We had only a short weekend to spend in Denver, and we chose to start our first day with this tour of the street art of the RiNo (River North) neighborhood. So glad we did!
This former industrial neighborhood is now home to a large collection of creative ventures, with stunning street art on what seemed like every wall and all manner of urban fixtures such as electric meters-even on the lowly trash cans! The quantity and quality of art are simply mind-boggling!
The tour is pretty fast-paced because there is so much to see. You'll learn the history of each work on the tour, including a profile of the artist(s) and the meaning of the subject matter (to the extent it is known). Street art is often a reflection of community struggles in response to gentrification, and that was the theme of many of the pieces we viewed on this tour. So, this tour is not just a feast for the eyes--it will get you thinking.
The guides/owners, Erin and James, are articulate, expert, and welcoming. Their passion for their subject is palpable and contagious. We will take this tour again on our next visit to Denver--once was simply not enough!