Denver Downtown 16th Street Food & History Tour
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Discover Denver through its vibrant downtown food scene on the Denver Downtown 16th Street Food Tour. This experience blends the city’s evolving history with flavors from local businesses that are shaping its culinary identity today.
Starting at the historic Brown Palace Hotel, you'll enjoy a seasonal pastry and hear stories from the hotel’s storied past. From there, walk along the bustling 16th Street Mall, taking in landmarks like the Colorado State Capitol, Denver Pavilions, and the iconic Daniels & Fisher Clock Tower. Along the way, you'll visit four locally owned restaurants, sampling a diverse lineup of dishes that showcase Denver’s multicultural influences.
This tour isn’t just about tasting food—it's a journey through Denver’s architecture, history, and community spirit. Part walking tour, part history lesson, and part progressive meal, it offers a rich, authentic look at what makes Denver unique.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Denver Downtown 16th Street Food Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.
What languages are spoken during the tour?
The tour is conducted in English.
What is the group size?
Groups are limited to up to 15 people.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 3 to 11 can participate, and adults aged 12 to 99 are welcome.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and infants or small children can ride in a pram or stroller.
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes tastings of French quiche with green chiles, Argentinian empanadas, Colorado bison chili, and handmade pork dumplings.
Free cancellation
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 2.5 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Flaky French Quiche Made with Green Chiles
- Argentinian Empanadas from a Local Shop
- Colorado Bison Chili with Black Beans and White Cheddar
- Handmade Pork Dumplings from a Family-Owned Restaurant
Not included
- Tour Guide Gratuities
- Alcoholic Beverages
Itinerary
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Stop 1
We start at the historic Brown Palace Hotel, a Denver icon since 1892. Enjoy a seasonal housemade pastry while hearing stories about its famous guests and hidden tunnels, setting a refined yet welcoming tone for the tour.
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Stop 2
Walk along the 16th Street Mall, Denver’s main downtown corridor. This lively mile-long pedestrian street is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, reflecting the city’s vibrant culinary scene and urban energy.
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Stop 3
Visit Lazo Empanadas to sample their chorizo and egg breakfast empanada—warm, flaky, and packed with flavor. Learn how Argentine street food has found a home in Denver through family recipes with a Colorado twist.
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Stop 4
View the Colorado State Capitol with its striking gold dome, a symbol of Denver’s mining history and civic pride. The dome’s gleam is a reminder of the city’s roots and ambitions.
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Stop 5
Pass by Denver Pavilions, an open-air shopping and entertainment complex that has transformed downtown since 1998, showcasing Denver’s evolution as an urban hub for dining and events.
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Stop 6
See the historic Paramount Theatre, a grand Art Deco venue from 1930 that now hosts concerts and performances, symbolizing Denver’s entertainment history.
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Stop 7
Enjoy a hearty bowl of Colorado bison chili at Appaloosa Grill. Discover how bison has become a staple ingredient, offering bold flavors and a taste of the high plains.
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Stop 8
View the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, a key player in the nation’s financial system, and learn about Denver’s role in regional banking and finance.
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Stop 9
Taste handmade Chinese dumplings at Chopstickers, a family-owned spot that brings traditional northern Chinese comfort food to downtown Denver. Learn about immigrant stories and culinary traditions.
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Stop 10
Relax in Skyline Park, a green space amid downtown skyscrapers. It’s a community hub for gatherings, markets, and seasonal events, highlighting Denver’s civic design.
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Stop 11
Visit the Daniels & FIsher Clock Tower, a historic landmark from 1911. This iconic structure symbolizes Denver’s growth and resilience, with panoramic views and a storied past.
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Stop 12
Finish at Trompeau Bakery with a regional twist on French quiche, featuring green chiles, sausage, and cheese. It’s a flavorful ending that reflects Denver’s blend of global and local influences.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the start point
Guides will wait just inside the lobby, wearing an orange "Delicious Denver Food Tours" button.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day in advance
- No refund if canceled within 24 hours
- Tour may be canceled due to bad weather or low enrollment
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $75.00 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
