The 10 Most Romantic Restaurants for a Denver Date Night

Your date night planning just got easier with this list of the best and most romantic restaurants Denver has to offer.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect intimate atmosphere, the freshest ingredients, or a dining experience you’ll never forget, we’ve got you covered.

Jump to:

• Central
• West
• Northwest
• Northeast
• Southeast

Best Romantic Dining in Central Denver

Photo: Shakirov Albert via Shutterstock.com

Tavernetta

1889 16th Street Mall, Denver

• Hours: 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday through Friday, 3-10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
• Price range: $50-$100
• Must-try menu item: Roman pasta flight (only available during happy hour)
• Reservations highly recommended

While it might not be realistic to pencil in a quick trip to Italy for date night, you can try the next best thing by planning a romantic evening at Tavernetta, where delectable Italian-inspired dishes, authenticity, and exceptional service are on the menu. Located in the heart of Union Station, you and your significant other can enjoy a walk through the city’s famed neighborhood before getting cozy by Tavernetta’s fireplace over a glass of wine and a plate of delicious pasta.

Odyssey Italian Restaurant

603 E. 6th Ave., Denver

• Hours: 3-10 p.m. Monday, 4-10 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday
• Price range: $30-$50
• Must-try menu item: Calamari
• Reservations highly recommended

Do you love the comfort of an at-home date night but want to experience the charm and excitement of destination dining? Odyssey Italian, an authentic Italian dining experience, offers both! Located in a historic, Victorian-style home with dishes that will transport you straight to Sicily, Odyssey lives up to its name. This restaurant’s menu is savored by those who dine there, and Odyssey’s intimate, cozy atmosphere makes it one of the most romantic restaurants in Denver.

Bastien’s

3503 E. Colfax Ave., Denver

• Hours: 4-9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, Sunday; 4-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday
• Price range: $50-$100
• Must-try menu item: Sugar steak
• Reservations highly recommended

Do you prefer to do date night the old-fashioned way? Then you might want to make Bastiens’ your next stop. A family-owned staple since 1937, this old-school steakhouse is famous among Denver residents. The interior is one of a kind, with a circular dining room lined with glowing string lights stretching all the way up to its high ceiling. Make sure to try the eatery’s iconic sugar steak — it’s grilled to perfection with a caramelized, sugary coating. 

Best Romantic Dining in West Denver

Photo: LightField Studios via Shutterstock.com

Willow Creek

29029 Upper Bear Creek Rd., Evergreen

• Hours: 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., 5-8:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday through Friday; 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 5-8:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
• Price range: $30-$70
• Must-try menu item: Check the seasonal menu before planning your visit
• Reservations highly recommended

At Willow Creek Restaurant, rustic is synonymous with romantic. Overlooking Evergreen Lake, this establishment offers fine dining with breathtaking views of the countryside. While there is a patio for those nice, sunshine-filled days, inside the restaurant is just as inviting — you’ll feel like you stepped into a mountain lodge with its brick walls and windows that reach to the high, wood-beamed ceiling. With a menu of delectables all made in-house, start by sharing a plate of artisanal cheeses, crackers, and honeycomb before diving into a seven-ounce Colorado filet mignon.

Angelo’s Taverna

6885 S. Santa Fe Dr., Littleton

• Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday
• Price range: $20-$30
• Must-try menu item: Oysters
• Walk-ins accepted, though reservations will reduce wait times; call 720-532-1389.

Looking for a table for two in Littleton this Valentine’s Day? Angelo’s Taverna has been a renowned spot in town for over 50 years, offering some of the best food and wine you’ll find. With its warm lighting, the restaurant has the perfect vibe for enjoying company, and its interior even features unique features, like stained-glass windows. Not to mention, Angelo’s Taverna has not one, but two happy hours daily!

The Fort

19192 CO-8, Morrison

• Hours: 5:30-9:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 5-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 5-9 p.m. Sunday
• Price range: $100+
• Must-try menu item: The Fort’s Game Plate
• Reservations highly recommended

If you want to plan a date night you’ll never forget, you need to check out The Fort in Morrison. Just under 30 minutes outside Denver, this one-of-a-kind restaurant is nationally acclaimed, with an 18-year streak as a recipient of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence and eight other individual awards under its belt. Want to expand your palate? The Fort has a range of dishes inspired by Western cuisine of the 1800s, with a specialty in regional game. Even better, there’s nothing quite like the view from The Fort — if you’re lucky enough to score a window seat, you’ll get to take in the Colorado sky and an endless, and maybe even snowy, mountain scene.

