If you're in Denver and looking to drink like it’s the Roaring ‘20s, you've hit the jackpot. Speakeasies are all the rage in the Mile-High City, and they serve up more than just drinks—they’re a whole vibe.
From dimly lit corners with vintage decor to expertly crafted cocktails that would make Gatsby jealous, Denver's underground bars bring Prohibition-era style with a modern twist. These hidden gems are tucked behind unassuming doors, down dark alleys, and even disguised as old-timey shops.
The best part? They offer a unique throwback experience with killer craft cocktails to match. In this guide, you’ll get the lowdown on Denver’s best speakeasies. We’ll uncover their hidden entrances, highlight their most creative concoctions, and set the scene for your next night out. Let's raise a glass to a little mystery and a lot of flavor.
What Are the Different Types of Speakeasy Bars in Denver?
Denver’s speakeasy scene is as diverse as its cocktail menus. You’ll find a mix of intimate hideaways, lavish lounges, and quirky-themed spots. Depending on where you go, you might find secret rooms, live performances, or even interactive experiences to keep you entertained long after your first sip.
Some bars embrace the classic Prohibition vibe, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. These spots often have vintage decor, such as red velvet booths, exposed brick, and chandeliers. Bartenders dress the part, shaking up traditional cocktails like Sidecars and Manhattans, while jazz or blues in the background sets the perfect mood.
Conversely, some speakeasies have a more modern, minimalist edge. You might find these hidden behind a nondescript door, with sleek, simple interiors that still ooze a cool, underground vibe. These spots focus more on the drinks than the decor, often experimenting with creative, Instagram-worthy cocktails that push the boundaries of mixology.
Then there are the themed speakeasies, where the entrance is part of the adventure. Some are hidden behind bookcases or outside functional businesses, like barbershops or ice cream parlors. These quirky spots offer a playful take on the speakeasy concept, blending fun and mystery with top-notch drinks.
The Best Speakeasy in Denver: Our Top Five Picks
When it comes to finding the best speakeasies in Denver, we’ve done the legwork for you. Our top five picks were selected based on unique atmospheres, creative cocktail menus, and overall guest experiences. Each speakeasy on our list offers a distinct charm, ensuring you’ll find the perfect spot to enjoy a night out in Denver’s vibrant underground bar scene.
So, let’s explore our curated selection and discover the best speakeasy experiences the Mile-High City has to offer.
1. Williams & Graham
Image sourced from https://williamsandgraham.com/
Williams & Graham is a must-visit Denver speakeasy, cleverly hidden behind a corner bookstore facade. The entry itself is an experience, and the hidden door behind the bookstore’s shelves adds to the speakeasy’s mystique. Reservations are strongly recommended due to limited seating, and while there may be a wait, the unique vibe makes it worth it.
Step inside, and you’re greeted by bookshelves concealing the entrance to a dimly lit, vintage-inspired bar. The ambiance feels intimate and mysterious, with rich wooden accents and a strict no-standing policy, ensuring a relaxed, cozy atmosphere.
The menu balances classic comfort with creative flair. Try the Bone Marrow "luge," where whiskey or sherry is poured down the hollow bone after enjoying the marrow. Other popular dishes include Deviled Eggs, French Onion Soup, and the highly praised W&G Classic Burger.
Don’t forget the cocktails! Williams & Graham’s extensive selection of over 500 spirits means you can choose from an impressive lineup of more than 60 classic cocktails or opt for a bespoke creation tailored to your taste.
2. The Cruise Room
Image sourced from: https://www.theoxfordhotel.com/eat-drink/the-cruise-room
- Hours: Weeknights 5pm - 10pm; Friday and Saturday: 5pm - 12am
- Website: https://www.theoxfordhotel.com/eat-drink/the-cruise-room
- Phone Number: 303-825-1107
- Reservations Policy: No Reservations
- Address: The Oxford Hotel, 1600 17th St, Denver, CO 80202
- Open in Google Maps
The Cruise Room, located within the historic Oxford Hotel, is a beloved Denver speakeasy that takes you back to the 1930s. Unlike many speakeasies, there are no secret doors or passwords here—just walk through the hotel and enter a bar rich in history and character. The bar's Art Deco design, with its bold red lighting and curved walls, adds to its unique charm.
Known for its expertly crafted cocktails, the menu here leans heavily on the classics. Their martinis are a crowd favorite, often hailed as some of the best in Denver. The cocktail menu features a mix of timeless drinks and inventive creations like brown butter-infused bourbon and lavender foam.
For those wanting a bite to eat, the small plates are designed to complement the drinks without stealing the spotlight, making it easy to enjoy a light snack while sipping your favorite cocktail. The vibe here is intimate and inviting, perfect for a romantic date night or a casual gathering with friends.
Live jazz music often adds an extra touch of sophistication, enhancing the overall experience. While no reservations are required, this joint tends to get busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early is a smart idea if you want to snag a good spot.
3. Run for the Roses
- Hours: Tuesday - Thursday: 5pm - 12am; Friday and Saturday: 5pm - 1am
- Website: https://dairyblock.com/restaurants/run-for-the-roses/
- Phone Number: 720-573-9155
- Reservations Policy: No Reservations
- Address: 1801 Blake St #10, Denver, CO 80202
- Open in Google Maps
Run For The Roses, an underground speakeasy beneath Denver's Dairy Block, brings a touch of Kentucky Derby flair to LoDo. This hidden gem embraces the elegance of classic cocktail clubs, offering an intimate yet lively atmosphere perfect for socializing.
