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These Are Denver's 15 Iconic Dive Bars

A great dive can hit the spot for cheap drinks, a relaxed atmosphere, and sometimes nice live music.

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Denver loves its restaurants and upscale cocktail bars, but the neighborhood dives , the iconic ones, the beloved ones, home to bar flies , dirty pool tables, juke boxes, and sub-par food, have a special place in the Mile High City's heart. Known for their readiness to pour cheap, stiff drinks to faithful, sometimes awful patrons, these joints have earned their stay in their respective hoods.

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17 of Denver’s Best Dive Bars

Prime people watching, cheap drinks, a no-fuss ambience—no matter what you’re looking for in an unpretentious watering hole, these favorite spots in the Mile High City and beyond are sure to quench your thirst.

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There’s no singular recipe for a great dive bar. It’s not just about cracked pleather booths. Or $2 PBRs. Or sticky floors. Or plainspoken barkeeps. It’s about all of that—and more—in one humble package that calls to us when we need a cold one poured without pretension. In the Denver metro area, scattered among the cocktail palaces serving $17 drinks made with 15 ingredients, there are plenty of holes-in-the-wall where you can belly up on a wobbly stool, order a Coors Banquet with no discernable eyeroll from the bartender, and drink until you no longer care that the jukebox only seems to play Johnny Cash. Here, in alphabetical order, are 17 of our staff’s go-to spots.

Editor’s Note: This is a living list of the best dive bars that was last updated on January 28, 2022. Did we miss your favorite? Email us at [email protected] . 

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12 Volt Tavern

Don’t let the shiny new front patio (recently added, thanks to Olde Town Arvada’s pandemic-inspired street closures) or the facade’s trendy roll-up windows (which replaced opaque glass blocks in a 2017 face-lift) fool you. This longtime biker bar ’s interior still looks like it hasn’t seen the light of day in decades. There’s a standard lineup of draft beer with which to chase 12 Volt’s must-order pickle shot: not liquor followed by a pickle juice back , but actual house-made, pickle-infused vodka from a dispenser behind the bar. Bring friends to play pool, darts, or Big Buck Hunter; quarters to fill the cozy joint with classic rock, punk, or early ’90s grunge tracks from the jukebox; and a tolerance for subpar bathrooms. As is appropriate for a true local dive, bartenders favor their regulars—so suck it up and wait or, better yet, go often enough to become one yourself. 7514 Grandview Ave., Arvada; 303-432-7463

The Berkeley Inn

When it opened in 1934, the Berkeley Inn became one of the few businesses operating on Tennyson Street in northwest Denver. Today, it can be easy to miss amongst all of the trendy endeavors in one of the city’s fastest growing areas. But despite all of its new neighbors, this legendary bar’s character hasn’t changed. Thanks to owners Andrew Peterson and Sarah Kenney—who purchased the bar from longtime proprietress Lisa Sanchez in August 2021—it’s still the type of place where you can find a crew of longtime regulars enjoying too-good-to-be-true specials (see: $1 jello shots and $3 pickle shots every day) while unabashedly cursing John Elway’s performance as president of the Denver Broncos. Add in a few pool tables, a new jukebox, toe-tapping live music from local bands every Sunday afternoon (starting this year after football season), and you’ve got an institution that’s survived for more than 80 years by being an example of a dive-bar truism: Simplicity is best. 3834 Tennyson St., 303-477-1834

Candlelight Tavern

Call it what you will—the Candlefight and the Mandlelight are two popular nicknames—but we call it a divey Denver institution. Roughly a half block south of Alameda on Pearl Street in West Wash Park, the Candlelight , owned by Dave and Lisa Bryan since 1997, practically guarantees several things on every visit: people smoking on the sidewalk underneath the vintage neon sign; a young-ish, hard-drinking crowd; and quality ’80s hair metal on the jukebox. Grab a rum and Coke or the longneck of your choice (wells and domestic bottles are $3.25 happy hour Monday–Friday), play a game or two of pool, and then sit back to watch the nightly bacchanal unfurl around you. 383 S. Pearl St., 303-778-9530

At only nine years old, this Broadway bar probably doesn’t have quite enough age on it to qualify as a true dive. Its mint-condition billiards tables, large HD flat-screens, cleverly rendered scuba decor, on-site food service (provided by chicken-finger-centric Cluck Chicken ), and reliably clean restrooms also make the designation tenuous. But being a dive bar is mostly about attitude—and Dive Inn has nailed that comfortable-in-its-own-skin thing. Its expansive tequila selection pairs well with the space’s nautical motif, but if that’s not your jam, there are plenty of beers on tap, several in the bottle, and enough brown liquor to help you find your sea legs. If a game is on TV, grab a seat in the main room, especially if you can score a spot in the full-size motorboat (yep, really). If not, cold beer tastes just as good in the back rooms—equipped with pool and ping-pong tables—or on the spacious back patio replete with cornhole. 1380 S. Broadway, 720-242-6157

[Read 8 Front Range Bars Offering An Element of Escapism ]

Doghouse Tavern

On your first visit to this unpretentious pub tucked behind a Goodwill and a Home Depot off South Sheridan Boulevard and Hampden Avenue, you’ll likely get a lingering up-down glance from the regulars if you’re new to the ’hood. But weather the stare and order a $3 domestic draft off the twice-daily happy hour menu (3–7 p.m. and 10 p.m.–2 a.m.) and you’ll be treated like family soon enough. Slide into a booth under the gallery wall of good boys and girls from eras past (dogs, not people), or stake your claim to a picnic table on the adjacent patio. After a pint or two, grab an order of the bar’s Bear Valley Hash—smashed tots smothered with cheddar cheese and green chile—which is perhaps the perfect dive food and one that all your new friends will be glad to share. 3100 S. Sheridan Blvd., 3030-936-1376

Carioca Cafe (Bar Bar)

There are bars you go to celebrate momentous occasions, and there are bars where you go to watch the game with your closest friends. There are fancy bars with bespoke cocktails, and there are bars that are so painfully cool you can’t flick a quarter without it hitting a tattooed hipster’s waxed mustache. Carioca is none of those bars. Situated on a desolate stretch of Champa Street near 20th, Carioca, which is also known as Bar Bar, is the kind of place you go when you’ve had a really, really bad day at work. Once you’re seated at the bar, order a shot of Jim Beam and a can of PBR, and hand your cash over to the barkeep—credit cards aren’t accepted—and revel in the sublime diveyness that has been part of Denver’s bar scene for decades. 2060 Champa St., 303-993-2010

