The very best 12 nightlife spots in Denver, United States
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Welcome to the Mile High City, where the nights are as epic as the mountains that surround it! In this whimsically wild travel guide, we'll take you on a journey through Denver's top 12 nightlife spots that will make your dancing shoes tremble with excitement. From historic bars nestled in haunted buildings to hipster hangouts serving craft beers as unique as your Aunt Mildred's collection of cat figurines, Denver's nightlife scene is guaranteed to leave you with stories that'll make your colleagues back home green with envy. So grab your adventurous spirit, a pocket full of glitter, and let's paint the town red (and maybe a few other colors too) in the ultimate Denver nightlife adventure!
Save destination1. Punch Bowl Social
65 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203, USA
Welcome to Punch Bowl Social, the ultimate playground for grown-ups in Denver! This vibrant hotspot is like the lovechild of a hipster cafe and an amusement park, promising a quirky and unforgettable experience. Just moments away from the trendy neighborhood of SoCo, its 24,000-square-foot space will make you feel like a kid in a funhouse, except the only clowns here are the ones mixing your craft cocktails. Step into a world where bowling shoes are the currency of style and karaoke is the universal language of fun. Here at Punch Bowl Social, you can embrace your inner child while sipping on artisanal cocktails and munching on delectable bites. With a superb lineup of arcade games, ping pong tables, and shuffleboard, prepare to be transported to a parallel universe where time seems to fly faster than the bowling balls themselves.
Learn more2. The Cruise Room
1600 17th St CO, Denver, CO 80202, USA
Welcome to the Cruise Room, Denver's "timeless" gem where you can sail away... without leaving dry land. This stunning art deco bar, with decor reminiscent of an extravagant ocean liner, is the perfect spot to embrace your inner captain, no nautical experience required. Immerse yourself in the ambiance, sip on classic cocktails that could make even Captain Jack Sparrow blush, and remember: pretend cruises don't come with seasickness or the fear of sharks, just delightful libations and maybe a shipload of laughter.
Learn more3. Williams & Graham
3160 Tejon St, Denver, CO 80211, USA
Welcome to Denver's best-kept secret, Williams & Graham— or as locals affectionately call it, "the not-so-secret secret." Tucked behind an inconspicuous bookshelf in bustling Lower Highlands, this establishment is the epitome of a speakeasy experience. Inside, you'll find a cozy atmosphere that artfully combines the charm of a vintage library with the liquor inventory of a small, tipsy genie. Immerse yourself in the era of clandestine concoctions as the bartenders at Williams & Graham tame their cocktail shakers like wild cowboys wrangling whiskey tornadoes. With an extensive menu that could make even Shakespeare order twice, expect literary-inspired libations like "Romeo's Negroni" and "Moby Dick Sour." Don't worry if you can't decide – ask the friendly staff for recommendations, and they'll guide you through an alcoholic odyssey that's sure to leave you craving both more drinks and a high-five for your impeccable taste. Remember to make a reservation before visiting, as Williams & Graham is always in high demand. Though if you're feeling particularly adventurous and the wait feels eternal, fret not, just whisper the phrase "May I judge a book by its cover?” to the bookshelf bartender – who may or may not possess secret teleportation powers – and be teleported straight to your cozy seat, where you can sip cocktails and pretend you're a time-traveling pioneer in alcohol land. Cheers!
Learn more4. Forest Room 5
2532 15th St, Denver, CO 80211, USA
Welcome to Forest Room 5, the hippest refuge in Denver where the cool cats and nature enthusiasts unite! This quirky watering hole has beautifully transformed into a rustic woodland, complete with trees growing through the roof and animal heads adorning the walls - perfect for those who appreciate taxidermy and don't mind the occasional squirrel staring back at them. Sip on their woodland-themed cocktails while you embrace your inner lumberjack, and don't forget to take a selfie with a mammoth tusk before you leave - because where else can you do that?
Learn more5. The Thin Man
2015 E 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80206, USA
Nestled in the heart of Denver, The Thin Man bar is a quirky haven for cocktail enthusiasts and whimsical locals alike. With its dimly lit atmosphere and cheeky decor, this haunt exudes a cozy yet energetic vibe reminiscent of a secret speakeasy. As you sip on their artfully crafted libations, you can't help but chuckle at the pun-tastic cocktail names and witty bartenders who serve them.
