Best of Denver
Late Night Eats in Denver
Denver has no shortage of bars, but some stand out for more than just their drinks. These are the places with stories, secret entrances, wild décor, or vibes so distinctive they feel like experiences all on their own. Think Art-Deco cocktail lounges that survived Prohibition, tiki dens that whisk you to the tropics, or speakeasies hidden behind bookcases and freezer doors.
Whether you’re planning a date night that impresses, entertaining out-of-towners, or just shaking up your usual routine, this guide will lead you straight to the city’s most unique bars—spots you’ll be talking about long after the last round.
🕰 Best Historic Escape: The Cruise Room — Timeless Art‑Deco libations in Denver’s living speakeasy.
🌿 Best Plant‑Lounge: The Marigold — Sip botanical cocktails in a fairy‑lit greenhouse you can take home a succulent from.
🦜 Best Tiki Rebellion: The Electric Cure — Where punk‑style meets tropical kitsch, with rum‑heavy cocktails and wild vibes.
Denver’s most unique bars don’t just pour drinks—they offer stories, surprises, and spaces you’ll still be talking about tomorrow. From speakeasies and tiki dens to immersive art lounges, this list is the kind of guide you come back to time and again.
Bookmark it for your next night out, share it with your crew, dive into our full bar directory for even more hidden gems, and if you’re after music vibes next, check our Best Live Music Bars in Denver guide—your night is just getting started.
Denver’s unique bars go beyond good drinks — they’re all about atmosphere, storytelling, and design. Some, like The Cruise Room, transport you back to the Art Deco era, while The Marigold feels like sipping in a greenhouse filled with plants. Others, like The Electric Cure, embrace quirky themes with tiki-punk décor and rum-heavy cocktails. These venues stand out because they create an experience you can’t replicate at a standard cocktail lounge, making them destinations for both locals and visitors.
For a romantic vibe, The Cruise Room is hard to beat with its moody Art Deco design and timeless martinis. Forest Room 5 is another favorite, with cozy outdoor fire pits and rustic, nature-inspired décor. If you want something more whimsical, The Marigold offers a dreamy greenhouse atmosphere with botanical cocktails that make for a memorable evening. Each of these venues blends ambiance with craft drinks, setting the scene for conversation and connection.
Yes — Forest Room 5 is known for its outdoor seating area, complete with fire pits and eclectic, woodsy décor that feels like an urban escape. Beacon RiNo also mixes indoor and outdoor space with artistic lighting and community-driven vibes. While not every unique bar prioritizes patios, several lean into outdoor design elements, making them great choices when Denver’s weather cooperates. Checking seasonal hours is smart, since some patios are limited in colder months.
If you want a fully immersive theme, The Electric Cure delivers a tiki-punk rebellion with bold décor and over-the-top cocktails. Adrift is another staple for tiki fans, offering tropical vibes and Polynesian-inspired drinks. For something more eclectic, Mockingbird brings theatrical energy with quirky, retro elements. These bars lean into their themes so deeply that you feel transported — making them some of the most memorable nights out in the city.
Prices vary, but you can expect to pay $12–$16 for most cocktails, with specialty creations or large-format drinks reaching $18–$22. Venues like The Cruise Room and Death & Co may be on the higher end, reflecting their reputation and craftsmanship. Others, like The Electric Cure or Forest Room 5, balance creativity with accessibility, keeping many options closer to $12. While these bars aren’t the cheapest in Denver, their immersive experiences make the cost feel worthwhile.
The Cruise Room is Denver’s historic hidden gem—the city’s oldest cocktail bar, opened the day after prohibition ended in 1933. Its timeless Art Deco vibe—complete with moody red lighting, marble floors, gilded booths, and a Queen Mary–inspired layout feels like stepping back into glamorous speakeasy days. Their classic martinis and vintage cocktails are bubble-perfect, delivered with a wink from bartenders who respect tradition. It’s where nostalgia and night-out luxury come together beautifully.
🍸 Order the Sazerac: A standout cocktail praised as one of the best in Denver, crafted by expert bartenders.
