Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales
Denver, United States

Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales

Outty Ranking 65 5.0 · 4 traveler reviews2 hoursFrom $42
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Outty Ranking

65/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 4 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales worth booking?

Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales is a 2-hour experience in Denver, United States, from $42 per person. It scores 65 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 4 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
65 / 100
Rating
5/5 (4)
Duration
2 hours
From
$42 per person

Discover Denver’s dark side on this top-rated true crime and scandal walking tour through downtown’s most iconic landmarks. As you explore sites like Union Station, Larimer Square, 16th Street & the Mile High City's other top, must-see sites, this tour uncovers the many shocking stories & hidden history most visitors never hear. From gruesome murders to political corruption, red-light secrets, notorious gangs, and the city’s most infamous (and interesting!) characters, you'll experience the darker side of the Mile High City. Expect a mix of dark humor, engaging storytelling of real events (not ghost stories), and surprising twists that bring Denver’s past to life in a way that’s anything but ordinary. Perfect for travelers & true crime enthusiasts looking for a memorable experience & a unique twist on history where you don't have to pick between seeing the top landmarks & a darker Denver tour—you get both. - Duration: 2 hours (plenty of stops for photos & questions) - Ages 16+

What you get

    About this experience

    Discover Denver’s dark side on this top-rated true crime and scandal walking tour through downtown’s most iconic landmarks. As you explore sites like Union Station, Larimer Square, 16th Street & the Mile High City's other top, must-see sites, this tour uncovers the many shocking stories & hidden history most visitors never hear. From gruesome murders to political corruption, red-light secrets, notorious gangs, and the city’s most infamous (and interesting!) characters, you'll experience the darker side of the Mile High City. Expect a mix of dark humor, engaging storytelling of real events (not ghost stories), and surprising twists that bring Denver’s past to life in a way that’s anything but ordinary. Perfect for travelers & true crime enthusiasts looking for a memorable experience & a unique twist on history where you don't have to pick between seeing the top landmarks & a darker Denver tour—you get both. - Duration: 2 hours (plenty of stops for photos & questions) - Ages 16+

    What's included

    Included

    • Government fees

    Not included

    • Meals
    • Private transportation

    What you'll see and do

    1. Denver Union Station

      Denver’s beautifully restored Union Station looks polished today—but its past tells a different story. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, this bustling rail hub was surrounded by chaos: pickpockets, con artists, and drifters looking to take advantage of weary travelers arriving in the Mile High City. The area nearby was notorious for crime, gambling, and underground activity, making it one of the city’s roughest entry points. As you stand in this grand space, it’s hard to imagine the grit, desperation, and danger that once defined it.

      10 minutes here

    2. Larimer Square

      Larimer Square is often called Denver’s most historic block—but it also has one of its darkest pasts. Once the heart of the city’s red-light district, this street was lined with saloons, brothels, and backroom deals. Crime, corruption, and violence were common, and some of Denver’s earliest scandals unfolded right here. Behind today’s charming lights and restored buildings are stories of power struggles, vice, and the city’s morally questionable beginnings.

      10 minutes here

    3. The Denver Center for the Performing Arts

      Now a hub for culture and performance, this area once sat near some of Denver’s more rough-and-tumble streets. In the city’s early days, entertainment often came with a darker edge—gambling halls, saloons, and questionable establishments weren’t far away. While today’s shows are far more refined, the surrounding area has a long history of nightlife that blurred the line between entertainment and vice.

      10 minutes here

    4. Daniels and Fisher Tower

      The iconic D&F Clocktower has watched over Denver for more than a century—and witnessed its share of drama. Built in 1911, it stood above a downtown filled with bustling crowds, street crime, and the occasional scandal. Nearby streets were once lined with saloons and shady activity, and the tower became a silent observer to the city’s evolving—and sometimes troubled—history.

      10 minutes here

    5. 16th Street Mall

      Today, the 16th Street Mall is a lively pedestrian promenade—but historically, this corridor has always been at the center of Denver’s energy, for better or worse. In earlier days, nearby blocks were known for shady deals, conmen (Soapy Smith was one of the biggest and baddest), and late-night activity that often spilled into trouble. It’s long been a place where different sides of the city collide—commerce, culture, and a hint of chaos.

      10 minutes here

    6. Skyline Park

      Skyline Park was once adjacent to Denver’s most notorious stretches - the Red Light District. During the late 1800s, it became a hotspot for vice—lined with brothels, saloons, and criminal activity that defined the city’s wild early reputation. Deals were made in the shadows, and the line between legality and corruption was often blurred. It was here that Denver’s “anything goes” attitude truly took hold.

