10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Denver
Where to Go in Denver at Night?
The best things to do after dinner in Denver include exploring the city’s colorful districts, each of which has its own set of nightlife hotspots. Whether you want to experience the city’s world-class music scene, craft breweries, or fun-loving activities for families, there are great options to explore on almost every street.
Colorado might be renowned for its stunning surrounding landscape, but the atmosphere in the city is just as distinctive. If you’re planning your post-dinner adventures, make sure to include some of these exciting venues for the best possible experience.
What are the best things to do at night in Denver?
1. Red Rocks Amphitheater
Enjoy an unforgettable concert in natural surrounds
Good for: Photo, Nightlife
The Red Rock Amphitheater is a wonderful open-air performance venue situated 15 miles southwest of Denver. Renowned for its natural design, formed over millions of years, the space was first used for concerts during the early 20th century before it was purchased by the city.
The Red Rock Amphitheatre’s calendar is always loaded with exciting events. Notable bands like The Beatles, U2 and Rush have performed onstage in the past. Meanwhile, the area surrounding the amphitheater is known for its first-class hiking and biking trails (though we don’t recommend exploring those at night).
Location: 18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Phone: +1 720-865-2494
Red Rocks Amphitheater
2. Denver Performing Arts Complex
Catch a brilliant musical or opera at this stunning space
Good for: Nightlife
The Denver Performing Arts Complex is right in the middle of the city’s art and culture hub, making it a great place to visit after dinner. It contains several impressive venues specifically designed to bring out the best of any show. The Ellie Caulkins Opera House and the Boettcher Concert Hall are must-visits at the Denver Performing Arts Complex.
With a busy schedule packed with an ever-evolving selection of musicals, performance artists, comedians and musical acts, there’s no shortage of great entertainment on display. Plus, the nearby streets are lined with great bars if you’re looking for more late-night fun after a show.
Location: 1400 Curtis Street, Denver, CO 80204, USA
Phone: +1 720-865-4220
Denver Performing Arts Complex
3. Blossoms of Light at Denver Botanic Gardens
Discover the city’s most incredible Christmas lights experience
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo, Nightlife
The Denver Botanic Gardens are stunning any time of year, but they make for an especially exciting visit during the wintertime. The Blossoms of Light show has been running annually since 1988, and is the gardens’ main event of the year, with almost the entire 24-acre landscape brought to life in vibrant colors. Each show takes 13 months to plan, so you know it’s going to be something special.
Even outside of the special show, the Denver Botanic Gardens is a great destination to explore after-dark if you happen to be visiting Denver in winter (November–January). The gardens’ various paths, ponds and plant life are decorated with radiant LEDs. Read more
Location: 1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206, USA
Open: Monday and Wednesday from 9 am to 3 pm, Tuesday and Thursday–Sunday from 9 am to 8 pm
Phone: + 1 720-865-3500
Blossoms of Light at Denver Botanic Gardens
4. Comedy Works
Get ready for endless laughs with Denver’s top comedy nights
Good for: Photo, Nightlife
Comedy Works is Denver’s premier spot for post-dinner laughs, with big crowds and acclaimed comedians gracing its storied stage since 1981. In fact, there’s a good chance you’ll spot some famous faces if you choose to attend, with the likes of Jerry Seinfeld, Jay Leno, Ellen DeGeneres, Dave Chappelle, Chris Rock and many more headlining over the years.
With many of the comedians who gotten their start at Comedy Works going on to become huge celebrities in the industry, Wednesday’s New Talent Night is your chance to catch some emerging stars before they become household names. Simply bring your sense of humor and you’re bound for a great night.
Location: 1226 15th St, Denver, CO 80202, USA
Open: Wednesday–Thursday from 7 pm to 10 pm, Friday–Saturday from 6 pm to 11 pm
Phone: +1 303-595-3637
Comedy Works
5. B-Side Music Fridays at MCA Denver
Enjoy contemporary art exhibitions with a side of live music
Good for: Nightlife
The Museum of Contemporary Art Denver is an excellent place to see modern art exhibitions in the city. A rotating list of creative events from landmark artists takes place throughout the year. To make the most of your visit, be sure to attend on a Friday night when B-Side Music Fridays are held at MCA Denver.
