Denver Walking Tour: Women’s History, Capitol & Brown Palace

Summary

Denver stories from women’s voices to grand architecture

You’ll start outside Denver Art Museum’s quirky sculpture before stepping into women’s history at a 19th-century mansion. Stand exactly one mile high at the Capitol Building and wander through the ornate Brown Palace Hotel atrium. End your day strolling 16th Street Mall and Larimer Square—expect laughter, local insight, and small moments you’ll remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I saw was this giant broom and dustpan outside the Denver Art Museum — honestly, it made me laugh. Our guide, Sam, was already waiting there and waved us over with that kind of easy Denver friendliness. The air smelled faintly like roasted coffee from somewhere nearby (I never did find out where). We started walking and I realized right away this wasn’t just about old buildings; it was about the people who shaped them. Sam told us we’d be covering a few miles but promised plenty of stops and stories along the way.

I didn’t expect to get goosebumps inside the Center for Colorado Women’s History. There was this velvet chair in one corner — faded but proud — and Sam shared how women here fought for voting rights and ran businesses when most folks thought they couldn’t. I tried to picture those days; it felt closer than I thought it would. Outside again, we headed for the Colorado State Capitol. You can actually stand on a step that marks exactly one mile above sea level (Sam joked about feeling taller already). The gold dome glinted in the sun, but what stuck with me were the echoes inside — marble floors, hushed voices bouncing off old walls.

After that, we ducked into the Brown Palace Hotel. The lobby is all glass and ironwork, kind of like stepping into a jewelry box. There was a piano playing somewhere up on a balcony — or maybe it was just someone humming? Either way, it felt fancy but not stiff. Then came the 16th Street Mall: busy, colorful, designed by I.M. Pei (which Sam seemed genuinely excited about). People-watching here is its own sport — skateboarders weaving past office workers, street musicians competing with bus engines. By then my feet were tired but my head was buzzing with stories.

We finished near Larimer Square as dusk crept in — fairy lights strung overhead and locals laughing over drinks at sidewalk tables. Sam gave us tips on where to eat (I went for tacos), but honestly I just wanted to walk a little more before heading back to my hotel. Something about seeing Denver through these stories made me feel like I’d lived here longer than an afternoon.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Denver's history and landmarks

• Start at The Big Sweep sculpture
• Visit Center for Colorado Women’s History
• Tour Colorado State Capitol Building
• Admire Brown Palace Hotel architecture
• Walk along 16th Street Mall
• Get dining tips for LoDo neighborhood

Top questions

How long is the Denver walking tour?

The tour covers approximately 3.2 to 4.8 km (2 to 3 miles) on foot.

Is this tour suitable for kids?

Yes, children of all ages can join; under 6s are free with advance notice.

Does the tour include entry fees?

Yes, entry to all included sites such as the Center for Colorado Women’s History is covered.

Is the Denver walking tour wheelchair accessible?

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible; prams and service animals are welcome too.

Where does the tour start?

The meeting point is outside The Big Sweep sculpture at Denver Art Museum.

What happens if it rains or snows?

The tour runs in all weather; dress appropriately for hot summers or cold winters in Denver.

Are food or drinks included?

No meals are included but your guide can recommend dining spots after the tour ends near Larimer Square.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting an expert English-speaking guide at Denver Art Museum’s Big Sweep sculpture, entry into the Center for Colorado Women’s History inside a 19th-century mansion, time inside the Brown Palace Hotel atrium, exterior views of the State Capitol Building (including standing one mile high), guided walks through Larimer Square and along 16th Street Mall—with plenty of stories and suggestions along the way before you finish in LoDo.