Lakeview Lounge

Open at 7 a.m. daily, the Lakeview Lounge caters to those seeking a different sort of sunrise service. It’s a tradition for regulars to gather on the patio to soak up killer views of Sloan’s Lake as the sun slides above the water (particularly on the first and last days of Daylight Savings Time in March and November). Inside, a sparsely stocked vending machine, year-round Christmas lights, and a vintage jukebox await. If the time-worn ambience doesn’t draw you in, surely the $0.50 pool tables and equally cheap drinks will. During happy hour (Monday–Friday, 4–7 p.m.), a mug of Coors will set you back $1.50, plus there are $2.50 rotating brown-bag mystery shots all day long. Happy hour runs from 7–10 a.m. on Sunday, so early risers can enjoy the sunrise, bargain-priced beer in hand. 2375 Sheridan Blvd., Edgewater, 303-283-2149

Highland Tavern

Tucked away from the lights of LoHi’s many hip-and-trendy eateries sits the humble Highland Tavern, which has been slinging comforting suds and grub since 2006. The lengthy bar top and ample table seating invites hipsters and townies alike to come as they are, take a load off, and rediscover the joys of a simple well drink. Pull up knocked-about chairs until the whole gang’s bumping knees and order a basket (or two) of house tots for the table. The crispy, golf-ball-size morsels are fried to golden perfection—and Guy Fieri–approved, which you’ll be reminded of when passing by a poster of the star signed: “Highland Tavern, off da hook and real deal.” Return during daylight hours for the spot’s popular weekend brunch, but there’s no need to dress to impress. 3400 Navajo St., 303-433-1990

Lincoln’s Roadhouse

You’re unlikely to find any hipsters at this Cajun biker bar . It’s not weird enough or scene-y enough to lure much of the skinny-jeaned, sub-30 set; biker boots and Broncos jerseys are more the norm here. While there’s nothing Michelin about the crawfish étouffée and po’boys, there’s a heartiness and hominess to the spicy food that keeps the regulars coming back—as do the house-made hot sauces, which are best paired with an unfussy brew. (The taps pour standard Coors products, plus Stella, Fat Tire, and—usually—an IPA.) This quirky little spot books live acts two nights a week, with national blues bands and popular locals such as the Closers reigning the stage on Fridays and Saturdays. Our favorite night there, though, is Wednesday. That’s when Lincoln’s opens its mic up to aspiring singers, songwriters, and other musicians. Sure, the notes aren’t always perfect, but they are always authentic—and more often than not surprisingly good. Plus, there’s a selection of bourbons (including Laws Whiskey House ) and two backroom pool tables to distract you from any temporary dissonance. 1201 South Pearl St., 303-777-3700

Lion’s Lair

On a recent late afternoon at Lion’s Lair , with a Bud longneck perched on the bar in front of us, Judge Judy on one TV and Jerry Springer on the other, the barkeep took a phone call. “No, no one fits that description here,” the bartender told whoever was on the other end of the line. (Did it matter who was on the other end of the line, really? No. But did we, for a moment, pause and take note of the folks sitting around us? Why, yes we did.) Adding to the, uh, ambience, the bartender then told a patron who’d ordered a Pabst draft, “So, the first PBR of the day always pours a little foamy.” Indeed it does at Lion’s Lair, a magnificently scummy joint on East Colfax between Race and Vine streets. Later at night, you’ll find indie acts or open mic nights on the tiny stage, but if you’re just there for the drinks, sip away and soak up the small room, replete with a handful of high-top tables, leopard-print curtains, and an instant photo booth with a sign on the outside that reads, “I want you inside me.” 2022 E. Colfax Ave., 303-320-9200

Although we’re not typically suckers for gimmicks, we have to admit that the artifices at this more than 40-year-old Colfax mainstay are charming: With the purchase of a drink, ladies receive a free long-stem rose and everyone is treated to a complimentary house shot (it’s a play on an Alabama Slammer, so don’t get too excited). It’s the lesser-manufactured aspects of the PS Lounge, though, that make it most endearing. The hodge-podge interior design—NFL football plaques, photos of patrons from back when you actually got prints printed, Christmas decorations that have probably been there since December 1985—somehow just works. The tunes coming out of the jukebox always seem to set the right mood, whether they’re by the Rolling Stones, Creedence Clearwater Revival, or Prince. The dim lighting, wood paneling, and tall-back leather bar stools make the place feel cozy and inviting. We may not be suckers for much, but we’re fools in love with the PS Lounge’s particular brand of divey-ness. (Note: Don’t call it a dive while you’re there, though; the staff prefers the title “neighborhood bar.”) 3416 E. Colfax Ave., 303-320-1200

The Old Man

As patrons pull into the Old Man ’s parking lot, they’re greeted with the sound of cars streaming in and out of the Wal-Mart shopping center next door and the sight of a red-brick-hued roadhouse painted with a giant white arrow pointing to the entrance. When you step through the door, the smell of barbecue wafts through the air and the walls are decked out in kitschy, informal decor: Broomfield youth baseball team swag; crookedly hung beer and liquor signs; and framed time-worn images of men imbibing and booze-happy regulars, many of whom have engraved their names into the wood paneling. Pair a cold brewski of your choice with a set of dry-rubbed smoked wings and a platter of chile-cheese-loaded tots in a tan leather booth; or venture to the sprawling gravel back patio, an area furnished with a fire pit and volleyball courts. No matter where you sit, the scent of ’cue will stick to your clothing, a memento of time spent at the watering hole. 4381 W. 120th Ave. Broomfield, 720-536-4821

Olde Towne Tavern

This neighborhood watering hole has been serving Coors Banquet in Historic Downtown Littleton for more than 15 years. Within easy walking distance of the district’s various restaurants, bars, and a brewery, OTT is open until 2 a.m. daily (a wonder in the suburbs), beckoning imbibers to knock back just one more while jockeying for a TouchTunes position and noshing on late-night grub—which locals know a reason to visit on its own. The bar has 24 varieties of chicken wings, ranging in flavor from honey Sriracha to Peruvian chile lime, so we encourage you to order multiple baskets. But even on a full stomach,  the strong, reasonably priced pours; comfy and conversation-facilitating semi-circle booths; dim lighting; and pool hall in the back blissfully invite patrons to stay as long as they like. 2410 Main St., Littleton, 303-794-4329 

[Read A Local’s Guide to Eating and Drinking in Littleton ]

