How to Plan a Denver Smoothie Tour

Denver, Colorado, is more than just a gateway to the Rockies—it’s a thriving hub of health-conscious culture, farm-to-blender innovation, and vibrant local entrepreneurship. In recent years, the city has earned a reputation as one of the top destinations in the U.S. for artisanal smoothies, cold-pressed juices, and plant-powered nutrition. A Denver Smoothie Tour isn’t just a casual outing; it’s a curated experience that blends culinary exploration, sustainable living, and community engagement. Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover your city or a visitor seeking authentic, flavor-forward experiences, planning a smoothie tour offers a delicious way to connect with Denver’s wellness-driven identity.

Unlike traditional food tours that focus on savory bites or alcoholic pairings, a smoothie tour emphasizes nutrition, ingredient transparency, and seasonal creativity. It’s an opportunity to taste how local farmers, organic suppliers, and independent entrepreneurs are redefining what a smoothie can be—from turmeric-infused golden blends to protein-packed superfood concoctions made with Colorado-grown berries and wild-harvested greens.

Planning a Denver Smoothie Tour requires more than just a list of spots. It demands research, pacing, thematic coherence, and an understanding of the city’s unique food landscape. This guide walks you through every phase—from initial concept to final sip—ensuring your tour is not only memorable but also meaningful. By the end, you’ll know how to design a tour that highlights Denver’s best smoothie artisans, respects dietary needs, supports local economies, and leaves participants energized—not just satisfied.

Step-by-Step Guide

Define Your Tour’s Purpose and Audience

Before you map out locations or pick your first smoothie stop, clarify the core intent of your tour. Are you organizing this for friends, a corporate wellness group, a travel blog, or a local tourism initiative? The answer shapes everything—from the number of stops to the tone of the experience.

For example, a tour aimed at fitness enthusiasts might prioritize high-protein, low-sugar blends from gyms with attached smoothie bars. A family-friendly tour would favor kid-approved flavors like strawberry-banana or mango-pineapple with no added sweeteners. A sustainability-focused group may want to visit only businesses that use compostable packaging and source ingredients from certified organic farms.

Once you’ve defined your audience, determine your theme. Some popular themes include:

• Superfood Safari: Focus on blends loaded with adaptogens, spirulina, chia, and maca.
• Denver’s Best Vegan Smoothies: Highlight dairy-free, plant-based options across the city.
• Seasonal Sips: Feature smoothies made with ingredients in peak harvest—think local peaches in August or cranberries in October.
• History of the Blend: Trace the evolution of smoothies in Denver, from 1990s health food co-ops to modern cold-pressed boutiques.

Having a clear theme gives your tour narrative cohesion and makes it easier to market and remember.

Research and Map Your Smoothie Spots

Denver has over 150 establishments that serve smoothies, from standalone juice bars to coffee shops with a dedicated smoothie menu. Start by compiling a master list using online directories like Yelp, Google Maps, and local food blogs such as Denver Eats and 9News Food. Look for businesses that:

• Use whole, unprocessed ingredients
• Source locally when possible
• Offer transparency about sweeteners (e.g., dates vs. agave vs. refined sugar)
• Have consistent positive reviews mentioning flavor, freshness, and portion size

Filter your list by geography. Denver spans over 150 square miles, so clustering stops within a 3–5 mile radius prevents excessive travel time. Ideal neighborhoods for a smoothie tour include:

• LoDo (Lower Downtown): High density of trendy juice bars and wellness cafes.
• Capitol Hill: Mix of vegan spots and retro health food joints.
• Denver Heights and Five Points: Emerging hubs with Black- and Latinx-owned smoothie businesses.
• West Colfax: Budget-friendly, no-frills smoothie counters with big flavor.
• Golden (just outside Denver): Home to one of Colorado’s most acclaimed cold-pressed juice companies.

Use Google Maps to plot your stops. Aim for 4–6 locations on a full-day tour. Too few and it feels rushed; too many and participants will experience flavor fatigue. Include a mix of well-known names and hidden gems to create balance.

Create a Logical Route

Once your locations are pinned, design a route that minimizes backtracking and maximizes flow. Consider walking distance, public transit access, and parking availability. For example:

1. Start at Green Jeans Juice Co. in LoDo (open 7:30 a.m.)—perfect for a morning boost with a cold-pressed green blend.
2. Walk 10 minutes to Smoothie King (10:00 a.m.)—a national chain with locally customized options.
3. Take the D Line light rail to Beet Box in Capitol Hill (11:30 a.m.)—known for beet-based detox smoothies and raw vegan pastries.
4. Drive 10 minutes to Rooted in the Denver Tech Center (1:00 p.m.)—a favorite among remote workers for post-meal protein smoothies.
5. End at Bluebird Smoothie Bar in West Colfax (3:00 p.m.)—a community staple with $5 smoothies and live acoustic music.

