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Business | Take a tour through four of Denver’s most historic homes

The mile high city is home to around 300 spaces listed on the national register of historic places, according to history colorado.

Denverites are trying to keep the city’s history alive by preserving its historic houses, maintaining them as inns, museums and more.

The Mile High City is home to around 300 spaces listed on the National Register of Historic Places, with buildings, parks, cemeteries, bridges and districts making the list, according to History Colorado. However, a handful have since been destroyed, because of fires, dismantling and other causes.

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, hundreds of historic properties fell victim to demolition “as part of so-called urban renewal efforts,” according to Historic Denver. The nonprofit group, joined by History Colorado, has responded by working to protect and restore these places for generations to come.

History Colorado was established in 1879, serving as both a charitable organization and a state agency under the Department of Higher Education. Historic Denver was initially formed in 1970 to save the Molly Brown House from demolition, said Andrea Malcomb, director of the Molly Brown House Museum.

The city’s historic buildings are “a direct connection to those people in the past,” she said. “Those are the people that shaped our city, that made Denver what it is today.”

In some of Denver’s neighborhoods, including downtown and Capitol Hill, historic homes have been converted into multi-unit apartments, attempting to mitigate the area’s housing shortage.

A drive through the capital city means paying tribute to architectural styles popular in years past: Queen Anne of the 1880s to 1910s, Beaux-Arts of the 1880s to 1930s, and art deco of the 1930s and 1940s, according to History Colorado. Locals and visitors alike can travel back to previous time periods when they stop by the city’s historic houses.

Here’s a look at four of the city’s most historic buildings:

Kathryn Scott, Special to The Denver Post

The top floor is often used to host events inside the Molly Brown House Museum in Denver, pictured on May 13, 2022.

The door leading into Molly Brown's bedroom inside the Molly Brown House Museum in Denver on May 13, 2022.

The basement was renovated to add more education and display space inside Denver's Molly Brown House Museum on May 13, 2022.

The Molly Brown House Museum in Denver is pictured on May 13, 2022.

Inside the library at the Molly Brown House Museum in Denver on May 13, 2022.

The kitchen inside the Molly Brown House Museum in Denver on May 13, 2022.

Hand-written letters inscribed by Molly sit on the kitchen table inside the Molly Brown House Museum in Denver on May 13, 2022.

The drawing room on the first floor of the Molly Brown House Museum in Denver on May 13, 2022.

A servant's bedroom on the top floor inside the Molly Brown House Museum in Denver on May 13, 2022.

The museum gift shop is inside the carriage house at the Molly Brown House Museum in Denver, pictured on May 13, 2022.

1. Molly Brown House Museum

Tucked in beside Capitol Hill offices and apartment buildings, the Molly Brown House Museum at 1340 Pennsylvania St. stands out as a mansion of Queen Anne and Richardsonian Romanesque styles.

Built in 1889 by architect William Lang for Isaac and Mary Large, the home was purchased in 1894 by James Joseph – known as J.J. – and Margaret Brown. The latter went down in history as the “unsinkable” Molly Brown, a socialite and activist who survived the Titanic’s sinking in 1912.

“Our house is made of Colorado,” Malcomb said on a tour, pointing out the stones used to build the four-level mansion: rhyolite from Castle Rock and Manitou sandstone from Garden of the Gods.

After the Brown family sold their home in the early 20th century, it served as a boarding house, an apartment building and more.

In non-COVID years, the museum hosts 55,000 to 60,000 visitors annually. Ticket prices range between $10 and $16, with free admission for members and children aged five and younger.

The museum is showing a special exhibit, “Heroine of the Titanic,” until Sept. 25.

The Capitol Hill Mansion Bed and Breakfast Inn is pictured on May 12, 2022.

Bailey Surface works with her father Carl Schmidt II at the Capitol Hill Mansion Bed and Breakfast Inn in Denver, pictured on May 12, 2022.

The living room has the original fireplace inside the Capitol Hill Mansion Bed and Breakfast Inn, pictured on May 12, 2022.

The hallway leading to the rooms on the second floor is lined with historic photos inside the Capitol Hill Mansion Bed and Breakfast Inn, pictured on May 12, 2022.

The dining room inside the Capitol Hill Mansion Bed and Breakfast Inn is pictured on May 12, 2022.

Original relief molded plaster is visible on the wall in the entrance of the Capitol Hill Mansion Bed and Breakfast Inn, pictured on May 12, 2022.

The Gold Banner room inside the Capitol Hill Mansion Bed and Breakfast Inn is pictured on May 12, 2022.

The Forget-Me-Not room inside the Capitol Hill Mansion Bed and Breakfast Inn is pictured on May 12, 2022.

2. Capitol Hill Mansion Bed & Breakfast Inn

Denver’s Capitol Hill Mansion at 1207 N. Pennsylvania St. was originally constructed for the Keating family in 1891, but travelers are now welcome to spend the night. Transformed into a bed and breakfast inn, it opened for business in 1994.

The inn’s brochure calls the Capitol Hill Mansion “one of the last splendid homes erected before the Silver Crash of 1893 when the government stopped buying silver to support the currency.” It’s built in Richardsonian Romanesque style, with an eight-foot stained glass window, fireplaces and a porch.

