Looking for an unforgettable night out?
Denver’s speakeasy scene has everything you need — mystery, moodiness, and masterfully handcrafted cocktails. These hidden gems are where the city’s most creative mixologists work their magic, blending inventive flavors with unique atmospheres and clandestine entrances that make the journey to find them as fun as enjoying a cocktail in Denver.
From basement hideaways that feel frozen in time to stylish lounges tucked behind unmarked doors — and even an ice cream speakeasy — the Denver speakeasy scene really does have it all.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the best speakeasies in and around Denver and the Front Range.
Best Speakeasies in Denver
Retrograde
530 E. 19th Ave., Denver
- Hours: 6 p.m.-1 a.m. Monday through Wednesday, and 5 p.m.-1 a.m. Thursday through Sunday
- Standout Cocktail: Werewolf Bitches from Outer Space
- Reservations: First come, first served
Hidden behind the freezer door of Sweet Action Ice Cream, you’ll find a speakeasy just begging to be discovered. Flip the switch on the door, and your host will welcome you to one of the best speakeasies Denver has to offer.
Retrograde is the ice cream speakeasy Denver locals love to whisper about. The cozy, sci-fi-themed space offers an immersive cocktail experience with a rotating menu of inventive drinks. Try the “Werewolf Bitches from Outer Space” if you’re looking for a bold yet warm fusion of fall flavors, including apple, baking spices, and rich red wine with a peppery finish. Everyone entering the bar must be over 21, and ordering a beverage is a requirement of entry, but non-alcoholic options are available.
Emerald Eye Parlor and Lounge
1403 Larimer St., Denver
- Hours: 4 p.m.-midnight Sunday through Wednesday, and 4 p.m.-2 a.m. Thursday through Saturday
- Standout Cocktail: Clarified Punch
- Reservations: First come, first served
This circa 1966 Caribbean cocktail bar is hidden under Larimer Square in downtown Denver. Follow the stairs down to this cool, sleek spot where reviewers rave about the service and cocktails. This downtown Denver speakeasy is the perfect combination of fun and cozy with its jungalow vibes.
Williams & Graham
3160 Tejon St., Denver
- Hours: 5 p.m.-1 a.m. Monday through Sunday
- Standout Cocktail: Young Baby Coco
- Reservations: Reservations are recommended and are limited to 2 hours at the table
Disguised as a small bookstore, Williams & Graham is nationally recognized for its expert mixologists and its cozy, intimate setting. Voted one of the best bars in Denver, Colorado by several reputable outlets, it’s famous for its unique cocktails. If you can’t find something you like, the “Bartender’s Choice” for $19 is a perfect option. Simply tell the bartender what you like and what you don’t, and leave the rest up to the magic that makes Williams & Graham such a popular speakeasy. Reservations fill up fast and this spot often has a waitlist, so make sure you book in advance to avoid missing out.
B&GC
249 Columbine St., Denver
- Hours: 6-10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 5 p.m.-midnight Friday through Saturday, and 6-10 p.m. on Sunday
- Standout Cocktail: Spacewalk
- Reservations: For reservations, text 720-925-8598
B&GC is a true hidden gem, and you’ll need to text a secret number to get in. Tucked behind an unmarked service door near the Halcyon Hotel in Cherry Creek, this speakeasy bar is known for stunning cocktails in a luxe and intimate space. Be careful when browsing the menu, as you don’t want to order (or maybe you do) the $2,500 “Guilded Martini,” garnished with a one-of-a-kind Gnat jewelry piece that you can treasure forever.
Lincolns Denver
1801 Wynkoop St., Denver
- Hours: 4 p.m.-midnight Monday through Thursday, 4 p.m.-2 a.m. on Friday, and 12 p.m.-2 a.m. Saturday through Sunday
- Standout Cocktail: The Continental
- Reservations: First come, first served
Located in Icehouse Condominium, this secret speakeasy is reported as fairly hard to find. However, if you tap into your sleuthing abilities — and just open some random doors — you’ll eventually stumble on some happiness in the form of one of the best cocktail bars Denver has to offer (and by best, we also mean most affordable). This Denver speakeasy is all cash, with drinks at $5.
Best Speakeasies in Northwest Denver
Nora’s
957 Main St., Louisville
- Hours: Hours of operation change weekly
- Standout Cocktail: Nora’s Penicillin
- Reservations: First come, first served
Tucked away in the heart of Downtown Louisville, Nora’s is more than just a hidden bar — it’s a tribute to the remarkable woman who inspired it all: Mother, Noni, Grandma Kelly, and, as she was known most frequently to the world, “Nora.” Known for her hospitality, generosity, and ability to make anyone feel at home, Nora’s legacy lives on in this speakeasy that delivers heartfelt connection with every drink and light bite. Oh, and you must try the amaretto truffle cake paired with Nora’s Whiskey Sour.