🎨 Appreciate the Art Deco Decor: The historic red lighting and vintage design create an immersive 1930s lounge experience.
🕔 Best to Visit Early or Late: The lounge can get crowded; visiting early evening or closer to closing can help find seating easily.
🏨 Located Inside The Oxford Hotel: Perfect for hotel guests or those wanting an elegant downtown cocktail in a historic setting.
Part immersive art bar, part dance floor, The Beacon turns live music into a performative experience. With ebony‑cloud ceiling installations, art-driven décor, and DJs who lean deep into local talent, it’s an aesthetic-forward venue that doubles as a creative stage. It’s less about “sit down for a set” and more about dancing under art—and discovering peers in Denver’s creative DJ scene.
🎟️ Early Arrival for Best Spots: Arrive before 7 PM on weekends to secure seating and avoid cover charges on Sundays.
🍹 Happy Hour Highlights: Take advantage of happy hours from 6–8 PM midweek and 5–8 PM on weekends for discounted drinks.
🎶 Live Music Nights: Check the event schedule as live performances are a core part of the vibe, offering unique experiences each night.
🅿️ Parking Tips: While free street parking is available, finding a spot can be challenging, so plan to arrive early or use rideshare options.
🍸 Ask for Bartender Specials: The bartenders Shane and Kaci craft unique cocktails beyond the menu; try their Burro Tropical for a tropical delight.
🎉 Happy Hour Advantage: Daily from 4 PM to 8 PM, enjoy excellent drink deals and a lively crowd without waiting.
🌮 Nachos Are a Must-Try: Their fresh and flavorful nachos pair perfectly with mezcal drinks for an authentic Mexican taste.
🚪 Arrive Early on Fridays and Saturdays: Kickoff your evening around 4 PM to beat the peak crowd and enjoy relaxed seating.
Forest Room 5 feels like a mountain cabin hidden in the city. The eclectic patio has firepits, teepees, and quirky sculptures, while inside is cozy and art-filled. It’s less about flawless cocktails and more about vibe—rustic, laid-back, and just a little eccentric. Perfect for casual hangs, creative dates, or anyone who wants a bar that feels like a hidden campsite on Colfax. It’s weird in the best possible way, and totally Denver.
🔥 Outdoor Fire Pits Are a Must: Guests love gathering around the cozy fire pits on the patio, perfect for chilly evenings.
🍸 Order Direct at Bar: To avoid wait times, ordering drinks directly at the bar is recommended over table service.
🎶 Live Music Enhances Vibe: Check out nights with live music or performances to experience the full Forest Room 5 energy.
🎟️ Bring Cash for Vending: The quirky vending machine inside offers fun surprises but only accepts cash.
Edgewater’s Electric Cure is tiki through a punk lens: tropical kitsch meets heavy-metal playlists. The décor is cheeky, the drinks come strong and rum-forward, and the atmosphere is intentionally over-the-top. It’s not trying to be polished—it’s trying to be fun. Expect bright lights, wild cocktails, and a crowd that knows how to party. If you like your tiki bars with a side of rebellion, this is one of Denver’s most entertaining spots.
🍹 Early Evenings Are Best: Arriving right when the bar opens on Sundays or weekdays offers a chill vibe and quick service before it gets crowded.
🎃 Seasonal Menus Shine: Their Halloween and other seasonal cocktails stand out for unique flavor and presentation, perfect for special visits.
🚗 Street Parking Advantage: Plenty of free street parking nearby, but weekend nights can get busy, so plan accordingly.
♿ Full Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, and restrooms ensure an inclusive experience for all guests.
This Cole neighborhood bar has earned national acclaim by refusing to take itself too seriously. Yacht Club is an “anti-club club,” where you can order a natural wine, a hot dog, and a meticulously crafted cocktail in the same sitting. The staff is friendly, the playlists are eclectic, and the energy is come-as-you-are. Despite its laid-back feel, it’s landed on North America’s 50 Best Bars list, proving fun and excellence can coexist.
