Denver’s Pub Scene: More Than Just Beer
Hey Denver dwellers and visitors! As a proud local, I’ve sipped my way through countless breweries, dive bars, and gastropubs across this vibrant city. Denver’s beer culture is legendary, fueled by a passion for innovation and a deep appreciation for a well-crafted pint. But beyond the sheer volume of breweries, our city boasts a unique pub culture, blending the best of craft beer with cozy atmospheres, delicious food, and that unmistakable Mile High City spirit. Whether you’re a hophead on the hunt for the latest IPA or seeking a relaxed spot to catch up with friends, Denver has a pub for you. Let’s dive into some of my absolute favorites!
RiNo’s Brewery Bonanza: Where Art Meets Ale
The River North Art District, or RiNo as we locals call it, is an absolute must-visit for any beer enthusiast. This former industrial area has transformed into a buzzing hub of creativity, and its breweries are at the forefront of this transformation. You’ll find a concentration of breweries here that’s hard to beat, each with its own distinct vibe.
Ratio Beerworks
Located in a repurposed auto-body shop, Ratio Beerworks has a fantastic indoor/outdoor space and consistently delivers excellent beers. They have a great selection of IPAs, lagers, and sours, and their patio is perfect for people-watching. They often have live music and food trucks, making it a lively spot any day of the week. Don’t miss their year-round staples, but keep an eye out for their seasonal releases. They truly embody the innovative spirit of Denver’s craft beer scene. You can find them at 2030 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80210, but their original and most iconic location is in RiNo at 1475 Delgany St, Denver, CO 80202.
Epic Brewing Company
While technically a brewery, Epic Brewing has a taproom that feels like a true pub, complete with a friendly atmosphere and a focus on quality. They are renowned for their high-gravity, barrel-aged beers, which are complex and incredibly satisfying. If you’re looking for something a bit more robust and are willing to explore deeper flavors, Epic is your spot. Their taproom is a great place to sample their extensive lineup. It’s a bit south of the main RiNo drag, but worth the short trek at 3001 Walnut St, Denver, CO 80205.
Our Mutual Friend Brewing Company
OMF, as it’s affectionately known, is a local favorite for a reason. They consistently produce creative and delicious beers, often featuring unique ingredients. Their taproom is unpretentious and welcoming, with a great community feel. It’s the kind of place where you can strike up a conversation with the bartender or your fellow patrons. They excel at saisons, IPAs, and experimental brews. Find them at 4980 York St, Denver, CO 80216.
South Broadway’s Eclectic Mix: Dive Bars to Gastropubs
South Broadway (SoBo) is another Denver neighborhood with a fantastic and diverse pub scene. It’s a stretch of road known for its vintage shops, independent boutiques, and a surprisingly robust collection of watering holes, ranging from gritty dive bars to more upscale gastropubs.
Baere Brewing Company
Nestled in the Baker neighborhood, Baere is a small but mighty brewery that punches well above its weight. Their taproom is cozy and unpretentious, with a focus on expertly crafted lagers, IPAs, and saisons. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon pint. They pride themselves on quality and consistency, and it shows. Find them at 3280 W 25th Ave, Denver, CO 80204.
TRVE Brewing Co.
If you’re into metal music and killer craft beer, TRVE is your sanctuary. This unique brewery is a haven for fans of extreme music, with a dark, atmospheric taproom that often features local art and live shows. Their beers are as intense and creative as their aesthetic, with a focus on traditional styles and experimental brews. It’s a truly distinctive Denver experience. They are located at 2273 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80210.
The Bull & Bush Brewery
For a taste of a classic British pub experience right here in Denver, look no further than The Bull & Bush. This beloved establishment has been serving Denver for decades and offers a fantastic selection of their own brewed ales alongside imported favorites. Their atmosphere is authentically pub-like, with dark wood, comfortable seating, and a genuine warmth. They also serve hearty pub fare that perfectly complements their beers. It’s a Denver institution, located at 4730 W 38th Ave, Denver, CO 80212.
Downtown & Capitol Hill: Historic Charm and Modern Brews
The heart of Denver and its surrounding historic neighborhoods also offer some excellent pub experiences, blending historical architecture with contemporary craft beer offerings.
Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery
Located near the Auraria Campus, Jagged Mountain is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and beer lovers alike. Their taproom is filled with climbing and hiking memorabilia, reflecting their passion for adventure. They offer a diverse range of beers, from crisp lagers to hop-forward IPAs, all brewed with a spirit of exploration. It’s a great place to fuel up before or after an outdoor excursion. You can find them at 1659 Wazee St, Denver, CO 80202.
Declaration Brewing
Declaration Brewing offers a vast selection of beers, often brewing over 20 different styles at any given time. Their spacious taproom and patio are perfect for larger groups or when you just want a bit of breathing room. They are known for their wide variety, ensuring there’s something for everyone, from classic ales to experimental concoctions. Check them out at 1777 S Kalamath St, Denver, CO 80223.
Irish Rover Pub
For an authentic Irish pub experience, the Irish Rover is the place to be. This lively spot in the City Park West neighborhood serves up traditional Irish fare, a wide selection of whiskeys, and of course, perfectly poured pints of Guinness and Harp. With live music, friendly bartenders, and a warm, inviting atmosphere, it’s the closest you’ll get to Dublin without a plane ticket. They are located at 54 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80209.
Lodo’s Lively Scene: Sports, Brews, and People-Watching
The Lower Downtown (LoDo) area, while heavily tourist-oriented, still boasts some great pubs, especially for those looking for a vibrant atmosphere, especially on game days.
Wynkoop Brewing Company
As Denver’s first brewpub, Wynkoop holds a special place in the city’s heart. Located in a historic building in the heart of LoDo, it offers a fantastic selection of house-brewed beers and classic pub food. The atmosphere is lively, with a mix of locals and visitors. It’s a great spot to soak in the downtown Denver vibe, and they often host events. Don’t miss their annual Beer Rights movement celebration! Find them at 1634 17th St, Denver, CO 80202.
Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery
While a chain, Rock Bottom’s Denver location in LoDo has a solid reputation for its consistently good craft beers and pub grub. It’s a reliable choice for a casual meal and a pint, especially if you’re in the area and want a guaranteed good experience. Their patio is great for watching the downtown bustle. Located at 1001 16th St, Denver, CO 80202.
Insider Tips for Your Denver Pub Crawl
- Transportation: Denver’s public transportation (RTD) is decent, but many of the best brewery neighborhoods are best explored on foot or by rideshare. If you’re planning on hopping between spots, consider using Uber or Lyft, or designate a sober driver. The 16th Street MallRide is free and can get you around downtown.
- Food Trucks: Many Denver breweries, especially in RiNo, rely heavily on food trucks. Check the brewery’s social media or website for the food truck schedule. Some breweries have resident food trucks or partner with local favorites.
- Happy Hour: Keep an eye out for happy hour specials! Many pubs and breweries offer discounted drinks and appetizers during off-peak hours. This is a great way to sample more without breaking the bank.
- Pint Glasses: Denver breweries often have unique glassware for their beers. If you’re a collector, ask if they sell their branded pint glasses or other merchandise.
- Local Events: Denver has a thriving events calendar. Many pubs and breweries host trivia nights, live music, trivia, and other special events. Check local listings or the establishments’ websites for schedules.
- Pace Yourself: Denver is at a high altitude (5,280 feet!). Alcohol can affect you more quickly here. Drink plenty of water between beers and be mindful of your intake.
Beyond the Pint: The Dropt.Beer Experience
For those truly passionate about discovering and enjoying the best of what the craft beer world has to offer, whether in Denver or beyond, I highly recommend checking out Dropt.beer. It’s an incredible resource for craft beer enthusiasts, offering everything from curated selections of exceptional beers to a comprehensive shop for all your brewing and drinking needs. Their shop is a treasure trove for homebrewers and beer aficionados alike. Plus, their Insights & News Blog is packed with fantastic articles, brewery spotlights, and industry news that will keep you informed and inspired. It’s the perfect complement to exploring Denver’s vibrant pub scene.
Final Thoughts
Denver’s pub and brewery landscape is constantly evolving, with new spots popping up and established favorites continuing to innovate. This list is just a starting point – the true joy is in the exploration! So grab your friends, your sense of adventure, and go discover your own favorite Denver pub. Cheers!
