When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
Charlie's Denver
Why Charlie's Denver is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Charlie's Denver is a well-known entertainment venue located at 900 E Colfax Ave in Denver, Colorado, celebrated for its lively and welcoming atmosphere that brings together a diverse crowd. Renowned as one of Denver's prominent LGBTQ+ bars, Charlie's creates a vibrant party environment with a country-western flair, featuring barn-style wooden interiors, cowboy hats, boots, and a large patio with an outdoor bar perfect for warm evenings. Visitors are drawn to the spot for its daily specials, cheap drinks including popular mini pitchers, and a dynamic entertainment calendar that often includes dancing lessons and drag shows. The venue prides itself on a broad mix of patrons spanning different ages, backgrounds, and orientations, making it a uniquely inclusive place to socialize and enjoy quality nightlife experiences. With its friendly staff and a strong community feel, Charlie's Denver remains a go-to for those wanting a fun and spirited night out in the heart of Denver.
Here's what people think of Charlie's Denver
As of recent, Charlie's Denver holds a 3.7-star rating based on 659 reviews.
Guest reviews for Charlie's Denver are mixed, averaging a 3.7-star rating from over 650 reviewers. Many patrons highlight the venue's great atmosphere, describing it as friendly and fun, with many appreciating the affordability of drinks and the enthusiastic bartenders, particularly noting their energetic service and themed attire. Positive feedback often praises Charlie's for its inclusivity, lively drag shows, and entertaining dance lessons, making it a memorable spot with a diverse crowd and a welcoming vibe. However, some negative reviews point out issues such as occasional rude behavior from staff unless patrons fit certain appearance standards, safety concerns raised by isolated incidents, and inconsistent crowd levels which can impact the experience on quieter nights. These criticisms suggest that while many enjoy the fun and inclusive environment, there are areas where guests feel improvements could be made. Overall, the reviews depict Charlie's Denver as a popular and vibrant venue with strengths in entertainment and community spirit, balanced by occasional concerns in service and security.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lance Flowers
If you’re looking for a place that feels like home with a wild side, Charlie’s Denver Bar is it! The atmosphere is electric—equal parts welcoming, high-energy, and unapologetically fun. Whether it’s a dance party night or a chill evening on the patio, this bar delivers every single time. But what really sets Charlie’s apart is the staff. Edd, Rivers, and Adam are absolute stars! They’re not just bartenders or hosts—they’re vibe curators. Edd brings the charisma, Rivers keeps the drinks flowing with a smile that lights up the room, and Adam? Adam’s got that effortless charm that makes you feel like a regular even on your first visit. Everyone here goes above and beyond to make sure you’re having the best night possible. Can’t recommend it enough. If you’re in Denver and you haven’t been to Charlie’s, you’re missing out!
Gabriel Varela
What a weekend to remember!! The staff was so kind and friendly! Armando was so sweet and had an amazing personality. The general manager was very kind and greeted us every time we showed up! We had an amazing time celebrating our 3 year anniversary there. The drinks were awesome for the price, and they had great specials going on. A huge shout out to the GM, and the two bartenders Armando and Abraham for being so kind to us. We will be back! Charlie's Denver, thank you for being so welcoming and kind to us! With much love , Gabe.
Anthony Marino
Definitely the best gay bar I've been to! Very FTM friendly, I am not seen as a lady here, I'm seen as the man I actually am! I enjoy dancing a lot here, and occasionally communicating with people when my social anxiety isn't present. I also enjoy the popcorn and the fact that they are able to make my drinks as weak as I want (I'm a lightweight so I ask for my drink a bit weak). The bar tenders are AMAZING!! the people who come here are also AMAZING!! if you are a trans man in Colorado, COME HERE!!
Mike Jones
Love that Charlie's represents the best of of the LGBTQIA+ Country Folks! Absolutely love the line dancing lessons on Thursdays and Saturdays! It's been a decade since I've gotten to line dance and two step and it's been so fun becoming a regular there! Awesome staff and Steven does a great job at teaching the line dancing! Great for beginners and advanced folks! Overall I just love this place! Bring your boots and come on down for a Gay Ole Country Time! I promise you'll love it!
lucile Winnchester
Fun energetic bar with a bit of a cowboy theme. Drink prices were not bad, crowd was amazing and staff was pleasant. All around good time.
How to reach Charlie's Denver
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Website: None
Why Charlie's Denver may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Charlie's Denver with your friends? Because it offers a vibrant, energetic atmosphere that’s perfect for creating memorable experiences together. Whether you are looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a night out, Charlie's Denver provides an inviting environment where friends and family can connect and have fun. This place captures the essence of Denver’s lively social scene, especially for those who appreciate a welcoming LGBTQ+ friendly bar setting, although recent reviews suggest varying opinions on inclusivity. The appeal lies not only in its fun vibe but also in its affordability, great drink options, and a casual, relaxed atmosphere where conversation flows freely. Bringing your group here guarantees a dynamic yet comfortable hangout spot where you can savor good food, enjoy drinks, and indulge in group activities. In addition, the presence of a popular taco truck outside adds to the delight with tasty bites accessible without leaving the fun behind. Overall, Charlie’s Denver invites you to rally your friends for a night filled with good times, laughter, and shared moments that you’ll want to relive.
