Is this walking tour Denver friendly for families?

Yes, it is very family-friendly. Kids will love the giant milk jug at Little Man Ice Cream and the open space at Hirshorn Park, though parents should be aware of some street crossings.

What is the best time to visit LoHi for photos?

The best time is about an hour before sunset. The Highland Arch Bridge offers spectacular views of the sun hitting the downtown skyscrapers, known as the golden hour.

Can I do this walk in the winter?

Yes, Denver is known for its sunny winter days. However, the bridge can be icy, and some outdoor seating at food halls may be limited during colder months.

Are there many hills on this route?

The route is classified as moderate because there is a steady incline as you walk away from the river toward the Highlands. It is manageable for most fitness levels but is not completely flat.

Is there parking near the start of the walk?

There is paid street parking and several garages near Union Station and Little Raven Street. Parking in LoHi itself can be difficult during peak evening hours.

Do I need to buy tickets for any of the stops?

No, all the landmarks on this self-guided route are free to view from the outside. You only need money if you choose to purchase food or drinks along the way.

Is the LoHi neighborhood safe at night?

LoHi is one of Denver's safest and most active neighborhoods at night. The streets are well-populated with diners and residents, making it a popular spot for evening strolls.

Bridges and Bites in LoHi | Self-Guided Walking Tour

About This Guided Walking Tour

Discover one of Denver's most vibrant transformations on this self-guided walk through Lower Highland, affectionately known by locals as LoHi. Once a quiet residential pocket for European immigrants, LoHi has evolved into a powerhouse of modern architecture and world-class dining, all while maintaining its historic charm. This neighborhood stroll captures the essence of Denver’s 'urban cool,' blending the steel lines of contemporary bridges with the red-brick heritage of its past. As you explore independently, you will witness the seamless connection between the bustling downtown core and the elevated hills of the West Side. The route is a dream for photography enthusiasts, offering some of the most iconic skyline views in the city. You will cross architectural landmarks that feel like modern sculpture before diving into a culinary landscape that includes legendary ice cream shops and repurposed historic buildings. This walking route highlights how Denver honors its history—such as a former mortuary turned into a global eatery—while embracing a sleek, modern aesthetic. Whether you are looking for a quick afternoon escape or a pre-dinner neighborhood stroll, this path provides the perfect mix of visual interest and local flavor. Throughout this audio walk, you will learn about the visionaries who reimagined these streets and the community that keeps the spirit of Highland alive. From the buzzing shipping-container food halls to the quiet green spaces that offer a moment of reprieve, LoHi represents the best of Denver’s outdoor-centric, foodie-driven culture. This is not just a walk through a neighborhood; it is a journey through the evolution of Denver itself. Prepare your camera for the dramatic contrast of the Rocky Mountains against the glass towers of the city, and your appetite for some of the best bites in the Mile High City. This walking tour Denver experience allows you to set your own pace, stopping for a scoop of ice cream or a rooftop cocktail whenever the mood strikes. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Tour Highlights & Things to See

Highland Arch Bridge skyline views
Little Man Ice Cream's iconic milk jug
Linger's repurposed 'eat-uary' architecture
Avanti F&B shipping container design
Historic charm of Old Highland Square
Panoramic vistas of downtown Denver

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour.

Tour Stops & Points of Interest (6)

1

Highland Arch Bridge

Start exploring at the Highland Arch Bridge, a stunning piece of modern engineering that serves as the gateway between downtown Denver and the LoHi neighborhood. Completed in 2006, this three-span pedestrian bridge is more than just a walkway; it is a symbol of Denver’s urban reconnection. As you walk across, notice the sleek white arches that mirror the peaks of the distant Rockies. This is a premier spot for photography, offering an unobstructed view of the Denver skyline and the bustling Interstate 25 below. The bridge's design encourages a slow pace, allowing you to appreciate the transition from the city’s glass towers to the historic, leafy hills of Highland.

2

Little Man Ice Cream

You cannot miss the next stop—just look for the 28-foot tall, silver milk jug. Little Man Ice Cream is a neighborhood icon inspired by the vintage 'hot dog program' architecture of the 1920s. Since opening in 2008, it has become a community hub known as much for its artisanal flavors as its 'Scoop for Scoop' program, which provides food to communities in need for every scoop sold. The plaza here is often alive with music or outdoor movies. It is a perfect example of how LoHi uses quirky, nostalgic design to create a vibrant public space that feels both historic and entirely fresh.

3

Linger

Directly adjacent to the ice cream jug sits Linger, a restaurant with a history that is delightfully macabre. This building once housed the Olinger Mortuary, which handled the arrangements for Buffalo Bill Cody. When the space was reimagined, the owners cleverly changed the 'O' on the neon sign to 'L,' creating 'Linger.' The architecture retains many industrial and mid-century elements from its past life. Look up at the rooftop deck, which features a repurposed 1975 GMC RV serving as a bar. This 'eat-uary' is a cornerstone of LoHi’s culinary identity, proving that even a former mortuary can become the liveliest spot in town.

4

Hirshorn Park

Take a moment to breathe at Hirshorn Park. This neighborhood green space offers a glimpse into the local lifestyle of LoHi residents. Named after a prominent local family, the park has served as a recreational anchor for decades. From the western edge of the park, you get a fantastic perspective of the surrounding architecture, where 19th-century bungalows sit side-by-side with ultra-modern 'slot homes' and luxury condos. It is an ideal spot to observe the neighborhood's density and the careful balance between preserving open space and accommodating Denver’s rapid urban growth. In the summer, you might catch a local kickball league in action.

5

Avanti F&B

Continue your neighborhood stroll to Avanti F&B, a modern food hall housed in a building constructed largely from modified shipping containers. This 'collective eatery' concept allows rotating chefs to test new restaurant ideas in a low-risk environment, making it a culinary incubator for the city. The design is a nod to the industrial heritage of the nearby rail yards, but the real draw is the second-story observation deck. From here, you have arguably the best view of Coors Field and the downtown skyline. It is a testament to LoHi's reputation as a destination for innovative dining and cutting-edge urban design.

6

Old Highland Square

Your self-guided walk concludes in the area representing the historic heart of the Highland district. While the lower portion of the neighborhood has seen the most modern development, this area retains the classic brick storefronts and Victorian-era residences that define the original 1858 settlement. As you wander, notice the intricate masonry and the mature tree canopy that contrasts with the steel and glass you saw earlier. This area serves as the cultural soul of the neighborhood, hosting independent bookstores, local boutiques, and long-standing family businesses. It is the perfect place to reflect on how LoHi has managed to grow upward while keeping its feet firmly planted in its historic roots.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The walk typically takes 60 to 90 minutes depending on how long you stop for photos or food. The distance is approximately 1.5 miles from the bridge to the historic square.

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