Welcome, music enthusiasts! If you’re reading this, you’re probably looking for a way to unwind, relax, and have a good time. You might be new to Denver, and you’re confused about where to go to find live music. Or maybe you’re a resident who’s stuck in a rut and looking for new places to explore.
In this article, we’re going to take a look at some of the best bars in Denver that offer live music. We’ll tell you what kind of music you can expect to hear, what the atmosphere is like, and what kind of drinks and food you can enjoy. No more aimlessly wandering around the city in search of a good night out- we’ve got you covered. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly where to go to have a memorable night out with friends or loved ones.
So, why should you keep reading? Well, imagine this- you’re tired of going to the same old bars and want something different. You know that Denver has a vibrant music scene, but you’re not sure where to find it. By reading this article, you’ll have access to insider knowledge and recommendations that will take your night out to the next level. Plus, all of the bars we’ll mention have been tried and tested by locals- so you know they’re good.
Best Denver Bars for Live Music: Our Top Picks
Denver has a thriving live music scene, with several bars hosting amazing live performances every week. Whether you are a music enthusiast or simply looking to unwind with friends after a long day, there is no shortage of options in Denver. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best Denver bars for live music. From intimate jazz clubs to high-energy rock venues, we have something for everyone.
The Fillmore Auditorium
If you are looking for a large venue to watch your favorite bands perform, The Fillmore Auditorium is the place to be. With a capacity of 3,700 people, this venue has been hosting concerts for over a century. The Fillmore Auditorium was initially established in the 1900s as a roller skating rink, later evolving into a concert venue. It has hosted renowned musicians such as Willie Nelson, Jimi Hendrix, and The Grateful Dead.
- Live Performances: The Fillmore Auditorium hosts a diverse range of musicians, from up-and-coming artists to established legends. You can catch performances of various genres, including rock, hip hop, country, and EDM.
- Atmosphere: The atmosphere is high-energy and lively, with a crowd that is always ready to dance and sing. The venue is well-lit, and the stage is easily visible from all angles.
- Drinks: The bar offers a wide array of drinks, including craft beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages. You can also quench your hunger with some delicious snacks from the on-site restaurant.
If you want to elevate your concert experience, you can book one of the VIP boxes that offer a private balcony, dedicated servers, and an excellent view of the stage. Tickets for concerts at The Fillmore Auditorium can be purchased through their website, Ticketmaster, or at the box office.
Table: The Fillmore Auditorium vs. Other Large Venues
| The Fillmore Auditorium | Red Rocks Amphitheatre | Ogden Theatre | |
| Capacity | 3,700 | 9,525 | 1,600 |
| Location | Downtown Denver | Morrison (15 miles from Denver) | Capitol Hill |
| Ticket Prices | $$ – $$$ | $$ – $$$ | $$ – $$$ |
| Live Performances | Rock, Hip Hop, Country, EDM, and more | Rock, Pop, Blues, and more | Rock, Indie, Alternative, and more |
As seen in the table above, The Fillmore Auditorium is an excellent venue for those who want to watch their favorite bands perform in a high-energy environment. If you prefer a more natural setting, you might want to check out Red Rocks Amphitheatre, which has a stunning mountain backdrop. For those who prefer an intimate setting, the Ogden Theatre might be a better fit, with a capacity of only 1,600.
In conclusion, The Fillmore Auditorium is an excellent choice for music lovers who want to experience live music in a large, energized environment. With a diverse range of musicians and genres, this venue is sure to offer an unforgettable concert experience.
Bars in Denver with Live Music
Denver is a hub for live music enthusiasts. From intimate jazz clubs to larger venues, the city offers something for everyone. Here is a comprehensive guide to the best bars in Denver with live music.
The Soiled Dove Underground
The Soiled Dove Underground is a premier live music venue located in the heart of Denver. The venue is known for its upscale ambiance and intimate setting, which is perfect for live music performances. The venue typically features popular touring acts and local artists throughout the week.
- The Pros:
- Upscale ambiance
- Excellent sound quality
- Intimate setting
- The Cons:
- Higher ticket prices compared to other live music venues
If you’re looking to enjoy live music in a sophisticated setting, then The Soiled Dove Underground is the place to be!
