How to Stroll the LoDo RiNo Paths Denver

Denver, Colorado, is a city where urban energy meets mountain serenity—and nowhere is this more vividly expressed than in the dynamic neighborhoods of LoDo (Lower Downtown) and RiNo (River North Art District). These two districts, once industrial backwaters, have transformed into vibrant cultural and culinary hubs, connected by a network of pedestrian-friendly streets, public art, and scenic pathways. Strolling the LoDo RiNo paths isn’t just about walking from point A to point B; it’s an immersive experience in Denver’s evolution, creativity, and community spirit. Whether you're a local seeking a fresh perspective or a visitor looking to uncover the soul of the city, mastering the art of strolling these paths offers a deeper connection to Denver’s urban rhythm.

This guide is designed to help you navigate, appreciate, and fully enjoy the LoDo RiNo corridor on foot. You’ll learn how to plan your route, identify key landmarks, avoid common pitfalls, and discover hidden gems that most tourists overlook. This isn’t a list of attractions—it’s a curated journey through Denver’s most walkable and visually compelling neighborhoods. By the end of this guide, you’ll know not just where to go, but how to move through the space with intention, awareness, and joy.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Geography and Connection Between LoDo and RiNo

LoDo sits just west of Denver’s downtown core, bounded roughly by Wewatta Street to the north, the South Platte River to the south, 15th Street to the east, and the Union Pacific Railroad tracks to the west. RiNo begins just west of the railroad tracks and extends to about 30th Street, with Colfax Avenue forming its northern boundary and the river its southern edge. The two neighborhoods are physically connected by the 15th Street corridor and the pedestrian bridges over the South Platte River, especially the 15th Street Pedestrian Bridge and the nearby Platte River Trail.

Before you begin your stroll, visualize this connection: LoDo is the historic heart—brick warehouses, gas lamps, and the iconic Union Station—while RiNo is the contemporary pulse—graffiti murals, craft breweries, and industrial-chic lofts. The path between them is not just a transition in geography, but in culture and aesthetic. Understanding this contrast will enrich your experience.

Step 2: Choose Your Starting Point

For first-time strollers, we recommend beginning at Union Station. This grand Beaux-Arts structure, restored in 2014, serves as both a transportation hub and a social center. Its open plazas, courtyard cafes, and historic architecture make it an ideal launchpad. From here, walk west along Wewatta Street toward the railroad tracks. You’ll pass the Denver Central Market, a food hall housed in a repurposed 1920s warehouse, offering a quick taste of local flavors.

If you prefer a more artistic start, begin at the RiNo Art District’s official welcome sign at 26th and Larimer Street. This allows you to walk eastward into LoDo, ending at Union Station—a journey that moves from raw creativity to refined elegance. Both directions work beautifully; the choice depends on your energy and interest.

Step 3: Cross the Railroad Tracks Safely and Intentionally

The railroad tracks between LoDo and RiNo are not a barrier—they’re a threshold. Do not attempt to cross at grade level; it’s dangerous and illegal. Use the designated pedestrian bridges. The 15th Street Bridge is the most direct route. As you ascend, pause for a moment. Look north toward the Denver skyline, south toward the riverfront trails, and west into RiNo’s colorful alleyways. This bridge offers one of the city’s best photo opportunities.

Alternatively, if you’re feeling adventurous and the weather permits, take the Platte River Trail, which runs parallel to the tracks. This route is longer—about a 10-minute detour—but it weaves through green space, public art installations, and riverside benches. It’s quieter, more contemplative, and ideal for those seeking a nature-infused transition.

Step 4: Explore RiNo’s Alleyways and Murals

Once in RiNo, abandon the main drag for a moment. Turn down Larimer Street’s side alleys—especially between 25th and 28th Streets. These are the arteries of RiNo’s street art scene. You’ll find murals by local and international artists, many commissioned through the RiNo Art District’s public program. Each mural tells a story: some reflect Indigenous heritage, others comment on climate change, and many celebrate Denver’s multicultural identity.

Use your phone’s camera to capture details, but also take time to stand still and absorb the textures—the peeling paint, the spray gradients, the layers of history beneath the new. Look for QR codes on some murals that link to artist interviews or audio narratives. Don’t rush. Spend at least 15 minutes wandering these alleys. You’ll notice new details on a second glance.

