Denver, Colorado, is well-known for its active outdoor lifestyle and adventures in the nearby Rocky Mountains. However, the Mile High City also boasts a lively nightlife scene catering to all tastes and budgets. From historic dive bars to glitzy cocktail lounges, Denver’s nightlife offers something for everyone.
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Visitors can enjoy local music and comedy shows, with top artists passing through intimate venues. Districts like LoDo and Larimer Square also provide concentrated nightlife, with late-night dining and entertainment options around every corner.
With activities ranging from upscale speakeasies to rowdy country line dancing bars, Denver provides unique nightlife experiences not found in many cities. The friendly, laidback vibe also makes meeting locals and fellow travelers easy while enjoying the city after dark. Keep reading to find out more in our Denver nightlife guide.
TL;DR
- Denver has an eclectic nightlife scene spanning dive bars, music venues, comedy clubs, and more
- Historic districts LoDo and Larimer Square are nightlife hotspots
- Visitors can enjoy local music, comedy, dining, and entertainment into the late hours
Local Experiences and Culture
While taking in Denver‘s nightlife, visitors can also immerse themselves in local arts, culture, and traditions. Many venues showcase Colorado musicians, supporting the local creative community. Various street fairs and cultural events, like art walks displaying works from area talent, also occur at night.
Visitors can also interact with locals by chatting at bars or joining in line dancing at certain country-themed venues. By night, laidback yet lively Denver offers the chance to meet fellow night owls while enjoying everything from local craft beer to homegrown music acts.
Denver Music Scene
One major highlight of Denver nightlife is the vibrant local music scene. Venues like the Bluebird Theater, Ogden Theatre, and Gothic Theatre host national indie acts in intimate settings almost nightly. Many bars and clubs also showcase Denver musicians ranging from rock to funk to bluegrass.
In summer, free concert series like Levitt Pavilion and Denver Botanic Gardens fill the calendar with live music under the stars. From jazz brunches to late-night jam sessions, visitors can easily immerse themselves in Denver’s diverse music scene after dark.
Bars and Nightlife
When it comes to drinking and revelry, Denver offers bars for all tastes and budgets. LoDo (Lower Downtown) features rowdy sports bars and casual pubs perfect for grabbing a drink before Colorado Rockies and Denver Broncos games at nearby stadiums. Just a few blocks away, Larimer Square and central downtown host classier cocktail bars and upscale lounges packed with young professionals and visitors.
Beer lovers also have hundreds of craft breweries and taprooms to explore, many with late hours and vibrant nightlife scenes. From dive bars hosting shows to rooftop patios overlooking the city, Denver’s bars accommodate any style of night out.
Unique Nightlife Experiences
In addition to music and drinking, Denver nightlife offers unexpected and quirky experiences. Comedy Works downtown hosts A-list standup acts in a swanky basement venue. For improv and interactive shows, the Bovine Metropolis Theater on Larimer Square keeps crowds roaring with laughter.
Various themed events also provide unique nightlife entertainment. Howl at the Moon bar near LoDo hosts raucous dueling piano shows into the early hours. The popular Disco Pig dance party takes place at various venues, featuring disco tunes. From over-the-top stage productions to laidback open mic nights, Denver has no shortage of one-of-a-kind nightlife.
Nightlife for Every Visitor
Denver welcomes all nightlife seekers, with venues to suit families, professionals, thrill-seekers, and everyone in between. Lower key bars like Meadowlark Bar and The Church Nightclub cater to those looking for conversation without blaring music, while upscale spots like Cruise Room serve craft cocktails in a classy art-deco setting.
For visitors wanting to dance the night away, megaclubs like Temple and Beta Nightclub stay open until 4 a.m. on weekends with DJs and pulsating light shows. Those seeking a rowdier scene can wander down Blake Street in LoDo, bar-hopping sports bars and country dance clubs. With options for every comfort level, Denver invites everyone to experience its after-dark excitement.
Nightlife Districts
Two historic districts in central Denver shine for concentrated nightlife. Larimer Square offers a wealth of restaurants, bars, comedy clubs, and music venues within a few pedestrian-friendly blocks. On weekend nights, visitors can bar hop between venues while taking in street performers and a vibrant atmosphere.
Just downhill, LoDo serves as Denver’s entertainment headquarters. Popular pre-game bars like Jackson’s get packed on game days, while megaclubs Beta, The Church, and Bar Standard draw partygoers from all over with DJs and dance floors staying open until 4 a.m. LoDo also features over 30 restaurants and bars along Blake Street alone, making it easy to enjoy Denver’s nightlife without ever getting in a car.
Union Station is another area where you’ll find great Denver nightlife spots.
Planning Your Night Out
While experiencing Denver’s premier nightlife destinations, visitors should utilize online guides and venue apps to find events and specials catering to their tastes and budgets. For instance, sites like Denver 365 list venue happenings while offering exclusive discounts. Many bars and venues host daily happy hours with food and drink deals.
Denver nightlife remains casual, but visitors should note that certain clubs and lounges enforce dress codes on weekend nights. In general, nice jeans, slacks, and dress shoes suffice at Denver venues. However, travelers should check individual websites and event details to avoid hassles.
By planning ahead and utilizing insider savings, visitors can fully experience Denver’s dynamic nightlife scene on a budget. With options ranging from laidback local bars to glittering rooftop clubs, all types of night owls can find their perfect after-hours haunt.
FAQ
Where are the best comedy clubs in Denver?
Top comedy clubs in Denver include Comedy Works Downtown, which features touring standup acts and nationally known comedians. Check out Bovine Metropolis Theater on Larimer Square for improv and interactive shows.
What is the dress code like at Denver bars and clubs?
The dress code in Denver nightlife spots remains casual, but some dance clubs and rooftop lounges enforce business casual attire or stylish looks on weekend nights. Travelers should check venue websites and event details for the latest dress code policies.
Where can visitors enjoy free live music in Denver?
Free summer concert series like Levitt Pavilion and Denver Botanic Gardens regularly host live music spanning genres like jazz, funk, rock, and bluegrass. Many downtown bars also offer free live music nights.
What is LoDo known for in Denver’s nightlife scene?
LoDo (Lower Downtown) is a premier nightlife district known for mega dance club venues staying open until 4 a.m., like Beta Nightclub and The Church. LoDo also features over 30 dining and entertainment spots along the famous Blake Street stretch.
How can visitors save money when experiencing Denver nightlife?
Take advantage of daily happy hours for food and drink specials at many bars and restaurants. Also, check sites like Denver 365 for exclusive nightlife discounts and deals. Finally, downtown venues are centrally located for bar-hopping without needing ride-shares or transportation.