Best Romantic Dining in Northwest Denver

Photo: Shakirov Albert via Shutterstock.com

The Greenbriar Inn

8735 N. Foothills Hwy., Boulder

• Hours: 5-9 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday
• Price range: $50-$100
• Must-try menu item: Beef Wellington
• Reservations highly recommended

Stationed at the foot of the Rocky Mountains on one of the most picturesque properties around, the Greenbriar Inn will transport you to a Hallmark movie scene. What could be more romantic than dining at a country inn in front of a large stone fireplace? Greenbriar serves up a menu of American cuisine made from its fresh, farm-to-table ingredients. Greenbriar’s chefs source all produce directly from the restaurant’s property, and its protein options are locally caught and sustainably farmed. Plus, if you want to take an after-dinner stroll, you can explore Greenbriar’s 20-acre property and take in its breathtaking woodlands, gardens, ponds, and even a waterfall!

Flagstaff House

1138 Flagstaff Rd., Boulder

• Hours: 5-8 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday
• Price range: $100+
• Must-try menu item: Venison (when available)
• Reservations required; book online or call 303-442-4640

Are you searching for the perfect spot to celebrate an anniversary or planning a classy dinner date night? Visit Flagstaff House, one of Boulder’s best fine dining restaurants. Dining at this upscale restaurant will make any occasion feel special — not only will you be served a high-quality, locally sourced dinner, but you will be handed an experience like no other on a silver platter. Flagstaff’s skilled chefs curate nightly menus, each dish meticulously crafted using the best seasonal ingredients. At Flagstaff, dining is an art. If you do want to check out this incredible restaurant, be sure to come dressed in your best! While Flagstaff doesn’t require its guests to adhere to a dress code, the restaurant staff asks that they refrain from wearing t-shirts, hats, casual shorts, or athletic attire.

Best Romantic Dining in Northeast Denver

Photo: Arthur Bargan via Shutterstock.com

Copper Table

6700 N. Gaylord Rockies Blvd., Aurora

• Hours: 6:30-11 a.m. Monday; 6:30-11 a.m., 3-10 p.m. Tuesday; 6:30-11 a.m., 5-10 p.m. Wednesday through Friday; 6:30 a.m.-2 p.m., 5-10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
• Price range: $30-$50
• Must-try menu item: Bison prime rib
• Reservations recommended; call 720-452-6900

Found inside the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center, Copper Table makes the perfect setting for a romantic night with your significant other — even if you’re not staying at the hotel! The stone walls and cozy lighting from the high-hanging chandeliers create a comfortable yet classy atmosphere. This restaurant is a popular choice for celebrations of all kinds, so be sure to note the occasion when making your reservation — whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or heading out for a regularly scheduled night together.

Best Romantic Dining in Southeast Denver

Photo: Rawpixel.com via Shutterstock.com

Nolia

8100 S. Quebec St. b16, Centennial

• Hours: 3-9:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 3-10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday
• Price range: $30-$50
• Must-try menu item: Check the seasonal menu before planning your visit
• Reservations highly recommended

When it comes to love, sharing is nonnegotiable. Nolia Restaurant stands by the same principle. This gem blends southern, Louisiana-style dishes with a European, tapas-style dining experience. With a seasonally rotating menu and weekly updated specials, it’s a guarantee that whatever you try will be out of this world. Try classics like gumbo or red beans and rice, or get the best of both worlds by sharing tapas. Ever tried pairing Louisiana crab cakes with grilled artichoke hearts? It’s as good as it sounds! Be sure to check out the restaurant’s daily happy hour from 3-6 p.m., and if you’re curious about its specials, feel free to call 720-315-9828.

The post The 10 Most Romantic Restaurants for a Denver Date Night appeared first on Wundervue.

source https://wundervue.com/the-10-most-romantic-restaurants-for-a-denver-date-night/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-10-most-romantic-restaurants-for-a-denver-date-night

Walk Through a Winter Wonderland (Literally) During the Best Winter Hikes in Colorado

While hiking through the wildflowers and high alpine meadows of the Rocky Mountains during the summer is pretty incredible, there’s a different — but very special — kind of magic during the winter months. 