Owner and innkeeper Carl Schmidt II, who originally hails from southern Texas, bought the ruby sandstone house in 2001. He and his daughter Bailey cater to visitors, who have their choice of eight guestrooms named after Colorado wildflowers, including the bluebell, gold banner and elk thistle. Schmidt also cooks for his vacationers, with egg soufflé with sausage, chèvre and herbs listed for breakfast on the chalkboard menu on May 10.

His guests travel from as close as Fort Collins and Littleton to as far as New York and Germany.

Schmidt described business as steady, adding that guests appreciate the complimentary on-site parking. The inn earns the maximum score of five on online travel company Tripadvisor’s bubble rating system, and ranks as No. 1 out of six B&Bs in the city.

The price of a one-night stay ranges from $199 to $289, depending on the room.

Helen H. Richardson, The Denver Post

The exterior of the Center for Colorado Women's History in Denver is pictured on May 17, 2022. The Center for Colorado Women's History is housed in a home that was built in 1883 for William and Elizabeth Byers.

A bench belonging to the Evans family is in the original place it was put by the family in the music room in the Center for Colorado Women's History in Denver, pictured on May 17, 2022. The Center offers tours of the home along with exhibitions, lectures, field trips and events.

The music room in the Center for Colorado Women's History in Denver is pictured on May 17, 2022. The wallpaper in the music room is original from 1912. Margaret Evans Davis, whose family owned the house, grew up to be a professional pianist and singer. The piano in the room isn't her original piano—it's a 1904 parlor grand. Margaret's original piano was given away later in life to the first female conductor of the Colorado Symphony, named Antonia Brico. On several occasions in her life, Margaret sang on the stage with the Colorado Symphony.

Old postcards are on display in the music room in the Center for Colorado Women's History in Denver on May 17, 2022. The Center for Colorado Women's History is housed in a home that was built in 1883 for William and Elizabeth Byers. It was sold to William and Cornelia Evans in 1889. Members of the Evans family lived in the home until 1981 and donated the house and its contents to History Colorado. Members of both families played pivotal roles in Denver's early growth by helping to establish and develop religious, educational, legal and social institutions, including the Denver and Northern Railroad Company, the Denver Public Library, the University of Denver, the Denver Art Museum, Women's Council of Defense, the regional Red Cross and Fitzsimmons Hospital.

The library in the Center for Colorado Women's History in Denver is pictured on May 17, 2022.

A bronze bas relief of Margaret Gray Evans in the library in the Center for Colorado Women's History in Denver is pictured on May 17, 2022. Members of the Evans family lived in the home from 1889 until 1981, and donated the house and its contents to History Colorado.

A room with a fireplace at the Center for Colorado Women's History in Denver is pictured on May 17, 2022. The Italianate-style house is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

A picture of Margaret Gray Evans sits in the library in the Center for Colorado Women's History in Denver, pictured on May 17, 2022. The large painting on the wall in the center of the room was commissioned in 1882 and features three generations of Evans women. Two of them are Margaret Gray Evans and Anne Evans. Both of these women are part of the four generations of women who spent time in the home through its 92 year period while the Evans family lived here.

The library in the Center for Colorado Women's History in Denver is pictured on May 17, 2022. The large painting on the wall in the center of the room was commissioned in 1882 and features three generations of Evans women, the family who purchased the home in the late 1880s. During the 92-year-long tenure of the Evans family, four generations of women spent time in the home.

A portrait of three generations of women from the Evans family hangs in the library in the Center for Colorado Women's History in Denver, pictured on May 17, 2022. The painting was commissioned in 1882 and features three generations of Evans women. Two of them are Margaret Gray Evans and Anne Evans (when she was only 12 years old). Both of these women are part of the four generations of women who spent time in the home through its 92 year period while the Evans family lived here.

The dining room at the Center for Colorado Women's History in Denver is pictured on May 17, 2022. Most of the room has items that belonged to the Evans family, who purchased the home in 1889. Members of the family lived in the home until 1981, and donated the house and its contents to History Colorado.

Pictures of daughters Josephine Evans, left, her sister Katharine Evans, with the family dog Dick, right, and their parents William and Cornelia Evans in the middle on a bureau with poppy wallpaper in the Center for Colorado Women's History in Denver, pictured on May 17, 2022. The women of the Evans family, who owned the house for more than 90 years, played important roles as members of the Red Cross during the war both locally and abroad and poppy imagery is present throughout the house. The Center offers tours of the home along with exhibitions, lectures, field trips and events. Using the beautifully restored interiors and the family's original artifacts, tours weave together the stories of the many women who lived and worked in the house and Colorado women's history.

A room for the seamstress in the Center for Colorado Women's History in Denver is pictured on May 17, 2022.

The kitchen at the Center for Colorado Women's History in Denver is pictured on May 17, 2022. The kitchen includes the Evans family's original ice box and coal burning stove, both of which would have been used by Carrie Erickson, a Swedish immigrant who worked for the family for over 30 years and lived in the house. The Evans family purchased the home in 1889. Members of the Evans family lived in the home until 1981 and donated the house and its contents to History Colorado.

Pictured are copies of the naturalization papers for household manager Carrie Erickson, who immigrated to the United States from Sweden, at the Center for Colorado Women's History in Denver. Erickson was a manager in the house for over 30 years.

The conservatory in the Center for Colorado Women's History in Denver is pictured on May 17, 2022. The Center for Colorado Women's History is housed in a home that was built in 1883 for William and Elizabeth Byers. Using the beautifully restored interiors and original artifacts belonging to the Byers and the Evans family, who purchased the house in 1889, tours weave together the stories of the many women who lived and worked in the house and Colorado women's history.

