Exploring the Historic Charm of LoDo, Denver

Discover LoDo in Denver: A Historic Neighborhood Brimming with Victorian Charm, Culinary Delights, and Vibrant Nightlife.

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LoDo (Lower Downtown)

LoDo, or Lower Downtown, is Denver's oldest neighborhood, brimming with historic charm and modern vibrancy. As you stroll through its streets, you'll be greeted by beautifully preserved Victorian buildings, many of which date back to the late 19th century. This area is a testament to Denver's rich history and its transformation into a bustling urban hub. Food enthusiasts will find themselves in culinary heaven with an array of dining options that range from high-end restaurants to cozy cafes. LoDo is also home to the famous Union Station, a transportation hub that's more than just a place to catch a train. It's a vibrant gathering spot with shops, eateries, and even a hotel. Don't miss the chance to relax in its grand hall and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere. Nightlife in LoDo is equally exciting, with numerous bars, clubs, and music venues. Whether you're looking to enjoy a craft beer at a local brewery or dance the night away, there's something for everyone. For sports fans, a visit to Coors Field, home of the Colorado Rockies, offers a quintessential Denver experience. Watching a game here, surrounded by the energy of the crowd, is a must-do for any visitor.

Local tips in LoDo (Lower Downtown)

Visit Union Station early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a leisurely breakfast.
Wear comfortable shoes as LoDo is best explored on foot.
Check the schedule for events at Coors Field to catch a baseball game or a concert.
Explore the local breweries for a taste of Denver's famous craft beer.
Book restaurant reservations in advance, especially on weekends, as popular spots fill up quickly.

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File:Coors field aerial 1.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

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File:16th Street Mall Denver.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

File:Radisson Hotel Denver - Aurora 2020-05-14.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Denver Millenium Bridge from Commons Park West.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Denver aerial 2016.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Tattered Cover Book Store, LoDo, Denver.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Larimer Square

Experience the historic charm and vibrant culture of Larimer Square, Denver's premier shopping and dining destination, perfect for tourists and locals alike.

Daniels & Fisher

Discover the captivating history and vibrant events at Daniels & Fisher, a premier historical landmark in Denver's bustling Central Business District.

Ninth Street Historic Park

Explore the serene Ninth Street Historic Park in Denver, a perfect blend of history and nature for every traveler seeking tranquility.

Luz de Denver, Light of Denver

Discover Luz de Denver, a vibrant urban park with stunning art installations and lush landscapes, perfect for relaxation and memorable photographs.

Old City Hall Bell Plaza

Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of Old City Hall Bell Plaza, a landmark that reflects Denver's rich past and vibrant present.

Plaza of the Americas

Experience the cultural heartbeat of Denver at the Plaza of the Americas, a dynamic destination showcasing the art and spirit of the Americas.

Blake Street Building

Explore the stunning Blake Street Building, a historical landmark in the heart of Denver, showcasing the city's rich architectural heritage and vibrant culture.

Denver's Historic Chinatown Marker

Explore Denver's Historic Chinatown Marker, a significant cultural landmark that highlights the rich history of the Asian Pacific community in Colorado.

Unmissable attractions to see

Confluence Park

Explore Confluence Park in Denver - A tranquil urban oasis where nature meets recreation, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Big Blue Bear

Discover the Big Blue Bear, a striking 40-foot sculpture in Denver's vibrant downtown, symbolizing the city's artistic spirit and curiosity.

Denver Millennium Bridge

Experience the stunning Denver Millennium Bridge, a modern architectural wonder connecting the city's vibrant Lower Downtown to scenic Commons Park.

Denver Selfie Museum

Explore the colorful and interactive Denver Selfie Museum, where art meets entertainment for the ultimate photo experience in the heart of Colorado.

SoundWalk

Discover SoundWalk in Denver's Central Business District, where art and sound intertwine for a captivating auditory experience.

Denver City Railway Building - Lodo Walking Tour

Discover the Denver City Railway Building, a historic gem in LoDo that tells the captivating story of the city's cable car transportation era.

Plaza of the Americas

Discover the Plaza of the Americas in Denver, a vibrant hub of culture, art, and community events showcasing the spirit of the Americas.

Essential places to dine

Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill

Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill: A Culinary Gem in Denver Offering Global Flavors and Craft Beers.

Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar

Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar in Denver - where comfort food meets modern dining.

Rioja

Experience exquisite Mediterranean-inspired cuisine at Rioja in Denver, where seasonal ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.

The Pig & The Sprout

Experience culinary creativity at The Pig & The Sprout in Denver – where local ingredients meet American comfort food.

Mercantile Dining and Provision

Experience the essence of Denver's culinary scene at Mercantile Dining and Provision - where local ingredients meet innovative New American cuisine.

ChoLon - Downtown

Discover the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia at ChoLon - Downtown, where culinary artistry meets authentic Vietnamese cuisine in Denver.