What activities can you do at Charlie’s Denver?
At Charlie’s Denver, the main focus is on socializing, enjoying drinks, and sharing meals, making it ideal for group meetups. The bar features a lively space with a reputation for its energetic crowd and DJ nights that energize the entire venue. Live music and DJ sets are a staple, setting a party mood perfect for gatherings where dancing and entertainment are key. Many visitors enjoy the unique karaoke nights or themed events that occasionally take place, encouraging group participation and lively interaction. The outdoor patio with a taco truck provides a casual dining experience where groups can enjoy delicious, affordable eats while mingling outdoors. This combination of music, drinks, and tasty food creates an engaging environment where friends can connect and make memories. Charlie’s Denver also encourages communal experiences with menu options like shareable nachos and loaded potatoes that are great for groups craving comfort food selections. This social and multimedia approach to entertainment makes the venue particularly suitable for those looking for a hangout with diverse, entertaining activities.
Why is Charlie’s Denver perfect for group meetups?
Charlie's Denver excels in accommodating groups because it blends a casual atmosphere with a dynamic social scene, ensuring everyone feels included and entertained. The venue’s layout allows for easy conversation whether you’re at the bar, sitting in booths, or enjoying the outdoor seating. Its menu, offering hearty comfort foods such as loaded potatoes, nachos, and burgers, appeals widely and can satisfy varying appetites in a group without breaking the bank. Drink specials and affordable options encourage longer stays, maximizing group enjoyment. The staff, while reported as inconsistent by some, are generally described as friendly and helpful, aiding in creating a welcoming environment for visitors who come as part of a crowd. The diversity of clientele typically found here further enhances the sense of belonging for different groups, whether families, friends, or community circles, making it a versatile spot for meetups. For those craving a spontaneous night out or a planned celebration, Charlie's Denver’s combination of food, drinks, and space lends itself well to group dynamics and social bonding.
What is the quality of food and drinks at Charlie’s Denver?
The food at Charlie’s Denver is frequently praised for its generous portion sizes and comforting homestyle quality. Dishes like the Nacho Supreme are described as crispy, cheesy, and perfect for sharing, making them an excellent choice for groups seeking satisfying snacks. Loaded potatoes and classic burgers like the bacon cheeseburger offer hearty meal options that cater to those wanting more substantial dining. Some patrons highlight the freshness of items such as buttermilk pancakes, which pair well with drinks like mimosas, adding a brunch dimension to the venue’s appeal. Although some reviews indicate occasional misses such as incomplete orders or missing ingredients, the overall reputation of the food is generally positive for an eatery emphasizing affordability and comfort. Drink options focus on beer, cocktails, and drink specials that complement the food offerings, with popular choices like Bloody Marys mentioned as great companions to food items. The balance of tasty, filling food with well-priced drinks makes Charlie’s Denver a dependable spot for groups looking to eat well while socializing.
How accessible and inclusive is Charlie’s Denver for diverse groups?
Charlie’s Denver markets itself as an LGBTQ+ friendly bar with a fun and energetic environment that aims to be welcoming to a broad audience. It is known locally as a popular hangout for Denver’s LGBTQ+ community, making it a key venue in the city’s social landscape. However, some recent reviews raise concerns about inclusivity and staff conduct, particularly regarding interactions with women and LGBTQ+ women, and a lack of warmth toward patrons who don’t fit certain aesthetic preferences. There are reports of staff being drunk or rude, and questions regarding security practices, which could cause potential visitors to proceed with caution, especially during busy or event-heavy times like Pride. Despite these issues, many patrons still find the vibe lively and enjoyable, and the venue remains cherished by regulars who appreciate its location and atmosphere. It's advisable for groups considering Charlie’s Denver to be aware of these mixed reports and perhaps visit to judge for themselves whether the venue meets their expectations for safety, inclusivity, and friendly service.
What should groups know about the location and atmosphere?
Charlie’s Denver is situated conveniently on East Colfax Avenue, a well-known area with plenty of nightlife options in Denver. The venue stands out with its colorful and casual vibe reflective of the local culture. The atmosphere is characterized by an energetic crowd, upbeat music, and a generally laid-back dress code, which encourages guests to relax and enjoy themselves without pretension. The venue’s history and reputation as a Denver landmark add to its charm, with many patrons recalling memorable nights and personal stories that happened there. It is especially popular for gatherings that want to combine dining, drinking, and dancing all under one roof. For groups, the mix of indoor seating, bar space, and an outdoor area with a food truck offers flexibility in how to spend their time, accommodating both lively dancing enthusiasts and those wanting to engage in quieter conversation. This variety makes Charlie’s Denver a versatile venue for diverse group preferences.