Outback Saloon

People watching is the draw at the Outback Saloon, a 32-year-old institution tucked in a nondescript strip mall off 28th Street and Glenwood Drive called Tebo Plaza. With bartenders slinging shots and pints from 8 to 2 a.m., the Outback attracts a diverse crowd, including local overnight shift workers hankering for an early morning buzz and rowdy University of Colorado Boulder students after dark. While the saloon recently added a menu of heartier pub grub (think: burgers and Rocky Mountain oysters), it still serves a classic that will only satisfy patrons who’ve knocked back a few: fresh-baked Tombstone Pizzas. Pop in on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday evenings for karaoke (9 p.m.–1:30 a.m.) to listen to Fireball- and tequila-swigging groups belting the likes of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” and Lizzo’s “Truth Hurts”—a mind-numbing yet entertaining soundtrack that’ll inspire anyone to order another round. 3141 28th St., Boulder, ​​303-444-0081

Star Bar ’s genius lies in its mastery of the high-low dichotomy, which has evolved over the years—just as the stretch of Larimer Street it sits on has developed. High: an expertly curated selection of aged rums for sipping. Low: acoustical ceiling tiles and bad karaoke. High: a small, eclectic selection of draft microbrews from around the country. Low: restrooms that could use a good scrubbing, even though they smell like disinfectant. Whether you’re there after catching a few innings of the Rockies game or to swing your partner to live rockabilly on the diminutive dance floor, you should sidle up to the bar at this hospitality industry hangout, order a bourbon and a beer, and drink in the highs and lows of its history. 2137 Larimer St., 720-328-2420

The Sundown Saloon

From “dark and dirty” to “don’t mess around and they’ll give you good service,” the Google Reviews of the Sundown Saloon speak volumes for its rough-around-the-edges ambiance, which isn’t for the faint-hearted. While the underground bar—also known as the “Scumdowner” and “Downer”—is situated amid the high-end boutiques of Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall, revelers who descend its steps are transported worlds away from the Athleta and Billabong above ground. Cheap pool and beer ($8 PBR pitchers are a best-seller) attract droves of CU Boulder students, who line up to get into the joint on weekend nights. Except for in the adjacent smoking area in the alley, expect your shoes to stick to the floor, the air to smell like disinfectant and stale beer, and to cringe at the disheveled state of the bathrooms.. But what more could you ask for in a dive? 1136 Pearl St., Boulder, 303-449-4987

Welcome Inn

Local is the flavor, and the ethos, at the Welcome Inn. Perched on a rise above the South Platte River, across the way from the very polished Blue Moon Brewery, the sketchy-looking red facade may be the bar’s best feature because it, ironically, doesn’t communicate “welcome in” at all. The exterior, however, belies the friendly, we-take-all-comers vibe within. Mixed among the pool tables and sitting at the roughly 10-stool bar is a clientele that feels true to Denver. In fact, everyone there seems to be enjoying the camaraderie and unpretentiousness, celebrating with a cold Coors Banquet, a michelada, or a strong cocktail mixed up by the no-nonsense bar staff. 3759 Chestnut Place, 303-296-7229 (Editor’s note: The Welcome Inn closed in early 2021 and was replaced by River bar and art gallery in September 2021; we apologize for the error.)

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• North America

Don’s Club Tavern – Denver, CO

One of the factors that makes a dive bar memorable is its patrons. An eclectic combination of wannabes, once-wases, and never-will-bes with colorful locals and fun out-of-towners is the recipe for a great dive. It can be in a prime location with a friendly staff, but if you don’t have a fun crowd of engaging characters, you may not make the cut.

Don’s Club Tavern in Denver, Colorado is more than qualified as a dive bar after 73 years of service to the drinkers of the Mile-High City. If you want a quick explanation, Don’s is a real bar with real people and offers its patrons good deals on real booze. If I were a professional dive bar critic, I would call the place something like “an authentic bar full of earthy people”, but since I am not, I will spare you the flowery language.

If you’re a poser or some rich kid looking for Jell-O shots or drinks named Dances with Wenches, Upper Deckers, or Sand in the Crack (I’m not kidding), Don’s is not your spot. If you enjoy a shot and a beer, some loud music on the jukebox, and/or you’d love watching sports on one of its multiple televisions, sit down and hang out for a while.

Don’s is all about the working man, so they offer what they call Service Industry Specials. Those working swing and graveyard shifts can drop by after work to down a few $4 shots and $3 beers. Or if you want to get slammed on a budget, $2 Coors Light drafts are a nice option.

Don’s is located in the backyard of the Denver Broncos, but it’s well-known for being fan central for the Kansas City Chiefs. If the Chiefs are playing, be certain that the place will be packed with people wearing red and gold. They also offer $4 Chiefs Shots (bartender’s choice). The bar caters to fans of the local Colorado State University football team, as well as the baseball Rockies and the hockey Avalanches. The bartenders at Don’s love talking sports, so check out their knowledge and enjoy the back-and-forth whenever fans get together.

A few other unique things about Don’s Club Tavern include the fact that they hold an annual Sausage Fest with free wieners to raise money for an organization called Mountain Pet Rescue. They also have an outdoor patio, and games like foosball (a true lost art) and pool, as well as a rocking jukebox. Legendary bartenders name “Sweet Lou” and “Pretty Jenny” add to the neighborhood vibe; whether they’re pouring you cheap libations or asking you to hit the road—they do it all with style.

One patron called Don’s an “amusement park for adults” while another described it as a “classy joint full of quality people.” That might say it all. If you’re in Denver, stop by this celebrated dive bar. (If the Chiefs are playing, get there early and be sure to wear the right gear!)

Located in: Denver , Colorado

Be sure to try: a Chiefs Shot

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• Eat + Drink

PSST… The 10 Best Dive Bars in Denver

A dive bar can mean different things to different people: a lesser known neighborhood bar frequented by locals, a bar where the bartender knows your life story, a bar you can stumble to at 3 a.m. when the rest shout “last call,” or simply a bar with affordable drinks.

Whether you’re looking for one or all of these qualities on your next night out, our list captures the absolute best dive bars in Denver, from the neighborhood hotspots to the hidden gems you might have walked right past. Enjoy!

Lakeview Lounge

2375 Sheridan Boulevard, Edgewater

While a great view probably isn’t on your list of needs in a dive bar, it definitely doesn’t hurt! The Lakeview Lounge is perfectly divey with a cash-only bar, a jukebox, pool table, well-worn upholstery and affordable drinks ($8 pitchers!). And while we’re perfectly happy sipping a brew in the dark interior, the patio with a quaint waterfront and downtown view is a great surprise. 

Don’s Club Tavern

723 E 6th Avenue

Photo courtesy of Don’s Club Tavern

Since 1947, Don’s Club Tavern has been providing cold brews, whiskey cocktails and friendly service in a relatively unchanged atmosphere. While the charm has enticed locals and visitors alike—including famed poet Jack Kerouac—and is far from undiscovered anymore, it hasn’t lost it’s “dive bar” ambiance. In fact, Westword’s Readers’ Choice list named it the best dive bar in Denver in 2019.

