If you’re looking for a new watering hole to unwind after a long workday, you’ve come to the right place. In fact, Denver is known nationwide for its bustling bar scene. This list of the best happy hours in the Mile High caters to every taste from artisanal cocktails to craft beer with affordable spots to unwind with an adult beverage. Join us in cheersing to cheap libations.
Los Chingones
Tacos, anyone? With several locations around town, Los Chingones delivers delicious drink specials and tasty Mexican bites. So go ahead and order up a guilt-free margarita and relax while you nosh on tasty street tacos in the afternoon sunshine. The best part? Everything is $5, making this one of the best budget-friendly happy hours in Denver.
- Locations: Central Park, RiNo, and Denver Tech Center
- Happy Hour: Weekdays 3 to 5:30 pm
Occidental
For a classic cocktail lounge with a punk rock attitude, check out the Occidental. Perfect for getting over a hard day with hard liquor and headbanging tunes, sample the famous School’s Out featuring peanut butter-infused applejack and Sloe gin for just $7 or stick to a traditional Old-Fashioned for $5. Come for the strong drinks, stay for the atmosphere.
- Location: 1950 W 32 Ave.
- Happy Hour: 4 – 6 pm Monday through Friday, 11 am to 6 pm on Saturday, all day Sunday
Ace Eat Serve
For an Uptown favorite with a twist, head to Ace Eat Serve. Slurp down a bowl of savory duck ramen with sake, wine, or Asian beer for just $11. There are $1 bao doughnuts, $6 pork belly potstickers, and a unique shot called the Chef’s Special, which is bourbon with a touch of kimchi. A ping pong bar, challenge your tablemates to a match to see who’ll be paying the bill.
- Location: 501 E 17th Ave
- Happy Hour: 4 – 6 pm Sunday through Thursday, 2 – 6 pm Friday and Saturday
Vesper Lounge
The long-running Vesper Lounge in Gov’s Park is a Denver happy hour staple. Expect dark and moody vibes paired with delicious libations. One of the better deals is the $10 BOGO dirty martini or $3.50 well cocktails, which you can use to wash down fancy finger foods from acclaimed Chef Frank Bonanno such as Falafel sliders, pork belly lettuce wraps or wings.
- Location: 233 E 7th Ave
- Happy Hour: 4 to 6 pm Tuesday through Friday, 2 to 6 pm Saturday and Sunday, all night Monday
D Bar Denver
Those with a sweet tooth should check out the D Bar, which evolved out of an Uptown dessert and wine bar. Drink specials include $5 house red and whites, $4 draft beers, $3 wells, and discounted dessertinis, but the real treat is the ultra-rich boozy shakes, churros, and molten cake.
- Location: 494 E 19th Ave
- Happy Hour: 3 – close Monday, 3 – 6 pm Tuesday through Sunday
LeRoux
If you’re looking to score a deal on some high-end cocktails, then check out the happy hour at LeRoux. This upscale dining destination on the 16th street mall is one of Denver’s newer options from the team behind Cholon. You’ll get $3 off your cocktail or choose from $5 wines and beers on tap. Don’t forget to sample the overly indulgent French dip short ribs or Wagyu beef tartare while you’re there because we believe in treating yourself.
- Location: 1510 16th St. Mall
- Happy Hour: 4 – 5:30 pm Wednesday through Saturday
Ritual Social House
A new Cap Hill hot spot, Ritual Social House is a lowkey sports bar with a sophisticated palate. There is a smorgasbord of beers to choose from and snackable bites. With everything priced between $3.50 and $6, it’s an affordable neighborhood spot that’s hard not to love. Snag a pizza and bottle of wine for $20, which is one of our favorite deals for game night!
- Location: 494 E 19th Ave
- Happy Hour: All day Monday, 3 – 6 pm Tuesday to Sunday