by Jeanette Smith | Apr 7, 2026 | Denver , Exploring Denver Ghost Donkey Retrograde Adrift Tiki Bar Honey Elixir Bar 54Thirty Rooftop Candlelight Tavern Williams & Graham Retrograde Adrift Tiki Bar Honey Elixir Bar 54Thirty Rooftop Candlelight Tavern Williams & Graham Adrift Tiki Bar Honey Elixir Bar 54Thirty Rooftop Candlelight Tavern Williams & Graham Honey Elixir Bar 54Thirty Rooftop Candlelight Tavern Williams & Graham 54Thirty Rooftop Candlelight Tavern Williams & Graham Candlelight Tavern Williams & Graham Williams & Graham Denver, above all its desirable features, offers a bar scene like no other. And, it’s rooted in history. Denver was officially declared a city in November 1858. It served as a gold mining town, and the first order of business for gold mining—was to have a drink. Seriously. Beer and whiskey were a staple of early settlers’ diets because beer, a fermented drink, was safer than most of the local water. Thus, the earliest bars and saloons popped up almost overnight. Thanks to this deep history of brewing and distilling, drinking quickly became THE industry in Denver, with 23 full breweries in operation by 1892. Packed into Downtown Denver today are hundreds of bars, albeit a bit more modern than the saloons of yesteryear, ranging from the diviest of dive bars to the fanciest of cocktail emporiums. It’s easy to spend hours enjoying the best bars in Downtown Denver. Want to live within walking distance of your favorite libation hot spot? Call up AptAmigo and let us handle the apartment search. You tell us what you want, and we find it for you! It’s that easy. Related to Best Bars in Downtown Denver: Best Apartment Views in Denver Where to Get Drinks in Downtown Denver Address: 1750 Wewatta St, Suite 140, Denver, CO 80202 Neighborhood: LoDo Go Here If: You want to experience Mexican hospitality and libations… Located on the ground floor of The Coloradan residences, right next to Denver Union Station, this lively bar is a hotspot for everything Mexican-inspired. The first Ghost Donkey was founded in New York. After winning awards, they opened locations in Las Vegas and New Zealand. The bar boasts the largest selection of mezcal and tequila in the Denver area, and that’s no surprise from the looks of their bar menu and shelves. Alongside your drinks, you can enjoy their simple selection of nachos and tacos . Our Favorite Drink: Wildflower Paloma (Altos Plata, Lime, Grapefruit Soda, Hibiscus, Petal Salt) Address: 530 E 19th Ave, Denver, CO 80203 Neighborhood: Uptown Go Here If: You want a 1920s speakeasy vibe… You might need to put “Sweet Action” in your GPS because that’s the business you arrive at when you pull up to Retrograde Bar . But, if you’re in on the secret, then you’ll get in on their delicious menu . It’s simple. Head past the counter to the freezer and flip on the light. One of their amazing staff will meet you and prepare your seats before bringing you back to them. It’s a seated-only bar to ensure that each guest enjoys their experience fully. All-in-all, you can’t go wrong with a trip back in time at Retrograde Bar. Open 5pm to 12pm, Sunday through Thursday, and 5pm to 1am, Friday and Saturday. Our Favorite Drink: Space Ninjas (Ambrosia, Pineapple, Curaçao, Luxardo, Banane, Miso Caramel, and Cream) Adrift Tiki Bar Address: 218 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80209 Neighborhood: Baker Go Here If: You crave a vacation but are on a budget… Take a quick trip to the islands when you visit Adrift Tiki Bar . This tropical-themed bar features a not-too-sweet menu of drinks and delicious Caribbean and Polynesian foods . They highly recommend reservations for indoor seating. Otherwise, you can get first-come, first-seated service at their bar and patio tables (weather permitting). Happy hour is all day on Tiki Tuesday, from 5pm to 7pm on Wednesday and Thursday, and from 4pm to 6pm on Friday and Saturday. The bar is closed Sundays and Mondays. Our Favorite Drink: Painkiller* (Pusser’s Rum, Lemon Hart 151, Pineapple Juice, Orange Juices, and House-Made Coconut Cream) *It’s delicious, but don’t drink this and plan to drive. Honey Elixir Bar Address: 2636 Walnut St #104, Denver, CO 80205 Neighborhood: RiNo Go Here If: You want a non-alcoholic experience that isn’t an afterthought… Each drink at Honey Elixir Bar is designed to give guests “a full sensory experience of health, connection, and rejuvenation.” From their magical Potions menu of non-alcoholic options, to their seasonal cocktails made of high-quality spirits, this bar has a drink for everyone . Especially if you’re up for a new experience. A select few cocktails feature a fermented alcohol known as Jun, which is supplied by two local Master Jun Brewers. It’s definitely worth a try! Just remember, they’re closed Monday and Tuesday. Our Favorite Drink: Lings Wholly Spirit (Jun, Tulsi, Gynostemma, Passionflower, Blue Lotus, Reishi, Rosehips) 54Thirty Rooftop Address: 1475 California St, Denver, CO 80202 Neighborhood: Central Business District Go Here If: You want to impress with a skyline view… Dress in your finest and make your way to 54Thirty Rooftop Bar . This open-air space is located on the 20th floor of Le Méridien hotel in the heart of downtown Denver. Seating here comes with a blazing fire pit to keep you warm on those chilly Denver nights (the bar IS open year-round). Their food menu changes seasonally, but their amazing drink menu is filled with long-lasting classics. Hotel guests are prioritized, but outside guests can join the waitlist for their chance to enter too. Our Favorite Drink: Rooftop Garden (Gunpowder Gin, Genepi, Matcha, Lime, Celery Shrub) Candlelight Tavern Address: 383 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80209 Neighborhood: Speer Go Here If: You want the deepest of dive bars… Candlelight Tavern proudly boasts of its status as the best dive bar in Denver—and they’re right. With greasy grub, bargain drinks, sports on the television, and bar games galore, you’ll find a friendly, hometown atmosphere here. Patrons rave about the food (particularly the burgers). But don’t expect any fancy concoctions here. Drinks are simple and cheap. And, you can be a regular anytime because they’re open 365 days a year. Our Favorite Drink: Shots, shots, shots, shots, shots! Williams & Graham Address: 3160 Tejon St, Denver, CO 80211 Neighborhood: LoHi Go Here If: You want to appreciate the art of cocktail making… Yep, it’s another speakeasy option, this time housed in an old corner bookstore. But the real draw at Williams & Graham is the drinks. With knowledgeable bartenders and the highest quality ingredients, this bar wins awards and is a very popular place to get the best drinks in Denver. They feature over 500 bottles of unique spirits from around the world. And, their bespoke cocktail menu showcases their creative flair (especially with their non-alcoholic drinks), as does the choice of foods on their decadent menu. Make a reservation or come early, and expect to wait for a spot. The bar is open from 5pm to 1am daily. They are also open for private parties of 50 guests or fewer. Our Favorite Drink: Angel’s Manhattan (Angel’s Envy Rye, Carpano Antica Sweet Vermouth, Angostura Bitters) Continue your Denver adventure with a trip to the city’s top distilleries , or a scenic drive . Live Near the Best Bars in Downtown Denver Whether it’s a relaxing hole-in-the-wall bar where you can become a regular, or a fancy bar to get dressed up for with the ladies or fellas, Denver has an excellent option for you. And, right next door you might find the perfect option for your next apartment. We take all your needs into account—bar preference included. Just tell us what you want (like great views ), and our team of expert apartment locators curate a bespoke list for you to choose from. We’ll help set up tours and support you all the way through signing a lease and beyond. Give us a call if you want to live near one of the best bars in Downtown Denver. * The original version of this article was first published on November 16, 2022. Jeanette Smith is a writer, editor, and freelancer based in Dallas, Texas. Find out more at JeanettetheWriter.com . AptAmigo has a simple goal: to make finding an apartment easy and maybe even a little fun. With concierge-level care and an expert understanding of our local rental markets, we’re more than your average apartment website. We’re perfecting done-for-you apartment searching, and we’re doing it all for free. Reach out to us today and start your VIP apartment search. Best Bars in Uptown, Denver Denver , Exploring Denver From the century-old Denver Zoo, to the largest green space in Denver, City Park, Uptown Denver will keep any resident or visitor busy. Bars in... Denver Apartment Spotlight: One19 Cherry Creek Denver , Denver Apartment Search Located less than five miles from downtown Denver, One19 Cherry Creek is situated in the posh Cherry Creek neighborhood with convenient access to upper-end shopping and dining. Built for people who prefer a homey, community vibe, all 36 luxury residences in this new, 3-story “condo-grade rental community” are unique. Best Denver High-Rise Apartments Denver , Denver Apartment Search

Are you new to the area, or just looking to mix it up with a move? Whether you are just starting to search for luxury apartments in Denver or have... Denver Apartment Spotlight: AMLI RiNo Denver , Denver Apartment Search The newly built AMLI RiNo’s footprint spans both sides of the street and reaches 7 stories high. It is conveniently located near the South Platte River trails, with easy access to I-25 and within a few miles of downtown Denver. This luxury apartment complex was designed for LEED Gold® certification, which means residents can expect a smoke-free community, lower utility bills, and a “healthier lifestyle.” Denver Apartment Spotlight: Modera West Wash Park Denver , Denver Apartment Search If you prefer to live in a neighborhood with great access to shopping and parks, consider settling down at Modera West Wash Park. This property prides itself on its “bespoke, high-quality attention to detail” and offers luxury living and community spaces a short distance from both downtown Denver and the Colorado Rockies. Best Restaurants in Capitol Hill, Denver Denver , Exploring Denver If you want unlimited access to the majority of Denver, then Capitol Hill may just be the neighborhood for you. It’s centrally located and... Denver Apartment Spotlight: Traverse Apartments Denver , Denver Apartment Search Traverse Apartments provide an ideal setting for those who want to have the comforts of home while enjoying the adventure