The Stadium Inn

1701 E Evans Avenue

Located on the corner of Gilpin and Evans near the University of Denver, The Stadium Inn is, as they like to say, an “old standby”. This historic dive bar is always reliable and full of affordable drinks, making it the perfect spot to avoid studying for finals or catching the game with a few friends. If you visit enough, you can get a “Degree of Bourbonology” upon filling up a stamp card after tasting a series of affordable whiskeys.   

Bar Bar aka Carioca Cafe

2060 Champa Street

Bar Bar, or the Carioca Cafe, is everything many of Denver’s newest bars are not. Slightly dingy and dark, this spot in Five Points isn’t shiny or Insta-worthy and you won’t find a craft cocktail anywhere in sight. But we promise the cheap, boozy drinks, $2 beers, and random live music will have you coming back again and again. 

1380 S Broadway

Photo courtesy of Dive Inn

99 types of tequila, all-day drink specials, Tex-Mex, cornhole and unique decor are just some of the things that make Dive Inn a special place to hang. It is located on Broadway and while it hasn’t been around long enough to acquire tons of dust and grime, it still nabbed a spot on this list for its cheap drinks and the real-life motorboat decor where you can sit and enjoy your grub.  

2137 Larimer Street

Photo courtesy of Star Bar

You can find this charming spot at 21st and Larimer streets, just around the corner from Coors Field. They maintain a strict “B.Y.O.F.” (Bring Your Own Food) policy so you’re free to bring in whatever snack your stomach desires and enjoy it while sipping on affordable drinks. They’ve been in their current location for more than fifty years but with a recent makeover and an excellent beer list, the Star Bar feels brand new. Don’t worry though, we promise it still oozes old school charm what with their pool tables, arcade games and loyal regulars. 

3416 E Colfax Avenue

Looking like something pulled straight out of the ’80s, PS Lounge is a “Girls Bar”, at least, that’s what owner Pete Siahamis calls it. That means that every woman who crosses the threshold is handed a rose and a free, syrupy Alabama Slammer shot. Locals love to start pregaming here before hitting the rest of Colfax’s many bars, but we’re partial to cozying up at the bar. 

Candlelight Tavern

383 S Pearl Street

Photo courtesy of Candlelight Tavern

Home to one of the best burger specials in town, the Candlelight Tavern is a great dive where you can eat and drink all night—without spending a fortune. Their famed special features, deliciously greasy burgers for just $4 during select hours on Sundays and Mondays. Pair it with a $4 drink and a few games of shuffleboard or giant Jenga and you’ll soon become just as obsessed with this south Denver spot as we are. 

7 S Broadway

Nestled on South Broadway, this Denver staple is well known as a fantastic music venue—no matter how unassuming it looks from outside. Each week, you’ll find a lineup of local bands, DJ’s, national acts and more performing in this intimate divey spot. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cheap drinks that you can enjoy while you’re watching the show. 

Nob Hill Inn

420 E Colfax Avenue

As one of the oldest bars in Denver, Nob Hill has seen a lot. Inside, you’ll find a labyrinthine layout with a cozy horseshoe bar that serves some of the stiffest drinks in town. Stop by anytime between 8 a.m. and 2 a.m. and strike up a conversation with one of the regulars who will probably talk about the time Bob Dylan partied at this quintessential Colfax spot. 

A horse walks into a bar…

We hope you have a great time exploring Denver’s dive bar culture! Let us know how it goes in the comments or on Instagram by tagging #TheDenverEar. 

• Press Releases

April 22, 2019

Bud Light Dive Bar Tour Returns This Year with Most Expansive Lineup To-Date

Lineup will feature Brett Eldredge, Judah & The Lion, FLETCHER and more 

NEW YORK, April 22, 2019 -- Bud Light Dive Bar Tour is back for the fourth consecutive year. This year, the popular series that brings sell-out artists to intimate dive bars stages is going to more cities and featuring more artists than ever before. More cities and artists mean a more diverse line-up that includes up-and-coming musical acts in addition to award-winning artists that have made Bud Light Dive Bar Tour famous.

The Bud Light Dive Bar Tour will make its first stop on April 29 in Denver, CO , joined by the three-piece alt rockers of Judah & The Lion . Then it will travel to Anheuser-Busch's hometown of St. Louis, MO on May 16th where country music superstar Brett Eldredge will hit the Dive Bar stage. On June 26 in San Francisco, CA , rising star FLETCHER will headline. Two more Dive Bar Tour shows are slated for August 2019 in New York City and November 2019 in Miami, FL. Artists for the final two shows will be announced later this year. As always, fans can expect an intimate show, with many of the artists giving an exclusive look into new music and more. “We can't wait to bring Bud Light Dive Bar Tour to more cities and feature more artists than ever before this year,” said Shana Barry, Director of Experiential at Bud Light. “This has been such a dynamic program for us over the years and being able to expand it into new genres with both established and up-and-coming artists is something we are very excited about. One thing we've learned from our previous shows is that there's no better way to enjoy a Bud Light than among friends at a local Dive Bar listening to your favorite artist. We love this year's lineup and we still have more surprises in store when we announce the rest of our lineup later this year.”

The Bud Light Dive Bar Tour is a hallmark music-centric experience, focused on bringing people together over music and beers. The Tour bottles the vibes of when an artist started out, as well as the atmosphere of a stadium-packed performance, to deliver a show fans will never forget in an intimate setting. Previous artists who have taken the Bud Light Dive Bar Tour stage include Lady Gaga, John Mayer, G-Eazy and Post Malone .

To keep up to date with the latest Bud Light Dive Bar Tour news, visit BudLight.com/DiveBarTour and follow Bud Light on Facebook at Facebook.com/BudLight , on Twitter at @BudLight , and on Instagram at @BudLight .

ABOUT BUD LIGHT: Introduced in 1982, Bud Light is a premium light lager with a superior drinkability that has made it the best-selling and most popular beer in the United States. Bud Light is brewed using a blend of premium aroma hop varieties, both American-grown and imported, and a combination of barley malts and rice. The light-bodied beer features a fresh, clean and subtle hop aroma, delicate malt sweetness and a crisp finish that delivers the ultimate refreshment. For more information, visit www.BudLight.com .

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The Ten Best Dive Bars in Metro Denver, Including Carioca Cafe

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12 Volt Tavern

Ace-Hi Tavern

Carioca Cafe/Bar Bar

Dr. Proctor's Lounge

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Lion's Lair

Nob Hill Inn

Sam’s Bar & Lounge

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Garth Brooks Announces 7-Date Dive Bar Tour

Garth Brooks is taking " Dive Bar ," his new song with Blake Shelton , literally. Coinciding with National Dive Bar Day, the superstar singer unveiled dates for his Dive Bar Tour during a special edition of his live show  Inside Studio G   on Sunday (July 7).