Include 15–20 minute breaks between stops for hydration, conversation, and digestion. Avoid scheduling stops during peak lunch hours (12:00–1:30 p.m.) unless you’ve reserved seating.

Coordinate with Each Location

Don’t just show up. Reach out to each business at least 7–10 days in advance. Introduce yourself, explain your tour’s purpose, and ask if they’re open to:

• Offering a small discount or complimentary sample for tour participants
• Providing a brief 2–3 minute story about their ingredients or mission
• Allowing you to take photos for promotional use (with permission)

Many small businesses appreciate the exposure and are happy to participate, especially if you promote them on social media afterward. Offer to tag them in posts and link to their website. This reciprocity builds goodwill and increases the likelihood of future collaborations.

Plan for Dietary Restrictions

Denver’s population is highly diverse in dietary preferences. Before finalizing your list, survey your participants about allergies, intolerances, and lifestyles. Common needs include:

• Gluten-free
• Dairy-free / vegan
• Nut-free
• Low-sugar / keto
• Raw food

Confirm with each venue that they can accommodate these needs without cross-contamination. For example, some shops use the same blender for nut-based and dairy-based smoothies. Ask if they have dedicated equipment or cleaning protocols.

Compile a handout or digital guide listing each stop’s dietary options. Include icons (e.g., V for vegan, GF for gluten-free) for quick reference. This level of detail elevates your tour from casual outing to professional experience.

Prepare a Tour Itinerary and Materials

Create a clean, printable or digital itinerary that includes:

• Time, address, and phone number for each stop
• Recommended smoothie to try
• Price range
• Special note (e.g., “Ask for the ‘Mountain Berry’—made with wild huckleberries from Summit County”)
• Walking distance and transit options between stops

Include a QR code linking to a Google Map with all locations pre-loaded. Add a short bio for each business—where they started, who owns them, and what makes their smoothies unique.

Optional extras:

• A reusable tote bag with your tour logo
• A tasting journal for participants to rate each smoothie
• A small bottle of water or electrolyte tablet for hydration between stops

Set a Budget and Pricing Model

Decide whether your tour will be free, donation-based, or ticketed. If ticketed, price it fairly—$35–$65 per person is typical for a 4–6 stop tour in Denver. Your budget should cover:

• Smoothie samples (approx. $5–$8 per stop)
• Printed materials
• Transportation (if using a shuttle)
• Insurance (if hosting more than 10 people)

Many tour operators partner with local businesses to offset costs. For example, if each stop contributes $10 toward the tour, you may only need to charge $25 per person. Always be transparent about pricing and what’s included.

Test Your Route

Before launching your tour, do a solo test run. Visit each location at the planned time, order the suggested smoothie, and time your walk or drive between stops. Note:

• Wait times
• Blender noise levels (for photo opportunities)
• Restroom availability
• Seating options
• Wi-Fi access (for social media posts)

Adjust your itinerary based on real-world conditions. If a spot is consistently busy at 11 a.m., move it to 1 p.m. If a location closes early, eliminate it or swap it out.

Launch, Promote, and Gather Feedback

Once your tour is ready, promote it through:

• Instagram and TikTok reels showing smoothie pours and behind-the-scenes shots
• Local Facebook groups like “Denver Foodies” and “Healthy Living Denver”
• Collaborations with wellness influencers
• Press releases to local publications like The Denver Post or Westword

After each tour, send a short feedback survey. Ask:

• Which smoothie was your favorite and why?
• Was the pacing too fast or too slow?
• Would you recommend this tour to a friend?
• What new location should we add next time?

Use this feedback to refine future tours. Repeat guests are your best marketers.

Best Practices

Prioritize Local and Seasonal Ingredients

One of Denver’s greatest assets is its proximity to the Front Range’s fertile valleys and mountain farms. A truly exceptional smoothie tour highlights ingredients grown within 100 miles. Look for businesses that name their suppliers—like “organic kale from Boulder’s Skyline Farm” or “honey from Fort Collins Bee Co.”

