Denver’s River North Arts District (locally abbreviated to “RiNo”) is known as “the place where art is made.” This vibrant neighborhood is home to some of the state’s best art galleries, maker shops, music venues, microbreweries, and more. Expect to discover ever-changing public art, buskers, pop-ups, and a never-ending supply of great goings-on. There’s simply always something happening here and plenty to see and do — none of which you can experience anywhere else.
Take a look at the official RiNo Arts District events calendar below, as well as a list of favorite things to do in RiNo and start planning your adventure!
Neighborhood Highlights
Finn's Manor
2927 Larimer St.
If you're looking to fit in with the Denver locals, stop by Finn's Manor. This colorful bar is best known for its legendary punches, rotating food truck selections (all are parked on the patio!), and salsa dancing in the summertime! Whether you're looking for a quick bite to eat or an eclectic place to spend your night out, Finn's Manor is the spot to hit!
Local Tip: If you want to make your day more 420-friendly, head over to LivWell — a local dispensary located right down the block.
Modern Nomad
2936 Larimer St.
Modern Nomad is one of RiNo's hidden gems. Located a few steps away from Finn's Manor, this design collective features new and vintage furniture, textiles, home accessories, clothing, and more! The multi-tenant market space eliminates traditional retail boundaries by removing all walls and blends a stunning selection of brands, artists, and designers under one roof. If you are looking to purchase a gift for someone, this is the place to go!
Meadowlark Bar
2701 Larimer St.
Looking to go out one night in RiNo but not sure where to go? Meadowlark Bar is one of the hottest spots in the city. This grunge, underground, bar hosts DJs every weekend and a variety of live music events during the week, including open mic night on Mondays.
Local tip: Head to the back of the bar and look for a staircase that leads to a secluded outdoor patio. There you'll find people dancing, grabbing drinks at the bar, or hanging out on the back steps. You'll feel like you've just stepped inside a terrarium, which makes the experience even cooler!
Mission Ballroom
4242 Wynkoop St.
Even though Mission Ballroom only recently opened in August of 2019, the state-of-the-art venue has already become a fan-favorite in the city. From Bob Dylan to Tame Impala — Mission Ballroom continues to excite locals with radical lineups, impressive sound quality, and eclectic art installations. Not to mention, Mission Ballroom was built with a flexible stage configuration, which means the venue can accommodate shows ranging from 2,500 to 4,000 attendees. The long and short of it — this intimate venue is not to be missed. To explore upcoming shows and check out Mission Ballroomto check out Mission Ballroom for yourself, for a more wide array of venues, visit our Venues page and see what Denver has to offer.
First Draft Taproom & Kitchen
1309 26th St.
With all of the breweries in RiNo it can be hard to choose just one. Thankfully, First Draft Taproom & Kitchen makes it easy for visitors by providing a unique tasting experience where you can try rotating beers and pour them yourself! First Draft gives each guest (21+) a temporary "debit card" that keeps track of how many ounces you've poured and tallies your total bill at the end. It's a great way to sample a variety of local and national brews while educating yourself on the different palates and flavors of each.
fooLPRoof contemporary art
3240 Larimer St.
Since RiNo is all about the arts, it's only right to stop in and check out one of the most popular galleries in the neighborhood. fooLPRoof contemporary art combines all mediums, skill levels, and price points while placing an emphasis on emerging and established sculptors. Keep your eyes peeled for curated, themed exhibitions and events at this trendy, contemporary gallery.
Improper City
3201 Walnut St.
Improper City prides itself on creating a "new experience with every visit," which is exactly what they do with their rotating food trucks, craft cocktails, local brews, live music, and art events! This one-stop-shop is a great place to get some work done or hang out on a sunny afternoon. Chill inside and enjoy the bustling vibe or step outside and explore the food trucks parked on the lawn. Plus, they even have yard games, fire pits, and lounge chairs so you can make yourself right at home!
Topo Designs
2500 Larimer St. Suite #102
If someone tried to summarize what Denver streetwear looked like, they'd probably mention Topo Designs. The flagship store is located right in RiNo and gives visitors a peek into the outerwear brand that is rooted in mountain culture and outdoor living. Topo offers durable apparel for hiking, climbing, skiing, traveling, and more, while providing trendy yet simple pieces for the everyday adventurer.
There's more than enough to see and do in RiNo Art District, so grab your crew and walk over to this art-filled neighborhood.
Whether you're exploring the street-art scene, grabbing a beer, or browsing boutiques for some new items, there is no shortage of things to do RiNo Denver.
2669 Larimer St.
Food halls are all the rage in Denver and Denver Central Market is no exception. This marketplace houses a variety of local vendors and is the perfect spot to visit if you've got an indecisive group. Whether you're looking for seafood, pizza, salads, or a burger — Denver Central Market is the place to go for the best lunch in RiNo Denver. Plus, it's also a great spot to get some work done if you need a neutral environment.
Barcelona Wine Bar
2900 Larimer St.
Barcelona Wine Bar is one of RiNo's most beloved restaurants and bars. The Mediterranian-inspired cuisine is handcrafted with high-quality ingredients that will leave your mouth watering for days. The ambiance at Barcelona Wine Bar is high-energy and buzzing with locals and out-of-towners alike trying to get their tapas fix! For more information on this trendy spot, check out their website.
Hop Alley
3500 Larimer St.
Since it's opening in 2016, Hop Alley has been the talk of the town. This hip, Chinese restaurant is best known for its spicy dishes, shared plates, and bumping rap music. That's right — all of their dishes come with a side of white rice and rap music (Kanye all the way to Tupac). It's nearly impossible to get a table without a reservation, so we recommend checking Resy before heading in, but if you're looking for a one-of-a-kind Denver experience, Hop Alley is your place to go.
Local Tip: Hop Alley is known for its spicy flavors. Don't try to out-spice them — they will win! We recommend trying the La Zi Ji (Fried Chicken), Beijing Duck Rolls (if available) and the Steamed Eggplant.