This special weekly summer event presents some of Colorado’s top independent bands on a picturesque rooftop as the sun sets in the distance. As these showcases are free with museum admission, you’ll be able to wander the gallery floor before heading upstairs for a drink and a dance.
Location: 1485 Delgany St, Denver, CO 80202, USA
Open: Summer: Friday from 5 pm to 10 pm
Phone: +1 303-298-7554
B-Side Music Fridays at MCA Denver
6. Landmark’s Esquire Theater
Watch your favorite classics and indie movies at this historic movie theater
Good for: Couples, Families, Nightlife
Landmark’s Esquire Theater is a movie lover’s dream destination, featuring a variety of critically acclaimed classics and the latest must-see independent movies. Situated in the quiet residential neighbourhood of Capitol Hill, the theater was built in 1927 and has undergone several upgrades over the years to keep up with the latest standards.
With only 2 screens to choose from, you’ll be able to watch your chosen movie in outstanding quality. The theater is equipped with 70 mm capability and Sony Dynamic Digital Sound. There are always events on the calendar, including The Rocky Horror Picture Show and special midnight screenings.
Location: 590 N Downing St, Denver, CO 80218, USA
Open: Monday–Thursday from 1.30 pm to 9.30 pm, Friday–Saturday from 11.30 am to 12.15 am, Sundays from 11.30 am to 10 pm
Phone: +1 303-733-0148
Landmark's Esquire Theater
7. Bluebird Theater
Discover Colorado’s top live music acts in a beloved venue
Good for: Nightlife
The Bluebird Theater is one of the most historic venues in Denver, having remained a vital part of the community since 1913. Although it was originally opened as a movie theater, it’s become recognized as an essential part of Colorado’s dynamic live music scene.
With a capacity of 500 people, you can be sure that any event you decide to attend will be an intimate one. It has 3 distinctive tiers overlooking the entire stage, so you’ll have a great view of the action from anywhere in the house.
Location: 3317 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206, USA
Phone: +1 303-377-1666
Bluebird Theater
8. Mutiny Information Cafe
Read, play games, and enjoy an after-hours coffee
Good for: Food, Nightlife
The Mutiny Information Cafe is a great spot for a late-night browse, as it’s packed with odd books, vinyl records, comics, rare posters, and pinball machines. The venue is also renowned for its outstanding locally roasted coffee and kombucha on tap, so there’s always the opportunity for an evening boost.
Mutiny Information Cafe hosts a range of live events, including musical acts, comedians, authors, and performers – there’s often something fascinating to see in person. Situated amid the Broadway shopping strip, there’s a wide selection of bars and fast-food spots nearby.
Location: 2 S Broadway, Denver, CO 80209, USA
Open: Monday–Thursday from 10 am to 10 pm, Friday–Sunday from 8 am to 10 pm
Phone: +1 303-778-7579
Mutiny Information Cafe
9. Urban Putt
Sip a cocktail and test out your putting skills
Good for: Families, Nightlife, Adventure
Urban Putt is a great lowkey activity if you’re visiting Denver with family or friends. Located in the old Denver City Cable Railroad Building, it has a couple of 9-hole indoor miniature golf courses, plus a fully equipped kitchen and bar. You’re welcome to grab a putter and see how your skills match up.
Led by talented engineers and industrial designers, there are 2 themes to enjoy – one inspired by Denver’s iconic landmarks and another featuring aliens and submarines. Beverages are allowed on the golf courses.
Location: 1201 18th St, Denver, CO 80202, USA
Open: Tuesday–Friday from 4 pm, Saturday–Sunday from 11 am (closing time varies between 11 pm and 1 am)
Phone: +1 720-360-3020
Urban Putt
10. Lion’s Lair
Get wild on the dancefloor at this iconic rock venue
Good for: Nightlife
Lion’s Lair is the home of rock and punk music in Denver, beloved for its dive bar atmosphere that’s remained true for over 45 years. As a cornerstone of the Colorado heavy music scene, you can expect your visit to be equal parts intimate and loud.
With cheap beverages keeping the crowd satiated, you’re welcome to let loose whenever the bands grace the stage. Lion’s Lair also hosts regular comedy open mic nights, with local talent testing out their new material on an enthusiastic audience.
Location: 2022 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206, USA
Open: Monday–Friday from 3 pm to 2 am, Saturday–Sunday from 2 pm to 2 am
Phone: +1 303-320-9200
Lion’s Lair
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