The main bedroom belonging to Cornelia and William Evans, with poppy wallpaper, in the Center for Colorado Women's History in Denver is pictured on May 17, 2022.

3. Center for Colorado Women’s History

The Byers-Evans House at 1310 Bannock St. was first constructed in 1883 for Elizabeth and William Byers, who founded and published the Rocky Mountain News. It’s now home to History Colorado’s Center for Colorado Women’s History.

The Italianate-style house is situated in the Golden Triangle near the Denver Art Museum and Civic Center park.

In 1889, Byers sold the two-story house to the Evans family, who lived there for over 90 years. Out of the objects and artifacts currently on display at the museum, 90% originally belonged to the Evans, said guest services coordinator Cat Jensen.

Nine of the people who lived in the house, including family members and domestic servants, were women. Among them, Cornelia Evans served in a leadership position at Denver’s chapter of the American Red Cross, with daughter Josephine Evans supporting the war effort in France during World War I.

Tours purposely begin in the kitchen to acknowledge “the work of the women behind the scenes,” Jensen said. A maid for the Evans, Esther Allspach, provided her grandchildren with an oral history, giving the museum “an insight into what life was like for women who were poor or working class or immigrant, as opposed to the Evans.”

The house officially became a museum in the 1990s. Its team offers six tours on days with regular hours. Ticket costs range between $4 and $8, with free entry for military, History Colorado members and children aged five and younger.

The exterior of the Governor's Residence at the Boettcher Mansion in Denver is pictured on May 16, 2022. Built in 1908, the mansion was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1969.

The main foyer at the Governor's Residence at the Boettcher Mansion in Denver is pictured on May 16, 2022.

The library, in the foreground and the drawing room, in the background, of the Governor's Residence at the Boettcher Mansion in Denver are pictured on May 16, 2022. The house was originally built as a residence for the widow and the daughter of Denver real estate tycoon Walter Scott Cheesman and designed to accommodate two families.

A portrait of Edna Boettcher hangs in the library in the Governor's Residence at the Boettcher Mansion in Denver, pictured on May 16, 2022. Claude K. Boettcher purchased the mansion in 1923. Boettcher was the head of a financial empire that eventually included sugar, livestock, cement, steel, securities, utilities, and transportation. Boettcher was famous for his lavish parties which included President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1952. After the couple died in 1957 and 1958, the house was inherited by the Boettcher Foundation, which offered the house to the State of Colorado as an Executive Residence. On the last day of 1959, Colorado Gov. Stephen McNichols accepted the building as a gift to the state.

A portrait of Edna Boettcher with an inscription on the back is on display in the library in the Governor's Residence at the Boettcher Mansion in Denver on May 16, 2022. The photograph of Boettcher was a personal gift to Mrs. Helen Vanderhoef in 1974. Vanderhoef gifted the photograph to the Colorado State Historical Society to be displayed at the Governor's Mansion in the library because she said "the house is such a lovely reflection of Mrs Boettcher's taste."

The Palm Room in the Governor's Residence at the Boettcher Mansion in Denver is pictured on May 16, 2022.

A wall of photos of Colorado governors is on display in the bar in the Governor's Residence at the Boettcher Mansion in Denver on May 16, 2022.

The library in the Governor's Residence at the Boettcher Mansion in Denver is pictured on May 16, 2022.

A piano has an autograph by well-known pianist Liberace inscribed inside it in the drawing room in the Governor's Residence at the Boettcher Mansion in Denver is pictured on May 16, 2022.

The drawing room in the Governor's Residence at the Boettcher Mansion in Denver is pictured on May 16, 2022.

The main foyer and large staircase at the Governor's Residence at the Boettcher Mansion in Denver is pictured on May 16, 2022.

The Palm Room in the Governor's Residence at the Boettcher Mansion in Denver features a fountain shipped from Italy, pictured on May 16, 2022.

4. Colorado Governor’s Residence

Before it was dubbed “Colorado’s Home,” the Colorado Governor’s Residence at 400 E. Eighth Avenue was built for businessman Walter Cheesman for $50,000 in 1908. However, he died before construction was finished, with Colorado native Claude Boettcher buying it in 1923 for $75,000.

The Boettcher Mansion, which spans 25,000 square feet, includes 27 rooms, three floors and a ballroom in the basement. Notably, “this house was always owned by women,” said History Colorado docent Shellie Hochstadt, listing the owners as Alice Foster Sanger Cheesman and Edna Boettcher.

The Boettcher Foundation offered the house to the state of Colorado in 1959, which agreed to the deal in 1960.

Former Gov. Stephen McNichols was the state’s first chief executive officer to reside in the house. Every governor has spent some of his term at the mansion, with some living there full-time like the Lamms or part-time like the Hickenloopers, said Hochstadt.

Gov. Jared Polis lives primarily in Boulder with his family, but uses the house for news conferences, weekly cabinet meetings, roundtables and other events.

In 1997, the inter-governmental political forum known as the Group of Eight, or “G8,” was hosted at the mansion. Foreign dignitaries, including the Jordanian king and Japanese emperor and empress, have also dined there.

The Colorado Governor’s Residence plans to open for public tours this summer. After a COVID hiatus, the return of school and December holiday tours are also in the works.

