Discover Denver: Your Ultimate Walking Tour of Street Art
- Oriel Pillay
- 11 minutes ago
- 4 min read
A Walking Tour of Street Art in Denver
Denver isn’t just about mountains or craft beer, you see the city’s creativity right on its walls (and keep your eyes peeled for art that goes far beyond flat walls!) as you walk through places like RiNo, where murals burst with color and personality, some covering whole buildings and others tucked into alleys waiting to surprise you. The best part is you don’t need a plan, just comfy shoes and a little curiosity, because every corner brings something new, whether it’s a giant mural telling a story or a quirky design that makes you smile. So take it slow, snap a photo if you want, but mostly enjoy being part of the energy that makes Denver’s street art feel alive.
1. Start in the RiNo Art District
Start your walk in the River North Art District (RiNo). With its mix of old industrial buildings and creative energy, this neighborhood is full of street art that will catch your eye. You’ll see murals stretching across entire walls, painted by both local and international artists. You will notice coffee shops and breweries tucked around nearly every corner, so it’s easy to grab a drink and keep your stroll relaxed and enjoyable. Discover Denver Tours offer amazing Street Art Tours in RiNo
2. Check Out the Denver Central Market
After you’ve soaked in all the street art, head over to the Denver Central Market, located right in RiNo. It’s the perfect spot to grab something delicious while still being immersed in the city’s creative vibe. The food stalls serve everything from wood-fired pizza at Vero Italian to fresh seafood, and the entire food court area is full of colorful art and little details that make it feel alive. Take your time, enjoy your meal, and let the atmosphere sink in. It’s one of those places where Denver’s food and art blend in the best way.
3. Hidden Gems in the Alleyways
One of the best parts of Denver’s street art is what you find tucked away in the alleyways, little gems that are easy to miss but worth slowing down for. Explore with Discover Denver Tours as the street art and mural tours take you through the bursting and vibrant art alleys and bonus: it includes a stop at a brewery with a beer tasting included. RiNo feels a little like a treasure hunt, with playful designs, portraits of local legends, and quirky creatures popping up to make you smile. Those unexpected finds are what make wandering the city feel so fun, turning a simple walk into an adventure.
4. The Colfax Corridor
Take a stroll down Colfax Avenue, and you’ll see why it’s such a Denver classic. The stretch is packed with old-school diners, funky little shops, and plenty of character (and characters...) that makes it feel alive. As you wander, keep your eyes open for the street art scattered along the way. Every few blocks, you’ll spot a new mural showing off Denver’s spirit and history. Colfax is a mix of culture, food, and creativity all rolled into one, making it a fun and memorable walk.
Did You Know: Colfax Avenue runs through the central part of Denver; it is the longest continuous commercial street in the U.S. The street stretches 26.5 miles long and is home to the famous Colfax Marathon. It’s separated into East and West Colfax at Downtown Denver and runs right by the State Capitol building.
5. The Art of Community
Street art in Denver isn’t just about bright colors or cool designs; it’s about the people who live here and the stories they want to tell. Some murals highlight struggles the community has faced, while others celebrate culture and bring pride to the neighborhood. As you walk, slow down and really look at what the art is saying. These walls don’t just decorate the city; they speak for the locals, turning everyday streets into places full of meaning and connection.
6. Guided Tours or Go Solo
You’ve got a couple of ways to dive into Denver’s street art. If you want the inside scoop, join a guided stroll with Discover Denver Tours, they have some that focus on murals and graffiti tours, giving you the stories behind the walls you might miss on your own. Or, if you’d rather wander, grab a map or use an app to find the hotspots and explore at your own pace. Either way, you’ll come across incredible art and get a real feel for the city.
7. End With a View at Civic Center Park
Wrap up your street art walk at Civic Center Park, a green space right in the heart of Denver where you can slow down after a busy day. There's a little bit of street art that's complimented by a lot of sculptures and murals that add splashes of color all around, and the wide lawns make it easy to grab a spot on the grass, take in the city views, and relax while you think back on all the art you’ve discovered, the perfect way to end your adventure.
Take Denver’s Colors Home With You
Enjoy your walk through Denver’s street art, whether you hit one or all of these places. Whether you’ve lived here for years or you’re just visiting, the murals and hidden gems will leave you with something to remember. Grab a friend, lace up those comfy shoes, and wander through the colors and stories painted on the walls. Traveling is about discovery and those little moments that stay with you, and in Denver, you’ll see how art isn’t just in galleries, it’s alive on the streets, waiting for you to explore.