Brooks is set to visit seven dive bars around the country, starting on Monday (July 15) in Chicago. Though he was unable to reveal the location of the Chicago concert or the other cities and dive bars he'll be performing in just yet, Brooks encouraged fans to turn to their local country radio stations for ticket information and other upcoming details.

Garth Brooks and Blake Shelton's "Dive Bar" Is a Big Surprise

"Sometimes that's your church," Brooks says of his love of dive bars. "A church is people who are like you that are searching, and just sometimes need a shoulder to lean on, and that's what a dive bar is."

Brooks teamed up with Shelton for a duet that Brooks calls a "summertime anthem" that he co-wrote with "Ask Me How I Know" writer Mitch Rossell and Bryan Kennedy. The country stars will perform the song live together for the first time when Brooks and Shelton unite at Albertsons Stadium in Boise, Idaho on July 19 — a performance that's set to be filmed. The show is part of Brooks' three-year Stadium Tour that has already broken attendance records in several cities, including Denver, St. Louis and Minneapolis.

The remainder of the Dive Bar Tour dates will be announced on July 15, the same day Brooks plays a dive bar in Chicago and releases "Dive Bar" to Amazon Music as part of Amazon Prime Day.

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Bud Light Dive Bar Tour Denver: Judah & The Lion at Larimer Lounge

• Posted on May 1, 2019
• 3.6K shares

Many people know that I drink light beer as a rule, and that Bud Light is my favorite. So when Bud Light announced that their Dive Bar Tour was coming to Denver, I was all over it. But wait … Judah & The Lion was going to play a small club? And it was a free show? With free beer? With a band that is playing at Red Rocks later this summer? You all may have heard me screaming from within your computer screen.

It’s the 4th year for Bud Light to host these type of shows. Past headliners include Lady Gaga, John Mayer, G-Eazy and Post Malone. Denver was the first stop in 2019 – the tour continues next to Anheuser-Busch’s hometown of St. Louis for Brett Eldredg e on May 16th.

The location is kept a secret till the last minute. As you can see in all my posts from Larimer Lounge , it is one of my favorite clubs in Denver. The bartenders just laughed when I walked in, because they knew they would be handing me the beer they normally serve me all night long. 🤣

But Larimer Lounge was perfect for Judah & The Lion too. They had headlined there around four year ago, and their banjo player Nate is from Colorado Springs.

“We were so pumped when we saw Post Malone’s Dive Bar Tour show last year that when Bud Light asked us to join the tour, it was a no brainer. And to be back at a venue that we played on a previous tour with our fans, we couldn’t be more excited.” – Judah & The Lion

As you can see from the photos, Denver was happy to have them back too.

Judah & The Lion – Bud Light Dive Bar Tour Photos

Bud Light Dive Bar 2019 Tour Dates

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Watch CBS News

Garth Brooks Might Bring Dive Bar Tour To Denver

December 10, 2019 / 1:25 PM MST / CBS Colorado

DENVER (CBS4) -- Country music legend Garth Brooks announced his Dive Bar tour will continue next year and while talking about potential locations, Denver was near the top of his list.

"Dive Bars, yes, we made the announcement. It is official. It's like why stop eating ice cream, right?" Brooks said in a video posted on Facebook. "The Dive Bars are just too good. So we're gonna do the Dive Bars, we're gonna continue them through 2020."

"Think of the places we haven't been and think about the places we've been," Brooks said. "Chicago... Kansas City. St. Louis where we started the tour. Denver -- can you imagine that one?!" Brooks said.

Christmas Came Early! Christmas came early!!!! Wrapped up in Dive Bars!!! love, g #StudioG Posted by Garth Brooks on Monday, December 9, 2019

Back in June, Brooks performed what was called the biggest "ticketed" show in the history of Broncos Stadium at Mile High .

Brooks was not shy about expressing his love for Denver.

"Epic is an understatement! Denver, YOU just gave me the GREATEST night of my career! THANK YOU!!" he tweeted shortly after the show .

Epic is an understatement! Denver, YOU just gave me the GREATEST night of my career! THANK YOU!! love, g #GARTHinDENVER pic.twitter.com/mElP99hvP4 — Garth Brooks (@garthbrooks) June 9, 2019

Brooks said there will only be 300-400 tickets per show on the Dive Bar tour, and they are only available through country music radio stations. He confirmed the first stop would be in Boston and said the date would be announced after Christmas.

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The 46 Best Denver Cocktail Bars by Neighborhood

We’re a local food tour company that’s experienced much of the city’s dining scene, including dozens of Denver cocktail bars. Narrowing down the best spots was no easy task and even then, we wound up with an extensive 46 entries — which we all highly recommend. 

To make this guide easier to navigate, we’ve organized our favorite Denver cocktail bars by each of the following neighborhoods: 

Union Station

Dairy block.

• Ballpark  
• RiNo / Five Points  

Little Raven

• 16th Street  

Sloan’s Lake

• Capitol Hill  
• South Broadway  
• Congress Park  

Cherry Creek

Our favorite denver cocktail bars by neighborhood.

1889 16th Street Mall │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$$

Photo: Tavernetta Facebook

Tavernetta, one of Denver’s most romantic restaurants , is located just across from the Union Station train tracks. Expect classic cocktails with an Italian twist, like its refreshing Brachetto spritz and citrusy paloma made with Cappelletti Aperitivo. Beverages pair beautifully with its food menu which comprises handmade pastas, pan-seared ​​branzino, and delicious small plates. Join us on our Cocktail Tasting Tour to best experience this upscale eatery. 

The Cooper Lounge

1701 Wynkoop Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: The Cooper Lounge Facebook

The Cooper Lounge is perched above Union Station’s Great Hall, separate from the crowds but within the same historic ambiance. Marble counters and mid-century details create a sophisticated aesthetic where you can sip classic cocktails in style. Signature beverages add to the menu, as do fancy plates of foie gras mousse, beef tartare, and oysters on the half shell. 

Note that The Cooper Lounge is currently closed for renovations and will re-open this summer.

1701 Wynkoop Street #125 │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Ultreia Facebook

Ultreia is one of several Union Station restaurants , which we highly recommend for its Spanish and Portuguese fare. Pair paellas and pintxos like bacon-wrapped dates and croquetas de jamón with your choice of gin and tonic. Its sherry flight is another favorite, especially when served with dessert. Our Downtown Food Tour stops here for pastel de nata, a traditional custard tart that beautifully ends any meal.