Do you have an idea for a historic building for The Denver Post to profile? Email reporter Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton at [email protected] .

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Top Historic Home Tours In Denver

August 18, 2014 / 6:00 AM MDT / CBS Colorado

As historic as Denver is, the homes and buildings found throughout the city tell the tales of its former residents with far more accuracy than any book or website. There are many different historic sites found throughout the city that offer tours of these historic homes, providing wonderful opportunities to get a look into the past at the lives of the people that helped to shape the city of Denver. Most of these tours are offered for a nominal fee, some are free, but all are worth your time. Bring the kids and spark a discussion about what life was like for the people that called these houses home.

Byers-Evans House Museum 1310 Bannock St. Denver, CO 80204 (303) 620-4933 www.historycolorado.org

You've probably driven past this historic home many times without realizing the history or beauty contained within those unassuming walls. Built in 1883, the house was home to two of the most prominent families in Denver history. William N. Byers was the original owner of the home and the printer of the first newspaper in Denver - The Rocky Mountain News . The home was purchased in 1889 by William G. Evans, the son of former governor John Evans. Guided tours are offered Monday through Saturday, where you can get a look into the beautiful home, fully restored to the period from 1912 through 1924 including a variety of the original Evans family furnishings.

Molly Brown House Museum 1340 Pennsylvania St. Denver, CO 80203 (303) 832-4092 www.mollybrown.org

The Molly Brown House Museum is one of the most popular historic sites in the state and has been for more than 40 years. This was the actual home of Margaret "Molly" Brown when she lived in Denver and worked on a variety of social and political philanthropy and activism. Of course, she was also one of the most well-known survivors of the Titanic, and the museum often offers tours and other special programs with information about the famous ship. You can tour the beautifully restored home, as guided tours are offered every 30 minutes; reservations are required for groups of 10 or more. Be sure to check the website for many other events at this wonderful museum.

Related: Top Historical Sites In Denver

The Governor's Residence at the Boettcher Mansion 400 E. 8 th Ave. Denver, CO 80203 (303) 866-3861 www.colorado.gov

Built in 1908, this stunning mansion has been the home of every Colorado governor since 1960. Known as "Colorado's Home," this beautiful residence, which was originally a private home, has become the symbol of elegance and art in Colorado. Today, the home still hosts a variety of events, boasts a beautiful collection of furnishings and art and is open free of charge for scheduled tours. It is always wonderful to visit this home during the holidays, when it's decorated and filled with lots of holiday charm. However, you can visit any time of the year for a free tour by the Colorado Historical Society. Reservations are only needed for groups of 10 or more.

Four Mile Historic Park 715 S. Forest St. Denver, CO 80246 (720) 856-0800 www.fourmilepark.org

The home at Four Mile Historic Park was built in 1859 and is one of the oldest historic homes in Colorado. Originally, this home served as a resting place for travelers as they headed west to Denver along the Cherokee Trail in the mid 1800s. The home transferred ownership several times over the years before being purchased by the City of Denver in 1975, when the house and the surrounding park became an official Denver park. Today, these 12 acres and the house are an icon of old west charm and a living history museum filled with lots of educational activities and events for the whole family.

Related: Top Bars With History In Denver

Historic Fort Logan 3742 W. Princeton Circle Denver, CO 80236 (303) 789-3568 www.friendsofhistoricfortlogan.org

As the settlers moved west across the country, many military forts were scattered along the various trails. These forts offered law and order on the frontier, providing home and safety to the many weary travelers and military troops. As the railroads grew in popularity, the forts moved closer to the cities, and in 1889, Ft. Logan was built. Named for John Alexander Logan, a General in the Union Army during the Civil War, Ft. Logan was actually a collection of buildings with officers' quarters, commissary, guardhouse and bachelor officers' quarters, among many others. Today, the Field Officer's Quarters is the home of the Historic Fort Logan home, which has been restored to its original 1889 appearance. You can schedule a tour through the website or take the free public tour offered the third Saturday of every month.

Deborah Flomberg is a theater professional, freelance writer and Denver native. Her work can be found at Examiner.com .

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Tour Details and Tickets

Find your tour by clicking on the icons.

If you don’t see the tour you want on the day you want it, call us at 720-365-9464. We often can rearrange our schedule to fit your needs. Custom, Private, and Group Tours are also available.

Cap Hill Ghost/History

Capitol hill ghost and history tour.

The Capitol Hill Neighborhood has been voted one of the top 10 most beautiful neighborhoods in the country. Walk along the shady tree-lined sidewalks of the Capitol Hill neighborhood, enjoy the fresh air, and learn about Denver’s colorful, and often scandalous past. This area has been documented as the most haunted neighborhood in the city of Denver.  The tour offers an expansive range of information, including: the history of the neighborhood, scandals from the past, and haunted dwellings. Fun facts about Denver, and some of its famous residents are also included in this tour. Note: This tour sells out quickly during the Halloween Season, so book early.

This is a round trip tour. This Tour meets IN FRONT of the Archer Apartments, at 901 Sherman St, Denver, Co. 80203.