Seasonality matters. In spring, feature rhubarb and asparagus blends. In summer, go heavy on peaches, blueberries, and mint. Fall brings squash, pears, and pumpkin spice. Winter is ideal for citrus, ginger, and cacao. Aligning your tour with the calendar shows deep respect for the region’s food cycle.

Emphasize Transparency and Storytelling

People don’t just want to drink smoothies—they want to know the story behind them. Encourage each stop to share:

• Why they started making smoothies
• What inspired their signature blend
• How they source their ingredients
• Any personal health journey tied to their menu

These stories create emotional connections. A participant might remember a smoothie not because it tasted good—but because the owner told them how it helped her recover from cancer.

Respect the Pace of the Experience

A smoothie tour is not a race. Unlike a brewery crawl, where speed is often encouraged, smoothie drinking is meant to be savored. Encourage participants to:

• Take small sips
• Notice texture, aroma, and aftertaste
• Compare flavors across stops
• Drink water between samples

Provide a “flavor wheel” handout that guides them through identifying notes like earthy, tart, creamy, or floral. This turns a simple tasting into a mindful sensory experience.

Minimize Environmental Impact

Denver is deeply committed to sustainability. Choose businesses that use compostable cups, lids, and straws. Avoid places that still use plastic. If you’re handing out materials, print on recycled paper with soy ink.

Encourage participants to bring their own reusable cups. Some shops offer a $1 discount for doing so. Consider partnering with a local recycling nonprofit to collect and properly dispose of any waste generated during the tour.

Include Cultural Diversity

Denver’s smoothie scene reflects its multicultural population. Don’t limit your tour to Western-style fruit blends. Seek out:

• Peruvian purple corn smoothies (chicha morada)
• Indian-inspired turmeric-ginger blends with cardamom
• Mexican aguas frescas turned into smoothies with tamarind and hibiscus
• East African tamarind and baobab smoothies

These offerings not only broaden the palate but also celebrate the city’s immigrant communities. Feature businesses owned by women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs to ensure equitable representation.

Document and Share the Journey

High-quality photos and videos make your tour more shareable. Capture:

• Close-ups of ingredients being blended
• Hands pouring vibrant smoothies
• Smiling faces enjoying the experience
• Signage showing ingredient sources

Use natural lighting and avoid overly staged shots. Authenticity resonates more than perfection. Share your content on Instagram Stories, YouTube Shorts, and local blogs. Tag every business involved—this builds community and encourages repeat visits.

Tools and Resources

Essential Digital Tools

• Google Maps – Create a custom map with all tour stops, directions, and notes.
• Canva – Design printable itineraries, tasting journals, and social media graphics.
• SurveyMonkey or Google Forms – Collect post-tour feedback efficiently.
• Airtable – Track vendor contacts, pricing, dietary info, and availability in one database.
• Calendly – Let participants book their tour slots without back-and-forth emails.

Local Organizations to Connect With

• Denver Food Rescue – Learn about food waste and surplus ingredient sourcing.
• Colorado Farm to School – Connect with local farms supplying smoothie shops.
• Denver Tourism Board – Apply for promotional support or inclusion in official city guides.
• Colorado Organic Producers Association – Get certified organic supplier lists.
• Denver Urban Gardens – Partner for pop-up smoothie events at community gardens.

Recommended Reading and Media

• “The Smoothie Bible” by Dr. Josh Axe – Understand the science behind superfood blends.
• “Denver Eats: A Food Lover’s Guide to the Mile High City” – Locally curated food spotlights.
• Podcast: “The Juice Bar Diaries” – Interviews with Colorado smoothie entrepreneurs.
• YouTube Channel: “Denver Food Adventures” – Video tours of local juice bars.

Equipment Suggestions

If you’re leading the tour yourself, consider carrying:

• A small cooler with ice packs for samples
• Reusable napkins and biodegradable spoons
• A portable Bluetooth speaker for background music
• A notepad for jotting down participant comments
• A small first-aid kit (for minor spills or allergic reactions)

Real Examples

Example 1: The Superfood Safari Tour by Denver Wellness Collective

In 2023, a local wellness coach launched a monthly Superfood Safari Tour featuring six stops across the city. Each stop highlighted a different adaptogen:

• Stop 1: Green Jeans – Matcha + reishi mushroom blend
• Stop 2: Beet Box – Ashwagandha + beetroot
• Stop 3: Rooted – Maca + cacao
• Stop 4: Smoothie Republic – Holy basil + spirulina
• Stop 5: Bluebird – Turmeric + black pepper
• Stop 6: Golden Juice Co. – Cordyceps + pineapple

Participants received a laminated card listing each ingredient’s benefits. The tour sold out every month and was featured in Denver Magazine as “The Most Mindful Food Experience in Colorado.”

