Sierra DawsonDenver nightlife has a great mix of hidden speakeasies and gritty neighborhood dives, so you can easily find a spot for any mood!
But to find the best bars in Denver, you’ll have to look past the tourist traps and find places with real character. I actually love exploring the city after dark to find those memorable late-night vibes.
So, let’s look at the top spots for a fantastic drink and bar grub. These local gems offer amazing music and a welcoming atmosphere that pulls you in right away, so read on to know which spots made the cut!
How much does it cost for a night out at a bar in Denver?
A night out at Denver’s best bars typically costs between $30 and $80 or more per person, depending heavily on your drink choices and the overall experience level.
| Experience Level | Estimated Total Cost | Typical Inclusions |
| Budget | $20 to $30 | Two to three beers at a pub or happy hour |
| Average | $40 to $60 | Three to four cocktails at a standard venue |
| High-End | $80+ | Premium drinks and multiple rounds |
1. Death & Co DenverCompany logo here
Website: https://www.deathandcompany.com/
Address: 1280 25th St
Contact: (720) 330-2660
Hours:
- Sunday – Thursday: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 3:00 PM – 12:30 AM
Entering Death & Co Denver feels like stepping into mixology history. They have a massive reputation as pioneers of the modern craft-cocktail revival and boast a pedigree as one of the world’s best bars.
I spent an entire evening here recently, and the drinks truly lived up to the hype.
Furthermore, you get three unique experiences in one building, including a moody lounge and an airy garden.
One of the most popular spots here is Suite 6A, an intimate, 22-seat cocktail lounge tucked away on the mezzanine that delivers a highly personalized, reservation-only tasting experience.
Overall, their holistic approach to hospitality means every detail shines, from the lighting to the custom glassware. You can also grab a full dinner here alongside your drinks.
Finding a seat can be a challenge, however, since the main areas operate strictly on a walk-in basis.
Their bustling location in RiNo inside The Ramble Hotel keeps the energy high all night. You’ll appreciate their all-day availability if you prefer an early start.
The drinks did not disappoint!
Lovely place for really interesting cocktails. Sat in a corner table with 2 others, and just got cocktails and some popcorn. Service was very attentive and the drinks did not disappoint! The images on the menu were also helpful.
- Mrinalini Loew | Google Review
Great variety of cocktails
Very beautiful luxurious modern atmosphere. Great variety of cocktails. We tried baby squash, hands of time, outlaw, and other cocktail. Service was above and beyond. We got treated with a drink for our birthday celebration. Such a luxurious beautiful atmosphere, amazing service, and delicious food and drink.
- A J | Google Review
2. 54thirty Rooftop
Website: https://www.54thirty.com/
Address: 1475 California St
Contact: (720) 996-1558
Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 2:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Catching a sunset from the highest open-air rooftop bar in the city is a truly unbeatable experience. 54thirty Rooftop, as its name suggests, sits exactly 5,430 feet above sea level and offers incredible panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains.
They pair those stunning sights with globally inspired bites and beautifully crafted seasonal drinks. To make things even better, you can cozy up near the fire pits during colder months for year-round rooftop access.
They also provide convenient waitlist amenities at the hotel lobby bars downstairs while you wait for a spot.
However, the venue often closes due to unpredictable weather, which might change your evening plans.
And since they have a strict first-come, first-served policy, arriving early is always a smart move.
They’re worth the extra effort, though! You’ll love the diverse selection of hot drinks and local craft beers.
The service was great
Went to 54thirty Rooftop during sunset and the view was 🔥 — such a vibe. The service was great, they were constantly checking in on us without being annoying. It was a chilly day and I loved that they offer blankets to stay warm. Had an Old Fashioned and it was delicious. Definitely a dope spot to catch a sunset in Denver.
- Gerado Alejandre | Google Review
The views are amazing
Gem in the middle of the city! The views are amazing, the service was stellar and the food was phenomenal. You can snack or eat a full plate, sip delicious cocktails or mocktails all while enjoying a gorgeous view. Make sure you check their website as weather can impact their hours and it is first come first served.
