Brian Nagele
Rooftop bars are the ultimate way to celebrate summer, and there’s no better place to spend summer than in Colorado.
Thanks to the city’s abundant sunshine and mountain views, outdoor enthusiasts across the country flock to the state’s capital, Denver, every year.
During my trip, I discovered that one of the best ways to spend time in the sunshine is on one of Denver’s many luxurious rooftops.
It was almost impossible to pick a favorite, so here are the best rooftop bars in Denver, Colorado.
The ViewHouse
2015 Market St, Denver, CO 80205
Phone: 720-878-2015
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This all-American bar and eatery is an excellent location for enjoying fun, food, and drink. Located at 2015 Market St., I was a short walk From Coors field.
Serving up classic American fare, this bar and restaurant offer more than just craft beers and food off the grill.
The spacious rooftop has incredible skyline views and overlooks the courtyard, where you can play games and lounge in the sun. If you’re looking for an authentic Colorado experience, this playful venue is a great place to start.
54thirty Rooftop
1475 California St, Denver, CO 80202
Phone: 720-996-1558
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Perched on the 20th floor of the Meridian Hotel, this rooftop bar located at 1475 California St. will please anyone looking for a casual and classy experience.
Located in the heart of downtown, I came to this bar after a day of perusing the 16th St. Mall. Complete with sweeping views of Denver’s skyline.
I set up camp in one of the bar’s luxurious lounge chairs and sipped My French 45 by the light of a glowing fire.
El Five
2930 Umatilla St Unit #500, Denver, CO 80211
Phone: 303-524-9193
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At 2930 Umatilla St., you will find El Five, an elegant Mediterranean-style hangout. This rooftop bar was as pleasing to the eye as my taste buds.
Found just a short distance from Denver’s aquarium and zoo, it was great to stop here after a day of fun and enjoy an exotic escape.
After being dazzled by the tasteful decor, I enjoyed sharing tapas with friends and taking in Denver’s twinkling horizon from the beautiful rooftop lounge.
The Woods
3330 Brighton Blvd, Denver, CO 80216
Phone: 720-467-6913
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The Source Hotel, found at 3330 Brighton Boulevard, is home to the Woods Restaurant. Appropriately named for a bar in Colorado, this eatery reflects the culture you can find in Denver’s outdoorsy residents.
Soaking in the sunshine, I spent the afternoon here admiring the fantastic view of the Rocky Mountains.
If you get a chance to stop by on a hot summer day, I highly recommend the Froze, which has undoubtedly become one of my favorite cocktails.
The Red Barber
3770 Walnut St, Denver, CO 80205
Phone: 720-707-4040
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The Catbird Hotel, found in the Denver RiNo Art District, can be located at 3770 Walnut St. On top of this eye-catching highrise is The Red Barber rooftop bar.
An eccentric collection of art and food come together to create an atmosphere that will bring out some childhood whimsy.
Spacious seating and backyard entertainment make this an ultimate hangout for a group of friends. Sipping Mojitos while playing games on the rooftop lawn made this the perfect playground.
Avanti Food and Beverage, Denver
3200 N Pecos St, Denver, CO 80211
Phone: 720-269-4778
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The increasingly popular storage container spaces have made their way to the world of dining. At 3200 Pecos St., Avanti Food and Beverage is a collection of some of Denver’s best food and drink options.
Located across the highway from Commons Park, this location is a great place to bring friends and family.
It was fun to admire the bustling city from the rooftop and try out all the different cuisines. This is the place to stop by if you can’t decide where you want to eat.
Kisbee on the Roof
222 Milwaukee St, Denver, CO 80206
Phone: 303-515-2000
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At 222 Milwaukee St., you will find the luxurious Jacquard Hotel, and at the top is the equally stunning Kisbee on the Roof. This rooftop hangout is a high-end retreat, perfect for a quiet gathering or romantic date.
Food and drink are available to anyone who wants to enjoy this stunning location, but I made sure to book a room to access the exclusive rooftop pool.
A Colorado sunset and a glass of white wine left me dreaming of staying forever and never going home. This classy experience is one I could enjoy again and again.
Linger
2030 W 30th Ave, Denver, CO 80211
Phone: 303-993-3120
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Denver’s bustling downtown is home to Linger, found at 2030 W. 30th Ave. This charming eatery was once a mortuary, but creative design and a passion for fine cuisine have transformed this location into a popular destination for weekend warriors.
Complete with incredible views of downtown, enjoy your beer while browsing the excellent selection of food truck fare.
I chose to head downstairs to the full-size restaurant for a menu that made my head spin. Offering dishes inspired by cuisine worldwide, there are all sorts of new things to try at this breathtaking bar.
Elevated Rooftop Bar
249 Columbine St #201, Denver, CO 80206
Phone: 720-520-1474
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Cherry Creek Denver is known for its exquisite atmosphere. At 249 Columbine St., I enjoyed a stunning evening at the top of the Halcyon Hotel, home of the Elevated Rooftop Bar.
This breezy and stylish perch is the perfect getaway for anyone seeking a classy retreat. Spacious lounging and dining areas are made complete with a rooftop pool.