License No. 1
2115 13th St., Boulder
- Hours: 5 p.m.-midnight Wednesday through Thursday, 5 p.m.-2 a.m. Friday through Saturday, and closed Sunday through Tuesday
- Standout Cocktail: The Giving Tree
- Reservations: First come, first served
This underground speakeasy located in the historic Hotel Boulderado blends early 20th century charm with handcrafted cocktails, chef-prepared small plates, and a lively atmosphere. After receiving its liquor license in 1969, License No. 1 became Boulder’s first legal bar, and continues to serve under that original license (License No. 1).
Best Speakeasy in Northeast Denver
Molly Brown
2300 E. 77th Ave. A300, Denver
- Hours: 4-9 p.m. Thursday through Friday, and 2-9 p.m. on Saturday
- Standout Cocktail: Ella Brennan
- Reservations: First come, first served, but visitors can schedule tours on the website
Step back in time to this speakeasy-style craft cocktail bar with an intimate atmosphere and a strong focus on bourbon. The “Ella Brennan” is a must-try that touts a smooth fusion of Molly Brown Bourbon, fresh bananas, half and half, brown sugar, and cinnamon, capturing both comfort and creativity in its glass. For something with a touch more richness, sample the “Chinda Iwa,” crafted with Molly Brown Bourbon, cherries, half and half, brown sugar, vanilla simple syrup, and cinnamon. Each cocktail tells a story, with the entire menu honoring women who have made a lasting impact on history, from trailblazers like Ruth Bader Ginsburg to bold visionaries like Frida Kahlo. Whether you’re stopping in for the night to get settled or just enjoying one drink, this Denver speakeasy is a must-try.
Best Speakeasy in Southeast Denver
Provision
302 Wilcox St., Castle Rock
- Hours: 4 p.m.-close Wednesday through Saturday
- Standout Cocktail: In My Feelings
- Reservations: Reservations are welcome through OpenTable
Every detail of Provision has been designed with intention (specifically, the Provision Dove logo, which represents peacefulness, restfulness, and hope). Provision prides itself on its culture, which was built on these guiding principles and is carried into each cocktail.
This is one of the best cocktail bars Denver has to offer, not only for its unique gathering space but also for its innovative cocktail offerings. To add to the exclusivity, Provision is launching a locker program that grants guests access to rare spirits.
Best Speakeasies in West Denver
The Night Owls
14500 W. Colfax Ave., Lakewood
- Hours: 4 p.m.-9 p.m. Wednesday through Thursday, 3 p.m.-10 p.m. Friday, noon-10 p.m. Saturday, and noon-7 p.m. Sunday
- Standout Cocktail: My Mother’s Martini
- Reservations: Make a reservation through a form on the website, or if booking within 24 hours, call 303-590-1515
The Night Owls bar is a captivating, speakeasy-style cocktail lounge nestled within the immersive art installation by Prismajic and connected to the Colorado Mills mall. This speakeasy is designed to feel like an enchanted forest crossed with a Victorian-era parlor. The space is crafted by artists who take you on a sensory adventure, featuring an extensive line of mocktails, light bites, craft cocktails, and live performances. This immersive experience is even child-friendly.
Bernard’s Tiki Room
5707 Olde Wadsworth Blvd., Arvada
- Hours: 6 p.m.-close Friday and Saturday
- Standout Cocktail: Tropical Tiki Drinks
- Reservations: First come, first served
The Arvada Tavern’s legacy began after Prohibition ended in 1933, when Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Cullen-Harrison Act. On April 7, 1933, the city of Arvada issued its first tavern license to owner Adrian Kline, marking the town’s first legal sale of alcohol and a day of celebration for residents. While The Arvada Tavern stands as an authentic prohibition bar Denver is known for, Bernard’s Tiki Room offers a playful nod to the tavern with its speakeasy-style bar, hidden behind the phone booth. And while it’s hard to find the menu for Bernard’s Tiki Room, one thing is promised: The sun is always shining inside, and the tropical, paradise-themed drinks flow on Fridays and Saturdays.
Best Speakeasies in Southwest Denver
The Lazy Greyhound
2570 Main St., Littleton
- Hours: 3-11 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 2 p.m.-10 p.m. Sunday
- Standout Cocktail: White Russian
- Reservations: First come, first served
While not a traditional speakeasy in the sense that it is hidden, this Littleton recommendation is known for its classic British gentlemen’s club ambiance. The exposed brick, cocktail presentation, and comfortable seating with couches add to the prohibition-era decor. It’s described by locals as swanky and welcoming, with profoundly creative cocktails. This spot truly has a drink for everyone’s taste, along with a couple light bites.