Ghost Donkey

1750 Wewatta Street #140 │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Ghost Donkey Facebook

After Imbibe named its original New York location the “best cocktail bar” of 2020, Ghost Donkey quickly expanded and now has five outposts with three more slated to open this year. With a trippy aesthetic dripping in neon, the Denver bar starkly contrasts the minimalist condo building in which it resides. Leave the corporate world at the door and dive into loaded nachos, funky mushroom margaritas, and a selection of flavorful mezcals at this lively lounge.

1660 Wynkoop Street #100 │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: The Wild Facebook

Hidden just off Wynkoop, The Wild is one of our favorite Denver bars around Union Station . This gem has a bright and minimalist interior, plus a quiet, shaded patio that’s lovely in the summer. Settle in at happy hour and order craft cocktails with snacks like sardines and olive tapenade served on a French baguette. Morning is another ideal time to visit, as this bar offers mimosas, bloody Marys, and breakfast plates through 2 pm.

Cruise Room

1600 17th Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$$

Photo: Cruise Room Facebook

Cruise Room is the city’s longest-running bar, open since the day after prohibition’s repeal in 1933. The wine bottle-shaped lounge is set within The Oxford Hotel and is said to be haunted by the spirit of a postman. He orders a beer and drinks it down — but after he leaves, bartenders are surprised to see the glass is still full. Take a seat for your chance at a ghostly encounter and if anything, a guaranteed damn good martini.

Urban Farmer

1659 Wazee Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$$

Photo: Urban Farmer Facebook

Urban Farmer, a modern chophouse with locally sourced fare, is also located inside The Oxford Hotel. We stop here on our Cocktail Tasting Tour , as the upscale eatery makes our favorite old fashioned in the city. It combines a butter pecan-washed, high rye bourbon with the burnt caramel and orange zest flavors of Amaro Nonino. The rich and smooth result is absolute perfection.

Deviation Distilling

1821 Blake Street #130 │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Deviation Distilling Facebook

Don’t miss Deviation Distilling when visiting the trendy Dairy Block micro-district. Its creative spirits include coffee-infused whiskeys, exotic gins featuring seasonal botanicals, and a Zinfin bourbon made in collaboration with one of Denver’s wineries . Order these as a flight or in the form of complex cocktails — like the chai old fashioned, a personal favorite. The tasting room interior is warm and welcoming, but we recommend taking a seat near its outdoor fire pits.

Seven Grand

1855 Blake Street #160 │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Seven Grand Facebook

Seven Grand is another Dairy Block mainstay with a moody, sophisticated interior. It takes cues from Wild West bars, having taxidermy mounts, billiards tables, and a tidy wall of over seven hundred whiskey labels. Chat with its knowledgeable staff to better understand your options, which appear in various old fashioneds, highballs, and its signature Gentleman’s Buck — a blend of bourbon, bitters, house ginger beer, and OJ that costs just $10 during happy hour.

Poka Lola Social Club

  1850 Wazee Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Poka Lola Social Club Facebook

Found within the Maven Hotel lobby, Poka Lola Social Club combines Art Deco sophistication with the charm of an old-fashioned soda shop. The eclectic interior is as creative as its seasonal drink menu, which features funky cocktails on “psychedelic Sundays” and rotating holiday specials. On our Cocktail Tasting Tour , we sample a signature beverage and its juicy barbecue pork sliders — which we highly recommend.

Run For The Roses

1801 Blake Street #10 │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$$

Photo: Run For The Roses Facebook

Several Denver cocktail bars take inspiration from old-time speakeasies, including Run for the Roses. Elegant and intimate, this underground lounge feels like a step back in time — but its menu is modern and uniquely written on a deck of playing cards. Treat yourself to caviar service and craft libations, many of which feature rare and vintage spirits.

1801 Blake Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$$

Photo: BRUTØ Facebook

When it comes to special occasions, BRUTØ is one of our top-recommended Denver restaurants . Book reservations to experience executive chef Byron Gomez’s counter, which is limited to eighteen seats. The prix fixe menu at this Michelin-starred eatery can be paired with several craft cocktails, as well as wine and zero-proof beverages. 

2015 Market Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Viewhouse Facebook

Without question, Viewhouse is one of the best things to do around Coors Field . This massive multi-level eatery features indoor and outdoor spaces, complete with a dance floor, lawn games, and multiple screens that reliably broadcast your favorite sports. Few bars near the ballpark are as busy on Rockies’ game days and in general, you can expect a rowdy, fun-loving crowd. Visit for weekend brunch, late-night bites, and pub fare any time in between.

2137 Larimer Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $

Photo: Star Bar Instagram

While newer, trendier bars have popped up all over the Ballpark District, this enduring dive bar has maintained its authentic appeal. Open since 1959, Star Bar is loved for its extensive selection of whiskeys and craft beers, along with its cheap prices. Come late and stay later, especially on Tuesday and Thursday nights when karaoke keeps patrons partying ‘til the early morning hours.

Cherry Cricket

2220 Blake Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Cherry Cricket Facebook

Founded in 1945, Cherry Cricket is another long-time Denver classic and one of our go-to bars in LoDo . Build your own burger or order one of its award-winning creations, like its half-pound signature patty topped with white cheddar, chile relleno, and the city’s best pork green chile — which we sample on our Downtown Food Tour . This burger bar also offers a lengthy list of Front Range beers, along with craft cocktails and boozy milkshakes.

Wonderyard Garden + Table

2200 Larimer Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Wonderyard Facebook

This Ballpark newcomer is from the same restaurant group as Yardhouse and similarly, it knows how to attract an audience. Wonderyard Garden + Table is an influencer’s paradise with fanciful, photo-worthy backdrops. The food and drinks are equally as Instagrammable. Think orchid-garnished plates, a large-format sparkling cocktail served in a glass purse, and a cotton candy cloud suspended over pink lemonade vodka.

Attimo Wine

2246 Larimer Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Attimo Wine Facebook

After much success with Snooze, one of our favorite brunch spots in Denver , local restaurateur Jon Schlegel lived in the Piedmont region of Italy. While abroad, he learned the art of winemaking and connected with local vineyard owners to later open Attimo. A tasting room is connected to the urban winery, which serves Northern Italian wine varieties and flavorful spritzes, among other craft cocktails.

La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal

2233 Larimer Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: La Diabla Facebook

La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal is a celebration of Mexican culture and flavors. Nationally recognized and frequently awarded, this colorful eatery was the first in the city to specialize in pozole. Several varieties appear on the food menu, which also includes tacos, ceviche, and esquites con tuétano — a popular street corn dish made with bone marrow. Pair these plates with mezcal and other Mexican spirits, which are available as flights and flavorful cocktails.

