In the last 10 years the bar scene in Denver has majorly shifted to feature many unique craft cocktail bars, full of life, visionary flavors, and wonderful atmospheres! We can't wait to share some of our favorite spots to enjoy a cocktail and take in the surroundings.

DISCLAIMER: we know Denver is a beer city (we have a brewery post coming soon just for that!) so these bars are focused more on cocktails than anything else!

#1 Room for Milly

This little spot right near the Highlands and behind Union Station crawled to the top of our list surprisingly. We went with high hopes, and the colorful walls, unique menu, kind but not overbearing service, and drinks really lived up to the hype. Cannot recommend enough if you're looking for a pretty space to enjoy a drink and feel like a very wealthy traveler.

Site here. Walk-ins encouraged.

#2 Hudson Hill

This uber-cozy and plant-filled space frequently tops our list for both a cafe and a bar, and it's pretty obvious why. They have a rotating menu, fresh cocktails, and they can mix you a drink based on your preferences. Where they really shine though, is their mocktails as well for our non-alcoholic folks. And, if you want something to balance out the booze, their food is delicious!

Website here. Go any time of day!

#3 Curio

With cocktails in the $13-$16 range, we thing they are a great deal for Denver, without sacrificing quality! Their location inside of Denver Central Market makes for a lively, loud atmosphere perfect for sipping a drink and enjoying some oysters or pizza from one of the other stalls!

Grab a drink, then keep exploring the RiNo neighborhood! Website here.

#4 Williams & Graham

We find ourselves at Williams & Graham once every other year because we often forget about this incredible speakeasy, which, to be honest, is stupid of us, because it's amazing. The speakeasy located behind a bookshelf is moody, vibey, and every single time dinner and drinks do not disappoint. We can't even recommend a favorite drink: they're all so good.

Pro tip: make a reservation!

#5 Death & Co

This awesome bar rose to fame at the start of the USA cocktail renaissance in New York, and opened their bar in our town a few years ago. Denver-specific menu items steal the show, as well as some Death & Co classics from their original NYC location (we really do love the Oaxacan Old Fashioned - how is it so good??) The elegant vibe of their location in a hotel makes it feel ultra luxurious when you sip a drink here. Tables are first come, first serve, so plan to wait. That said, if you put your name down, you can explore the street and shops around, and maybe even grab a bite to eat!

Why's it at the bottom of our list? We have a hard time giving it a top spot because it's a New York original, but we definitely have zero regrets enjoying a beverage or three here.

What bars will you explore on your trip?

Our favorite denver bars

denver date night ideas