Did you know that Speakeasies were called that (speak-easies) as during the Prohibition era secret codes were spoken to gain access to such drinking joints and patrons were told to ‘speak easy’ about the bars in public. With the Prohibition lasting an additional four years in CO, it is only fitting that we have some of the best and longest living speakeasies in the nation. Check out the list of these hidden bars in Denver in this post.
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B&GC
This hidden gem in Cherry Creek was revived from the ruins of the old Cherry Creek Post Office. To find the entrance, you will meed to walk down the alley between 2nd and 3rd Ave and look for a door on your left that has a golden doorbell. It can be hard to find as the door looks like a typical back stairwell entrance of most buildings in the area.
Once you’re in, you get escorted down to the basement, past the generators and into this amazing oasis.
They offer a unique selection of handcrafted drinks, that often come with a story of their origination and even offer small bites on their extensive menu.
PROs Tips:
- To make a reservation text 720.925.8598 with the date, time and number of people in your group.
- Note that they are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Cooper Lounge
Cooper’s Lounge is situated in the mezzanine of Denver Union Station. You will be escorted past the velvet rope to the lounge upstairs that offers high-end cocktails, an extensive wine list, and an exquisite menu paired with the stunning views of downtown and Union Station’s Great Hall.
PRO Tip: Reservations can be made by calling 720.460.3738, or directly online.
Cruise Room
The Cruise Room is Denver’s longest running bar, born the day after the Prohibition’s repeal in 1933. Situated in the Oxford Hotel, you can access it via the hotel or the back entrance of Urban Farmer.
The bar has a unique red glow and showcases a wide array of vintage design features.
PRO Tips:
- Be sure not to miss their famous Martini.
- Note that they do not currently accept reservations… Walk-ins are welcome!
Luci’s Shambles and Provisions
The only rule Luci’s likes to enforce is “Don’t be a jerk”. Other than that, you are invited to be who you are, or who you want to be at this amazing “Dungeon”.
Their menu offers, unique libations, shots, classics and even non-alcoholic mixtures.
PRO Tips:
- Check out their website for events happening at their dungeon.
- Late night happy hour is from midnight until close (2am).
- Note that they are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Millers & Rossi
Millers & Rossi offers an upscale, out-of-the-ordinary experience, located in the downtown area, right in the heart of the blossoming RiNo Arts District.
The Ohana Room, where you enter, is a tiki bar with tropical drinks and bites of delicious food. After getting warmed up in the Ohana Room, you can walk into their lounge, where Edison lighting, chef’s elegant small bites, handcrafted cocktails, and adventure await.
PRO Tips:
- Make reservations online.
- Available for private parties.
Peaks Lounge
Enjoy breathtaking views of downtown Denver, Colorado and the surrounding Rocky Mountains from the 27th (top) floor of the Hyatt Regency Denver.
Whether you’re a guest of Hyatt Regency Denver or live in the Mile High City, you’ll find this unique spot the perfect place to sit back and enjoy the view.
PRO Tip: Plan your visit to Peaks Lounge around sunset to take the view to the next level. Their floor-to-ceiling windows give you an unreal view from this vantage point.
Retrograde
Take your pick of many flavor ice creams available at Sweet Action and then head to the back where behind the freezer door awaits Retrograde! How unique!!
Unique cocktails are available from 5pm until late everyday.
PRO Tip: There is limited seating and as such parties are limited to a maximum of five people and operate on a first come, first serve basis.
Reynard Social
Reynard Social is a lively lounge overlooking the Rocky Mountains, 16th Street Mall and the Denver skyline in the LoDo neighborhood, offering a variety of drinks and bites.
PRO Tips:
- Note that they are closed on Mondays and Sundays.
- You can book their venue out for private events.
Run For The Roses
Run For The Roses is an underground lair with an unassuming entrance at Dairy Block. Enter Dairy Block alley from 18th Street and look for a set of stairs on your right.
The bar is decorated with hints of superstition and luck and serves classic libations, handcrafted cocktails and vintage spirits, along with parlor snacks.
PRO Tips:
- Open Thursdays through Sunday nights.
- Make a reservation online today.
Williams & Graham
Head into the bookstore, provide your name and in time one of the bookcases will swing open, revealing the hidden bar with only seven tables.
W&G features an original cocktail menu with over 60 classic cocktails that have stood the test of time, some up to two hundred years old. Their bartenders can also create a bespoke cocktail based on your tastes, preferences, and current mood. The spirits selection at W&G features over five hundred bottles from all around the world.
Their chefs maintain an imaginative and ever-changing menu that includes hors d’oeuvres, shared plates, entrees, and desserts. A few perennial favorites like their Bone Marrow and the award-winning W&G Burger lay the foundation for a delicious menu of seasonal dishes.
PRO Tips:
- Open from 5pm to 1am daily.
- Reservations can be made online.