Step 5: Visit RiNo’s Craft Beverage Hubs

RiNo is home to over 20 breweries, distilleries, and cideries, many housed in repurposed factories. While you’re walking, pause at one or two. The goal isn’t to drink heavily—it’s to experience the space. Visit Ratio Beerworks for its minimalist design and experimental brews, or Crooked Stave Artisan Beer Project for its wild fermentation techniques and tasting room that feels like a science lab crossed with a gallery.

Many venues offer free guided walking tours during the day. Ask if one is available. These tours often include insights into the architecture of the buildings, the history of brewing in Denver, and the community’s role in sustaining these businesses. Even if you don’t taste, the ambiance and conversation add depth to your stroll.

Step 6: Re-enter LoDo via the 15th Street Pedestrian Corridor

After exploring RiNo, head back toward the railroad tracks. Cross the 15th Street Bridge again, this time heading east into LoDo. As you descend, you’ll notice the shift in architecture: brick facades replace concrete, wrought iron replaces steel, and gas lanterns glow softly at dusk. This transition is deliberate and beautiful.

Walk down 15th Street into the heart of LoDo. You’ll pass the Molly Brown House Museum, the historic home of “Unsinkable Molly Brown,” and the Denver Firefighters Museum, housed in a 1877 firehouse. These landmarks anchor LoDo’s identity as a preserved piece of the city’s 19th-century past.

Step 7: End at Union Station or Extend to the Riverwalk

Your stroll can conclude at Union Station, where you can sit on the plaza, sip a coffee from the station’s coffee bar, and watch the city’s rhythm unfold. But if you have time and energy, continue south along the South Platte River Trail. This paved, tree-lined path runs for miles and connects to the Denver Botanic Gardens, the Clyfford Still Museum, and even the Denver Zoo.

The Riverwalk is where locals come to jog, bike, or simply sit with a book. You’ll see families, artists sketching, and musicians playing acoustic sets. This final leg transforms your stroll from an urban exploration into a holistic sensory journey—moving from industrial grit to natural calm.

Step 8: Time Your Stroll for Optimal Experience

The LoDo RiNo path is best experienced during daylight hours, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on weekdays, when the neighborhoods are alive but not overcrowded. Weekends bring more foot traffic, live music, and pop-up markets—but also more congestion.

For a truly magical experience, plan your stroll to end at sunset. As the sun dips behind the Rocky Mountains, the brick buildings of LoDo glow amber, while RiNo’s murals take on a deep, saturated hue under the fading light. The river reflects the sky, and the city’s energy shifts from bustling to tranquil. This is when the path feels most alive—not with noise, but with presence.

Best Practices

Wear Comfortable, Supportive Footwear

The paths between LoDo and RiNo are paved and generally flat, but sidewalks can be uneven, especially near older brick buildings or construction zones. Wear shoes with good arch support and grip. Avoid sandals or heels. You’ll be walking 2–3 miles over the course of your stroll—comfort is non-negotiable.

Bring a Reusable Water Bottle and Snacks

While there are plenty of places to buy drinks and food, having your own water bottle reduces waste and ensures you stay hydrated. Denver’s elevation (5,280 feet) can cause dehydration without warning. Pack a small snack—nuts, fruit, or energy bars—to keep your energy steady. Many local markets and cafes will refill your bottle for free if you ask.

Respect the Art and Environment

RiNo’s murals are public property, but they are also deeply personal expressions. Do not touch, tag, or climb on them. Avoid using flash photography in enclosed alleys—it can disturb others and damage the artwork over time. Pick up any litter you see, even if it’s not yours. These neighborhoods thrive on community stewardship.

Use a Mobile Map App, But Don’t Rely on It Exclusively

Apps like Google Maps or AllTrails can help you navigate, but they often miss pedestrian shortcuts, private courtyards, or temporary art installations. Download an offline map of the area before you go. More importantly, engage with your surroundings. Look for street signs, architectural details, and public benches—they’re natural landmarks.

Engage with Locals, But Don’t Intrude

Denverites are friendly, but not overly intrusive. If you see someone sketching a mural, admire from a distance. If a barista asks how your day is going, answer sincerely. If you’re lost, ask for directions at a local business—not just any passerby. Shop owners, baristas, and gallery staff often know the best hidden spots.

Photography Etiquette

Photography is encouraged, but be mindful. Avoid blocking doorways, sidewalks, or entrances. If you’re taking a group photo, move to the side. Some murals are copyrighted; if you plan to use photos commercially, check with the RiNo Art District for permissions. For personal use, credit the artist when possible—many murals have plaques with names.

