Denver LoDo Walking Tour: Union Station, Larimer Square & History

Summary

Denver’s oldest streets reveal wild stories, hidden tunnels, and unexpected flavors

You’ll walk Denver’s oldest streets with a local guide who shares real stories—Chinatown’s lost alleys, bordello secrets, even underground tunnels. Expect laughs, odd facts, maybe a dad joke or two. By the end you’ll see LoDo differently—and probably want to linger at Union Station just a bit longer.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I thought LoDo was just bars and baseball. But standing under the flagpole at Union Station, coffee still warming my hands (it was one of those dry Denver mornings), our guide, Mark, started talking about how this old train station basically saved Denver from disappearing. He had that kind of voice you lean in for — not too loud, but you don’t want to miss it. There were only six of us, so it felt less like a tour and more like tagging along with a local friend who knows all the weird corners.

We wandered through blocks where glass towers meet brick saloons. At Dairy Block, there was this faint smell of roasting beans and something sweet from a bakery — I almost got distracted and wandered off. Mark pointed out the spot where Denver’s first Chinatown once buzzed; he told us about Hop Alley in a way that made me picture lanterns glowing even though all that’s left is street noise. He didn’t sugarcoat the hard parts either — just told it straight.

The private LoDo historic walking tour kept surprising me. We peeked into the Oxford Hotel lobby — velvet chairs, old wood, a bar that looked like it hadn’t changed since cowboys drank here (maybe it hasn’t). Someone asked about ghosts; Mark just grinned and said he’d heard stories but “nothing ever grabbed his ankle.” When we reached Larimer Square, sunlight bounced off those strings of lights overhead and I caught myself thinking how different Denver must’ve felt when this was all dirt roads and gambling dens.

We ended back at Union Station. My legs were tired but in that good way you get from city walks. I still think about the story behind Mattie Silks’ House of Mirrors (I won’t spoil it). If you’re looking for a day trip in Denver that actually makes you feel part of its story — not just snapping photos — this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — LoDo Historic Walking Tour Highlights

• Meet at Union Station flagpole
• Discuss Union Station's history
• Walk 1.5 mile LoDo loop
• Explore Hop Alley Chinatown stories
• Visit Mattie Silks House of Mirrors
• See Denver's oldest operating hotel
• Learn about underground tunnel system
• Explore Instagram-friendly Dairy Block
• Learn about Coors Field and team
• Walk through Denver's Red Light District
• Visit 16th Street Mall and architecture
• Stop at Larimer Square history
• Return to Union Station living room

Top questions

How long is the LoDo historic walking tour in Denver?

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and covers around 1.5 miles on foot.

Where does the LoDo walking tour start?

The tour begins at the flagpole outside Union Station at 1701 Wynkoop Street.

Is this Denver walking tour suitable for families?

Yes, families are welcome and young children can join for free with advance notice for equipment.

Are there any adult topics discussed on the tour?

The tour includes some mild adult topics when discussing Denver's Red Light District history.

What attractions are included on this LoDo tour?

You’ll visit Union Station, Dairy Block, Coors Field (from outside), Market Street, 16th Street Mall, Larimer Square, and Oxford Hotel.

Is the LoDo historic walking tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the route is wheelchair accessible and strollers are allowed as well.

What time does the tour start and when should I arrive?

The tour starts promptly at 11 a.m.; guests should arrive by 10:45 a.m. to check in and receive equipment.

Does this day trip in Denver operate in all weather conditions?

Yes—tours run rain or shine; dress appropriately for weather and bring water or sunscreen if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes a small-group guided walk through Lower Downtown with stops at key sites like Union Station and Larimer Square; use of assisted listening devices so everyone can hear comfortably; plenty of chances to ask questions; stroller- and wheelchair-friendly access; plus tips on where to eat or grab drinks after your walk ends back at Union Station.