Welcome to the River North Art District, affectionately known as RiNo! This vibrant Denver neighborhood, just north of downtown, has transformed from an industrial hub into a thriving center for creativity, packed with street art, galleries, unique shops, innovative eateries, and craft breweries. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in a full day of culture, flavor, and fun, you’ve come to the right place. This sample itinerary is designed to help you experience the best of RiNo, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local looking to rediscover its charm.
Your Morning in RiNo: Fuel Up and Find Art
Start your perfect RiNo day by fueling up with some locally roasted coffee. The neighborhood boasts several excellent coffee shops. Consider grabbing a brew at Crema Coffee House, known for its eclectic food menu and beloved coffee. Another great option is Hearth, a bakery and coffee shop offering artisan sourdough breads and pastries alongside thoughtfully sourced coffee.
With caffeine in hand, it’s time to explore what RiNo is most famous for: its incredible street art. The murals here are everywhere – on buildings, in alleys, around every corner. Larimer Street is a main thoroughfare with murals lining much of it, but be sure to wander the alleys between Larimer and Walnut, and Walnut and Blake streets for hidden gems.
While street art is abundant, RiNo also has a robust gallery scene. Spend some time browsing spaces like Plinth Gallery, specializing in contemporary ceramic art, or fooLPRoof contemporary art, which focuses on emerging artists.
Morning Highlights:
- Grab coffee and a bite at a local cafe.
- Explore the vibrant street art murals throughout the district, especially along Larimer Street and the parallel alleys.
- Visit a contemporary art gallery to see works by local and national artists.
Your Afternoon in RiNo: Lunch, Libations & Local Finds
By midday, you’ll likely be ready for lunch. RiNo’s culinary scene is diverse and exciting, offering everything from quick bites to sit-down experiences. For inventive tacos and a lively atmosphere, check out Mister Oso, a Bib Gourmand award-winner known for its South American-inspired flavors. If you’re craving pasta, Dio Mio serves handmade pasta in a casual setting. Or, explore the Denver Central Market, an indoor food hall featuring multiple vendors under one roof, offering a variety of options from pizza to pastries.
After lunch, dive into RiNo’s renowned craft beverage scene. The district is a major hub for breweries. Options abound, including Ratio Beerworks with its spacious patio, River North Brewery (one of RiNo’s oldest), or Bierstadt Lagerhaus for German-style lagers. If cider is more your style, visit Stem Ciders.
RiNo also offers unique shopping opportunities. Browse boutiques and shops like Topo Designs for outdoor gear and apparel, or explore the curated collection at Three Arrows Gallery (TAG), featuring products from over 50 local, women-owned vendors.
Afternoon Delights:
- Enjoy lunch at one of RiNo’s diverse restaurants or food halls.
- Sample local craft beers or cider at a neighborhood brewery or taproom.
- Browse unique local shops and boutiques for souvenirs or treats.
Your Evening in RiNo: Dinner, Drinks & Entertainment
As the sun sets, RiNo transforms into a lively evening destination. The dinner options are plentiful. For contemporary Latin and American fare in a fun setting, try Work & Class. Safta Restaurant offers acclaimed Israeli cuisine by a James Beard award-winning chef. For a taste of Italy, consider Cart-Driver for delicious pizza served from a unique shipping container.
After dinner, explore RiNo’s nightlife. Enjoy craft cocktails at a bar like American Bonded or experience live music at venues such as Larimer Lounge, known for hosting indie and up-and-coming acts. For a jazz club experience, check out Nocturne. If you’re looking for a unique immersive art and dance club experience, Mockingbird offers themed rooms and live DJs.
Evening Experiences:
- Dine at one of RiNo’s many acclaimed restaurants.
- Enjoy drinks and the vibrant bar scene.
- Catch live music or a DJ set at a local venue.
Plan Your RiNo Adventure
This sample itinerary is just a starting point. RiNo is a neighborhood best explored at your own pace, allowing for spontaneous discoveries around every corner. From world-class street art and independent galleries to innovative food and drink and lively entertainment, a day in RiNo promises a truly unique Denver experience.
Ready to plan your perfect day (or more!) in the RiNo Art District? Visit VisitRino.com for more in-depth guides, directories of businesses, and planning resources to help you customize your adventure. Get ready to explore the vibrant heart of Denver’s art scene!
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