Approximately 1.7 miles, Walking Tour, Duration 2  Hours. Cost: $26.00. Language: English

• Crawford Hill Mansion
• Poets Row: Historic Sherman District
• Colorado State Capitol
• Haunted Sheedy Mansion
• Haunted Peabody Whitehead Mansion
• Eclectic and Diverse 13 th Street
• Creswell Mansion
• Haunted Molly Brown House
• Haunted Dunning Benedict Mansion
• Haunted Keating Mansion
• Haunted Dodge Gregory House
• Haunted Crooke Patterson Mansion
• Sherman Towers Penthouse : 15 Stories Above the City of Denver , Spectacular Views of the city and the Rocky Mountains, including Pikes Peak and Longs Peak.
• There will be a short break in the middle of the tour, at one of Capitol Hill’s trendy coffee shops.

Note: Due to the nature of the the tour business, all tickets are non-refundable.

Capitol Hill History & Ghost Tour

Tour Starts and Ends Here: In Front of the Archer Tower Apartments

Best of Denver Tour

This is a cultural immersion experience. We lovingly, call this “The tour that has everything”.

Downtown Denver is a visual feast for the eyes. The tour has an “Off the beaten path” vibe, while including the significant landmarks of Denver. We will sample some of the local food in Denver (These stops my vary). Enjoy the excitement and energy of the 16th Street Mall , with its boutique shops and trendy restaurants. Bohemian artist and street musicians line the corridor of the 16th Street Mall, while historic landmarks and points of interests beckon the past. The Denver Art Museum , the Colorado State Capitol , Civic Center Park , the Byers Evans Historic Home , and the infamous Brown Palace Hotel are just a few of the landmarks you will see.

Fun facts, famous residents, scandals from the past, haunted hotels, are among the stories that you will see on this tour.

This is not a round trip tour. It is designed to allow the opportunity to stay downtown, and enjoy some of the bests shops and restaurants in the city of Denver. Our guides will give you simple instructions on how to get back to the start of the tour.

This Tour meets at the Alma Temple, located at 1340 Sherman St (1/2 block from the State Capital) The tour ends at the 16thst Mall.

Approximately 1.7 miles,walking tour, Duration: 2 to 2.5 Hours. Cost: $26.00 Language: English

• The Alma Temple
• Colorado Supreme Courthouse
• Civic Center Park
• Liberty Bell (Replica)
• The Big Red Chair (with horse, art)
• Denver Art Museum
• The Big Sweep
• The Cell Museum
• Scottish Angus Cow and Calf (Art)
• Leven Deli: We will stop for a snack or a beverage. Their cookies are amazing (ranked as one of the best delis in Denver).
• The Kirkland Museum of Decorative Arts.
• Byers Evans Mansion
• Pints Pub (We do not go in to this location)
• City and County Building
• United States Mint
• Fire Station #1 (We will go inside. It is a great place to pick up a souvenir)
• Curry-Chucovich House
• Brown Palace Hotel
• The Navarre, former brothel
• Trinity Methodist Church
• 16 th Street Mall
• The Paramount Theater
• The Denver Pavilions

Note: Due to the nature of the tour business, all tickets are non-refundable. All food and beverages that are purchased are at the expense of the guests. This includes souvenirs. 

The Most Energetic and Historically Significant Neighborhood in Denver

Tour Starts Here: Alma Temple (1340 Sherman St)

Wild History Tour

Denver’s Wild History Tour & The Ballpark Museum

The city of Denver started with an influx of gold miners to the area. The city soon gathered a reputation for having some of the finest brothels in the United States. This area became the center for scandal, and now the ghosts of this area remind us of its rowdy past. Themes Include: History, Haunts, Scandals, Trendy Hotspots and Restaurants, and Free Entrance to the Ballpark Museum.  

LoDo , as it is referred to by locals, is Denver’s Lower Downtown District . Known as the oldest part of the city, Its history combined and scandalous past await you. Union Station is the cornerstone of this area. Find yourself in marvel of the historical architecture, while you discover fashionable shops, restaurants, and clubs. Hipsters and Baby Boomers alike will appreciate the diverse energy of this area. We end this tour at the Diary Block.

Fun Facts of Denver and famous residents are among the stories that you will hear. Note: This tour sells out quickly during the Halloween Season, so book early.

This tour meets at 1664 Market Street, Denver Co. 80202, in front of  Waxing the City. The tour ends not far from the starting location, at the corner of 19th and Blake, at the Ballpark Museum. It is designed to allow you enjoy the some of the best shops and restaurants in the city of Denver. Our tour guides will give you easy instructions on how to get back to where you started.

Approximately 1.5 miles, Walking Tour. Duration:  1.5 Hours. Cost: $24 Language: English

• The tour starts at the remains of one of Denver’s underground tunnels.
• Larimer Square, The Birthplace of Denver – Shops, Restaurants, and Coffee Shops
• Haunted Blake Street Vault
• Daniels and Fisher Clock Tower
• McGregor Square
• Union Station
• Haunted Oxford Hotel
• Historic Rockmount Ranch Wear – Favorite of Hollywood Celebrities and Movie Makers
• The Dairy Block (purchases made at the Dairy Block are not included in the price of your ticket).
• Coors Field
• Hop Alley – Formerly Denver’s Chinatown
• Former Red Light District
• The Ballpark Museum (Free Entrance with Tour, Optional)

Tour Starts in front of Waxing the City, at 1664 Market St, Denver, Co 80202

Twilight Ghost Tour

Several times per week we offer a ghoulish evening ghost tour. This tour is sure to convince the most skeptical of ghost critics. See some of the most haunted dwellings in the city of Denver. Hear chilling stories of betrayal, scandal, and murder. Many have reported paranormal activity during this tour. Note: This tour sells out quickly during the Halloween Season, so book early.

