Denver’s Best
Bars & Nightlife
It can be difficult for newcomers to know what’s good in Denver’s nightlife scene, but there’s a plethora of amazing cocktail bars, breweries, and fun things to do for when the sun sets behind the Rockies.
As a huge advocate for supporting local businesses, I’ve compiled a list of Denver’s best bars and nighttime activities for both tourists and locals. Every place on this list is unique in it’s own way, and all are worth trying out!
Be sure to always tip your servers and bartenders, and tag The Mile High Millennial on Instagram when you visit!
Undisputedly the best craft cocktail bar in Denver, you can find this little speakeasy behind the guise of a bookstore in LoHi. With a great seasonal menu, bespoke cocktails, and a carefully curated ambiance, it’s my top recommendation.
Most locals have no idea this bar exists, but most have had it go right over their heads. Just upstairs at Union Station, this chill & stylish craft cocktail lounge offers a sanctuary from the crowds below with a large selection of well-balanced drinks.
Formerly known as Horror Bar, Slashers features amazing cocktails to enjoy with the classic horror movies playing on several screens and live performances of The Rocky Horror Picture Show by local theater troupe Cvlt Slvts every first Saturday!
Serving up comedy and cocktails since 1981, there’s no better place for laughs than Comedy Works. With comedy shows almost every day of the week (my favorite being their New Talent Wednesdays), this downtown staple is a surefire way to have a great night.
Another impossible-to-find prohibition-era bar, The Cruise Room is tucked away between Denver steakhouse Urban Farmer and The Oxford Hotel and is Denver’s longest-running bar. Classic cocktails and a chic art deco atmosphere make for an intimate vibe.
A very close second to W&G, Welton Room offers a special trademark of creativity to their cocktails with elaborate presentation, whether with liquid nitrogen, smoke, or props. No matter what you order, you’re going to want to have your Snapchat ready.
With something for everyone, this cutely decorated creative hub hosts open mic nights, poetry readings, live local music, and dance lessons every week in addition to organic-oriented eats, a full coffee & alcohol bar, and pastries.
Although not conceived in Denver, I couldn’t possibly leave this bar off the list. As a die-hard mezcal fan, this eclectic mezcal bar is one after my heart. Colorfully decorated with a speakeasy feel, Ghost Donkey has a cocktail to make you fall in love too.
A great place to take a competitive group of friends, this sports bar brings the fun in the form of classic college-style beer pong. An elevated bar menu, live DJs, and football watching parties allow for a lively atmosphere every day of the week.
1UP Arcade & Bar (Colfax)
For some nostalgic fun with your drinks, 1UP features a multitude of games including skeeball, Pac-Man, Mortal Kombat, and the largest collection of pinball machines in the city. Make a friendly bet wherein the loser takes one of their Mystery Shots!
This LoHi spot answers the question, “what if Colorado was a bar?” A top suggestion for tourists, you’ll find woodsy design elements, a foresty outdoor patio, and cocktail flavors to match for the best way to immerse yourself in mountain vibes.
For those who want the most aesthetic atmosphere to enjoy their evening drinks, Room for Milly is the most Instagrammable bar in the city. With eloquently named craft cocktails and a beautiful interior, it’s the best beginning to your girl’s night out.
Located atop the Le Méridien Hotel overlooking the Rocky Mountain sunset, 54Thirty has the best view at any other bar downtown. With lounge seating, great drinks, and professional service, it’s a great bar for a date night or group outing.
A blink-and-you’ll-miss it whiskey bar on the side of the alley next to the Dairy Block, Seven Grand offers over 700 whiskeys, a refined craft cocktails, pool tables, and low-key vibes. Whether going for the whiskey or the pool, it’s always a good time.
The picture-perfect outdoor drinking experience is just up the hill in LoHi overlooking the city. A great menu with tasty pizzas, bright cocktails, Instagrammable decor, and a younger crowd offer a hip and lively atmosphere morning ‘til night.
Thanks for reading, Stay Mile High ✌️