It was the ideal way to relax, drinking champagne and admiring a classic Colorado sunset. No trip to Cherry Creek will ever be complete again without visiting this bar.
Izakaya Den
1487A S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210
Phone: 303-777-0691
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A short walk from Washington Park to 1487A S. Pearl St. will bring you to Izakaya Den, an incredible rooftop bar featuring Japanese-style tapas.
This chic bar is a dreamy location for anyone seeking ambiance outside of your average Saturday night pub. Winner of the American architecture award, you can’t miss this gorgeous building.
Japanese style decor and moody lighting created the perfect setting for sipping sake and trying out some delectable sushi. From the rooftop bar, I spent the evening admiring the lively city.
Los Chingones
2463 Larimer St, Denver, CO 80205
Phone: 303-295-0686
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At 2463 Larimer St., you will find the Mexican-inspired bar and lounge Los Chingones. I stopped here for lunch on their sunny rooftop and was not disappointed with the experience.
Tucked between 25th St. and Broadway in Denver, authentic Mexican flavors and several rounds of margaritas made me think of sandy beaches and fiestas.
I was happy to spend the entire day on this rooftop with Denver skyline views and plenty of chips and guacamole.
Roof 16
1630 Welton St, Denver, CO 80202
Roof 16 is an exclusive venue I found on Welton St. It’s perfect for hosting parties, weddings, and company cocktail hours; I wasn’t disappointed by the tour.
Hosting an event at this location is entirely customizable, from drinks and dining to decor. Clients who book their events here can enjoy access to a gorgeous rooftop garden.
This venue is an ideal location for any group gathering and is just a short walk away from Denver Botanic Gardens.
MCA Cafe
1485 Delgany St, Denver, CO 80202
Phone: 303-298-7554
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AT 1485 Delgany Street, I enjoyed a thoughtful stroll through the Museum of Contemporary Art and followed it with a lovely afternoon at the Rooftop Bar and Café.
Small plates and fascinating exhibition-themed cocktails have become a staple of the museum. While sipping my Sky Road, I enjoyed sweeping views of Denver’s cityscape.
After a day spent admiring fine art, the contemplative ambiance was undoubtedly a highlight of my trip. This bar makes the perfect conclusion to a sophisticated outing.
Peaks Lounge
650 15th St 27th floor, Denver, CO 80202
Phone: 303-436-1234
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At 650 15th St. resides one of Denver’s most popular hotels, the Hyatt Regency. Perched on the 27th floor, you can find Peaks Lounge, boasting one of the most scenic views in Colorado.
This elegant hotel retreat has a sophisticated atmosphere. During my trip to Denver, my stay at the Hyatt was a five-star experience, and Peaks Lounge was the cherry on top.
I enjoyed a sparkling city view after finishing off my evening with a chocolate molten lava cake and a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon.
The Irish Rover Pub
54 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80209
Phone: 303-282-4643
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Located at 54 S. Broadway, the Irish Rover Pub is the perfect place to start your weekend. If you enjoy bar hopping, Broadway is the ideal Street to stroll down, and the Irish Rover Pub should be a stop on your list.
This Celtic-inspired sunny rooftop was the perfect place for gorgeous Colorado views and enjoying the homey, welcoming atmosphere.
A hearty menu accompanied by whiskey and beer made this destination feel like an authentic trip to simpler times.
Historians Ale House
24 Broadway #102, Denver, CO 80203
Phone: 720-479-8505
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At 24 Broadway, you can find a Colorado local favorite, Historians Ale House. This restaurant and bar is located in Denver’s bustling downtown, between 1st Avenue and Baker Street.
Historians Ale House is a tavern with a mission to bring unique Colorado flavors and atmosphere to the community.
The decor offered a glimpse into this state’s fascinating past. Premium lager, burgers, and other classic comfort foods left me craving more of Colorado’s delicious history.
Tap Fourteen – Rooftop Beer Garden
1920 Blake St, Denver, CO 80202
Phone: 303-297-8279
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Just a short walk away from Coors field at 1920 Blake St., I found Tap Fourteen, located on the roof of Hayter’s & Co.
This locally sourced bar has an attractive and welcoming atmosphere and offers city views that you won’t find anywhere else.
It was easy to sit back and relax with a cider and plate of Cheesy Hayter Tots, lounging at family-style picnic tables and cheery fire pits. This eatery has become my new favorite hangout after a day of enjoying America’s favorite pastime.
Final Thoughts
A trip to Denver, Colorado, is worth your time and effort just for the scenic views and abundance of outdoor activities.
I can’t wait to return and spend more time getting to know the local community and Colorado’s many natural resources.
I’m sure I’ll be stopping by at least a few of these incredible rooftop bars, and if you get the chance to visit the Mile High City, I hope you do too.
Best Rooftop Bars in Denver
- The Viewhouse
- 54Thirty
- El Five
- The Woods
- The Red Barber
- Avanti F&B, a collective eatery
- Kisbee on the Roof
- Linger
- Elevated Rooftop Bar
- Izakaya Den
- Los Chingones
- Roof 16
- MCA Cafe
- Peaks Lounge
- The Irish Rover Pub
- Historians Ale House
- Tap Fourteen – Rooftop Beer Garden
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