That’s why we put together this list of the best winter hikes in Colorado, which includes everything from snow-covered alpine lakes to frozen waterfalls to a desert loop that might make you forget we’re in the coldest part of the year. No matter what, you’re sure to get an epic photo for Instagram out of the deal. 

Check out our recommendations below, broken down by how far they are away from Denver. No matter what, make sure you look at the forecast before you leave and choose your gear accordingly. 

We recommend investing in a pair of microspikes at a minimum to stay safe on the ice, and bringing along snowshoes if the snow is high enough for postholing. 

Jump to:

• Within 30 Min. of Denver
• Within 60 Min. of Denver
• Within 2 Hrs. of Denver
• More Than 2 Hrs. From Denver

Best Winter Hikes in Colorado within 30 Minutes of Denver 

Photo: South Table Mountain. Cary Leppert via Shutterstock.com

Green Mountain Via Green Mountain and Hayden Loop Trails

Lakewood

• Distance: 5 miles 
• Difficulty: Moderate 
• Best for: 360 views of a snow-covered Denver 

One of the best spots for winter hiking Colorado has to offer is literally visible from downtown. Green Mountain in Lakewood has some of the best-known hiking trails in Colorado throughout the year, but it’s especially epic after a snowstorm, when the summit offers a sprawling 360-degree view of the entire Denver metro area. If there’s enough snow, chances are you might be able to spot some skiers carving turns down the hill against the backdrop of the Denver skyline. If that’s not Instagrammable, we don’t know what is.

Cretaceous Trail Loop on South Table Mountain

Golden

• Distance: 3 miles, 324 feet of elevation gain 
• Difficulty: Easy
• Best for: Quick-drying trails and plenty of sun 

Winter hiking in Colorado can get dicey. After all, if there’s too much snow, you’ll find yourself postholing, and if you stop by too late, you might damage the trail by hiking in the mud. What makes South Table Mountain one of the best winter hikes in Colorado is the fact that its singletrack is typically packed down after a big storm, and once the sun comes out, the surface melts and dries quickly. The views are cool too, since when you’re at the top, you can see downtown to the east, Green Mountain to the south, North Table Mountain to the north, and Golden and the foothills directly to the west. We recommend stopping by at sunset for the ultimate Instagram photo op. 

Meadowlark Plymouth Creek Short Loop

Littleton

• Distance: 2.8 miles, 534 feet of elevation gain 
• Difficulty: Moderate 
• Best for: Awesome views without a long drive 

This trail isn’t particularly long, but it has some of the best elements of winter hikes in Colorado. To start, there’s a nice climb to the top of a foothill, offering views of the red rock formations of South Valley Park, the downtown skyline, and the Hogback. As you keep going, you’ll find yourself walking along a creek in a scenic forest before making your way back down to the parking lot. There’s an option to extend this hike, too, by going to the top of Plymouth Mountain. One thing to note: While Deer Creek Canyon is awesome when it’s snow-covered, it tends to get very muddy when it melts, which often closes the park. Definitely check the website for updates before you go. 

Best Winter Hikes in Colorado within 60 Minutes of Denver

Photo: Staunton State Park. Jeremy Janus via Shutterstock.com

Canyon Loop at Betasso Preserve

Boulder

• Distance: 3.2 miles, 465 feet of elevation gain 
• Difficulty: Moderate 
• Best for: Walking through a winter wonderland 

This loop is very, very popular during the warmer months, but it might be best enjoyed during the winter. In addition to stunning views of the foothills, you’ll also make your way through snow-covered forest and along winding singletrack that might make you forget you’re relatively close to the city. As a bonus, it’s much less busy during the winter, but it’s still well-traveled enough that you’ll likely find packed-down snow. 

Mason Creek and Staunton Ranch Trail Loop

Conifer 

• Distance: 6.5 miles, 1,200 feet of elevation gain 
• Difficulty: Hard 
• Best for: Amazing views of the South Platte River valley 

Staunton State Park has a bunch of the best winter hikes in Colorado, but we’re especially partial to this loop, which includes a fun climb alongside a creek, a meandering trail through the forest with views of rock formations and the South Platte River Valley, and finally rolling singletrack on the valley floor alongside historic cabins. If you have time and energy, we definitely recommend hiking out to the overlooks. 