Ultreia

Discover authentic Spanish flavors at Ultreia - Denver's premier tapas bar offering a vibrant dining experience.

Stoic & Genuine

Discover fresh seafood delights at Stoic & Genuine in Denver – where culinary excellence meets vibrant ambiance.

Red Square Euro Bistro

Experience authentic European flavors at Red Square Euro Bistro in Denver - where exquisite cuisine meets vibrant atmosphere.

Nola Jane Restaurant & Bar

Savor authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine at Nola Jane Restaurant & Bar in Denver—where vibrant flavors meet Southern charm.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

16th Street Mall

Experience the heart of Denver at the 16th Street Mall, a lively shopping and dining destination enriched with local culture and entertainment.

Garage Sale Vintage - Denver

Explore the eclectic blend of vintage fashion and delicious tacos at Garage Sale Vintage, a unique bar and boutique in the heart of Denver.

Coco + Grace

Discover the latest trends in women's fashion at Coco + Grace, Denver's chic boutique for stylish clothing and unique accessories.

Free Market

Experience the vibrant shopping scene at Free Market in Denver, filled with unique boutiques, local crafts, and delicious eateries.

Colorado Artisan Center

Explore the Colorado Artisan Center in Denver for unique art, handcrafted gifts, and local craftsmanship that captures the spirit of Colorado.

A Line Boutique

Discover chic women's fashion at A Line Boutique in Denver, offering stylish apparel and accessories for every occasion.

5 Green Boxes

Explore Denver's artistic spirit at 5 Green Boxes, a home goods store offering unique gifts and local artisan creations.

Blue Ruby

Explore Blue Ruby Boutique in Denver for a unique shopping experience featuring local fashion and trendy styles that capture the city's essence.

Show Pony Vintage - LoDo

Explore the eclectic charm of Show Pony Vintage in Denver's LoDo, where unique fashion finds await in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

Lodo Lawbooks

Discover a treasure trove of used books at Lodo Lawbooks in Denver, where literary enthusiasts find rare and captivating reads.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The 1up Arcade Bar - LoDo

Experience the thrill of classic arcade gaming while enjoying a vibrant bar atmosphere at The 1up Arcade Bar in Denver's LoDo district.

Jackson's LODO

Experience the best of Denver's culinary scene at Jackson's LODO, where great food and a vibrant atmosphere come together.

Dierks Bentley's Whiskey Row Denver

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Dierks Bentley's Whiskey Row in Denver, where live music and delicious food come together for an unforgettable night out.

Terminal Bar

Discover Terminal Bar, a lively Denver hotspot offering craft beers and creative cocktails in a historic train depot setting.

The Front Porch

Discover the cozy charm of The Front Porch, a unique bar in Denver offering creative cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere for tourists and locals alike.

The Refinery

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails at The Refinery, a must-visit bar in the heart of Denver's nightlife scene.

The Wild

Discover The Wild, Denver's vibrant cocktail bar known for unique drinks, fine wines, and artisanal coffee in a chic, inviting atmosphere.

Ghost Donkey – Denver

Experience the vibrant spirit of Denver at Ghost Donkey, a hidden bar offering unique cocktails and a cozy atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.

Run For The Roses

Experience the best of Denver's cocktail scene at Run For The Roses, where innovative drinks meet delicious cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.

Upstairs Circus LoDo

Experience the perfect blend of creativity and cocktails at Upstairs Circus LoDo, a unique arts and craft bar in the heart of Denver.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to LoDo (Lower Downtown)