The Bluebird Theater
The Bluebird Theater is one of Denver’s most iconic live music venues. This historic theater has played host to some of the biggest names in music, including The Rolling Stones and U2. The venue boasts a spacious dance floor, state-of-the-art sound system, and a balcony for seating and VIP experiences.
- The Pros:
- Iconic venue with a rich history
- Large dance floor
- VIP experiences available
- The Cons:
- Can be overcrowded during popular events
- Parking can be challenging
Whether you’re a fan of classic rock or emerging indie acts, The Bluebird Theater is a must-visit destination for live music lovers in Denver.
The Walnut Room
The Walnut Room is a unique live music venue located in the RiNo Arts District of Denver. The venue’s cozy interior is adorned with vintage furniture and artwork, creating an intimate and relaxed atmosphere for live performances. In addition to live music, The Walnut Room offers a full menu of delicious food and craft beers.
- The Pros:
- Intimate and cozy setting
- Full-service restaurant with a variety of food and drink options
- Affordable ticket prices
- The Cons:
- Sound quality can vary depending on the performance
- Parking can be limited in the RiNo Arts District
If you’re looking for a laid-back atmosphere to enjoy live music and delicious food, then The Walnut Room is a top choice in Denver.
The Ogden Theater
The Ogden Theater is another historic live music venue in Denver. The theater has been in operation since 1917 and has played host to countless legendary acts over the years. The venue’s spacious dance floor and balcony provide ample space to enjoy live music, while the restored Art Deco interior adds a touch of old-school glamour to each performance.
- The Pros:
- Historic theater with a unique atmosphere
- Ample space for dancing and seating
- Excellent sound quality
- The Cons:
- Can be crowded during popular events
- Parking can be challenging
If you’re a fan of classic and contemporary music alike, then The Ogden Theater is a top choice for live music in Denver.
| Venue Name | Location | Atmosphere | Sound Quality | Food/Drink Options | Ticket Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Soiled Dove Underground | Denver | Upscale | Excellent | Bar menu available | Higher ticket prices |
| The Bluebird Theater | Denver | Iconic | State-of-the-art | Bar menu available | Moderate ticket prices |
| The Walnut Room | RiNo Arts District | Cozy | Varies | Full-service restaurant | Affordable ticket prices |
| The Ogden Theater | Denver | Historic | Excellent | Bar menu available | Moderate ticket prices |
Denver’s diverse live music scene offers plenty of venues to choose from. Whether you prefer an upscale ambiance or a cozy atmosphere, there is a bar in Denver that will meet your live music needs.
Denver Bars with Live Music: A Nightlife Experience like No Other
Denver is a city that loves live music, from folk and blues to rock and pop. There are a plethora of incredible bars and clubs around town that offer live music performances, providing a unique nightlife experience to its visitors. In this article, we are going to highlight the top Denver bars with live music that are a must-visit for music enthusiasts out there.
Why Denver is Known for Its Live Music Scene
Denver’s live music scene has been a part of its cultural identity for decades. The city is a hub for both local and visiting musicians, and its residents have a great respect for the art of live music. Denver is home to major music festivals such as the Underground Music Showcase, the Grandoozy, and the Colorado Dragon Boat Festival, which showcases the city’s diversity in music cultures. The city’s vibrant live music scene also attracted talented artists such as Nathaniel Rateliff, The Lumineers, and OneRepublic, who rose to fame after performing at local live music venues in Denver. The city’s live music scene has put it on the map as a top destination for live music lovers.
The Best Denver Bars with Live Music
1. The 1up – Colfax
The 1up is a bar that doubles as a classic arcade. The bar prides itself on offering the best craft beers and cocktails while allowing its patrons to relive their childhood memories with its extensive collection of arcade games. The 1up- Colfax is a staple in Denver’s live music scene, with live performances from top musical acts every week.
2. Cervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom
Cervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom is a legendary live music venue in Denver, renowned for hosting some of the world’s biggest names in music, including Bassnectar and Big Gigantic. With a capacity for over a thousand people, the Ballroom is a hub for local and national artists, and features two stages that host simultaneous performances.
