Header Image Attribution: "Man in Hoodie, Denver" by Aidan Roof is licensed by PexelsThis post contains affiliate links. Our Extraordinary Planet may be compensated for any purchases you make.Denver’s RiNo neighborhood enthralls visitors and locals year after year with its seamless blend of industrial heritage and hip noveau. It’s easily one of the best places to explore in Denver, with each passing year introducing a practically countless variety of new things to do. From my experience in RiNo, I’ve gathered a list of the best Denver RiNo district things to do.
Why Visit RiNo Denver?
Why not visit Denver’s River North Art District, affectionately known as RiNo—the vibrant, ever-evolving neighborhood where art isn’t just appreciated; it’s crafted, celebrated, and even reflected in the district’s official logo featuring creative rhinos. I can’t help but be drawn to its unique blend of urban charm and industrial revival, where historic warehouses and factories have been repurposed into jazz bars, restaurants, brewpubs, art galleries, and working studios.
In RiNo, creativity isn’t confined to traditional spaces; it spills out onto the streets with colorful and innovative murals adorning alleys and buildings around every corner. The district pulsates with a diverse mix of creative businesses—from visual artists, designers, and furniture makers to craft distillers, brewers, winemakers, and small-batch coffee roasters. Lonely Planet has recognized RiNo as one of the top 10 neighborhoods to visit in the U.S.
Greg Benchwick aptly describes RiNo as a neighborhood clinging to its punk-rock roots, evident in the spontaneous street murals, experimental galleries, and the innovative food halls that host the city’s young, bold, and tattooed crowd. It’s the beating heart of Denver’s resurgent arts and cultural scenes, transforming the city into a cultural dynamo of the American West. To experience the essence of this up-and-coming neighborhood, take a stroll through RiNo’s graffiti-lined alleys, step into galleries showcasing local makers, savor eclectic cuisine, and immerse yourself in the creative energy that defines this colorful swatch of Denver.
While some parts of RiNo are still undergoing growth spurts, it’s worth exploring the district’s highlights, whether by driving or opting for a designated driver or rideshare service if you plan to indulge in the diverse offerings of pubs and tasting rooms. In RiNo, every corner reveals a new layer of creativity, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking the pulse of Denver’s cultural dynamism.
Best Denver RiNo District Things to Do
There’s a practically limitless selection to choose from when considering the best Denver RiNo district things to do. In this article, I’ve gathered my favorite Denver RiNo district things to do, including dining out, exploring the neighborhood bars, and treating yourself to a shopping spree.
Dine Out at RiNo’s Best Restaurants
It’s safe to say that one of the best Denver RiNo district things to do is dining out at the neighborhood’s world-class restaurants. In the heart of Denver’s RiNo neighborhood, culinary delights await at Safta, an Israeli gem at the Source Hotel and Market Hall. Chef-owner Alon Shaya crafts a menu influenced by Eastern Mediterranean and North African flavors, featuring wood-fired pita, hummus with lamb ragù, and creative dishes like pumpkin stuffed with lentils. The bar complements the experience with cocktails spiced with urfa pepper and a diverse wine selection.
Explore the RiNo district further with a visit to Hop Alley, a modern Chinese hot spot by Tommy Lee, serving clever eats and drinks in a trendy setting. Shrimp toast and Beijing duck roll are just a glimpse of the inventive menu. For a seafood escape, Fish N Beer offers raw oysters, crab shacks, and seasonal delights, delivering a mini-vacation experience. Conclude your culinary adventure at Dio Mio, where fresh pasta takes center stage with classic and creative preparations. Rest assured, the restaurants alone will leave you with no shortage of Denver RiNo district things to do.
Explore RiNo Neighborhood Bars
The mile-high city is known for its world-class craft beers — and you can taste them for yourself by exploring the RiNo neighborhood bars. Experience Denver’s eclectic bar scene where unique atmospheres and diverse flavors collide. Stem Ciders, located on Walnut Street, is not just a cider house but a haven for live music enthusiasts. Specializing in dry, hard ciders, each drink preserves the pure and complex flavor of the apple. The staff is dedicated to matching guests with the perfect cider, ensuring a delightful drinking experience.
DADA Art Bar in RiNo celebrates art in all its forms. With a gallery, live music, creative cocktails, and evolving art displays, this bar offers a unique cultural experience. Finally, Will Call, housed in the corner of old customer pick-up offices, complements the industrial backdrop of RiNo. This sleek bar adds a Venezuelan twist to its flavorful menu, featuring Colorado beers and freshly squeezed cocktails. With an extended happy hour twice daily, Will Call stands as one of Denver’s hottest bars, easily making the list of the best Denver RiNo district things to do.
Immerse Yourself in a RiNo Shopping Spree
When enjoying all the best Denver RiNo district things to do, you can’t forget to treat yourself to a shopping spree. Discover Denver’s eclectic shopping scene with unique finds to suit every taste. Head to Carbon Knife Co. on Larimer for a culinary adventure, where a vast selection of chef’s knives awaits. Elevate your food prep experience with the most extensive knife selection in Denver and expert guidance from their knowledgeable staff.
Explore the collective charm of Backyard on Blake, a warehouse space with a mix of local businesses. Judith and Joe offer sustainably sourced, US-made clothing, while Birdsall & Co. caters to urban gardeners with planters, outdoor furniture, and more — definitely one of my favorite Denver RiNo district things to do. For a bohemian touch, visit Meraki Moon, a fashion-truck-turned-shop featuring brands like Free People and For Love and Lemons. Timber Trade Company seamlessly combines traditional American-made men’s clothing with custom wood furniture.
Lastly, indulge your sweet tooth at Petey Bird, where gourmet, handcrafted ice cream sandwiches await. Plan your visit to Abby Sparks Jewelry, voted Denver’s best for four years, and explore fine handmade rugs at Artisan Rug Gallery. Don’t miss the artistry at Blake Street Glass Studio, showcasing a variety of glass works for art enthusiasts. Whether it’s jewelry, fashion, or culinary tools, Denver’s shopping scene is a highlight of the best Denver RiNo district things to do.
Enjoy the Best Denver RiNo District Things to Do
As you can see, there’s no shortage of incredible things to enjoy in Denver’s RiNo district. Beyond what I’ve listed here, I recommend leaving some free time in your itinerary so that you can follow your whims and really explore the neighborhood. You’ll have a lot of fun going through the best Denver RiNo district things to do, and the only thing left is for you to get started.
