Denver Downtown 16th Street Food Tour

Overview

Denver’s 16th Street Mall is a vibrant hub of culture, history and culinary delights that has captivated visitors since its creation in 1982. Designed by famed architect I.M. Pei, this mile-long pedestrian promenade was envisioned as the beating heart of downtown Denver. Now, after a multi-year, multi-million-dollar renovation, the 16th Street Mall shines brighter than ever. There’s never been a better time to explore this downtown treasure. Join us for a guided walking food tour where you’ll savor the best local bites the mall has to offer, discover hidden gems, and learn the fascinating history of this iconic Denver landmark. Let us turn your visit into an unforgettable taste of the city!

What's included

• ✓Seasonal Pastries at a Historic Denver Hotel
• ✓Chorizo and Egg Empanada from a Local Shop
• ✓Colorado Bison Chili with Black Beans and White Cheddar
• ✓Hoisin Roasted Duck Bao from a James-Beard Nominee

• ✕Tour Guide Gratuities
• ✕Alcoholic Beverages

What you'll do

1. 1

   We begin our food tour at one of Denver’s most storied landmarks — the Brown Palace Hotel. Opened in 1892, this icon has hosted presidents, musicians, and travelers for more than a century. Its grand atrium, ornate ironwork, and stained glass skylight offer a glimpse into Denver’s gilded past, when elegance and ambition defined the city’s rise. Before we step out into downtown, we enjoy a seasonal housemade pastry from the hotel’s award-winning pastry chef. Each creation — from buttery croissants to fruit-filled danishes or delicate tarts — is crafted in-house and reflects the season’s best ingredients. It’s a refined yet welcoming start, a bite of sweetness paired with a bit of history. As your guide shares stories of the hotel’s famous guests and hidden tunnels, you’ll taste the kind of care and craftsmanship that set Denver apart long before the modern food scene arrived.

   ⏱ 25 min
2. 2

   After meeting at the Brown Palace, we head toward the 16th Street Mall — Denver’s main downtown corridor and the heart of our food tour. This mile-long pedestrian street runs through the center of the city, lined with restaurants, cafés, and food halls that show off Denver’s growing culinary scene. What began in the 1980s as a retail hub has evolved into a mix of historic landmarks and modern eateries serving everything from tacos and pizza to sushi and craft cocktails. Here, locals grab lunch between meetings while visitors explore the city’s flavors in one easy walk. Food trucks and pop-ups often line the blocks, and patio seating fills with people enjoying Colorado’s 300 days of sunshine. As we make our way down the mall, your guide will point out long-time Denver favorites and newer spots redefining downtown dining. It’s the perfect place to taste the city’s energy — casual, creative, and full of local pride.

   ⏱ 30 min
3. 3

   Our next stop is Lazo Empanadas, a local favorite bringing the flavors of Argentina to downtown Denver. Here, we sample their chorizo and egg breakfast empanada — a golden, hand-crimped pastry filled with savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and just enough spice to wake up your palate. Baked, not fried, it’s warm and flaky with a little smokiness from the chorizo and richness from the dough. As you take your first bite, your guide shares how empanadas became a staple of Argentine street food — easy to hold, quick to eat, and endlessly adaptable. Lazo’s recipes come straight from family tradition, but with a Colorado twist, using local ingredients and bold flavors. It’s comfort food with craftsmanship behind it, a perfect mid-tour bite that bridges South American roots and Denver’s love of global cuisine. Grab a napkin, because this one tends to disappear fast.

Availability & pricing

Pick your exact date & check live availability on the booking page.

Good to know

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Not recommended for travelers with dietary restrictions (dairy-free, vegan, gluten free)

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.