Great Divide Brewing Co

2201 Arapahoe Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Great Divide Instagram

Established in 1994, Great Divide Brewing Co is one of the city’s craft beer pioneers. Visit its original Ballpark taproom to peer into its active production floor, or book a brewery tour for a closer look at its process. While better known for its craft brews, like the Yeti imperial stout and strawberry rhubarb sour ale, it recently launched a hard seltzer brand known as Whitewater. Order its tasty mango-ginger flavor on tap or pick up a case of its cocktail-inspired series.

RiNo / Five Points

3701 North Williams Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Yacht Club Instagram

From cocktail connoisseurs to dive bar regulars, Yacht Club caters to all. This trendy bar offers an extensive list of natural wines that appear in its Champagne mojito and other coastal-inspired cocktails. If you’re feeling hungry, order the Old Number 7-11: a Jack and Coke served with a hot dog made by local butcher River Bear Meats. The caviar glizzy topped with crème fraiche, pickled shallot, and tater chips comes highly recommended.

Death & Co

1280 25th Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$$

Photo: Death & Co Facebook

Death & Co is more than one of the top Denver cocktail bars — it’s frequently recognized as one of the best in the world. Its stylish outpost within The Ramble Hotel features a curated drink menu with options categorized by style and flavor. Opt for something light and playful; rich and comforting; or perhaps elegant and timeless. Zero-proof beverages, small plates, and full entrées like steak frites and buttermilk fried chicken round out the selection.

3126 Larimer Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Gold Point Facebook

With modern furnishings and craft cocktails, Gold Point elevates the traditional dive bar atmosphere but maintains itself as fun and approachable. Pop in daily from open to 8 pm for great specials like its $7 house tonic poured with your preferred spirit. The “happy meal” is another killer deal: $7 for a beer and a shot, with choices including Paddy’s and Jim Beam. Whiskey lovers, take note as Gold Point has a lengthy list of labels.

2669 Larimer Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Denver Central Market Facebook

Curio is located within Denver Central Market, one of our favorite things to do in RiNo . This buzzy bar offers an extensive list of classic and signature cocktails, plus wines by the glass and local beers on tap. Enjoy a margarita with citrusy ceviche from Tammen’s Fish Market, one of several neighboring vendors; or pair a glass of wine with a pizza from Vero’s, which we visit on our RiNo Food Tour.

The Block Distilling Co.

2990 Larimer Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: The Block Distilling Co. Facebook

The Block Distilling Co. is more than an expert at creating spirits — it knows how to make them shine in each of its craft cocktails. Sample its G&T made with seasonal gin or its rich espresso martini featuring in-house coffee liqueur. A rotating drink selection keeps things fresh and even a bit funky with the use of unique ingredients like ube and Thai tea. For a behind-the-scenes look at one of our favorite Denver cocktail bars, book one of its Saturday distillery tours.

Barcelona Wine Bar

2900 Larimer Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Barcelona Wine Bar Facebook

In addition to pages of wine options, Barcelona Wine Bar offers fantastic cocktails — namely, gin and tonics which pair deliciously with an assortment of Spanish tapas. Between each sip, savor bites of whipped sheep’s cheese, bacon-wrapped dates, and seafood paella. Few Denver wine bars can compete with its warm, rustic ambiance; and on a summer evening, nothing beats dining al fresco on its patio.

1330 27th Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Nocturne Facebook

Nocturne hosts live jazz performances every Wednesday through Sunday evening, and it’s one of our favorite restaurants in RiNo . Get dressed up for the full dinner experience featuring three New American courses or simply drop in for a cocktail. The drink menu includes classics, seasonal beverages, zero-proof options, and splurge-worthy “platinum edition” cocktails that are perfect for special occasions.

Finn’s Manor

2927 Larimer Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Finn’s Manor Instagram

Few Denver cocktail bars match the variety at Finn’s Manor. Behind the counter lie more than four hundred whiskeys and nearly three hundred rum labels and agave spirits. Mezcal became a staff favorite after a company trip to Oaxaca, Mexico and its Children of the Maize cocktail is fantastic. The bar team also recommends pairing a mezcal shot with a Stiegl grapefruit radler or Cerveza Clara Y Mas Fina Especial made with heirloom Oaxacan corn.

Welton Room

2590 Welton Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$$

Photo: Welton Room Facebook

All of Welton Room’s menus are worth experiencing. Visit for weekend brunch to savor lemon ricotta pancakes with a gin-based raspberry beret. Mediterranean hour, inspired by regional cocktails, is not to be missed — nor is martini hour. Enjoy classic and unique takes like the prickly pear martini, along with fancy chef bites including duck croquettes and P.E.I. mussels. Modern tapas make up the dinner menu, as do signature cocktails like its cotton candy mojito.

The Family Jones Spirit House

3245 Osage Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: The Family Jones Instagram

So many Denver cocktail bars create incredible menus. But face it, sampling every option would be a hangover disaster. Cue The Family Jones Spirit House, which offers small-pour flights of its ready-made cocktails. These include the rock and rye, smoked old fashioned, cosmopolitan, and Earl Grey negroni — a personal favorite. Full-size cocktails featuring other house spirits are also available, as are small plates and tours of the distillery.

2021 West 32nd Avenue │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$$

Photo: Lady Jane Facebook

This neighborhood gem comes from the same group as The Wild in Union Station and Hudson Hill in Capitol Hill. All these Denver cocktail bars are stellar, but what we especially love about Lady Jane is its atmosphere. Tunes from its vinyl record collection fill the chic, yet cozy space. Get comfortable with one of several signature drinks — with or without booze, they’re all delish and beautifully presented.

Williams & Graham

  3160 Tejon Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$$

Photo: Williams & Graham Instagram

Williams & Graham is a beloved prohibition-era speakeasy that passersby may mistake for a small bookstore. But step past the entry’s bookcase door and discover a massive mahogany bar stocked with over five hundred spirits. These act as the base for more than sixty classic cocktails, which pair well with a curated food menu featuring mac n’ cheese, roasted bone marrow, and burgers made with Wagyu beef.

Room for Milly

1615 Platte Street #145 │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Room for Milly Facebook

Room for Milly is feminine and sophisticated — whimsical, yet cohesive. Art decorates the walls and niches, all vibrantly painted in jewel tones. Take in the ambiance while sipping one of several spritzes, like its Sunnyside made with St-Germain or ​​Antigua featuring strawberry-infused Aperol. Travels made by Milly Parker, the late matriarch of the owners’ family, inspired other cocktails that spotlight several global ingredients.