3. Herman’s Hideaway
Herman’s Hideaway is a classic Denver venue that is known for its live music atmosphere that has lasted for over three decades. The venue has hosted the likes of Dave Matthews Band, Widespread Panic, John Legend, and many other famous musicians throughout the years. Herman’s Hideaway continues to offer live music performances by local and national bands, and the bar features an excellent selection of craft beers that will leave patrons feeling refreshed throughout the night.
The Pros and Cons of Denver Bars with Live Music
Denver’s bars with live music offer an exceptional experience to its patrons, yet it has its perks and not-so-perfect aspects. Here are some of the pros and cons of visiting Denver Bars with Live music:
- Pros
- A unique nightlife experience that sets it apart from other cities.
- Opportunity to witness talented local and national musicians perform live.
- Excellent selection of craft beers and cocktails to complement the live music performances.
- Different genres of live music to suit everyone’s tastes.
- A great way to connect with like-minded individuals who share the love for live music.
- Crowds can get overwhelming during peak hours and concert events.
- Tickets for popular artists can sell out quickly, making it hard to get into live music performances.
- Some bars have strict policies regarding alcohol consumption, which can put a damper on the experience for some visitors.
- Loud music can make it challenging to socialize with friends or meet new people.
| Pros | Cons | |
|---|---|---|
| A unique nightlife experience | Opportunity to witness talented local and national musicians perform live | Crowds can get overwhelming during peak hours and concert events |
| Excellent selection of craft beers and cocktails to complement live music performances | Tickets for popular artists can sell out quickly, making it hard to attend live music performances | Some bars have strict policies regarding alcohol consumption |
| Different genres of live music to suit everyone’s tastes | A great way to connect with like-minded individuals who share the love for live music | Loud music can make it challenging to socialize with friends or meet new people |
In conclusion, Denver Bars with Live Music present a unique and excellent opportunity for life music enthusiasts to experience a diverse music culture that is ingrained in Denver’s identity. From legendary music venues such as Cervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom to classic bars such as Herman’s Hideaway, these bars offer an exceptional experience to its patrons. Visitors can also take advantage of the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share their love for live music, and explore different genres to suit their musical tastes. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the experience may also have a few hiccups such as crowds, ticket availability, and loud music, but it does not deter from the fantastic experience that these bars have to offer.
Exploring the Rock Scene: Denver Bars with Live Rock Music
Denver has a thriving rock music scene with a variety of bars and clubs offering live rock music performances. Whether you’re a metalhead or a classic rock aficionado, there is something for everyone in the lively rock scene of Denver.
Rock on at Larimer Lounge
Larimer Lounge is a cozy rock venue that has been around for over 15 years. The stage is small, but the intimate space makes it perfect for enjoying live music. Some notable acts who have played at the Larimer Lounge include The Lumineers, Courtney Barnett, and Chromatics.
- Pros: Intimate setting, affordable ticket prices, and a diverse lineup of rock bands.
- Cons: Limited seating, small venue, and can get crowded on popular nights.
Herman’s Hideaway: A Denver Rock Staple
Herman’s Hideaway is a well-known rock bar in Denver that has been around since 1962. It is a popular venue among local rock bands with live music performances almost every night of the week. The venue is spacious with a large stage and a balcony that offers a great view of the crowd and stage.
- Pros: Large venue, great sound quality, and a variety of rock bands.
- Cons: Can get crowded on popular nights, limited parking, and can be expensive to park in the surrounding areas.
The Gothic Theatre: Where Music Meets Theatrics
The Gothic Theatre is a historic venue that began as a movie theatre in the 1920s. It has since been renovated and now serves as a live music venue with a capacity of 1,100 people. The Gothic Theatre caters to a variety of musical genres including rock, alternative, and metal. Notable acts who have performed at the venue include Modest Mouse, The Flaming Lips, and The 1975.
- Pros: Spacious venue, great acoustics, and diverse lineup of bands and musicians.