Spruce Mountain Trail

Larkspur

• Distance: 5.3 miles, 574 feet of elevation gain 
• Difficulty: Moderate 
• Best for: Sprawling wintry views without massive crowds 

This loop on a mesa between Denver and Colorado Springs might be one of the best winter hikes Colorado has to offer, thanks to its stunning views of the vast snow-covered Greenland Open Space and surrounding hillsides. Also, since much of this trail is in the shade, it’s more likely to be snow-covered than muddy, and outside of the climb to the top, there’s not a tremendous amount of elevation gain. Definitely stop and take in the vistas from one of the cliffs, and keep an eye out for the railroad to the north. 

Best Winter Hikes in Colorado Within Two Hours of Denver

Photo: Cub Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. Ronda Kimbrow via Shutterstock.com

Cub Lake

Rocky Mountain National Park

• Distance: 2.3 miles one way, 540 feet of elevation gain 
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate  
• Best for: Seeing Rocky Mountain National Park’s alpine lakes without a ton of effort 

Rocky Mountain National Park is famous for its alpine lakes, but in the dead of winter, it might not seem super appealing to go on an 11-mile trek into the backcountry. This amazing hike might be a better option. At less than five miles round trip, it’s fairly short, and it gets plenty of traffic, meaning the trail should be packed down. You’ll also be rewarded with stunning views of this frozen lake and the surrounding peaks, with the option to keep going down the trail to continue soaking in the views if you so choose. 

Jim Creek Trail

Winter Park 

• Distance: 7.5 miles, 1,466 feet of elevation gain 
• Difficulty: Hard
• Best for: Enjoy Winter Park, Colorado hiking trails within a stone’s throw of the resort 

This is often considered one of the best Winter Park, Colorado hiking trails, and we’re especially partial to it during the cold months, when a blanket of snow turns this path along the cascading Jim Creek into a legit winter wonderland. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with a view of a stunning waterfall and the Fraser Valley below. Since this is relatively close to the ski resort, it can get a little busy, and you should definitely expect some snow, so plan your gear accordingly. 

Lily Pad Lake Trail

Dillon

• Distance: 3.4 miles, 413 feet of elevation gain 
• Difficulty: Easy  
• Best for: Seeing an alpine lake during the winter 

Dillon is probably one of the most popular destinations in Colorado for downhill skiing, but if dropping hundreds of dollars on lift tickets and then spending half the day in line isn’t your idea of a fun time, don’t worry: There are plenty of other ways to enjoy Summit County during the winter. That’s why we’re big fans of this trail, which meanders through aspen forests and lodgepole pines before stopping at its namesake lake. Along the way, you’ll get amazing views of Dillon Reservoir and Buffalo Lake, making it the perfect spot to snap a quick photo. 

Best Winter Hikes in Colorado More Than Two Hours From Denver 

Photo: Devils Canyon. Linda Armstrong via Shutterstock.com

Babbish Gulch Trail

Glenwood Springs

• Distance: 3.3 miles, 593 feet of elevation gain 
• Difficulty: Moderate 
• Best for: Choosing your own adventure 

This trail near Glenwood Springs is considered one of the best winter hikes in Colorado, thanks to its amazing views of the surrounding valley, meandering journey through the aspen forest, and the fact that parts of it are groomed when there’s enough snow, making it an ideal spot to mess around on your Nordic skis. 

Devils Canyon Loop Trail

Fruita 

• Distance: 6.8 miles, 748 feet of elevation gain 
• Difficulty: Moderate 
• Best for: A desert escape from the snow 

Winter hiking trails in Colorado don’t have to involve a ton of snow. This classic trail in the heart of Fruita’s canyon country is a perfect example of this — and a great place to spend some time on non-snowy/muddy singletrack during the cold months. Here, you’ll see towering red rock cliffs, old mining ruins, and even evidence of the prehistoric creatures that lived in the area millions of years before Instagram was invented (which is probably for the best, since the T-Rex definitely didn’t have long enough arms for selfies). Depending on how much time you have, you can easily explore some of the area’s side trails for some of the best desert views outside of Moab. 

Fish Creek Falls Trail

Steamboat Springs

• Distance: 4.7 miles, 1,427 feet of elevation gain 
• Difficulty: Moderate 
• Best for: Frozen waterfall views 

This spot near Steamboat is easily one of the most Instagrammed places in the state during the summer, but it’s also one of the top winter hikes in Colorado. See why, as you make your way up a rocky and sometimes technical trail from the accessible lower falls all the way up to the upper falls at the top. Definitely bring microspikes and snowshoes for this one, and check for the latest avalanche conditions before entering the backcountry.