Plan for Weather and Seasonal Changes

Denver’s weather changes rapidly. Even in summer, afternoon thunderstorms can roll in. Carry a lightweight rain jacket. In winter, snow and ice can make sidewalks slick. Wear traction-enhancing soles. Spring and fall are ideal—mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and vibrant foliage along the river.

Travel Light

Carry only what you need: phone, wallet, water, and maybe a small notebook. A heavy bag will slow you down and distract from the experience. Most shops and galleries are happy to hold purchases for you if you’re continuing your walk.

Slow Down. Really Slow Down.

This is the most important best practice. The LoDo RiNo paths aren’t meant to be rushed. You’re not sightseeing—you’re soul-searching. Pause at every bench. Read every plaque. Watch the way light hits a brick wall at 3 p.m. Let yourself get lost in the details. The deeper you go, the more the city reveals itself.

Tools and Resources

Official RiNo Art District Map

The RiNo Art District maintains a free, downloadable map on its website (rinoadistrict.com). It includes all murals, galleries, breweries, and public art installations with descriptions and artist credits. Print it or save it offline. The map is updated quarterly and is the most reliable resource for locating new works.

Denver Urban Trails App

This app, developed by the City and County of Denver, offers interactive maps of all pedestrian and bike trails, including the South Platte River Trail and the 15th Street corridor. It includes elevation profiles, accessibility notes, and nearby amenities like restrooms and water fountains.

Google Earth Street View

Before your walk, use Google Earth’s Street View to virtually tour the route. Zoom in on alleyways, check sidewalk conditions, and preview building facades. This helps you mentally prepare for the journey and identify points of interest ahead of time.

Local Podcasts and Audio Guides

Denver Public Library offers a free audio walking tour titled “LoDo to RiNo: A Story of Rebirth,” narrated by local historians. It’s available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. The 45-minute tour includes stories about the neighborhood’s railroad history, the 1980s gentrification debates, and the rise of the art scene. Listen while you walk—or before, to set the tone.

Denver Art Museum’s Public Art App

While not exclusive to LoDo/RiNo, this app catalogs over 100 public art pieces across the city, including several along the path. It provides artist bios, historical context, and multimedia content. Use it to scan QR codes on murals for deeper insights.

Local Book: “Denver’s River North: The Rise of a Creative District” by Laura A. Martin

This well-researched book chronicles RiNo’s transformation from abandoned warehouses to a global art destination. It includes maps, interviews with artists, and photos from the 1990s. Available at local bookstores like Tattered Cover or online. A must-read for those who want context beyond the surface.

Free Walking Tour Operators

Several organizations offer free, tip-based walking tours of LoDo and RiNo. Check out “Denver Free Walking Tours” or “RiNo Art District Guided Walks.” These are led by local artists, historians, or long-time residents. They often include stops not listed on official maps and provide personal anecdotes you won’t find in guidebooks.

Weather and Air Quality Apps

Denver’s air quality can fluctuate due to wildfire smoke or inversion layers. Use apps like AirVisual or the EPA’s AirNow to check conditions before you go. On poor air days, consider shortening your walk or choosing shaded, tree-lined routes.

Local Instagram Accounts to Follow

Before your stroll, follow these accounts for real-time updates and hidden gems:

• @rinoadistrict
• @lodo_denver
• @denverstreetart
• @denver_walks
• @theplatterivertrail

These accounts post about new murals, pop-up events, temporary closures, and seasonal festivals. They’re invaluable for planning.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Artist’s Stroll

Marisol, a muralist from Albuquerque, visited Denver to study RiNo’s public art scene. She began at Union Station, walked to RiNo via the 15th Street Bridge, and spent three hours photographing murals. She noticed that many artists used the same color palette—deep indigos, burnt oranges, and metallic golds—inspired by the Colorado landscape. She later recreated this palette in her own work. Her favorite stop was “The Mother of All Stories” by artist Erika O’Neill, a 30-foot mural depicting Indigenous women as guardians of the land. She sat on a bench across the alley for 20 minutes, sketching the composition. “It wasn’t just art,” she wrote in her journal. “It was a conversation with the city.”

Example 2: The Retiree’s Quiet Journey

Harold, 72, retired from teaching and moved to Denver to be closer to his grandchildren. He began walking the LoDo RiNo path every Tuesday morning. He didn’t take photos or buy drinks. He just walked, listened, and watched. He noticed how the neighborhood changed with the seasons—the cherry blossoms in spring, the maple leaves in fall, the way snow clung to the railroad tracks in winter. He started greeting the same baristas, the same street cleaner, the same dog walker. “I didn’t come here for the art,” he said. “I came here to remember what it feels like to be part of a place.”

