Denver Weekend Guide
Your complete guide to exploring the RiNo Art District from the Catbird Hotel
Welcome to the Catbird Hotel & The RiNo Art District
You've chosen an excellent base for your Denver adventure. The Catbird Hotel is a boutique hotel located in the heart of the River North Art District (RiNo), one of Denver's most vibrant and walkable neighborhoods. Known for its industrial-chic design, rooftop pool with incredible mountain views, and a lively social scene, the Catbird puts you right in the middle of the city's best food, art, and nightlife.
Hotel Details
Address: 3770 Walnut St, Denver, CO 80205
Phone: (303) 955-5200
The neighborhood is famously covered in massive, breathtaking murals from artists around the world. As you walk, make sure to look up and down every alley—you'll be constantly surprised.
Key Amenities
- Rooftop pool & bar with mountain views
- Fitness center
- Free bike rentals
- Pet-friendly policy
- On-site restaurant (The Taxi Driver)
- World-class cocktail bar (Death & Co)
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- 24-hour front desk
A Toast to History: The Story of RiNo & The Catbird Hotel
The Industrial Past
The land you're standing on was once a major transportation and industrial hub. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this area was crisscrossed with rail lines serving stockyards, foundries, and factories. The large, brick buildings that now house art galleries and breweries were originally built for industry. The "Taxi" name, used for the hotel's restaurant and the surrounding area, comes from the Denver Taxi Company, which operated a massive cab and parcel service on this exact site.
The Rise of RiNo
As industry declined, the area fell into disrepair. But in the 2000s, artists and entrepreneurs were drawn to the vast, affordable spaces. They established studios, galleries, and the first pioneer breweries. In 2005, the River North Art District (RiNo) was officially formed to promote and preserve the creative spirit of the neighborhood. The iconic murals you see today are a direct result of this community-driven effort to turn the area into an open-air art gallery.
The Catbird Hotel
The hotel itself is a symbol of RiNo's transformation. It was developed as a central piece of the "Taxi" redevelopment, a project that aimed to create a modern, mixed-use community while honoring the site's historical roots. The hotel's sleek, modular design sitting alongside renovated historic warehouses perfectly encapsulates RiNo's ethos: a respectful blend of the old and the new.
A Special Note for Will Shultz's Wedding Weekend
Congratulations to Will Shultz! A wedding weekend in RiNo is a fantastic choice. This guide is already packed with great options for celebrating. Here are a few extra ideas to make it memorable:
- A Pre-Wedding Toast: Reserve a private fire pit or a section of the rooftop at The Red Barber for the wedding party to watch the sunset over the mountains.
- A Memorable Rehearsal Dinner: Super Mega Bien's lively, dim-sum style dining is perfect for a fun and interactive group dinner.
- Groom's Day Out: For a casual pre-wedding activity, a brewery crawl along Walnut Street is ideal. Start at Ratio Beerworks, then head to Our Mutual Friend, and finish at Cerebral Brewing.
- Celebratory Cigars: A short rideshare away is The Diamond Crown Cigar Bar in Larimer Square, a sophisticated spot for a celebratory smoke.
- Group Brunch: Safta offers a beautiful space and incredible food for a post-wedding brunch celebration.
Your Weekend Walking Map & Guide
This guide is designed to be walkable from the Catbird Hotel. The neighborhood is extremely pedestrian-friendly, with most attractions within a 10-15 minute walk.
Interactive map showing key locations around the Catbird Hotel. While this is a simplified representation, you can find detailed maps at the RiNo Art District website.
Key areas to explore:
- Walnut Street: Directly outside the hotel, lined with breweries and restaurants
- Larimer Street: The main artery of RiNo, packed with galleries, shops, and dining
- The Source Hotel Complex: A transformed 1880s ironworks factory with dining and shopping
- Denver Central Market: A food hall with diverse culinary options
- Zeppelin Station: A food hall and retail space with international flavors
Food & Drink: A Culinary Tour
You are spoiled for choice. RiNo is Denver's foodie epicenter.
Breakfast & Brunch
A local favorite for delicious, elevated breakfast classics. Their congee and breakfast tacos are legendary.
Must-Try: Breakfast Burrito, Coconut Bacon
View MenuGrab a perfect pour-over coffee and pastry from Vero Coffee or a full breakfast from Silvi's Kitchen.
View VendorsLunch
The best spot for groups with varying tastes. Try Culture Meat & Cheese for sandwiches or Tammen's for seafood.
View VendorsArguably one of Denver's best restaurants. A light, bright, and modern Israeli restaurant.
Must-Try: Lamb Ribs, Hummus with Lamb Ragu
View MenuDinner
An intimate dining experience with a multi-course chef's tasting menu. Reservations essential.
Reservations & MenuVibrant restaurant with servers bringing around small plates on rolling carts.
View MenuDrinks & Nightlife
A renowned cocktail bar with meticulously crafted drinks and a sophisticated atmosphere.
View MenuThe hotel's rooftop bar with stunning views of the downtown skyline and mountains.
A flagship RiNo brewery known for its great beer and even better patio.
Shopping & Essentials
Unique Gifts & Apparel
Beautifully curated boutique for kimonos, unique jewelry, home goods, and apothecary items.
A minimalist's dream, offering clothing, ceramics, and leather goods focused on quality and timeless design.
A well-stocked market for any essentials you might need during your stay.
Apothecary & Beauty
A shop dedicated to natural, vegan, and cruelty-free skincare products.
While primarily a dispensary, they also have a great selection of cannabis-infused topicals and wellness products.
Dispensaries (Recreational)
Remember: You must be 21+ with a valid ID to enter and purchase. Public consumption is illegal in Denver.
Extremely convenient, with a wide selection. A great first stop.
Menu & DealsAnother excellent option with multiple locations in Denver. Friendly staff who can help beginners.
Menu & DealsA popular Colorado dispensary chain with a location conveniently close to the hotel.
Menu & DealsPublic Transit & Getting Around
You really don't need a car this weekend! Here's how to navigate:
Final Pro-Tips for Your Weekend
- Stay Hydrated & Mind the Altitude: Denver is a mile high. Drink more water than you think you need and go easy on the alcohol, especially on your first day.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You'll be walking on concrete and exploring alleys for art.
- Make Reservations: For popular dinner spots like Beckon, Safta, and Death & Co, reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
- Explore the Art: For a deeper dive, the RiNo Art District website has self-guided mural tour maps.
- Sun Protection: The Colorado sun is intense, even on cloudy days. Don't forget sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Layer Your Clothing: Denver weather can change quickly. Mornings can be cool, afternoons warm, and evenings chilly again.
- Check for Events: RiNo often has festivals, markets, and special events. Check local listings when you arrive.
Have an incredible weekend in Denver, and a huge congratulations to Will Shultz! The Catbird Hotel and the RiNo neighborhood are the perfect backdrop for a celebration.