🍸 Sip the Seasonal Specials: Bartenders craft uniquely complex cocktails like the Lipton Cup and Laughing Bones, perfect for adventurous palates.
🌭 Hot Dog Novelties: Try the caviar dog served in a dinosaur-shaped bun for a fun and tasty twist.
🎧 Music & Vibe Matter: DJ Coleman’s exquisite music taste elevates the ambiance, making it ideal for a night out with friends.
⏰ Arrive Early: Seating is limited; early visits help avoid waits, especially on weekends and busy nights.
Death & Co is Denver’s glamorous answer to craft cocktails, set in The Ramble Hotel’s grand lobby with chandeliers and plush sofas. Their team serves impeccably creative seasonal drinks and the rooftop Garden bar adds lush, leafy vibes when the season’s right. With world-class bartenders, cozy nooks, and multiple atmospheres—all under one roof—it’s where locals treat themselves to a night that feels both elevated and familiar.
🍸 Expert Bartenders Tailor Your Experience: Servers like Eli and Jordan customize cocktails expertly, enhancing your visit with personalized recommendations.
🎉 Ideal For Celebrations: Many patrons return for anniversaries and special occasions, praising the welcoming staff and special touches.
♿ Full Accessibility: The bar offers wheelchair accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating, ensuring a comfortable visit for all.
🚗 Parking Tips: Street parking is available but can be challenging; plan accordingly for easier access.
Imagine stepping into a living art installation you can dance through—Mockingbird is exactly that. Hidden in RiNo, this immersive art lounge blends themed rooms inspired by Egypt, Japan, and India with pulsing EDM and DJ nights, signature cocktails, and a theatrical vibe that’s anything but typical. It’s part nightclub, part gallery, and totally sensory. For locals and visitors alike, nearly every corner is photo-worthy—and late-night revelry comes with a dose of creative awe.
🕺 Arrive Early for Best Dance Floor Access: Beat the late-night rush by arriving shortly after opening to claim prime spots on the dance floor.
🍹 Happy Hour Specials: Enjoy discounted drinks during happy hours from 6–8 PM Wed–Sun to maximize value.
🎧 Check DJ Lineup: Popular DJs like Joey B regularly perform; check event schedules to catch your favorite sets.
🚗 Parking Tips: Parking can be challenging; consider rideshare or nearby public transit options for convenience.
Union Lodge No. 1 celebrates Denver’s pre-Prohibition cocktail history. Hidden just off Champa Street, the space evokes the 1800s with flickering lamps, wooden booths, and bartenders shaking Ramos Gin Fizzes and other classic New Orleans–style drinks. It’s less about being tucked away and more about transporting you back in time, making it a must-visit for cocktail purists who appreciate the craft.
🍹 Order the Classics: The bartenders shine brightest crafting classic cocktails like the Gin Fizz and Widow’s Kiss—avoid simple mixed drinks here.
🎭 Prohibition Vibes: The intimate, low-lit setting replicates a 19th-century speakeasy, perfect for a cozy night out or special occasion.
⏰ Visit Early on Weekdays: Weekday evenings, especially before 6 PM, are less crowded, ensuring quicker service and a relaxed atmosphere.
♿ Accessibility Matters: Wheelchair accessible entrance and restroom available, ensuring comfort for all guests.
South Broadway’s tiki oasis brings Polynesia to Denver with bamboo décor, colorful lanterns, and rum-heavy drinks. The vibe is pure escapism—order a punch bowl for the table, but pace yourself with the Zombies (limit two per person). The food menu leans island-inspired, making it easy to spend the night here. It’s loud, kitschy, and festive—the perfect place for group celebrations, or whenever you want a break from polished cocktail culture.
🍹 Happy Hour Heaven: Enjoy all-day happy hour on Tuesdays for great deals on tiki drinks and bites.
🛋️ Cozy Yet Trendy: The intimate lighting and island decor create a perfect romantic or group setting, with outdoor seating available.
🎶 Great Staff Vibes: Bartenders like Lina and servers such as Bill and Tess are local favorites for their excellent service and energetic personalities.
