Larimer Square

The Basics

The site of the original 1858 pioneer camp that became Denver, Larimer Square keeps history alive with restored buildings, maps and photos, and educational displays. Explore on a guided sightseeing tour of the city, or discover hidden corners of the square during a trivia game / scavenger hunt. Volunteer docents also lead walking tours of the square.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Larimer Square was designated Denver’s first historic district in 1971.

• The square hosts the biweekly rotating Walkway Gallery showcasing local artists.

How to Get There

Adjacent to the Lower Denver (LoDo) district, Larimer Square is located on Larimer Street between 14th and 15th streets, about a half-mile (0.8-kilometer) walk from downtown. You can also drive to the area or get there on the light-rail—hop off at Theatre District–Convention Center or Union Station.

When to Get There

Most establishments in Larimer Square are open daily, and hours vary. The square holds events throughout the year, so check to see what’s on during your visit.

The History of Larimer Square

Named after General William Larimer—who founded “Denver City” in 1858—Larimer Street was the city’s first main street. Larimer Square prospered for several decades while the historic buildings the neighborhood is known for were constructed. Then at the end of the 19th century, the silver crash sent the state into a depression, and Larimer Street became Denver’s skid row. The district wasn’t resurrected into the bustling hub it is today until nearly a century later.

Ways to explore

Larimer Square keeps history alive with restored 19th-century buildings and historical markers that offer up information about its significant structures, including Denver’s Old City Hall. Learn about the district’s beginnings on a walking tour of Lower Downtown Denver (LoDo), also known for its Victorian architecture, or stop by during a guided craft beer crawl.

To cover even more city highlights, from Larimer Square to Civic Center Park, book a Denver e-bike tour. You can also visit the square on your own for a taste of Denver nightlife—just make reservations for popular restaurants and comedy shows in advance.

Accessibility

The sidewalks along Larimer Square are wheelchair accessible; call ahead for information about specific attractions.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, bottled water, sunscreen

What to wear

Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes to take advantage of Larimer Square’s walkability.

Not allowed

Rules vary for tours that visit Larimer Square, but most don’t allow smoking or non-service animals.

Amenities

Larimer Square has lots of dining options, and you’ll find public restrooms nearby at Skyline Park.

Address 

Larimer Square is on Larimer Street between 14th and 15th Streets, about a 10-minute walk or short bike ride from downtown. You can also drive there or use public transportation.

Driving

From Denver International Airport, take I-70 about 20 miles (32 kilometers) west to Park Avenue West, then turn onto Market Street and park in the paid garage for Larimer Square.

Public transportation

Denver’s Regional Transportation District (RTD) A Line train runs from the airport to Union Station, about a 15-minute walk from Larimer Square. If you’re coming from downtown, you can take the 16th Street FreeRide bus there.

Best times to visit

Larimer Square is particularly lively after sunset, when its string lights twinkle and its bars and restaurants fill up with people. If you’d prefer to shop, visit during the day.

Best days to visit

While many Larimer Square businesses are open daily, hours vary for individual shops and restaurants; check ahead if there’s a certain place you want to visit.

Best months to visit

Larimer Square is a year-round attraction, but Denver’s weather is particularly lovely for an outdoor stroll from April–May and September–October.

Special events

Check online for block parties and other scheduled events, and if you’re in town during the holidays, don’t miss Larimer Lights’ twinkling displays, carolers, and photo ops with Santa.