- Gabriela Rozell | Google Review
3. Union Lodge No.1Company logo here
Website: https://www.unionlodge1.com/
Address: 1543 Champa St
Contact: (720) 389-0447
Hours:
- Sunday – Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday – Saturday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
History buffs and cocktail purists will really love this incredible tribute to late 19th-century American bars. To transport guests back in time, Union Lodge No. 1 organizes its menu around historical categories like juleps and fizzes.
You can truly taste the dedication in their house-made tonics and exclusive private barrel spirits. Also, the expert bartenders use careful techniques to build incredibly complex and flavorful drinks.
Just keep in mind that they have a strict focus on beverages, so you cannot order food here. However, the seasonal drink rotation keeps the flavors exciting all year long.
Overall, it’s a fantastic spot to grab a masterfully mixed drink before you head out to dinner nearby. The late-night weekend hours make this place a perfect stop after you explore the downtown markets.
Drinks were well made and reasonably priced
Great selection of hand crafted cocktails. Drinks were well made and reasonably priced for the service and experience. I wanted to order the gin fizz but opted for one of the punches instead. Seems hard to go wrong no matter your preference. But order something that allows these bartenders’ experience to shine – if you’re going to get a rum and coke, do it somewhere else.
- UnlockedVistas | Google Review
the drinks were FANTASTIC
This place was fantastic. The lighting was very nice and dim. The bartenders were very tentative and the drinks were FANTASTIC. They made cocktails completly from scratch and there is a good selection to choose from. Definetly a great bar to stop in if you are im Denver and are looking for something more low key.
- Nick | Google Review
4. Bar Nun Denver
Website: https://barnundenver.com/
Address: 1225 Logan St
Contact: (720) 532-0757
Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 2:00 PM – 2:00 AM
- Friday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM
Sometimes you just want a gritty rock-and-roll aesthetic paired with some excellent drinks. Bar Nun Denver delivers a fantastic neighborhood vibe, along with an entertainment schedule featuring trivia and live music.
For instance, I caught a local DJ set here last Friday, and the energy was really fantastic. It seems you can always count on a fun, active crowd here any night of the week.
They also stand out from typical dive bars by serving fresh artisan pizzas alongside themed signature cocktails. You can easily customize your food to suit your cravings, though the kitchen maintains a niche menu focused on pizzas and sandwiches.
They also pour a great variety of draft beers and canned options for everyone to enjoy. It’s the perfect place to relax!
They were so welcoming
James and Josiah were so welcoming at the door had my drink on the fly dirty martini. And yes, I cannot forget the taco pizza was the best! Thank you, James for your recommendation. I will definitely recommend this place to anybody.
- C O | Google Review
Best espresso martini I’ve had in Denver!
Best espresso martini I’ve had in Denver! I also love the waffle fries and the pickle shots. I appreciate that the staff really looks out for their patrons. It’s a place I’ve felt very safe going alone over the past few years.
- Kristin Nathan | Google Review
5. The WildCompany logo here
Website: http://www.thewilddenver.com/
Address: 1660 Wynkoop St, Suite 100
Contact: [email protected]
Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Finding a place that transitions perfectly from morning coffee to evening cocktails is surprisingly rare. The Wild excels at both by partnering with a local roaster by day and curating a premium spirit list by night.
Since it sits directly across from Union Station, it’s incredibly convenient for commuters. You can enjoy a well-made drink here after touring local breweries without worrying about driving.
They offer an exceptional all-day happy hour on Sundays and Mondays, providing massive value for patrons. They also offer a reliable all-day menu to go with any drink you want.
Just keep in mind that they close early on Sundays at 7:00 PM, which might affect your late-weekend plans. However, the flexible atmosphere works well for morning business meetings or casual evening dates.
Easy to say that we had a good time
We went in the morning and got toast and jam, little latte, and a mimosa to start our day! We can tell the atmosphere here is really nice definitely during cocktail hours but we couldn’t make it. Easy to say that we had a good time though!
- Tim | Google Review
Cocktails? Spectacular
I love this spot! The staff are friendly and attentive. The food is DELICIOUS! The bread? To die for. Pastries? Perfect. Cocktails? Spectacular. And the prices? Unreal. I dare you to find a cocktail that is just as good for less than $18 in the area.
If you haven’t been in, I absolutely suggest it.
- Meghan White | Google Review
