Denver’s Best Nightlife

Best Jazz Bar [1]: El Chapultepec [1] refuses to give itself a glossy makeover to match the changes in LoDo, and that’s part of the charm at this tiny corner bar where well-known musicians have been known to drop in to jam with the regulars.

Best Country Music Bar [2]: Whether or not you wear your cowboy boots, you can join a line dance at the Grizzly Rose [2] and sing along with the country tunes.

Best Dance Club [3]: Beta [3] opened in 2008 and quickly became one of the best clubs in the city, with world-class DJs in the main room and the Beatport Lounge.

Best French Bar and Bistro [4]: À Côté [4] is as close as Denverites have to a true Parisian bar and bistro and it’s full of Old World charm as well as French food and wine.

Best Historic Bar [5]: Step into the glorious art deco Cruise Room [5] in the historic Oxford Hotel and you’ll feel as if you’re aboard a cruise ship. The bar was modeled after a lounge on the Queen Mary.

Best Dive Bar [6]: Don’s Club Tavern [6] is a simple dive bar that offers just drinks and pool, with no fancy cocktails, seating, or music, but this unaffected quality is what makes Don’s a local favorite year after year.

Best Margarita [7]: Bigger is better at Mezcal [7], where pint-glass margaritas rule, made with fresh lime juice instead of bottled sweet-and-sour mix.

Best Wine Bar [8]: For a refined night out, head to Tastes Wine Bar & Bistro [8], where a large selection of wine, delectable tapas, and scrumptious desserts are all you need.

Best Drinks with Geeks [9]: Beer is usually associated with depleting brain cells, but Café Scientifique gatherings at the Wynkoop Brewing Company [9] each month are a way to enjoy both fresh brew and smart ideas.

Best Zen Lounge [10]: The falling water, smooth river rocks, glowing Buddha statue, and mellow vibe at Swimclub 32 [10] make for an enlightening evening out.