Nestled just north of downtown Denver, the River North Art District (RiNo) has blossomed into one of the city's most vibrant neighborhoods. Known for its dynamic street art, eclectic galleries, and indie venues, RiNo is a creative hub that offers an exciting mix of experiences for locals and visitors alike. If you’re planning a night out in RiNo, here’s a curated list of things to do that will make your evening unforgettable. The neighborhood is bounded by 38th Avenue to the north, 20th Street to the south, Colorado Boulevard to the east, and the South Platte River to the west. Boundaries may vary slightly depending on different sources.
1. Explore the Street Art
Before the sun sets, take a stroll through the streets of RiNo to soak in the incredible street art that adorns the buildings. The neighborhood is an open-air gallery featuring murals and installations from local and international artists. Grab your camera and prepare for some Instagram-worthy shots as you wander through this urban art landscape.
Must-See Spots:
- Street art: Head to areas like Larimer Street and Walnut Street where you’ll find vibrant murals at every turn.
- The Wings Over the Rockies Mural: One of the most iconic images in the area, this mural captures the essence of RiNo's creative spirit.
2. Indulge in Culinary Delights
As evening approaches, it’s time to satisfy your taste buds with some delicious food. RiNo boasts a diverse culinary scene that caters to all cravings.
Recommended Restaurants:
- The Source: This trendy marketplace offers a variety of eateries under one roof, where you can sample everything from artisanal tacos to gourmet pizza. Grab a bite from one of the vendors and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
- Denver Central Market: Another gourmet food hall, features a mix of local vendors. Treat yourself to fresh seafood, artisanal sandwiches, or homemade pastries.
- Hopdaddy Burger Bar: It's known for its gourmet burgers and lively atmosphere.
- Bigsby's Folly Craft Winery & Restaurant: It offers a combination of a craft winery and a restaurant, providing a unique experience for wine enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
- Himchuli RiNo Indian and Nepali Cuisine: Ofers a fusion of Indian and Nepali cuisine. The restaurant is known for its flavorful and aromatic dishes, drawing influence from both Indian and Nepali culinary traditions. With its unique blend of spices and cooking techniques, Himchuli RiNo provides an exciting dining experience for those seeking to explore the diverse flavors of South Asia.
- Dio Mio: A counter-service restaurant focusing on fresh, handmade pasta. Chefs Spencer White and Alex Figura use their fine dining backgrounds to craft a mix of traditional Italian, and contemporary food in a relaxed and approachable environment.
3. Sip on Innovative Cocktails
After a satisfying meal, why not unwind in one of RiNo's stylish bars? The district is home to a plethora of unique establishments, each with its own distinct flair.
Bar Highlights:
- RiNo Beer Garden: A fantastic addition to the vibrant bar scene in Rino Denver. From the moment I stepped inside, I was impressed with the lively atmosphere and welcoming vibe.
- Curio Bar: A popular cocktail bar located in the RiNo (River North) neighborhood of Denver, Colorado. Known for its creative and expertly crafted cocktails, Curio Bar offers a diverse and unique selection of drinks in a stylish and welcoming atmosphere.
- Ohana Room - Denver Tiki Bar: An absolute gem in the vibrant neighborhood of Rino Denver. As soon as I stepped inside, I was transported to a tropical paradise, surrounded by great décor that perfectly captured the spirit of a Polynesian getaway.
- Noble Riot: This trendy establishment offers a diverse selection of wines from around the world, focusing on natural and biodynamic wines that are carefully curated by the knowledgeable staff. In addition to its impressive wine list, Noble Riot also serves small plates and snacks to complement the wines.
- Finn's Manor: It's known for its unique and vibrant atmosphere, offering a variety of food and drink options. Specifically, it is recognized for its food truck pod, where different food trucks rotate, offering a diverse selection of culinary options. Additionally, there's a well-regarded bar at Finn's Manor, known for its craft cocktails and wide selection of spirits.
- The Woods: It has great vibes! As soon as I stepped inside, I felt a warm and friendly atmosphere. The rustic decor combined with dim lighting creates a cozy and inviting ambiance, perfect for a night out with friends or a casual drink after work.
- Millers & Rossi: A unique cocktail bar and art gallery located in the RiNo (River North) neighborhood of Denver, Colorado. This establishment combines the experience of enjoying craft cocktails with exploring art, creating a dynamic and engaging environment for guests.
4. Catch a Live Show or Performance
RiNo's artsy vibe extends to its thriving music and performance scene. Whether you’re into live music, theater, or comedy, you’ll find something to enjoy.
Entertainment Venues:
- The Mission Ballroom: This versatile venue hosts a variety of concerts and events, featuring both emerging artists and well-known bands.
- The Infinite Monkey Theorem: An urban winery by night, this casual spot regularly features live music and events. Enjoy a glass of wine while soaking in local talent.
- Puttshack: It combines mini-golf with an upscale dining and drinks experience, offering a unique twist on traditional putt-putt.
5. Unwind at a Local Gallery or Open Studio
End your evening by immersing yourself in RiNo’s art scene. Several galleries and studios stay open late on certain days, offering a chance to explore and appreciate the local talent.
Gallery Suggestions:
- David B. Smith Gallery: Showcasing contemporary art, this gallery often features rotating exhibits that highlight both established and emerging artists.
- Ironton Gallery: Featuring local rotating artists with First Friday openings every month. Sip on a cocktail, beer or wine from the distillery while checking out the gallery and enjoying the eclectic urban oasis of the Ironton gardens.
6. Cap Off the Night with a Sweet Treat
Before heading home, treat yourself to something sweet. There are plenty of dessert spots to satisfy your late-night cravings.
Dessert Destinations:
- Heaven Creamery: Specializes in a variety of creative and unique ice cream flavors, often made with high-quality ingredients. They offer both classic and innovative options to appeal to all taste preferences.
- Brothers Cafe & Gelato: This charming café serves a variety of specialties, including delicious gelato, coffee, and pastry. They also offer a range of savory options, such as sandwiches and salads.
Conclusions
A night out in RiNo offers endless possibilities for fun, culture, and culinary delights. Whether you spend your evening indulging in delicious food and drinks, soaking up art, or enjoying live performances, you’ll leave with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for this creative district. So grab your friends, put on your walking shoes, and get ready for an unforgettable night in Denver’s vibrant RiNo neighborhood!
Contact me today with any questions:
Kelly Thompson-Milner, REALTOR
303.587.3846
[email protected]
Kelly’s Additional Credentials:
Residential Construction Certified
New Build Specialist Designation