The post Walk Through a Winter Wonderland (Literally) During the Best Winter Hikes in Colorado appeared first on Wundervue.

source https://wundervue.com/walk-through-a-winter-wonderland-literally-during-the-best-winter-hikes-in-colorado/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=walk-through-a-winter-wonderland-literally-during-the-best-winter-hikes-in-colorado

Rock (and Eat Rolls) at The 13 Best Restaurants for Live Music in Denver

Going out to eat is one of life’s simple pleasures, but music really makes the experience even better. Luckily, there are plenty of restaurants that are also home to some of the best live music Denver has to offer. 

Whether you’re looking for a classy night with jazz music and chef-crafted dishes, or you just want to house some absolutely massive chicken wings while listening to a Fleetwood Mac cover band, you’re sure to find something to love on this list of the best restaurants with live music in Denver and beyond.

Jump to:

• In Denver
• In the Suburbs
• For Live Jazz
• In Colorado

The Best Restaurants with Live Music in Denver

Photo: iChzigo via Shutterstock.com

Appaloosa Grill

535 16th St. Mall #110, Denver

• Hours: 11 a.m.-1 a.m. daily
• Type of music: Blues, rock, jazz, R&B, and more

This is easily one of the most quintessential and downright reliable spots for live music Denver has to offer. The Appaloosa Grill is located right on the strip formerly known as the 16th Street Mall, and is famous for having live music every night from 9 p.m. to midnight. Come hungry, because the kitchen doesn’t close until 12:30 a.m.! They typically post their live music lineup around a month in advance, so find a band you like and plan to hang out for the entire show.  

Globe Hall

4483 Logan St., Denver

• Hours: 5 p.m.-midnight Thursday, 5 p.m.-1 a.m. Friday and Saturday, and 4-10 p.m. Sunday
• Type of music: Rock, country, indie, blues, and more

If you’re looking for restaurants in Denver with live music, this spot is hard to beat. Let’s start with the food: the delicious barbecue spread will have you thinking you’re in Austin instead of the Mile High City. And honestly, this is just an appetizer for the main event. Globe Hall brings in a litany of up-and-coming national acts and local superstars in an intimate venue where there’s pretty much no bad place to stand. Even if you don’t smoke, be sure to check out the smoking patio, which is home to a cool vintage Airstream that also doubles as the green room for the bands. 

Lincoln’s Roadhouse

1201 S. Pearl St., Denver

• Hours: 11 a.m.-midnight Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Friday and Saturday, closed Sunday and Monday
• Type of music: Blues

No list of restaurants in Denver with live music is complete without Lincoln’s Roadhouse. This South Pearl Street mainstay has one of the coolest atmospheres in town thanks to the friendly locals and incredible music lineup featuring some of the best blues artists in the country. There’s typically no cover, so it also happens to be home to some of the best free live music in Denver, but we highly recommend ordering some food. In keeping with its Deep South theme, Lincoln’s has some of the best Creole food in the area. 

Number 38

3560 Chestnut Pl., Denver

• Hours: 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-midnight Friday and Saturday, 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday
• Type of music: Rock, country, bluegrass, hip-hop and more

Live music in Denver is often about finding an awesome patio, and this spot in River North easily has one of the best. Post up on one of the picnic tables with your dog, make some new friends, and catch some of the best local bands around in a unique party environment. The food isn’t bad either; Number 38 is home to numerous food stalls, and you can try everything from pizza to bison mac-and-cheese bowls. Be sure to wash it down with a craft beer from one of the 120 taps on site. 

The Best Restaurants With Live Music in Denver’s Suburbs 

Photo: Schager via Shutterstock.com

Old 121 Brewhouse

1057 S. Wadsworth Blvd. #60, Lakewood

• Hours: 3-10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, noon-10 p.m. Friday, noon-10 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday
• Type of music: Growing local acts

Breweries are some of the best places to catch free live music in Denver, and we’re very partial to this one just off Belmar Park in Lakewood. You can usually catch some sort of fun, local act here on the weekends, and snag some food from a delicious food truck. While you’re here, be sure to try their ESB — it won a gold medal at the World Beer Cup in 2024, and that’s very, very well-deserved. 