The Broken Cage

2420 17th Street #103 │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: The Broken Cage Facebook

When the weather is dreary and you’re looking for winter activities in Denver , visit The Broken Cage. Though a lovely oasis any day, this bar is sure to reset your mood. Lush pothos vines hang above the bar, and tables are decorated with more house plants to create a cheerful aesthetic. Its signature cocktails are just as uplifting with options like its ice wine martini and divine aviation made with butterfly pea flower tea.

16th Street

Union lodge no.1.

1543 Champa Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$$

Photo: Union Lodge No.1 Facebook

Few Denver cocktail bars match the creativity of Union Lodge No.1. Expect classic cocktails like its sazerac and bijou, both recipes written prior to prohibition; along with signature drinks that take cues from the era. These include its absinthe cocktail made with house lemon-rhubarb bitters and green chartreuse; as well as its Red, White & Blue Blazer — a rum, bourbon, and applejack brandy blend that’s set to fire, then rolled back and forth between two shaker tins.

Reynard Social

1616 Market Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Reynard Social Facebook

From Denver date nights to schmoozing clients, Reynard Social is sure to impress. This swanky sixth-floor lounge is located within Thompson Denver, an upscale Hyatt hotel. Expect indoor and outdoor spaces, each decorated with modern furnishings and luxe details. At the bar, you’ll find a range of refined cocktails and curated bites like crispy Brussels, charred shrimp kebabs, and salmon tartare.

Hell or High Water Tiki Bar

1526 Blake Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Hell or High Water Facebook

Dubbed the “unholy trinity” of Denver cocktail bars, sister concepts Hell or High Water, Honor Farm, and The Electric Cure in Sloan’s Lake each have their own theme — with a haunted pirate ship inspiring this outpost.

Sip on rum-based tiki cocktails and mezcal creations with a tropical twist. Many are served in over-the-top mugs which may or may not be phallic in shape. Pause before taking your Christian parents here, but don’t think twice about ordering from Samosa Shop, which serves Indian street food on-site.

Honor Farm, Haunted Spirit House

1526 Blake Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $

Photo: Honor Farm website

Honor Farm claims to reside in “the oldest and most haunted building in Denver” and appropriately, it leans into a haunted house theme. An illustrated drink menu depicts its Deathamphetamine espresso martini and Jalpeño Handjob marg served with a Hot Cheeto rim, among other creative cocktails with a dark sense of humor. Samosa Shop also serves its Indian-inspired fare at this location.

The Electric Cure

5350 West 25th Avenue, Edgewater │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: The Electric Cure Instagram

With a satanic tiki bar theme, The Electric Cure rounds out the unhinged absurdity of this group. Upside-down crosses and pentagrams add to the decor, which is illuminated by neon signs and multi-colored strings of twinkling lights. Rum-soaked cocktails include Holy Water Hooch and Samuel Alito’s Mom’s Satanic Abortion Clinic. For the full experience, pop in during its “creature feature” happy hour hosted every Friday at midnight.

Capitol Hill

530 East 19th Avenue │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Retrograde Facebook

Inside Sweet Action ice cream shop, you’ll find a freezer door that leads into Retrograde, one of our favorite Denver cocktail bars. This intimate, dimly-lit speakeasy serves up creative cocktails, each named after B movies like Mutant Hunt and My Alien Girlfriend . These offbeat sci-fi films are often projected on the wall adjacent to the sculpted bar, which gives the space a funky, futuristic feel. 

Hudson Hill

619 East 13th Avenue │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Hudson Hill Facebook

Like its sister concepts The Wild in Union Station and Lady Jane in the Highlands, this bar has an unbeatable ambiance. Lush plants and natural light fill the inviting space. Hudson Hill is both a coffee shop and cocktail bar, allowing you to seamlessly transition from remote work to one of the best happy hours in Denver . Sip on signature cocktails and snack on an unbelievably good grilled cheese sandwich made with Shropshire, parmesan, cherry jam, and a schmear of dijon.

South Broadway

218 South Broadway │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Adrift Facebook

Head to South Broadway and escape to a party-centric paradise. Adrift offers island-style drinks soaked in rum and served in tiki mugs, as well as large-format punch bowls that get up to eight people tipsy. Pair these tropical beverages with Polynesian-inspired plates like its poke nachos and spam musubi drizzled in pineapple teriyaki.

Congress Park

3401 East Colfax Avenue │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Middleman website

Several other restaurants and Denver cocktail bars are in close proximity to Middleman, but this East Colfax mainstay is one that stands out. The industrial hangout has an incredible drink program with memorable signatures and cheap old fashioneds during happy hour. For many years, Misfit Snack Bar operated out of its kitchen and now, the bar will host a rotation of chefs on the rise. Expect East Coast flavors from Rock N Lobster Roll the next few months.

2412 East Colfax Avenue │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Bar Max Instagram

Intimate and modern with bright pops of color, Bar Max feels as though you’ve stepped foot into a cool Copenhagen apartment. The cocktail menu is equally as hip and easy to navigate with beverages organized by flavor and style. Order a saucy cucumber caper martini or sweet Sakura made with two of the bar’s signatures: gin and Japanese spirits. Custom cocktails are also available, as are fabulous mocktails, organic wines, and curated bites.

248 Detroit Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$

Photo: Ay Papi website

Upscale cocktail bar Ay Papi is perfectly situated in the swanky Cherry Creek neighborhood. A large skylight illuminates the space, which takes cues from Caribbean interiors. Similarly, the menu is inspired by the cultures of Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Miami — in other words, rum-based cocktails are the star of the show. Sip on its mai tai, tropical mojito, or blended banana daiquiri, and don’t skip out on food. The guava cheese dip and pineapple Cubano are delicious choices.

Forget Me Not

227 Clayton Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$$

Photo: Forget Me Not Facebook

Forget Me Not comes from the same hospitality group as Ay Papi and like its sister concept, it’s simply stunning. This cocktail bar is the place to see and be seen in Cherry Creek. Settle into plush seating or on its outdoor patio, where guests enjoy Wagyu steak tartare, salmon crudo, and caviar service alongside creative house cocktails. Favorites include its Toki old fashioned and refreshing tequila-based La Piña, which is also available as a large-format beverage.

249 Columbine Street │ Bar Website │ Menu │ Price: $$$

Photo: B&GC Instagram

B&GC is set within the stylish Halcyon hotel, but you wouldn’t know it when walking through its lobby doors. Rather, this speakeasy is accessed through a side entrance and down a service elevator. It’s truly a hidden gem with a glamorous mid-century aesthetic and top-notch menu. Expect elevated house cocktails, rotating seasonals, and fancy snacks like bacon-wrapped dates and fresh-shucked oysters.

Abigail Nueve

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