Discover Denver’s Notorious Past with a Self-Guided Audio Tour
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Explore Denver’s wild past with this self-guided audio tour of its notorious history. Starting at a mysterious sealed tunnel entrance on Market Street, you’ll uncover stories from Denver’s rough warehouse days to its vibrant present. Along the way, discover hidden gems and legendary sites that shaped the city’s character.
Highlights include the historic coal tunnel, the iconic Sugar Building from Denver’s sugar beet industry, and the haunted Oxford Hotel’s Cruise Room, famous for its ghostly presence. You’ll also see McGregor Square, Coors Field, and the Rockmount Ranch Wear store—home of the first snapped western shirt. As you wander through Dairy Block’s European-style alley and learn about Denver’s colorful past, you’ll hear tales of whisky parties, the city’s destruction of Chinatown, haunted locations, and even a rare gun duel between two women.
This tour offers a flexible way to explore at your own pace, with offline access to audio guides, maps, and geodata. Perfect for history buffs or curious visitors wanting an authentic Denver experience, all you need is your smartphone and headphones to get started.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the tour take?
The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on your pace.
What languages are available?
The tour is available in English.
Can I join this tour with a group?
Yes, it’s designed for groups of up to 15 people, making it ideal for friends, families, or small tour groups.
Is this tour accessible for all fitness levels?
Absolutely. It’s suitable for all physical fitness levels, so everyone can enjoy exploring Denver’s past.
What do I need to bring?
You’ll need your smartphone and headphones. The tour provides offline access, so no internet connection is required during your exploration.
Are there any additional costs?
Entry fees for attractions like the Cruise Room or Dairy Block are not included. Food, drinks, and transportation are also separate expenses.
Free cancellation
You can cancel for a full refund 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 45 minutes – 1 hour 15 min
Check availability to see start times.
Guided experience
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
- Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
- App for Android and iOS
- Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
- Directions to the starting point so the tour begins when you arrive
Not included
- Smartphone and headphones
- Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour
- Food and drinks
- Transportation
Itinerary
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Stop 1
The mall was once one of Denver’s main streets. In 1982, the city closed it to vehicle traffic and created a two-mile corridor of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Designed by renowned architect I. M. Pei, who also crafted the Louvre Pyramid in Paris.
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Stop 2
Walk along one of Denver’s most important streets, recognized as a historic landmark in 1971, and soak in its vibrant atmosphere.
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Stop 3
Pass by the famous western store founded in 1946 by 'Papa Jack.' This shop has appeared in numerous Hollywood movies and is a staple of Denver’s western heritage.
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Stop 4
Learn about Denver’s oldest hotel, the haunted Cruise Room, opened during Prohibition, and hear about the ghost of a postman. Entry fees are not included.
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Stop 5
Pass by a historic station involved in the 1890 fire and its roles in WWI and WWII. Discover the curious 'No Kissing' sign. Entry fees are not included.
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Stop 6
Explore the newest part of LoDo, a lively spot for baseball fans and movie lovers alike.
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Stop 7
Visit Dairy Block, a European-style alley once home to Windsor Dairy, famous for its cheeses and dairy products. Participation fees are not included.
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Stop 8
See the iconic bar located in Denver’s historic red-light district, known for its colorful past. Participation fees are not included.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
The tour begins on the street level at 1664 Market Street. Look for the 'Waxing the City' sign on the wall. Before starting, install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed instructions are available after downloading.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
You can cancel for a full refund at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day before
- 0% refund if canceled within 24 hours of the start
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $9.99 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