Q’s Pub and Grill

10133 W. Chatfield Ave., Littleton

• Hours: 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, 10:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 10:30 a.m.-1 a.m. Friday, 7 a.m.-1 a.m. Saturday, and 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday
• Type of music: Rock

If you find yourself asking, “where can I find live music today in Denver?,” the answer might be Q’s. This homey bar in the heart of suburban Littleton welcomes a host of live music throughout the week, including lots of particularly epic shows from 80s cover bands (which, empirically, is always a good time). You can also snag some pretty good bar food along the way, as well as affordable drinks (which is very necessary in this economy, especially).

Rock Rest Lounge

16005 Mt. Vernon Rd., Golden

• Hours: 11 a.m.-1:30 a.m. daily
• Type of music: DJs, rock cover bands

Restaurants with live music in Denver should check two boxes: They should be quirky (because Colorado), and they should have nice patios. This classic spot in Golden has both, thanks to its glorious views of South Table Mountain and an interior full of vintage music props and Colorado School of Mines students who are always up for a good time. On weekends, you can usually catch a live cover band on the patio or a DJ inside. Be sure to order a Barmen (a Coors beer that’s only served at select locations) as well as the epically huge chicken wings served in a comically large bucket.

Velvet Elk Lounge

2037 13th St., Boulder

• Hours: 5-10 p.m. Wednesday, 5 p.m.-midnight Thursday through Saturday, and 5-9 p.m. Sunday
• Type of music: Cool local music that will make your friends jealous

This intimate venue in Boulder is all about being one of the best places to see live music today in Denver (or nearby), as well as an ideal spot for a unique cocktail. Post up at the bar and snag a wide variety of elevated snacks as you jam out to everything from bluegrass to Black Sabbath tribute bands (RIP Ozzy). Since you’re pretty close to the Pearl Street Mall, you can make a fun night out of your visit. 

The Best Live Jazz Music Denver Restaurants 

Photo: Malikova Nina via Shutterstock.com

Dazzle

1080 14th St., Denver

• Hours: 3-8:30 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 3-10:30 p.m. Thursday, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.-midnight Friday, 11:30 a.m.-11:30 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sunday 

This isn’t just one of the best places for live jazz music Denver has to offer; it’s also one of the best restaurants in Denver with live music, period. Order some appetizers (or go full ham with the famous Salvadoran tamales), snag a good seat, order one of the famous cocktails, and immerse yourself in some amazing old-school jazz sets. If you aren’t a late-night person, you can stop by and see live music during brunch, which is always a plus. 

Nocturne

1330 27th St., Denver

• Hours: 6-10 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 6-10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 6-9 p.m. Sunday

This jazz club in the heart of RiNo is the perfect place to indulge in dinner and a show. This special type of reservation includes a three-course meal that’s often paired with cocktails, as well as nightly local jazz that will have your toes tapping. Visitors can also just stop in for a drink and appetizer, but be warmed: This isn’t the biggest space in the world, so reservations are always encouraged! 

The Best Places to Find Live Music in Colorado 

Photo: Vershinin89 via Shutterstock.com

Gold Hill Inn

401 Main Street, Gold Hill, Boulder

• Hours: 5-8 p.m. Friday through Sunday, open May through December
• Type of music: Americana, bluegrass, folk, honky tonk, and more 

This restaurant is only 10 miles from Boulder, but trust us: It’s not easy to get here. No matter what, you have to take a dirt road, and if you’re coming from the north, you’ll be braving the epically steep Lickskillet Road. That said, getting here is well worth it. The restaurant serves up to a six-course meal with unique, locally-crafted food. Plus, there are lots of opportunities to really enjoy yourself in the adjoining beer garden. Along the way, you can hear a variety of unique music befitting a mountain town in one of the most lovely and unique settings around. 

Old Town Pub

600 Lincoln Ave., Steamboat Springs

• Hours: Noon-midnight Monday through Thursday, noon-1 a.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Saturday, and 10:45 a.m.-midnight Sunday 
• Type of music: Funk, soul, jazz, R&B, and rock

Steamboat is one of our favorite mountain towns, and this spot right on the main drag easily has some of the best live music Colorado has to offer. Order some of the delicious bar food (we recommend the burger) as well as one of the strong and relatively affordable drinks, and jam out to acts ranging from Grateful Dead tributes to reggae to DJs. 

