What Not to Do in a Denver Highlights Tour
A Denver Highlights Tour is the perfect way to explore the Mile High City’s most iconic spots, from historic landmarks to stunning natural wonders. Whether you’re visiting the Denver Art Museum, Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater, or the State Capitol Building, these tours offer a well-planned experience that ensures you make the most of your time.
Denver is known for its hiking trails, thriving arts scene, and legendary craft beer culture—including the famous beer tours in Denver, which highlight the city’s rich brewing history. But while the city is full of exciting experiences, there are a few things you should avoid doing during your tour to ensure a smooth and enjoyable time.
Here’s what not to do when exploring Denver on a guided highlights tour.
DON’T Ignore the Guide’s Instructions
Tour guides are there to enhance your experience, providing essential information about the history, culture, and hidden gems of Denver. They also ensure your safety while navigating different attractions. Whether they’re advising you about museum etiquette or warning you about altitude sickness at higher elevations, pay attention to their guidance.
For example, if you’re visiting Red Rocks Park & Amphitheater, your guide may advise you to bring water and pace yourself while exploring. The higher elevation can make physical activity feel more strenuous. Ignoring this advice could leave you lightheaded or exhausted, cutting your experience short.
DON’T Talk Over the Guide
You might be eager to share your own knowledge or ask questions, but talking over the guide can disrupt the tour for everyone. Guides follow a planned schedule, ensuring they cover all key points while allowing time for questions.
Instead of interrupting, wait for the appropriate moment to engage. Most tours include designated stops where guides are happy to chat and answer questions. This keeps the tour running smoothly and ensures that everyone gets the full experience.
DON’T Be Disrespectful of Local Culture and Landmarks
Denver is rich in history, Indigenous heritage, and natural beauty, and it’s important to treat its landmarks with respect. Some key reminders:
- No climbing or defacing rock formations at places like Red Rocks Park or Garden of the Gods—these are protected natural sites.
- Follow photography rules in museums—some areas may prohibit flash photography.
- Respect Indigenous history—many sites in and around Denver hold cultural significance. Being mindful of this adds depth to your experience.
Remember, Denver locals take great pride in their city, and showing respect helps ensure that these beautiful places remain accessible for future visitors.
DON’T Be Late
Tours are carefully scheduled to cover multiple attractions in a limited time. Being late means you could miss out on key stops or delay the entire group. Some locations may have timed entries, so if you’re not on schedule, you might lose your chance to explore certain landmarks.
To avoid delays:
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early to check in.
- Keep an eye on the group if the tour involves multiple stops.
- Set a phone alarm if you’re given free time to explore an area before reconvening.
A little punctuality goes a long way in making the tour enjoyable for everyone!
Final Thoughts
A Denver Highlights Tour is one of the best ways to experience the city’s charm, history, and natural beauty. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure a smoother, more enjoyable adventure—one where you truly get to appreciate what Denver has to offer.
So, listen to your guide, respect the local culture, stay on schedule, and embrace the experiences that make Denver unforgettable. Happy exploring!