Example 2: The “Brews & Blends” Family Tour

A father-daughter duo created a family-friendly tour that paired smoothie stops with nearby parks. After each smoothie, they walked to a nearby playground or trail. Stops included:

• Smoothie King – Mango-Pineapple blend (kids’ favorite)
• Urban Juicery – Strawberry Banana (no added sugar)
• Rooted – Chocolate Avocado smoothie (hidden veggies)
• Bluebird – Peach Cobbler smoothie (with oat crumble topping)

Each child received a “Smoothie Explorer Badge” upon completion. Parents loved the combination of nutrition and outdoor activity. The tour now runs every Saturday in summer.

Example 3: The “Hidden Gems of West Colfax” Tour

Recognizing that most smoothie tours focus on downtown, a local blogger launched a tour spotlighting under-the-radar spots in West Colfax. Stops included:

• Marisol’s Smoothie Stand – Family-owned since 1998, uses homegrown herbs
• El Sol Juice Bar – Offers cactus water smoothies with prickly pear
• Denver Soul Kitchen – Vegan, gluten-free, and 100% plant-based

The tour included a $5 donation to a local youth food program. It became a model for community-centered tourism and was later adopted by the city’s Office of Cultural Affairs.

FAQs

Can I plan a Denver Smoothie Tour on my own?

Absolutely. Many of the most successful tours are self-guided. Use this guide to research, map, and organize your own route. The key is intentionality—don’t just visit random juice bars. Curate a story.

How long should a Denver Smoothie Tour last?

For a full experience, plan for 4–6 hours, including 15–20 minute breaks between stops. Morning tours (9 a.m.–2 p.m.) are ideal to avoid afternoon heat and crowds.

Are there vegan smoothie options in Denver?

Yes. Denver has one of the highest concentrations of vegan-friendly smoothie bars in the U.S. Over 80% of establishments offer at least one fully plant-based option, and many are 100% vegan.

What’s the average cost of a smoothie in Denver?

Prices range from $5 for a basic 16 oz blend at a local counter to $14 for a premium, cold-pressed 20 oz superfood smoothie. Most mid-tier shops charge $8–$10.

Can I bring kids on a Denver Smoothie Tour?

Yes! Many smoothie bars are kid-friendly. Look for places with colorful menus, small portions, and natural sweeteners. Avoid places with high caffeine or added stimulants if bringing young children.

Do I need to make reservations?

For groups larger than 5, it’s courteous to call ahead. Most small businesses appreciate the heads-up. For solo visitors or small groups, walk-ins are usually fine.

Is it possible to do a Denver Smoothie Tour in winter?

Definitely. Winter smoothies often feature warming spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom, along with citrus and root vegetables. Many shops even offer warm herbal tonics as alternatives.

How do I find out if a smoothie shop uses organic ingredients?

Check their website or social media for “Certified Organic” labels. Ask staff directly: “Are your fruits and greens sourced from certified organic farms?” Reputable shops are proud to share their sourcing practices.

Can I turn this into a business?

Yes. Many entrepreneurs have turned smoothie tours into profitable side hustles or full-time businesses. Combine it with yoga classes, wellness coaching, or local product sales for added revenue.

What’s the best time of year to do a Denver Smoothie Tour?

May through October offers the widest variety of fresh, local produce. However, winter tours have their charm—think spiced cacao blends and citrus-forward flavors. Choose based on your theme.

Conclusion

Planning a Denver Smoothie Tour is more than a fun way to explore the city—it’s an act of conscious consumption, community building, and culinary appreciation. In a world where fast food dominates and ingredients are often hidden behind vague labels, a smoothie tour invites you to slow down, ask questions, and savor the story behind every sip.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—from defining your theme to respecting local growers—you’re not just creating an itinerary. You’re cultivating a movement that values transparency, sustainability, and flavor integrity.

Denver’s smoothie scene is still evolving. New shops open every month. Farmers markets expand. Innovation thrives. Your tour doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be real. Let curiosity guide you. Let the colors of the blends inspire you. Let the people behind the counters remind you that food, at its best, is a connection.

So grab your reusable cup, map your route, and take your first sip. The perfect Denver Smoothie Tour isn’t out there waiting for you—it’s being made, one blend at a time, right now.