Silver City Aspen

210 S. Galena St., Aspen

• Hours: 7 p.m.-2 a.m. daily
• Type of music: Rock and country

This quintessential mountain town destination is one of the best spots for live music Colorado has to offer. We chalk it up to history, since Silver City is the oldest restaurant in Aspen (it was built during Ulysses S. Grant’s administration, to put it into context). Order some chicken tenders and a Coors Light (or a fancy cocktail, if you’re into the Aspen vibes), and catch some incredible live music from local and national touring acts. 

The post Rock (and Eat Rolls) at The 13 Best Restaurants for Live Music in Denver appeared first on Wundervue.

source https://wundervue.com/rock-and-eat-rolls-at-the-13-best-restaurants-for-live-music-in-denver/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rock-and-eat-rolls-at-the-13-best-restaurants-for-live-music-in-denver

Best Virtual Reality Experiences in Denver for Every Player

Virtual reality is taking the world by storm, and here in Denver, there’s no shortage of VR experiences nearby.

Because VR technology changes so rapidly, finding a location where the gameplay style and technology match your needs is essential. Some VR games feel more like classic arcade adventures and let you experience the world of your video game in immersive 3D. Other VR experiences are more interactive, featuring body vests, touch-sensitive walls, and full-room audio.

Virtual reality experiences in the Denver area are an excellent option for players of almost any age. Kids as young as five can use many of the VR headsets, especially when the game is short and stationary. Because VR often uses flashing lights, it’s important to limit exposure if you’re a photosensitive user, but other medical conditions don’t get in the way of your adventure!

Whether you’re looking for something more lowkey and classic or ready to try your hand at an immersive escape from an alien invasion, these VR experiences in Denver will leave you counting the days until you can return.

Jump to:

• For Families
• For Parties
• For Versatility

Best VR Spots for Families

Photo: ViDI Studio via Shutterstock.com

These VR experiences in Denver are not as immersive as others on the list, but we think that’s part of the fun for families. Especially with younger children, more than about 10 minutes in one VR session can be overstimulating. These locations all offer options to go explore and enjoy other activities, then rotate back to the VR chairs for another round!

Ka-Ko Jo’s

14200 E. Alameda Ave., Aurora

• Hours: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, noon-6 p.m. Sunday
• Pricing: Varies. Visit the location directly to find current prices.
• Reservations: Not offered for VR portion
• What stands out: Nostalgic, family-friendly atmosphere without as much sensory overload.

Kids will love the virtual reality experiences at Ka-Ko Jo’s, especially because they are short and sweet! The VR headsets and chairs are a great bridge between classic arcade games and a more immersive experience. Your whole family can enjoy playing traditional arcade games alongside the VR attractions without having to commit to just one experience.

Monster Mini-Golf

8227 S. Holly St., Centennial

• Hours: Noon-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, noon-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, noon-8 p.m. Sunday
• Pricing: $6 per game per person for VR
• Reservations: Not offered
• What stands out: Wonderfully themed environment across all games.

For families in the Denver area, Monster Mini-Golf offers a fun escape for interactive play. We love the more traditional offerings like bowling and mini-golf that sit right next to VR stations. The monster theme is pervasive throughout, so kids won’t feel like they’re leaving the fun when they step from one experience to the next. The VR games are short and to the point, so kids can easily feel successful!

Main Event

64 Centennial Blvd., Highlands Ranch

• Hours: 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Monday and Friday, 11 a.m.-midnight Tuesday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-1 a.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-midnight Sunday
• Pricing: About $6 per game per person, but frequent deals
• Reservations: Not offered for VR portion
• What stands out: The sheer abundance of games, food, and activities for everyone in the group.

While Main Event isn’t primarily known as a VR destination, the abundance of choices for family fun alongside VR games puts this experience solidly on our list. The lines for the VR games often get long, so we love that kids can choose a different activity while they wait, including grabbing a bite to eat! Some VR chairs also have screens that display what the player sees, so kids (and grown-ups!) can enjoy watching others play while they wait in line.

Best VR Experiences for Parties

Photo: via Sandbox VR

Virtual reality in Denver and surrounding communities makes the perfect option for a party. We love that teens and adults can work collaboratively or independently, depending on party preference. Rather than opting for the same, expected party games, try these virtual reality experiences instead!

