RiNo Denver Guide | River North Art District, Colorado

Where Art Meets Industry

RiNo—River North Art District—transformed from industrial warehouses into Denver's most vibrant creative neighborhood. Every wall becomes a canvas here, with world-class murals covering buildings throughout the district. It's equal parts art gallery, brewery district, and foodie destination.

The neighborhood sprawls north from LoDo along Brighton Boulevard and Larimer Street. Former factories now house craft breweries, innovative restaurants, and working artist studios. First Fridays bring art walks, but any day rewards exploration.

RiNo keeps evolving. New restaurants open constantly, murals change with the seasons, and the creative energy is palpable. It's gritty in the best way—authentic Denver without the polish of downtown. Come hungry, bring a camera, and prepare to discover something new around every corner.

RiNo Highlights

Essential stops in the art district

Street Art & Murals

Outdoor Gallery

World-renowned artists paint massive murals throughout the district. Larimer Street between 25th and 38th offers the highest concentration. New works appear constantly—the walls are always changing.

Denver Central Market

Food Hall

This beautiful food hall gathers local vendors under one roof. Tacos, ramen, wood-fired pizza, fresh pasta, and craft coffee. Perfect for groups who can't agree on one cuisine.

The Source

Artisan Market

RiNo's original food hall in a 1880s foundry building. Acorn restaurant, Crooked Stave brewery, and specialty vendors. The adjacent Source Hotel offers boutique accommodations.

Brewery Row

Craft Beer Paradise

A dozen craft breweries cluster along Brighton and Larimer. Epic Brewing, Ratio Beerworks, Our Mutual Friend, and Great Divide's barrel bar offer diverse styles. Crawlable in an afternoon.

First Friday Art Walks

Monthly Events

Galleries open late, artists work live, and the streets come alive on the first Friday of each month. Free trolley runs throughout. Some of Denver's best people-watching.

CRUSH Walls

Annual Festival

Each September, artists from around the world create new murals during this week-long street art festival. Watch works in progress and meet the creators. RiNo's biggest celebration.

Where to Eat in RiNo

Safta: Alon Shaya's Israeli restaurant delivers hummus, pita, and mezze worth the trip alone. The wood-fired lamb and technicolor vegetables are unforgettable. Reservations essential.

Work & Class: Latin-influenced comfort food in an energetic atmosphere. The street corn and carnitas are legendary. Great cocktails and lively vibe.

Hop Alley: Modern Chinese in a graffiti-covered building. Hand-pulled noodles, dim sum, and creative cocktails. Late-night menu for post-bar cravings.

Cart-Driver: Wood-fired pizza and oysters in a converted shipping container. Simple perfection. Cash only, outdoor seating, neighborhood favorite.

Visiting Tips

Best Time to Visit: Weekday afternoons for uncrowded murals and brewery hopping. Friday/Saturday nights for restaurant scene. First Fridays for art walks (arrive early).

Getting There: Walkable from LoDo (20 minutes) or take B-Cycle. Street parking is easier than downtown. Rideshare works well for nights out.

Photography: Bring your camera. Every alley reveals new murals. Best light happens in morning (eastern walls) or afternoon (western walls). Respect artists' work.

Safety: RiNo is generally safe but industrial. Stick to main streets at night. The area between Brighton and Larimer has the most activity and foot traffic.

More Colorado Art & Culture

Love creative districts and public art? Explore these destinations

Loveland Sculpture Gardens: Over 400 public sculptures in Colorado's sculpture capital. Free outdoor galleries with world-class art.

Manitou Springs: Quirky artist community with galleries, indie shops, and authentic Colorado character at Pikes Peak's base.

Old Town Fort Collins: Historic architecture, local galleries, and regular art walks in a classic college-town downtown.

RiNo Art District