11 Things to Do in RiNo Denver
The River North (RiNo) district, located just north of Downtown Denver, is the latest neighborhood to experience a boom in popularity. The arts district, which is part of the larger Five Points neighborhood, has undergone a major transformation in recent years. These days, RiNo is home to some of the best restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and experiences that Denver has to offer. Whether you're visiting from out of town or are a Denver metro local looking for something new, you might be overwhelmed by the offerings. But don't worry, we'll be your guide.
Below, we break down our favorite eateries, watering holes, shops, and experiences in RiNo. Don't be surprised if you're ready to move into the area after reading this — we can help with that, too.
Eateries
When hunger strikes, there's no better place to be in Denver than in RiNo. The district has an incredible selection of renowned restaurants that serve a variety of cuisines, from authentic Mexican to modern Japanese cuisine.
Uchi: This restaurant, which opened its first few locations in Texas, is now a Denver staple. Uchi isn't your typical Japanese restaurant. You won't find a California roll anywhere on the menu, but if you're looking for an interesting, borderline challenging culinary experience, this is the perfect place for a date or a special occasion. The menu is updated daily, but some of the hits can be found year-round, such as the decadent lobster miso and the wonderfully delicate hirame usuzukuri. The fried milk dessert is a crowd favorite, blending salty and sweet elements that result in a dreamlike bite. Additionally, Uchi has one of the finest sake selections in Denver, with premium, high-end sakes that cost upwards of $368 a bottle.
Work & Class/Super Mega Bien: Chef Dana Rodriguez is a powerhouse, having been nominated for six James Beard awards. These days, the chef and restauranteur has her hands in many pies, including the iconic Casa Bonita, where she is a culinary partner and executive chef. But her two restaurants in RiNo, Work & Class and Super Mega Bien, are iconic in their own right. Work & Class serves a mix of Latin and American flavors, with dishes like Cajun deep-fried trout and lamb pozole. Super Mega Bien, which is just across the street at the Ramble Hotel, serves Latin American-inspired cuisine like brisket asado rojo, leche de tigre ceviche, and arepas de queso.
Il Posto: Headed up by chef and owner Andrea Frizzi, Il Posto is the go-to restaurant for high-end Italian cuisine. While you won't find spaghetti and meatballs on the menu, you'll be treated to a selection of Italian dishes like pappardelle pasta, — served a pork ragu, black mushrooms, and grana padano — charcuterie, branzino, and an Italian-inspired steak tartare.
Watering Holes
There is no shortage of watering holes in RiNo, from large breweries to cozy cocktail bars. If you're looking for a fun night on the town or want to sneak in a bit of day drinking, these are the spots you'll want to visit.
Bierstadt Lagerhaus: There are many breweries in RiNo, though none of them are quite like Bierstadt. In a town obsessed with IPAs, Bierstadt chooses to walk a different route, focusing on German styles like the refreshing Slow Pour Pils or the malty Helles. While Bierstadt doesn't have great parking, it won't matter once you're inside. The first floor of the massive bar is perfect for large groups, with bench tables and plenty of games to pass the time. On the second floor, the vibe is much more relaxed and best for couples and smaller groups.
Death & Co: Located within the Ramble Hotel, Death & Co is an elegant cocktail bar worth dressing up for. This bar serves unique, signature cocktails that are grouped in moods like "light and playful," "elegant & timeless," and "boozy and honest." In addition to the cocktails, Death & Co also serves beer, wine, and small plates such as crudité and gnocchi. During the warm months, you can visit The Garden, an outdoor space with a laid-back vibe.
Metropolis Coffee: This one is a little bit of a cheat, but not everyone drinks alcohol. Whether you're looking to spend a quiet afternoon reading a book or having a relaxed conversation, the Metropolis Coffee location in RiNo is a great option. The space, aided by many large windows, is bathed in natural light, with seating areas that can accommodate couples and larger groups. The coffee here is excellent as well. When you're ready to eat or drink, you're only a few blocks away from many places listed here.
Shops
RiNo is mostly known for its selection of restaurants and bars, but it's also home to a few stores worth visiting if you're in the area.
Topo Designs: If you've been to an outdoor retail store in the past few years, you'll likely have seen this brand, which is known for its colorful, durable bags and stylish outdoor apparel. Compared to Topo Design's other stores, like the one inside the Cherry Creek Mall, the flagship RiNo location isn't very big, but it is packed with charm.
Paddywax Candle Bar: Who doesn't love a candle? Whether you're shopping for yourself or a loved one, Paddywax Candle Bar has a candle for everyone. In addition to candles, you can also find candle-making kits and accessories. But if you're a more hands-on type of person, the store also holds candle-making workshops, allowing you to create your own custom candle from a selection of different fragrances and candle vessels.
Experiences
Mission Ballroom: The Mission Ballroom is Denver's newest and swankiest music venue. The Mission Ballroom's smaller space offers a cozy, intimate concert experience different from an arena show. You'll have a good time, whether standing in the general admission area or chilling up in the bleacher-style seating. Going there for a show is also very convenient, with an underground parking garage that takes the guesswork out of parking. And if you fancy a beer before the show, you can stop at the Left Hand Brewery right next door.
Arkins Promenade: Named one of the 11 most beautiful elevated walkways through nature by Architectural Digest, the Arkins Promenade is the ideal way to experience RiNo. The zig-zag wooden path located at the Rino ArtPark travels alongside the South Platte River, offering scenic views of the city. It's a nice way to spend an afternoon, with plenty of opportunities to snap memorable pictures.
Forney Museum of Transportation: This museum offers the opportunity to experience the history of transportation through an exhibition of over 800 artifacts, including steam locomotives, fire trucks, vintage Indian Motorcycles, aircraft, and more. Those with kids, or those who are kids at heart, will have a great time exploring the one-of-a-kind collection.
Ready To Live in RiNo? Call Denver Apartment Finders
RiNo is the cultural heart of Denver, with dozens of restaurants, bars, and experiences that are unlike anything else in Denver. Whether you're visiting for the first time or a regular, RiNo's charm is inescapable. It's close enough to the city and plenty walkable, making it possible to ditch the car and walk or bike to a nearby eatery. For those used to the walkability of cities like New York, Chicago, or Philadelphia, RiNo is undoubtedly the best place to live. It's no wonder that RiNo is a premier destination for Denverites looking to relocate.
If you're interested in living in RiNo, Denver Apartment Finders is here to connect you with the right community.
To find the right community for you, call us at (720) 525-4834 to speak to one of our apartment-finding experts.