“I took a picture and there were several orbs in the picture”. “The charge on my phone mysteriously went down, while I was in front of that house, then magical came back up, when I left”.

This tour begins at varying times, check the calendar for the time that best fits the needs of you and your group. Meeting place:  in front of Archer Tower Apartments, located at 901 Sherman St., Denver, Co. Duration 1.5 to 2 hours. 1.8 miles Walking Tour.  This tour is best suited for ages 9 and up. Cost: $25.00.

Language: English

• Haunted Dodge House
• Haunted Creswell Mansion

Due to the nature of the the tour business, all tickets are non-refundable.

Featured on the Travel Channel's Ghost Adventures, the Peabody Whitehead Mansion is just one of the Stops on this Tour

Holiday Lights Tour

Holiday Light’s & History Tour

This walking tour is an historic journey into Denver’s past, while enjoying the wonderment of Holiday Lights, along the tour route. Denver is known as the “Christmas City”, and after taking this tour, you will understand why. From the remarkable lights of the City and County Building to the Brown Palace Hotel, you will enjoy every stop. This tour is great for holiday parties and family holiday outings. The tour starts, in front of the Denver Art Museum, and ends at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, on the 16th Street Mall.

After the tour, you can take a short ride, on the free, 16th Street Mall Shuttle, and take enjoy the festivities of Denver’s Christkindl Market. This German market has fantastic food, shopping, live music, and a beer tent (located at 1515 Arapahoe, off the 16th Street Mall). Note: this is a suggested activity, the tour does not take you to the market.

• Historic Byer-Evans Mansion
• City and County Building (The centerpiece of holiday lights, in Denver)
• Colorado State Capitol (We talk about it from across the street).
• Denver Mint (We talk about it from across the street).
• Historic Curry-Chocovich House
• The Navaree
• 16th Street Mall
• Paramount Theatre
• Denver Pavillions
• Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
• Optional activity (not included in the tour) take a short ride on the free 16th Street Mall Shuttle,  and head to the Christkindl Market. This is a great place to shop, eat, and grab a beer).

$22 per/person

Due to the nature of the tour business, tickets are non-refundable.

Best of Denver: Holiday Lights Tour

Meeting Location: Giant Broom and Dustpan

Best of Denver & History & Ghost Tour

This tour has everything! This walking tour combines two of our most popular tours; the Best of Denver Tour and The Capitol Hill History & Ghost Tour. With this package, you will get the best of both worlds. Within this combo tour, you will get to see and hear about the historic “Wild west” history of  Denver, while visiting most of the popular landmarks. After a small break, you will venture into the historic and haunted neighborhood of Capitol Hill. Because of the merger of these two epic tours, you will also get to see one of t he most beautiful neighborhoods in the United States (Thrillist, 2015). Stroll through Victorian , tree lined streets, and experience the MOST HAUNTED neighborhood in Denver. 

Cost: $39 Duration 3 hours. This walking tour is a 2.5 mile walk, with a break in the middle. We stop for a snacks, beverages, and restrooms (the price of snacks and beverages are not included in the cost) . Starting location: In front of the Denver Firefighters Museum, located at 1326 Tremont Pl, Denver, CO 80204 . This tour ends at the 16th Street Mall, at the Denver Pavilions. This is an easy walk back to the starting location, less than 3 blocks away. We do not go into the houses or museums, for they all charge a separate fee.

Stops include:

• Denver Firefighters Museum (we don’t go into the museum)
• The Denver Mint
• The City and County Building
• The Byers Evans House
• The Denver Art Museum
• Scottish Angus Cow and Calf
• Levan Deli (Stop for snacks and restrooms)
• The Church Night Club (walk by)
• Colorado History Museum (walk by)
• Montgomery Court Apartments
• The Sheedy Mansion
• The Peabody Whitehead Mansion
• The Crooke Patterson Mansion
• The Dodge Gregory Mansion
• The Keating Mansion
• The Dunning Benedict Mansion
• Sub Culture (possible stop, for snacks and restrooms, if needed)
• The Molly Brown House
• The First Baptist Church of Denver
• The Colorado State Capitol
• The Brown Palace Hotel
• The 16th Street Mall

Note: Due to the nature of the tour business, all tickets are non refundable.

Starting Location: 1326 Tremont Pl, Denver, CO 80204

 Combo Tour Packages are available – Call to Book

Private Tours are Available

Discounted Group Rates are Available

Interested in these Tours?

For combo tours, private tours, or group tours, please call 720-365-9464.

Book today, availability may be limited.

The Best Possible Experience

At Best Tours of Denver, we limit the number of guest in each of our tours, in order to ensure that each guest has the best possible experience!

Best Tours of Denver: Fun, Energetic, Exciting!

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Zang Mansion Tour

March 13 @ 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm.

Adolph Zang is most often associated with Zang Brewery, which has its own fascinating history as one of Denver’s most prominent businesses. His impressive family home located at 7th and Clarkson Streets was financed by his brewery and his mining interests. Designed by Frank Eberley in 1902, the residence remained in the Zang family for over 50 years. Today it serves as beautiful executive office space after painstaking efforts were made by its current owner to preserve the luxury of the mansion and the history of the family and its legacy. Learn more about the Zang family during this 90-minute tour of their exquisite three-story mansion. Because of the historic nature of the home, the tour will require guests to ascend and descend narrow staircases and deal with low ceilings.