Example 3: The Photographer’s Challenge

Devon, a photography student, set himself a 30-day challenge: capture one unique moment on the LoDo RiNo path every day. He didn’t photograph landmarks—he captured details: a child’s hand reaching for a balloon near a mural, steam rising from a coffee cup at a corner café, the reflection of a bicycle in a puddle after rain. He compiled the images into a zine titled “The In-Between.” It won a local arts award. “The path isn’t about the destination,” he said. “It’s about the spaces between the spaces.”

Example 4: The Tourist Who Got Lost

Jessica, visiting from Texas, followed her GPS and ended up on a service road behind a brewery. She was frustrated—until a man named Carlos, who worked at the brewery, invited her in for a free sample and told her about the hidden courtyard behind the building, where local poets read on Thursday nights. She returned the next week. “I thought I was just walking,” she said. “Turns out, I was being welcomed.”

Example 5: The Community Organizer’s Route

Every Saturday, Lena, a neighborhood activist, leads a “Walk and Talk” group along the LoDo RiNo path. Participants discuss urban development, public art funding, and housing equity. They stop at five key points: the Union Station memorial plaque, the mural honoring displaced residents, the new affordable housing complex, the old warehouse turned into a community center, and the riverbank where activists once protested. “We don’t just walk through history,” she says. “We walk into it.”

FAQs

Is it safe to stroll the LoDo RiNo paths alone?

Yes. Both neighborhoods are well-lit, heavily trafficked during daylight hours, and patrolled by local security teams. The area is considered one of Denver’s safest pedestrian corridors. As with any urban environment, stay aware of your surroundings, avoid distractions like headphones at high volume, and trust your instincts.

How long does it take to stroll from LoDo to RiNo?

Without stops, the direct route (Union Station to the RiNo welcome sign) takes about 25–30 minutes. With pauses for art, coffee, or photos, plan for 1.5 to 2 hours. If you extend to the Riverwalk, add another 30–45 minutes.

Are there restrooms along the path?

Yes. Restrooms are available at Union Station, Denver Central Market, and several breweries in RiNo. Most public venues allow visitors to use restrooms even if they don’t make a purchase. Ask politely.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes. Dogs are welcome on sidewalks and trails, but must be leashed. Some breweries have dog-friendly patios. Avoid enclosed art galleries unless they explicitly allow pets.

Are the paths wheelchair accessible?

Most sidewalks and bridges are ADA-compliant. The 15th Street Bridge has ramps on both sides. The Platte River Trail is fully paved and flat. Some alleyways in RiNo have uneven surfaces, but main corridors are navigable.

What’s the best time of year to stroll?

May through October offers the most pleasant weather and the most vibrant street life. Spring brings blooming trees along the river; fall offers golden light on brick walls. Winter is quiet and serene, but be prepared for snow. Avoid July 4th weekend—crowds are intense.

Do I need to pay to enter any galleries or breweries?

No. Most galleries in RiNo are free to enter during business hours. Breweries offer free tastings or low-cost samples. You’re not required to buy anything to enjoy the space.

Are there guided tours available?

Yes. Free and paid guided walking tours are offered by local organizations. Check the RiNo Art District website or visit the Union Station visitor center for schedules.

Can I bike the path?

Yes. The Platte River Trail is a popular bike route. The 15th Street corridor is also bike-friendly. However, when strolling, be mindful of cyclists and yield to them on shared paths.

What if I get tired or need to stop?

There are dozens of benches, café patios, and public plazas along the route. Union Station’s main hall has seating. RiNo’s alleys often have hidden benches tucked behind murals. Don’t feel pressured to keep moving.

Conclusion

Strolling the LoDo RiNo paths is more than a physical journey—it’s a metaphor for Denver itself: a city that honors its past while boldly embracing its future. The bricks of LoDo whisper stories of railroads and revolution; the murals of RiNo shout with color and courage. Between them, the river flows, indifferent to time, yet见证ing every step taken by those who choose to walk slowly, observe deeply, and feel fully.

This guide has given you the tools, the route, and the mindset to turn a simple walk into a meaningful experience. But the real magic happens when you step off the path—not to find something new, but to see what was always there: the quiet dignity of a street cleaner at dawn, the laughter echoing off brick walls, the way sunlight catches a single drop of rain on a mural’s edge.

There is no finish line. There is only the next step.

So lace up your shoes. Grab your water. Leave your expectations behind.

And begin.