offered by the Colorado Rockies. According to their website, “The beauty of the suburbs and convenience of the city meld at Traverse.” With jaw-dropping mountain views on the rooftop terrace and convenient access to downtown Denver via the Sheridan Station Light Rail line, it’s a perfect location to enjoy life just outside of the city. Exploring Denver: Best LoDo Restaurants Denver , Exploring Denver Combining grand turn-of-the-century architecture with a vibrant social scene, LoDo (Lower Downtown) is one of the most appealing neighborhoods in... Denver Apartment Spotlight: Mercer Union Station Denver , Denver Apartment Search Mercer Union Station calls itself “Central to an epic story” because of its downtown location, luxury design, and desirable amenities. It sits within walking distance of food, drinks, and attractions in a lively spot with the easiest access to transportation anywhere in the city. As far as how it looks and feels, this building provides “just enough industrial edge to create a unique wow factor, balanced with the warmth of rich woods and cozy, bespoke touches,” according to their website. Denver Apartment Spotlight: Marieta Denver , Denver Apartment Search Marieta frames Uptown living around the idea that “comfort comes naturally,” pairing a refined design approach with a location close to Capitol Hill, neighborhood dining, and everyday errands. Denver Apartment Spotlight: Novel Uptown Denver , Denver Apartment Search Novel Uptown is a new 10-story, 261-unit luxury apartment community that artfully blends Uptown Denver’s historic charm with modern design. Denver Apartment Spotlight: The Dorsey Denver , Denver Apartment Search Address: 600 Park Ave W, Denver, CO 80205 Neighborhood: Five Points Price for a 1-Bedroom Apartment: $2,000-$2,850/month Search available apartments... Denver Grocery Delivery Denver , Exploring Denver Denver Grocery Delivery has shifted from a pandemic convenience to an everyday luxury for busy professionals, growing families, and anyone who would... Denver Startups Denver , Exploring Denver Denver’s strong startup culture and abundant funding opportunities make it an ideal place to find support for new ventures. In addition, many Denver... Companies Headquartered in Denver Denver , Exploring Denver TL;DR – Denver is home to major employers across tech, healthcare, finance, food and beverage, higher education, and startups, making it a strong... Best Luxury Riverfront Park Apartments in Denver Denver , Denver Apartment Search If you want a lot of living packed into a small area, then you need to live in Denver’s Riverfront Park community. This tiny sliver of a... Best Sports Bars in Denver Denver , Exploring Denver In Denver and looking to catch a game? Or, maybe you’re thinking about making the big move to Colorado and wondering if the Mile-High City offers a... Denver , Exploring Denver TL;DR – Weird Denver attractions give visitors and locals a more offbeat way to explore the Mile High City beyond the usual mountain views,... Things to Do in RiNo, Denver Denver , Exploring Denver Denver’s River North, or RiNo, art district is regularly viewed as an artist’s paradise, exhibiting the perfect combination of urban vibrancy and... Finding Community in a New City: How to Meet People in Denver Denver , Denver Apartment Search Moving to a new city can be both exciting and daunting. You may feel overwhelmed navigating a new environment, with no friends or family to rely on,... Best Luxury Apartments in LoHi, Denver Denver , Denver Apartment Search So, you want to live in LoHi, Denver? We don't blame you. From Denver's beer scene to LoHi's ever-cool Avanti Food Hall, the city's incredible job... Things to Do in Downtown Denver at Night Denver , Exploring Denver Known as the mile-high city, Denver is a town constantly appearing on lists of best places to live in the U.S. Access to the outdoors, a great beer... Best Places to Live in Denver for Singles Denver , Denver Apartment Search Is Denver a Good Place to Live for Singles? Are you single and ready to mingle? The Mile-High City serves up the perfect blend of dating... Denver Apartment Spotlight: Juniper on Main Denver , Denver Apartment Search Juniper on Main sets “a new standard for urban living in Colorado” while providing a “close-knit community for creatives and explorers” in downtown Parker. Exploring Denver: Best Restaurants in Downtown Denver , Exploring Denver Find the Best Restaurants in Downtown Denver Whether it’s a fancy, five-star establishment or a hometown, divey diner, Denver’s Downtown restaurant... Best Day Trips from Denver Denver , Exploring Denver Ahhh, Denver. It’s an amazing city with so much to offer. But, despite the beautiful street art, coffee shops, distilleries, and other... Best Dog Parks in Denver Denver , Exploring Denver Denver is a dog-friendly city—seriously dog-friendly. Zillow and Rover name it in the top 15 fastest growing cities for pet populations. Rover says... AptAmigo has a simple goal: to make finding an apartment easy and maybe even a little fun. With concierge-level care and an expert understanding of our local rental markets, we’re more than your average apartment website. We’re perfecting done-for-you apartment searching, and we’re doing it all for free. Reach out to us today and start your VIP apartment search.