Perched amidst the Rocky Mountains, where the air is crisp and the views are jaw-dropping, Denver proudly wears its 'Mile High City' badge like a rooftop crown. In a city that boasts over 300 days of sunshine, the question isn't whether you should be sipping cocktails and craft beers on a rooftop, its which rooftop to conquer first. From sky-high penthouse hotel bars that seem to touch the clouds to brewpubs that offer a refreshing sip of altitude, Denver's rooftop scene is where the sky's the limit. So, if you're seeking libations with an extra splash of elevation, we've rounded up ten of the best rooftop bars in Denver that'll have you toasting the sun from new heights.
- Kisbee on the Roof
- Elevated
- Tap Fourteen
- Linger
- The Red Barber
- Avanti F&B
- 54Thirty
- The Woods
- Viewhouse Ballpark
- El Five
1
Kisbee on the Roof
At the Jacquard Hotel in Cherry Creek, ‘altitude with just a splash of attitude’ is the name of the game. And Kisbee on the Roof excels at it with its stunning panoramas over Denver and the Rockies. Sip on house-canned and custom-labelled cocktails, beers and locally produced wines as you escape the daily grind nine stories high. With a rooftop pool and 180-degree views, this spot is all about sunny vibes and seasonal cocktails. Whether you're lounging by the pool or savouring snacks like hummus and charcuterie, Kisbee on the Roof guarantees a sunny outlook.
2
Elevated
Another Cherry Creek favourite is Elevated, which sits atop the Halcyon Hotel and truly takes rooftop relaxation to new heights. Apart from its rooftop pool, which comes with unashamedly ostentatious panoramic views of the Rockies and Denver skyline, there is a bar complete with contemporary small plates, handcrafted cocktails and craft beer. Plus, it is open year-round. Soak in the rays, order a cold drink and munch on delectable bites while lazing by the pool. Perfection, right?
3
Tap Fourteen
Located atop Hayter's & Co., Tap Fourteen boasts the best of Colorado with beer and whiskey on tap and breathtaking views of the city skyline. However, the rooftop menu goes beyond brews and whiskey, offering handcrafted cocktails, full bodied Colorado wines and hearty dishes (think mac and cheese, speciality burgers and Philly cheesesteaks). The south-facing terrace is ideal for soaking up the Denver sun in peace or seeing what a Coloradoan night out is really like once the sun goes down. With seventy beers on tap, live music and a sweeping beer garden, this rooftop bar will quickly become one of your favourites.
4
Linger
Linger a little at Linger. The proof is in the name that this Lower Highlands district rooftop is somewhere you won’t want to leave in a hurry. Housed in a converted mortuary (trust us, go with it) with a retrofitted VW bus on its rooftop, Linger's charm lies in its views of the neighbourhood and the city lights. Don’t worry about its giant O’Linger Mortuaries sign also, for there's nothing eerie about this rooftop. Savour its global street food, locally crafted brews and handcrafted cocktails during a dinner or lazy weekend brunch and admire its spacious and accessible space, as well as its stunning city views.
5
The Red Barber
The Catbird Hotel in the trendy River North Art District brings you The Red Barber, offering nearly 360-degree views from six stories above the city. This rooftop spans 3,300 square feet of open space, complete with hand-crafted, beers, tasty bites and even seasonal frozé. Lounge on comfy couches, relax in grassy picnic areas or warm up by its crackling fire pit. Uncover something new and surprising at every turn, from unexpected life-sized yard games to endless entertainment, plus live music performances in amphitheatre seating, it's the ultimate rooftop backyard in the sky.
6
Avanti F&B
In the Lower Highlands of Denver, modified shipping containers house Avanti Food & Beverage, a collective eatery with a spacious rooftop. Expect craft beers, cocktails and brunch cocktails along with a diverse culinary selection from seven restaurants. With indoor and outdoor seating, plus stunning Downtown views, Avanti F&B offers a laid-back setting to wash away the day. Sip on a ‘Mile-High Marg’ (a Blackberry twist on the Mexican classic) and connect with the essence of the city while watching the sun drop against the mountains.
7
54Thirty
The seasonal 54thirty Rooftop, perched atop Le Méridien Denver Downtown, is the highest open-air rooftop bar in Denver. It is aptly named after its elevation (a whopping 5,430 feet). The modern terrace offers panoramic views of the Denver skyline and the Rockies, perfect for enjoying elevated cocktails, local craft beers, and global bar bites. Up here, the vibes are just better, and a sunset at 54thirty Rooftop is a must-see spectacle.
8
The Woods
The Source Hotel is home to The Woods, a modern and spacious rooftop bar in Denver offering both indoor and outdoor seating. Choose from more than 20 local beers on tap, including experimental and small-batch brews crafted or simply sit back and raise a glass to some of the best rooftop views in the city. With a seemingly never-ending city skyline and Rocky Mountains vistas, this is easily one of the best rooftop bars in Denver for sunny happy hour drinks or cosy nights by its fire pits.
9
Viewhouse Ballpark
The name says it all. As well as being home to Instagram worthy views of downtown Denver, . But grand vistas are not all that this eatery, bar and rooftop has to offer. Located in Ballpark, right next to Coors Field, this three story building is the place for mixing casual eating and drinks with activities and fun vibes. Come for one of many themed parties, to play games, or to watch your favourite sports on TV. If events aren't your thing, the large rooftop terrace has you covered with regular tables and lounge sofas by the fire pits where you can kick back and enjoy the beautiful views of Denver. American classics with a twist are served up here, along with beers, wines and specialty cocktails.
10
El Five
Nestled high above the Lower Highland neighbourhood, on the fifth floor of 2930 Umatilla, El Five boasts spectacular, unobstructed views of the downtown Denver skyline. The menu is a homage to the Mediterranean and features small plates built on bold flavours found throughout the region. Inside, the space is understated and sensual, flanked by a large open-air patio, perfect for those sun-kissed Colorado nights.