- Cons: Limited parking, can be expensive on popular nights, and may have a more subdued atmosphere compared to other rock bars in Denver.
The Fillmore Auditorium: The Ultimate Rock Experience
The Fillmore Auditorium is a legendary venue that has been around since the 1930s. It has played host to some of the biggest names in music history including The Who, Jimi Hendrix, and The Grateful Dead. The venue has a capacity of 3,700 people and offers an immersive rock experience with state-of-the-art sound and lighting.
- Pros: Large venue, immersive rock experience, and historic venue with a legendary past.
- Cons: Can be expensive on popular nights, limited parking, and the large size may make it feel less intimate.
| Bar Name | Capacity | Genres | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Larimer Lounge | 250 | Rock, Indie, Alternative | Intimate setting, affordable ticket prices, and a diverse lineup of rock bands | Limited seating, small venue, and can get crowded on popular nights |
| Herman’s Hideaway | 500 | Rock, Metal, Punk | Large venue, great sound quality, and a variety of rock bands | Can get crowded on popular nights, limited parking, and can be expensive to park in the surrounding areas |
| The Gothic Theatre | 1,100 | Rock, Alternative, Metal | Spacious venue, great acoustics, and diverse lineup of bands and musicians | Limited parking, can be expensive on popular nights, and may have a more subdued atmosphere compared to other rock bars in Denver |
| The Fillmore Auditorium | 3,700 | Rock, Pop, Hip-Hop | Large venue, immersive rock experience, and historic venue with a legendary past | Can be expensive on popular nights, limited parking, and the large size may make it feel less intimate |
Overall, the rock scene in Denver offers a diverse range of bars and clubs for anyone interested in experiencing live music. Whether you’re into classic rock, metal, or punk, these Denver bars will not disappoint.
Subsection 5: Check Online Reviews and Ratings
In today’s digital era, people rely on online reviews and ratings when making decisions about places to visit, including bars with live music. This section explores how online reviews and ratings can help in finding the best Denver bars with live music.
1. Importance of Online Reviews and Ratings
Online reviews and ratings are essential in finding the best Denver bars with live music. They provide an avenue for customers to give feedback about their experience in those bars, their services, and their quality of live music. The reviews and ratings often reflect a true picture of what to expect when visiting a particular bar.
Furthermore, online reviews and ratings can help in distinguishing the types of bars that have quality live music from the ones that don’t. Through these reviews and ratings, one can learn about the drinks served, food, ambiance, crowd and the type of music played, among other things.
2. Where to Find Online Reviews and Ratings
There are various online platforms where you can find reviews and ratings of Denver bars with live music. They include:
- Google: Google provides an extensive platform for reviews and ratings of bars with live music in Denver. You can search for specific bars on Google and get a list of different reviews and ratings by different people.
- Yelp: Yelp is an excellent platform that allows users to ask questions about bars and receive answers from previous visitors. This makes it easy to understand the overall quality of the bar.
- TripAdvisor: TripAdvisor provides extensive reviews and ratings on several bars with live music in Denver. The platform also provides ratings on other aspects such as the quality of the sound system, ticket prices, and open hours.
- Social Media: Several bars have social media pages where they interact with customers and get reviews and ratings. Such pages can offer real-time feedback on the quality of live music options, drink specials, and other factors.
3. Consider the Quality and Reliability of Reviews and Ratings
It is essential to consider the quality and reliability of online reviews and ratings. Some reviews may be overly positive or negative, and it’s important to identify genuine ones. Here are some tips to help in this regard:
- Read multiple reviews: Don’t rely on just one review. Reading multiple reviews from different sources can help get a more comprehensive view of the bar.
- Consistency: Pay attention to reviews that have a consistent message. If multiple reviews mention the same positive or negative thing about the bar, chances are it’s a real issue.
- Check reviewer profiles: Check out the reviewer’s profiles to see their level of activity, the number of reviews they’ve posted, and their tone. This can help identify trolls, fake reviews, or those with differing preferences.
- Balance: Look for reviews that balance positive and negative aspects of the bar’s live music experience.