Look for a discreet door with a red neon "Cocktails" sign in a back alley to find this hidden speakeasy. A painted string of roses guides you to the entrance, where you’ll take an elevator down to the basement. After checking in at a betting window-like station, you're ready for an unforgettable experience.
The cocktail menu here is a playful adventure. In addition to their standard offerings, guests can explore a deck of playing cards with 52 additional cocktail options. There's something for everyone, from timeless classics like the Last Word, Vesper, and Sidecar to creative drinks made with rare spirits.
The space itself is cozy yet vibrant, with exposed ceilings, brick walls, and plush seating that nods to horse racing without being over the top. It’s the perfect spot for a date or a night out with friends. The vibe is lively, and the background music never overpowers the conversation, allowing you to enjoy the ambiance and your drinks fully.
4. B&GC
- Hours: Weekdays 6pm - 10pm; Friday and Saturday: 5pm - 12am
- Website: https://bandgcdenver.com/
- Phone Number: 720-925-8598
- Reservations Policy: Online and Walk-Ins
- Address: 249 Columbine St, Denver, CO 80206
- Open in Google Maps
B&GC, tucked away in Denver’s Cherry Creek neighborhood, offers a refined speakeasy experience within the Halcyon Hotel. Reservations are encouraged via text starting at 3 pm on the day of your visit, but you can still walk in and snag a spot or two.
Finding it is half the fun—look for an unmarked door in an alley between Second and Third Avenue, marked only by a golden doorbell. Once you ring, you’ll be discreetly led through a hallway to a sleek, intimate bar area that feels like a well-kept secret.
B&GC’s cocktail menu is designed for those who appreciate craftsmanship. Along with specialty drinks like the Distant Lover and Sakura Sour, you can opt for the "Dealer's Choice," where the bartender crafts a custom cocktail based on your preferences.
The menu also includes a thoughtful selection of small plates and desserts, all curated to complement the cocktails.
The ambiance is elegant and intimate, with post-World War II decor, plush seating, and a bar area accommodating just 44 guests. The service is top-notch, with attentive staff eager to guide you through the menu. Whether you're out for a special occasion or a casual evening, B&GC's cozy, exclusive vibe stands out in Denver’s speakeasy scene.
5. Retrograde
Image sourced from: https://retrogradednvr.square.site/
- Hours: Wednesday - Sunday: 5pm - 12am; Thursday - Saturday: 5pm - 1am
- Website: https://retrogradednvr.square.site/
- Phone Number: 720-994-5210
- Reservations Policy: Online and Walk-Ins
- Address: 530 E 19th Ave, Denver, CO 80203
- Open in Google Maps
Retrograde is a quirky, space-themed speakeasy hidden behind Sweet Action, an ice cream shop in Denver. To find the entrance, head to the back of the shop and look for a freezer door. Flip the light switch next to it, and wait for a staff member to let you in. It’s a playful touch that adds a sense of mystery to the experience.
Once inside, Retrograde treats you to a mid-century modern space infused with futuristic elements. The intimate setting, with dim lighting and eclectic decor, only accommodates around 20 guests, creating a cozy, vibrant atmosphere. You might even catch a retro movie playing on the wall, adding to the bar’s unique vibe.
The cocktail menu leans into its fun alien theme, featuring drinks like My Alien Girlfriend and Galaxy Lords—visually striking and expertly crafted. Along with these imaginative offerings, there are classic cocktails for those seeking something more familiar, ensuring there's something for every taste.
Retrograde’s charm lies in its whimsical, intimate environment and creatively themed drinks, making it a must-visit for anyone looking for an out-of-this-world speakeasy experience in Denver. However, note that the bar operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is a good idea, especially if you’re in a larger group.
How to Find a New Speakeasy in Denver?
Finding a new speakeasy in Denver can feel like cracking a code—and that’s part of the fun! These hidden bars are often tucked away behind secret doors, so they don’t exactly advertise their presence with neon signs.
The best way to stay in the loop? Keep your ear to the ground with resources like Speakeasy Co.’s guides. They keep you updated on the latest openings, whether it’s a bar hidden in a coffee shop or a new spot with a quirky entrance you wouldn’t expect. Subscribing to their updates is like having a personal guide to Denver’s underground scene.
Beyond that, word of mouth is another great way to stay ahead of the curve. Many speakeasies rely on their mystique, so they often open quietly and let the buzz build organically. Following local influencers, cocktail enthusiasts, and Denver bar scene insiders on social media can also help you discover the latest hidden gems.
If you’re a serious speakeasy hunter, keep an eye on pop-ups and collaborations, sometimes serving as a permanent location teaser. Events hosted by Denver’s top mixologists or cocktail festivals often give sneak peeks into what’s coming next.
Find the Best Denver Speakeasy
Discovering the best speakeasy in Denver is mostly about personal taste and a sense of adventure. Each hidden bar offers a distinct experience, whether you crave a cozy ambiance, playful themes, or classic cocktails.
For those who enjoy a whimsical touch, some spots feature quirky cocktails and unique entrances that set the tone for an exciting night out. If you’re in the mood for elegance, look for venues that exude a classic vibe with expertly crafted drinks. Meanwhile, intimate settings and bespoke cocktail offerings are perfect for creating memorable evenings with friends.
To find your ideal speakeasy, keep an eye on local guides and social media for the latest openings and insider tips. Don’t be afraid to explore—you might stumble upon the perfect spot that matches your style.
Whether you prefer a lively atmosphere or a quiet nook, Denver’s speakeasy scene is brimming with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Embrace the thrill of the hunt, gather your friends, and enjoy the adventure through the city’s vibrant nightlife.