Kaboom VR

9660 E. Alameda Ave., Unit 106, Denver

• Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday/Wednesday/Thursday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday through Sunday, closed Tuesdays
• Pricing: $20-$40 per hour per person; $550 party option for 2 hours
• Reservations: Recommended, but walk-ins available
• What stands out: There are flexible options for sharing VR time or choosing from a variety of games, making planning a bigger party easier.

Kaboom VR is an excellent option for kids, teens, and adults who are newer to VR but want to experience an immersive party. You don’t have to choose just one experience for the whole group since the headsets are equipped to connect to any adventure. We love that party hosts can load time on as many headsets as their group needs, then let the guests go wild! For kids who might not want to spend the whole time on VR, you can share headsets among several guests without separate charges. For guests who want to play together, there are lots of multiplayer options. There’s also a dedicated computer arena where you can sign up for time to play esports on bigger screens in a fun atmosphere.

Airbound

Your choice! Call 970-613-4343 for inquiries

• Hours: Your choice!
• Pricing: Varies based on chosen experiences, dates, and times
• Reservations: Required
• What stands out: The party comes to you with a mobile VR experience.

Unlike the other VR experiences in Colorado, the VR games with Airbound aren’t located in one physical location — they travel to you! This company offers dozens of party rentals, from bounce houses to decorations, and VR is among its most popular items. You can even choose a virtual roller coaster as one of your options!

Sandbox VR

8429 Park Meadows Center Dr., Suite 125, Lone Tree

• Hours: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday through Sunday
• Pricing: $52-$60 per person per experience; $575+ for parties
• Reservations: Recommended, but walk-ins are accepted
• What stands out: Your reservation includes a video of the experience at no extra cost.

For teens and adults, a party at Sandbox VR is top of the list. It’s easy to curate an experience that matches your group size and needs, including adding snack boxes for enjoying in between games. We love that you get a video of your VR adventure that shows both what the players see through their headsets and what an observer would see in the room!

Best VR Locations for Versatility

Photo: via Sandbox VR

Because virtual reality experiences in Denver are still newer attractions, there is so much variety in what the best spots offer! These locations take the top spots for having a wide range of games, other activities to offer guests, and unique options that will make your visit memorable.

Immersive Gamebox

825 Albion St., Denver

• Hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday
• Pricing: $30+ per person per hour, varies by game and date/time booked
• Reservations: Recommended, but walk-ins accepted
• What stands out: The largest menu of immersive experiences for groups

Imagine taking your weekend television shows or tabletop games to the next level with a completely immersive experience. That’s what Immersive Gamebox offers. With everything from a Paw Patrol room for the little ones to extra-challenging escape room themes for adults, this VR location is the ultimate destination for adventure. We also love that you can book a time to visit, then have staff help you decide which experiences are best for your group after you arrive!

VR Arcade

1624 Market St., Denver

• Hours: Varies, choose your time and date when booking
• Pricing: $10 for a spectator, $35-$50 per person for an hour of VR
• Reservations: Required
• What stands out: A specialized ticket for a spectator experience so that everyone in the group can have fun

The virtual reality experience at VR Arcade offers a more relaxed environment for enjoying immersive play. The studio has a featured experience each month that often coincides with holiday or special event themes, but players can also choose from an extensive library of games, including golf, racing, bowling, and more traditional arcade games. Your ticket price includes a drink and an appetizer before the game, so it’s a great way to spend an evening with friends and family.

Virtual Reality Social

5505 W. 20th Ave., Suite 200, Edgewater

• Hours: 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday
• Pricing: $15-$40 per person per experience, varies based on options chosen; party packages start at $350
• Reservations: Highly recommended, but walk-ins available
• What stands out: A mix of stationary and free-roaming VR options alongside other attractions

With everything from virtual reality escape rooms to a wall of screens for watching your favorite sports teams, VR Social is a one-stop spot to enjoy friends, food, and VR fun. The owners of VR Social want you to enjoy the games and time with your friends and family, so they’ve designed the space to encourage everyone to stay a while and relax. The food and drink menu is a definite bonus here!

With so many fantastic options for virtual reality experiences in the Denver area, we’re sure you’ll find something fun to enjoy with family and friends!

The post Best Virtual Reality Experiences in Denver for Every Player appeared first on Wundervue.

source https://wundervue.com/best-virtual-reality-experiences-in-denver-for-every-player/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-virtual-reality-experiences-in-denver-for-every-player