail tasting. Compared to the cost of an average bar crawl or a private cocktail class, the inclusion of three well-crafted drinks and guidance adds considerable value. The tour’s small size (maximum 12 guests) ensures personalized attention, making it feel more like a private experience.

Guests consistently mention the quality of the cocktails and the informative narration, which elevates the experience beyond just drinking. Plus, the tour is booked an average of 16 days in advance, showing a decent demand and popularity.

Practical Tips

While the tour doesn’t include food, many reviewers suggest eating beforehand or planning dinner afterward. Since the tour focuses on drinks and stories, don’t expect snacks or meals along the way. Also, the mobile ticket system makes check-in smooth, and the meeting point at Union Station is easy to access via public transportation.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 12 travelers, the group size fosters a convivial atmosphere where everyone can chat comfortably with the guide and each other. Several reviews mention how the small-group setting made the experience more engaging, allowing guides to tailor their stories and answer questions thoroughly. This setup is perfect for those who prefer an intimate, relaxed environment over large, noisy tours.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The tour begins at 4:00 pm, making it suitable for travelers who want an engaging afternoon or evening activity. Service animals are allowed, and the tour is designed to accommodate most travelers. Being near public transportation, getting to the starting point is straightforward for visitors staying downtown.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights

What truly elevates this tour are the hidden gems you visit and the stories shared. Reviewer Patricia shared that her guide Kristina “did her research,” providing great stories about people and places related to Denver’s history. Guests are taken to non-touristy locations, making the experience feel genuine and off the beaten path.

The tour’s focus on historical cocktails and local bars enriches the typical night out, offering insight into Denver’s bootlegging past and craft cocktail resurgence. The inclusion of three drinks from different eras allows everyone to taste and appreciate the evolution of Denver’s beverage culture.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy learning about history while sipping cocktails. It’s perfect for small groups wanting a personalized experience with friendly guides. If you’re a fan of craft drinks and want to discover Denver’s hidden bar scene, you’ll find this tour both educational and delicious.

Travelers looking for a relaxed, engaging way to explore downtown Denver will appreciate the well-paced itinerary and stories that make each drink memorable. It’s also a great option for celebrating special occasions or birthdays, as many reviews highlight the guides’ ability to make the night feel special.

Keep in mind, if you’re craving food or a longer evening, this might be best combined with dinner afterward. But for a focused, fun, and educational cocktail experience, it’s hard to beat.

FAQs

Are drinks included in the tour? Yes, the tour price covers three alcoholic beverages which are carefully selected to match the historical narrative.

What is the duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, beginning at 4:00 pm and ending at Union Station.

Where does the tour start and end? It starts at 1701 Wynkoop St and concludes at Union Station, both central locations in Denver.

Is the tour suitable for everyone? Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The small-group size and moderate pace make it accessible for a wide range of guests.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Is food included? No, the tour does not include food, so plan to eat before or after the experience.

Final Word

If you’re after an informative, fun, and intimate exploration of Denver’s cocktail scene, this tour hits the sweet spot. With knowledgeable guides, thoughtfully chosen stops, and delicious drinks, it offers a genuine taste of the city’s spirited past and present. Perfect for history lovers, cocktail enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a relaxed evening in downtown Denver. Just remember to plan for dinner afterward if you want a full night out.