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• Vance Kirkland Insider Tour & Lecture
• Museum Insider Tour: Organizing Women

The Twilight Ghost Tour... A Scary Good Time

Ranked among the Top 10 Tours in the city of Denver, U.S. News (2021-22)

Twilight G host Tour

“The best ghost tour I’ve Ever been on”-TripAdvisor-November, 2022

NOTE: For the comfort of our guests, we are limiting the amount of people on each of our tours to 20; because of this, tours tend to sell out early.

This tour is sure to convince even the most skeptical of  Ghost  critics. This area was once known as millionaires row. Turn of the century mansions conjure up remnants from the past, in the form of  ghostly apparitions . Not only will you be in Denver’s most beautiful and historic neighborhood, you will also learn about the history of the area, and the inhabitants who once lived in the haunted mansions. Although we do not go into the houses, you may still have an opportunity to experience paranormal encounters. There is no way to guarantee paranormal activity; however, on most of our tours, guests have captured anomalies, such as orbs, shadow people, and even full form apparitions. Bring your cameras!

Walking Tour, Duration: 1.7 Miles and 2 hours long. Haunted, Historic Mansions Combined with Frequent Paranormal Encounters are the features of this tour.

$26 per/ person-Includes a free restaurant guide. Meeting Location: the corner of 9th and Sherman, in front of the lighted “Archer Tower” sign. The tour ends at the same location (901 N. Sherman Street, Denver, Co.

Click for Details

Note: Due to the nature of the the tour business, all tickets are non-refundable.

The Peabody-Whitehead Mansion, as featured on The Travel Channel's Ghost Adventure

More Tour Options

Best of denver tour.

Best of Denver Tour:

Themes Include: History, Scandals, Ghosts, Off The Beaten Path Vibe, Cultural Immersive Experience.

Capitol Hill History & Ghost Tour

The Capitol Hill History & Ghost Tour

Themes Include: History, Haunts, Scandals, Beautiful Victorian Architecture

This walking tour takes you through the most beautiful and haunted part of Denver. The historic neighborhood features Victorian mansions, dating back to the origins of Denver’s millionaire row. Many of the former residents have never left these mansions, and the energy you might experience, can be quite chilling. Cost: $26 per person. Duration: 2 hours (Approx.).

Combo Tour: Best of Denver Tour / Capitol Hill History & Ghost Tour

Combo: Best of Denver Tour/Capitol Hill History & Ghost

Themes Include: History, Haunts, Scandals, Victorian Architecture, Total Denver Package Experience

Bundle and Save: This combination tour gives you the opportunity to visit several two distinctly different neighborhoods, and getting the best of both worlds. You will have a great historic journey, while getting to experience the ghosts of Denver’s Capitol Hill Neighborhood. This tour is a blast! Cost: $39 per person, Duration: 3 hours.

Denver's Wild History Tour

Denver’s Wild History Tour & Ballpark Museum

Themes: History, Haunts, Scandals, Free Admission to the National Ballpark Museum (Optional)

This walking tour takes you to the area where Denver first started. This tour is unique, because we go into several places, so that you may get the best possible experience. There is so much to see on this tour, and because of the location, we are able to show the best of the best of what Denver has to offer, in a condensed time period. Cost: $24 per person. Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes (Approx.).

Holiday Lights & History Tour

Holiday Lights and History Tour

Themes Include: History, Holiday Lights, German Market

This walking tour is only available during the holiday season, and allows you to hear and see some of the main highlights of Denver’s history, with the best of downtown Denver’s holiday lights, act as a backdrop. This is great for groups of friends, and family members. Cost: $22 per person, Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes.

Gift Cards-The Perfect Gift

NOTE: Gift Cards are Nonrefundable. 

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Peadbody whitehead mansion.

Home » Ghost Tour Locations » Denver Ghost Tour » Peadbody Whitehead Mansion

Considered the most haunted house in Colorado, the Peabody Whitehead Mansion has a sinister history. Find out more on our tour of haunted Denver!

The former home of Colorado governor James Hamilton Peabody, this mansion is veiled with history and intrigue. First built in 1881, the two-story, red-brick Victorian home has been the subject of numerous ghost stories over the years, but why? 

That’s what we seek to answer through our ghost tours. Join US Ghost Adventures and discover a side of the Mile High City that few know, including its residents. Our ghost tours show the haunted side of history for a chilling look into the past. 

Haunted by His Past

The Peabody-Whitehead Mansion, sometimes referred to as the most haunted house in Colorado, has a sinister past that fuels its rumors. Most of these concern the original owner, Dr. William Whitehead. 

Whitehead, a wartime surgeon from New York, had seen his fair share of horrifying sights before even setting foot in Denver. Unfortunately for him, these dark experiences were far from over. 

Many of Dr. Whitehead’s patients were from the Crimean war, meaning that the vast majority would lose their lives under his care. Many of those same patients followed him to Denver long after their passing, which explains some of his subsequent experiences. 

Dr. Whitehead was haunted by his own perceived failings, often witnessing the apparitions of soldiers wandering the halls of his new home.

Beyond these apparitions, reports of books flying across the room, pictures leaping from the walls, and spine-chilling disturbances through the night emerged from the home. 