- Overall rating: Look at the overall rating of the bar, making sure to account for the number of reviews. A bar with 5 stars from two reviewers is not as reliable as one with four stars from hundreds of reviewers.
4. Use Online Reviews and Ratings as a Guide
It’s essential to use online reviews and ratings as a guide and not the only deciding factor when looking for Denver bars with live music. Once you’ve identified some bars based on the reviews and ratings, research more about them by visiting their websites, social media pages, and talking to locals.
It’s also essential to have your specific needs and preferences in mind when selecting a bar. You may be looking for a bar that hosts country music concerts, offers a large dance floor, excellent food or drinks. Therefore, use online reviews and ratings as a guide to narrow down your options and investigate further.
5. Table Comparison of Online Review and Rating Sites
| Online Review and Rating Site | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Google Reviews and Ratings | -Extensive coverage. -Detailed reviews with photos and videos. |
– A higher possibility of fake reviews. |
| Yelp | -Great platform for asking and answering questions. – Provides real-time feedback from reviewers. |
-Tends to attract more negative reviews. |
| TripAdvisor | -Provides extensive reviews and ratings on multiple aspects of the bar experience. | – Requires many reviews before ratings become reliable. |
| Social Media | -Provides real-time feedback on the bar experience. | -Hard to balance positive and negative aspects of the bar experience from different reviewers. |
Using online reviews and ratings as a guide can help in finding the best Denver bars with live music. It’s essential to verify the quality and reliability of the reviews and ratings to ensure that they provide a true picture of the bar’s live music experience. Additionally, finding bars that match your preferences is also vital. A combination of online reviews, research and investigation, and personal preferences is the best recipe for finding the best Denver bars with live music.
FAQs: Denver Bars with Live Music
What are the best Denver Bars with live music?
Denver is a vibrant city that offers many options when it comes to bars with live music. The best bars that serve good drinks and have live music are The Soiled Dove Underground, The Ogden Theatre, and The Bluebird Theatre.
What type of music can be found in these bars?
These Denver bars offer a variety of music genres that cater to different music preferences. You can find blues, rock, jazz, country, and tribute bands.
When are the live music performances usually held?
Live music performances are held regularly in these bars. Make sure to check their websites or social media pages to see their live music schedules.
Is there an age restriction to enter these bars with live music in Denver?
Yes, there is an age restriction. Most bars with live music have a 21+ age limit, so make sure to bring a valid ID.
How much do the tickets usually cost?
Ticket prices vary depending on the venue and artist performing. Most ticket costs are between $10 to $40. You can also check out some free live music events in Denver.
Do these Denver bars offer food?
Yes, these bars offer food and are great locations to have dinner and listen to live music. Make sure to check their menu options on their website.
How soon should I buy my tickets?
It’s best to buy your tickets at least a week in advance. They can sell out quickly, especially for popular bands and artists.
Are these Denver bars accessible for people with disabilities?
Most of these bars have accessible entrances, but it’s best to call them beforehand to check if they have wheelchair-accessible seating areas.
Do these bars have dress codes?
It depends on the bar. Make sure to check their dress codes before going. Most bars have a casual dress code, but some clubs may have a strict dress code.
Can I reserve a table for live music nights?
Yes, some Denver bars offer reservations for prime tables or VIP sections. It’s best to call or email them beforehand to check on availability and pricing.
Conclusion
Denver is a vibrant city with a thriving live music scene, and there are many bars that offer an immersive musical experience. From jazz to country and rock, Denver offers a wide array of musical genres to satisfy any taste. Some of the best bars with live music in Denver include The Soiled Dove Underground, The Ogden Theatre, and The Bluebird Theatre. Besides enjoying live music, visitors can also enjoy delicious food and drinks in these bars. Keep in mind the age restriction, ticket prices, and dress codes if you’re planning to go to a bar with live music. Plan in advance and book tickets, especially for popular artists, to avoid disappointment. Have a great time exploring the live music scene in Denver!
After reading this article, you can plan to visit some of the best bars with live music the city has to offer. You can also check other articles about Denver’s culture and nightlife on this website. Thank you for reading and have a great time exploring the city’s live music scene.