Learn more6. The 1UP - LoDo
1925 Blake St, Denver, CO 80202, USA
Welcome to The 1UP - LoDo in Denver, where tummy-rumbling nostalgia meets your inner gamer's delight! Step into this retro wonderland, adorned with neon lights and boasting a game selection that makes Pac-Man blush. Be prepared to revive your childhood memories while engaging in friendly battles over the last pinball machine or practicing your Jedi skills on the vintage Star Wars arcade game.
Learn more7. Great Divide Brewing Co.
2201 Arapahoe St, Denver, CO 80205, USA
Are you ready to embark on a beer-tastic adventure in the glorious Mile-High City of Denver? Well, hold on to your pint glasses, because we're about to dive headfirst into the frothy world of Great Divide Brewing Co.! Nestled in the heart of downtown, this hoppy haven boasts a glorious selection of craft beers that will make your taste buds dance like tipsy ballerinas. Step inside their cool, industrial-style taproom and let the bearded bartenders guide you through an extensive menu of liquid gold. Cheers to that, my thirsty friends!
Learn more8. Illegal Pete's
270 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80209, USA
Deep in the heart of Denver, amidst the kaleidoscope of food options, lies Illegal Pete's - a quirky joint that will tantalize your taste buds and unleash your inner burrito connoisseur. With its funky, mismatched décor and laid-back atmosphere, this offbeat eatery has mastered the art of blending Tex-Mex flavors with a dash of irreverence. Prepare to have your appetite arrested by their mouthwatering burritos, aptly named after notorious outlaws, which are as big as your dreams (or your imagination after a few tequila shots).
Learn more9. Union Lodge No.1
1543 Champa St, Denver, CO 80202, USA
Welcome to Union Lodge No.1 in Denver, where mixology and history unite like two eccentric friends on a wild adventure! Step into this charming establishment, conveniently tucked away like a secret hideout. You'll be greeted by the timeless ambiance of exposed brick walls and dimly lit chandeliers, as if you stumbled upon a clandestine rendezvous for the most discerning cocktail aficionados. Prepare to be dazzled by the expertly crafted libations, poured with the precision of a brain surgeon and the flair of a magician, leaving you yearning for one more sip of their liquid alchemy.
Learn more10. Death & Co
1280 25th St, Denver, CO 80205, USA
Nestled in the lively neighborhoods of Denver, Death & Co has quickly become the destination for cocktail aficionados and connoisseurs in search of delightful libations and a healthy disregard for personal judgment. As you step into this vibrant establishment, be prepared to navigate through a dimly lit labyrinth where bartenders in suspenders wield their shakers like wizards. With an eclectic selection of spirits and an ambiance that effortlessly blends elegance with an unmistakable hipster flair, Death & Co promises an enchanting experience that will leave you with the perfect balance of life satisfaction and hangover regret.
Learn more11. The ViewHouse
2015 Market St, Denver, CO 80205, USA
Welcome to The ViewHouse in Denver, where the views of the city are as breathtaking as the prices of the drinks! Nestled in the heart of downtown, this hipster haven offers a unique blend of sophistication and laid-back vibes. Whether you're here for the rooftop patio with panoramic sights that make your Instagram followers drool or the lively atmosphere that gives you a crash course in the art of people-watching, forget about altitude sickness because this place will elevate your party game to new heights!
Learn more12. Avanti F&B, a collective eatery
3200 N Pecos St, Denver, CO 80211, USA
Welcome to Avanti F&B, the land of culinary wonders in Denver! This collective eatery is like a food court on steroids, minus the neon lights and soul-crushing disappointment. Prepare yourself for a gastronomic adventure where seven trendy eateries live under one roof, serving up a combo that will make your taste buds throw a party in your mouth.
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The easiest way to get to Denver, United States is by plane. Denver International Airport is the main airport serving the city and is located approximately 25 miles from downtown Denver. Many major airlines operate direct flights to Denver from cities across the world.
Car
If you're looking to drive to Denver, Interstate 25 runs directly through the city from north to south, making it easily accessible from surrounding areas. There are also several car rental companies located at Denver International Airport if you need to rent a car upon arrival.
Train
Although there are no direct trains to Denver, the Amtrak California Zephyr stops at the Denver Union Station, which is located in the heart of downtown Denver. The train runs from Emeryville, California to Chicago, Illinois and passes through some stunning landscapes along the way.
Boat
There are no direct boat routes to Denver as it is a landlocked city, but the closest port is the Port of Colorado, located in Aurora, Colorado. From there, you could rent a car or take public transportation to reach Denver.
Bus
If you prefer to travel by bus, Greyhound and other bus companies offer regular services to Denver from cities across the United States. The Greyhound station is located in downtown Denver, making it easy to access local amenities.