🚗 Parking Tips: Street parking is free and paid but can be challenging to find; arriving earlier on busy nights is advised.
Equal parts plant shop and cocktail lounge, The Marigold feels like stepping into a lush, modern greenhouse—with thoughtfully botanical cocktails and house plants lining every wall. Their gin-forward seasonal sips like the “Golden Hour” or “Sol Sangre” shine, especially at daily happy hour. Sip beneath the greenery, browse succulents you can leave with, or chat under fairy‑lit leaves—the vibe here is endlessly charming and uniquely Denver.
🌿 Plant Lover’s Retreat:The lush indoor plants create a unique, calming environment that locals rave about for a refreshing bar experience.
🎤 Karaoke Nights:Drop by for karaoke evenings to enjoy great music and community vibes, usually lively and well-attended.
🍹 Signature Cocktails:Try the 'Tequila Me Softly' for a local favorite cocktail that’s both affordable and expertly crafted.
🅿️ Parking Tips:Street parking is available but can be challenging; arriving early or using rideshare is recommended on busy nights.
Denver’s most unique bars don’t just pour drinks—they offer stories, surprises, and spaces you’ll still be talking about tomorrow. From speakeasies and tiki dens to immersive art lounges, this list is the kind of guide you come back to time and again.
Bookmark it for your next night out, share it with your crew, dive into our full bar directory for even more hidden gems, and if you’re after music vibes next, check our Best Live Music Bars in Denver guide—your night is just getting started.
Denver’s unique bars go beyond good drinks — they’re all about atmosphere, storytelling, and design. Some, like The Cruise Room, transport you back to the Art Deco era, while The Marigold feels like sipping in a greenhouse filled with plants. Others, like The Electric Cure, embrace quirky themes with tiki-punk décor and rum-heavy cocktails. These venues stand out because they create an experience you can’t replicate at a standard cocktail lounge, making them destinations for both locals and visitors.
For a romantic vibe, The Cruise Room is hard to beat with its moody Art Deco design and timeless martinis. Forest Room 5 is another favorite, with cozy outdoor fire pits and rustic, nature-inspired décor. If you want something more whimsical, The Marigold offers a dreamy greenhouse atmosphere with botanical cocktails that make for a memorable evening. Each of these venues blends ambiance with craft drinks, setting the scene for conversation and connection.
Yes — Forest Room 5 is known for its outdoor seating area, complete with fire pits and eclectic, woodsy décor that feels like an urban escape. Beacon RiNo also mixes indoor and outdoor space with artistic lighting and community-driven vibes. While not every unique bar prioritizes patios, several lean into outdoor design elements, making them great choices when Denver’s weather cooperates. Checking seasonal hours is smart, since some patios are limited in colder months.
If you want a fully immersive theme, The Electric Cure delivers a tiki-punk rebellion with bold décor and over-the-top cocktails. Adrift is another staple for tiki fans, offering tropical vibes and Polynesian-inspired drinks. For something more eclectic, Mockingbird brings theatrical energy with quirky, retro elements. These bars lean into their themes so deeply that you feel transported — making them some of the most memorable nights out in the city.
Prices vary, but you can expect to pay $12–$16 for most cocktails, with specialty creations or large-format drinks reaching $18–$22. Venues like The Cruise Room and Death & Co may be on the higher end, reflecting their reputation and craftsmanship. Others, like The Electric Cure or Forest Room 5, balance creativity with accessibility, keeping many options closer to $12. While these bars aren’t the cheapest in Denver, their immersive experiences make the cost feel worthwhile.
Denver’s most unique bars don’t just pour drinks—they offer stories, surprises, and spaces you’ll still be talking about tomorrow. From speakeasies and tiki dens to immersive art lounges, this list is the kind of guide you come back to time and again.
Bookmark it for your next night out, share it with your crew, dive into our full bar directory for even more hidden gems, and if you’re after music vibes next, check our Best Live Music Bars in Denver guide—your night is just getting started.
