The New 16th Street: Denver’s Comeback Corridor

If you’ve spent any time on the 16th Street Mall in Denver, you probably have a pretty strong opinion about it.
Maybe you’ve been hesitant to visit the downtown area recently due to ongoing construction that’s an inconvenience, or broader urban challenges, such as increased safety concerns making you uneasy, and the visibly unhoused may have given you pause. However you feel, one thing’s for sure: it’s time to give 16th Street another chance. 

After a massive $175 million revitalization effort and a rebrand that included officially dropping “Mall” from the name, Denver’s iconic pedestrian corridor is back, and it’s better than ever. 

How Is 16th Street Different? 

What hasn’t changed? From upgraded infrastructure to interactive experiences, the transformation is designed to reimagine how locals and visitors engage with downtown. 

Interactive kiosks now line the street, helping you discover restaurants, bars, kids zones, and fun activities — plus a built-in camera app for quick selfies. 

New pavers and greenery replace the outdated layout. City workers removed the old trees, turned them into benches, and replanted a diverse selection of new trees, bringing more color and life to the space. 

Local eats meet familiar faves — Big brands like Cheesecake Factory are staying put, but over 20 new patios are on the way, and kiosks will give space to local vendors. 

Drinks-to-go-zones are coming soon (near Glenarm Place), so you’ll be able to sip a cocktail as you stroll the block.  

Public art and interactive fun now pepper the block, including: 

• “Howdy Trouty” climbable fish sculptures 

• A giant beehive structure 

• A whimsical “Postcard from Colorado” photo op 

• Giant playable musical instruments

• The glowing Aspen Light installation 

And we haven’t even gotten to the events. 

Events on 16th Street 

If you’ve been waiting for a reason to return, this is it. 

16th Street Summer Kickoff

This huge celebration runs May 31 to June 1 from 11 AM–6 PM with: 

• 3 beer gardens  

• 70+ vendors  

• Live music & DJs  

• Dance performances  

• Euro bungee & face painting for kids 

• Dog-friendly fun  

• Speed Climbing World Cup  

• Public restrooms! (finally!) 

Want to go? The city’s making it easy with $5 off Bird scooters and bikes (use code 16Street2025) and free garage parking at 1515 Arapahoe St. 

And it doesn’t stop there. This summer, 16th Street will host rotating musical art installations, live music during weekday lunch and happy hours, the 16th Street Grand Bazaar every second and fourth Saturday, and more.  

16th Street: A Cornerstone of Denver 

We love this city, and we want our residents to love it too. 16th Street has seen better days, but now it’s having a comeback moment. Whether you’re looking for something to do on the weekend, a quick lunch spot, or just want to feel excited about downtown again, this is your chance to rediscover a Denver staple. 

The full remodel wraps this fall, but the fun starts now. 

Let’s meet on 16th Street.