      10 minutes here

    7. Mcgregor Square

      Now a modern entertainment district next to Coors Field, McGregor Square sits in an area that has long been tied to crowds, energy, and occasional chaos. While today it’s all sports bars, eateries and big screens, the surrounding neighborhood has a history shaped by rowdy gatherings, nightlife, and the unpredictable behavior that comes with them. It's also the area that was once Chinatown, before the riots completely destroyed and decimated it. It’s a fitting place to end a tour filled with stories of Denver’s more colorful—and sometimes chaotic—past.

      10 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Denver

    - Meet at the flagpole in front of Union Station. - The flagpole is located on the west corner of 17th St. and Wynkoop St. - Your guide will be wearing a neon yellow Discover Denver Tours shirt & will arrive at least 5-10 minutes before your tour's scheduled departure time.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    - McGregor Square is one block from Union Station, the starting location, if you need to return there. - McGregor Square has lots of food and beverage options with indorr and outdoor seating

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 8 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Discover Denver Tours

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales, photo 2Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales, photo 3Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales, photo 4

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 4 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    3 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    3 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Photo opportunities

    1 mention

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Traveler reviews

    4 verified traveler reviews for Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    4
    4 star
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    Zigjen · September 2026

    Colorful tour

    I really enjoyed this fascinating historical tour, which focused on some of the more dramatic and colorful characters involved in Denver’s development. It made for a very entertaining experience. The tour guide, Eileen, was great. She clearly knew the history well and had a fun, engaging way of telling the stories. I would definitely recommend this tour!

    Response from the operator: We’re so glad you had such a great time with us, Zigjen! Eileen has a wonderful way of bringing Denver’s past to life, and we’re happy she made the experience so memorable. Thank you for joining us and for recommending the tour!

    via Tripadvisor

    ingallgili · September 2026

    A perfect way to get to know Denver

    We had the most incredible day exploring Denver on a walking tour with Sue, who was the most wonderful guide. She made the whole experience so interesting, informative and, above all, fun! Her knowledge, stories and enthusiasm really brought Denver to life, and we learned so much while having a fantastic time. We absolutely loved every minute of it and would highly recommend this walking tour to anyone visiting Denver. Sue has a wonderful way of making you feel connected to the city and its history. Sue truly made Denver, Colorado, special for us! 🙏🏻❤️

    Response from the operator: Hello, Thank you so much for your 5-star review. We are happy to hear that you enjoyed your tour with Sue and that you loved every minute of it. We will absolutely share your comments with Sue.

    via Tripadvisor

    Kathleen_R · August 2026

    See Denver with new eyes.

    Insight into the underground of Denver. Historical facts about the men and women of early Denver. View historical buildings with new understanding.

    Response from the operator: Thanks for joining us on a journey through Denver’s more colorful past, Kathleen_R! We’re glad you enjoyed discovering the stories of the men and women of early Denver and gaining a new appreciation for the historic buildings along the way. There’s certainly more to this city than meets the eye! We hope you had a fantastic time uncovering some of Denver’s best-kept stories.

    via Viator

    Sunshineforallseason · October 2025

    Twisted History

    Sue was an amazing guide, answering many questions and offering recommendations. It was an easy 2 hour walk with resting stops if needed.

    Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your experience. We're so happy to hear you enjoyed the tour with Sue. She’ll be thrilled to know her knowledge and recommendations made the walk enjoyable and comfortable for you. We hope to see you again for another Denver experience.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    2 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    1
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Discover Denver Tours, who run 6 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 72.8.

    See everything Discover Denver Tours runs

    Why this scores 65

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)89
    Review evidence (18% weight)22
    Booking momentum (14% weight)11
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)54
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Denver.

    How much does Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales cost?

    +

    Prices start at $42 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Denver usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales take?

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    Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Denver is not rushed.

    Is Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 65 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 4 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Denver, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales?

    +

    Around 1 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Denver can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Denver and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Denver within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Denver?

    +

    Denver is a launch pad. Rocky Mountain National Park, Pikes Peak, Red Rocks and the Georgetown rail loop all run as day trips, and altitude makes the timing of your first hike matter. In town: brewery crawls, Union Station food walks and Red Rocks show nights. We rank mountain operators on van size, pace and whether they build in altitude acclimatisation. On Outty we rank every Denver experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Twilight Ghost Tour, 2 Hour LoDo Historic Walking Tour in Denver, Downtown Denver Food Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Denver?

    +

    June to September for open mountain passes, or December to March for ski shuttles. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Denver?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales?

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    Included: Government fees. Not included: Meals; and Private transportation. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales?

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    - Meet at the flagpole in front of Union Station. - The flagpole is located on the west corner of 17th St. and Wynkoop St. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Transportation options are wheelchair accessible; and All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Denver. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Twisted History Tour Denver: True Crime, Scandal, Sinister Tales?

    +

    Across 4 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

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