Discover LoDo (Lower Downtown) with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloHowdy
  [haʊ-di]
- GoodbyeCatch you later
  [kætʃ ju ˈleɪ.tər]
- YesYep
  [jɛp]
- NoNah
  [nɑː]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pliːz / noʊ ˈprɑ.bləm]
- Thank youThanks a bunch
  [θæŋks ə bʌntʃ]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [pɑːrdn miː / maɪ bæd]
- How are you?How's it going?
  [haʊz ɪt ˈɡoʊɪŋ]
- Fine. And you?Good. And you?
  [ɡʊd. ænd ju]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [jə spiːk ˈɪŋ.ɡlɪʃ]
- I don't understandI'm lost
  [aɪm lɔst]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLet me check out the menu real quick
  [lɛt mi tʃɛk aʊt ðə ˈmɛnjuː ril kwɪk]
- I don't eat meatI'm vegetarian
  [aɪm vɛdʒɪˈtɛriən]
- Cheers!Prost!
  [prost]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCheck please
  [tʃɛk pliːz]
- Help!SOS!
  [ɛs oʊ ˈɛs]
- Go away!Beat it!
  [bit ɪt]
- Call the Police!Dial 911!
  [daɪəl naɪn wʌn wʌn]
- Call a doctor!Get a medic!
  [ɡɛt ə ˈmɛdɪk]
- I'm lostI'm turned around
  [aɪm tɜrnd əˈraʊnd]
- I'm illI'm feeling under the weather
  [aɪm ˈfilɪŋ ˈʌndər ðə ˈwɛðər]
- I'd like to buy...I'm interested in...
  [aɪm ˈɪntrəstɪd ɪn]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [dʒʌst ˈbraʊzɪŋ]
- How much is it?What's the damage?
  [wɑːts ðə ˈdæmɪdʒ]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [ðæts ə bɪt stip]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do better on the price?
  [kæn ju du ˈbɛtər ɒn ðə praɪs]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [wɑːts ðə taɪm]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [ɪts wʌn]
- Half past (10)Half 10
  [hæf tɛn]
- MorningAM
  [eɪ ɛm]
- AfternoonPM
  [piː ɛm]
- EveningEvening
  [ˈivnɪŋ]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [ˈjɛstərˌdeɪ]
- TodayToday
  [təˈdeɪ]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [təˈmɑˌroʊ]
- 1One
  [wʌn]
- 2Two
  [tuː]
- 3Three
  [θriː]
- 4Four
  [fɔr]
- 5Five
  [faɪv]
- 6Six
  [sɪks]
- 7Seven
  [ˈsɛvən]
- 8Eight
  [eɪt]
- 9Nine
  [naɪn]
- 10Ten
  [tɛn]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the... at?
  [wɛərz ðə æt]
- What's the address?What's the street?
  [wɑːts ðə strit]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out?
  [kæn ju pɔɪnt ɪt aʊt]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus) coming?
  [wɛnz ðə nɛkst ˈbʌs ˈkʌmɪŋ]
- A ticket (to ....)A pass (to ....)
  [ə pæs tu]

History of LoDo (Lower Downtown)

LoDo, short for Lower Downtown, is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Denver, established shortly after the city itself was founded in 1858 by William Larimer, who recognized the area's potential as a trading post. The arrival of the railroad in the 1870s transformed LoDo into a bustling hub for commerce, connecting Denver to the rest of the country and fostering rapid growth in the area.
The Colorado Gold Rush of 1859 brought a wave of prospectors and settlers to the region, leading to a population boom in LoDo. The neighborhood became the epicenter of economic activity, with saloons, hotels, and businesses catering to the influx of fortune seekers. This era laid the groundwork for the vibrant culture that defines LoDo today.
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, LoDo saw the construction of many historic brick warehouses and commercial buildings, reflecting the architectural styles of the time. However, by the mid-20th century, the neighborhood faced decline due to suburbanization. In the 1980s, preservation efforts began, leading to the restoration of many historic structures, which helped revitalize the area and preserve its rich history.
In 1995, the opening of Coors Field, home to the Colorado Rockies Major League Baseball team, marked a significant turning point for LoDo. The stadium not only brought sports and entertainment to the neighborhood but also stimulated economic development and tourism, further establishing LoDo as a vibrant cultural and social center in Denver.
Today, LoDo is known for its dynamic blend of history, culture, and modern urban life. The neighborhood features a mix of trendy restaurants, art galleries, and nightlife, while still honoring its historical roots. Events such as the Denver Arts Festival and various street fairs celebrate the area's artistic community and cultural diversity, making LoDo a thriving destination for both locals and tourists.

LoDo (Lower Downtown) Essentials

LoDo (Lower Downtown) is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Denver. If arriving from Denver International Airport, take the A Line train to Union Station, which is just a short walk from LoDo. From downtown Denver, you can walk, bike, or take the light rail to Union Station. Additionally, several bus routes service the area, including the 1, 10, and 52 lines.
LoDo is a walkable neighborhood, and many attractions are within easy reach on foot. Public transportation is also available via the light rail and bus services. The RTD light rail has a station at Union Station, providing access to other parts of the city. Biking is popular, and bike-sharing programs like B-Cycle allow easy rentals. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also widely used.
LoDo is generally a safe neighborhood, but standard precautions are advised. It is recommended to avoid walking alone late at night in less populated areas, especially around the edges of LoDo. Be cautious around certain streets known for nightlife, as they can attract a party crowd. Always keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergencies, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Union Station is a central hub where you can find help, and there are several hospitals and urgent care facilities nearby. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress casually but stylishly, as LoDo is known for its trendy vibe. Don’t wear overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs, particularly in any historical sites. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile or handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local restaurants and breweries. Don’t waste food or refuse an invitation to join locals.
To experience LoDo like a local, visit the historic Union Station for dining and shopping options. Attend local events and festivals at the nearby Coors Field or at the Riverfront Park. Explore the area by foot to discover hidden gems, such as art galleries and boutique shops. Engage with locals at bars and breweries, as they can offer insider tips on the best places to eat and drink.

Exploring the Historic Charm of LoDo, Denver

Local tips in LoDo (Lower Downtown)