Denver LoDo Craft Beer Walking Tour & Historic Breweries

Summary

Denver’s beer scene meets old red-brick streets and wild stories

You’ll wander LoDo’s historic streets with a local guide, sampling more than 10 craft beers at iconic breweries like Wynkoop and Rock Bottom. Hear wild tales—from grave robbers to red-light districts—and learn how to taste beer properly (or at least pretend). Expect laughter, unexpected flavors, and a real sense of Denver’s character by the end.

What’s the experience like?

We started off weaving through the old cobblestone streets of Lower Downtown Denver—LoDo, as our guide called it, though I kept wanting to say “Lodo” like a single word. The city felt alive, even before noon. You could smell bread baking somewhere (maybe that was just me hoping for a snack), but mostly it was the faint hoppy scent from the breweries that hit first. Our guide, Sam, had this way of talking about beer that made you want to listen—he didn’t just list facts; he told stories. Like how Wynkoop Brewing Company basically kicked off the whole Denver craft beer thing back in the late ‘80s. We tried their flagship ale in this big old warehouse with creaky floors and sunlight slanting through high windows. I’m not usually sentimental about beer, but something about drinking it right where it all started felt kind of… important?

After that, we wandered past Larimer Square—didn’t stop there, but you can’t miss those strings of lights and the old brick facades. Sam pointed out the Daniels & Fisher Clock Tower poking above everything else, and I swear every city has one building locals use to give directions by waving vaguely in its direction. Then came Rock Bottom Brewery (the name made me laugh), where we tasted something citrusy and cold that I still think about when I’m stuck with boring supermarket lagers back home. There was a quick lesson on how to actually taste beer instead of just gulping it down—I tried to sound like I knew what “mouthfeel” meant, but honestly, I was mostly thinking about how good it would be with fries.

The Dairy Block was next—kind of a maze of bars and shops tucked into what used to be an industrial block. Westbound & Down had this easygoing vibe; people were chatting over pints while some indie playlist hummed in the background. The bartender told us they brought mountain brewing culture right into downtown Denver, which sounded cool until Sam mentioned something about grave robbers who used to roam these same streets (I didn’t expect that part). It’s weird how history sticks around in little ways—you can almost feel it under your shoes as you walk from one brewery to another.

I left with a souvenir tasting glass clinking in my bag and more random Denver trivia than I’ll ever need at a party. But mostly what stuck with me was how each stop on this Denver craft beer tour wasn’t just about drinking—it was about feeling like you were part of some ongoing story. And yeah, maybe also about laughing at yourself when you try (and fail) to pronounce “Doppelbock” after three samples.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Denver's LoDo craft beer scene

• Visit Wynkoop Brewing Company
• Stop at Rock Bottom Brewery
• Pass by Daniels and Fisher Clock Tower
• Pass near Larimer Square
• Explore Dairy Block complex
• Drink at Westbound & Down brewery
• Visit Oskar Blues Grill & Brew

Top questions

How many beers do you taste on the Denver craft beer tour?

You’ll sample 10 or more different craft beers during the walking tour.

Is the LoDo Craft Beer Tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces on the tour are wheelchair accessible.

Does the tour include stops at Wynkoop Brewing Company?

Yes, Wynkoop Brewing Company is one of the main stops on the tour.

Are there any age restrictions for joining?

The minimum age is 21 years; bring a photo ID for verification.

Is food included on this Denver brewery walking tour?

No meals are included; only beverages are provided during tastings.

Where does the Denver craft beer tour take place?

The tour takes place in Lower Downtown Denver (LoDo), including Dairy Block and nearby landmarks.

Are infants or small children allowed on this brewery tour?

Infants can join if seated on an adult’s lap or in a stroller; however, only guests 21+ may participate in tastings.

Is public transportation available near the meeting point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby for easy access.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes guided walks through Lower Downtown Denver with all brewery tastings covered—over ten different beers—plus a souvenir taster glass to keep. You’ll be joined by a local guide who shares stories and tips along the way. Everything is within easy walking distance so there’s no need for transport between stops.