Are you skeptical at the notion of the spirits of deceased soldiers having followed Whitehead to his new home? You may be surprised by what happened next.

Hauntings No More, Or Biding Their Time?

Following the death of Whitehead in 1902, reports of strange happenings fell off entirely. No longer was the house plagued by bizarre activity, and no other visitors ever saw the apparitions of soldiers after that. 

Could it be that Whitehead’s passing had finally put the soldiers to rest? Or was it all simply the painful delusion of a wartime doctor struggling to deal with the horrors he had witnessed?

The answer to this may lie with the residents who later inhabited the home. Most notably, the period where the mansion was a bar and restaurant. 

Bar staff even reported the spontaneous smashing of glasses while they remained atop the bar and lights flickering from disconnected electrics. Books also flew from the shelves, hurled by an unseen hand.

Sound familiar at all? Perhaps Dr. Whitehead wasn’t simply disturbed but genuinely haunted by his past. 

Haunted Denver, CO

From bizarre, unexplained happenings to a history of hauntings, the Peabody Whitehead Mansion is a must-see for anyone in Colorado. Join US Ghost Adventures on a tour of haunted Denver and dive into the deep history lurking beneath the glossy surface of this former Gold Rush city. Our ghost tours explore what lies beyond all that is initially apparent. 

About US Ghost Adventures 

Since 2013, US Ghost Adventures has offered entertaining, historic, and authentic ghost tours of America’s most haunted cities. We deliver fun yet honest accounts of hauntings across the nation for curious people of all ages. Our ghost stories are based on historical research, but that doesn’t mean they won’t send a chill down your spine.

This video gives you a small taste of what you might experience on your ghost tour — subscribe to our YouTube Channel for more.

US Ghost Adventures also offers virtual tours, a self-guided mobile app, and an Alexa voice app.

Also See Other Haunted Locations

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Historic Zang Mansion Tour

March 9, march 30, april 13, & april 27 2022.

Join DAF for a tour of the fan favorite historic Zang Mansion with guides Gina Seamans, Senior Docent , Zang Mansion  and  Brigid O’Connor, Docent, Zang Mansion . This tour has a limited eight person capacity , but will be offered FOUR TIMES – Wednesday, March 9th, 5:30pm, Wednesday, March 30th, 5:30pm, Wednesday, April 13th, 5:30pm  and Wednesday, April 27th, 5:30pm .

About the tour: Tour-goers will learn about the architecture of the Zang Mansion, as well as take in the stunning interiors that convey the elegance of the early 20th century. Interior features include five fireplaces, hand-carved filigree light fixtures, hand-painted ceilings, sandwich doors, brass adornments and one of Denver’s first burglar alarm and intercom systems.

About the mansion: The 38-room Neoclassical Revival mansion, designed by Denver architect Frederick Carl Eberley, was constructed 1902-1904. Adolph J. Zang, son of Bavarian immigrant Philip Zang, and his wife Minnie raised their family in the home and lived there for 50 years. Zang was the Owner and President of the Zang Brewing Company and was involved with many successful business ventures, becoming one of Denver’s ten millionaires in the late 1800s. Zang Mansion is a Denver Landmark, a Colorado Landmark, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and currently serves as a professional office.

About the tour guides : Since 2017,  Gina Seamans , a third-generation Colorado native, has assisted the current owner with locating, purchasing, restoring and placing historical artifacts and memorabilia throughout the mansion. She has spent countless hours interviewing Zang family members and reviewing historical documents with the goal of preserving the mansion’s rich history.

Brigid O’Connor  has lived in Colorado since 1981. She is a devotee of historical fiction, Masterpiece Theater period dramas and all things old and beautiful.

Please note: All attendees (including tour guide and DAF staff) will be required to sign a waiver of liability and answer a COVID-19 questionnaire prior to the in-person tour. All participants must wear a mask on this tour. Click here for more information on DAF’s COIVD-19 precautions.

Historic Zang Mansion

709 north clarkson street denver co.

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Former Broncos QB Brian Griese Lists His Denver Mansion for $7.4M

Former NFL quarterback Brian Griese is selling his magnificent mansion in Denver  for $7.4 million.

The impressive abode features six bedrooms, 6.5 baths, and over 8,200 square feet of living space. It sits on a half-acre lot that is a part of the exclusive Polo Club.

The Tudor-style home features a soft color palette, large windows, and high ceilings. Elegant and welcoming, it was built in 2004 and had some recent upgrades.

(Realtor.com)

A double-height entry flows nicely to a formal living room and separate dining space. The lovely library is paneled in walnut, and the kitchen was custom-designed by Thurston Kitchen + Bath. It has a spacious island, butler’s pass-through, wine storage, and breakfast nook.

The primary suite has a private balcony, walk-in closet, and spa bathroom. The lower level is kitted out with a screening room with oak paneling, a workout space, another bedroom and bath, extra storage, a bonus room, and a den.

Outside, the patio is new, and there’s a grill station and dining area. The landscaping features lush lawns and stately evergreens. A three-car garage completes the package.

Griese starred in college at the University of Michigan and is the son of legendary Miami Dolphins quarterback Bob Griese . His pro career began with his selection by the Denver Broncos in the third round of the 1998 NFL draft.

Griese went on to quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Chicago Bears , among others, starting in 83 games and tossing 119 touchdowns. Today, the former signal caller serves as the quarterback coach for the San Francisco 49ers .

Randy White contributed to this report.

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