When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
Ogden Theatre
Why Ogden Theatre is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ogden Theatre in Denver stands as a beautifully preserved historic venue and a premier destination for live music lovers and social gatherings. Originally built in 1917 and hosted weekly dances, vaudeville, and recitals, it has evolved into a vibrant concert venue while retaining its Mediterranean Revival architecture and charming, multi-level layout. Hosting around 150 concerts a year, Ogden Theatre accommodates up to 1,600 guests, making it an ideal setting for meeting friends, enjoying powerful live performances from renowned artists such as Iggy Pop and Smashing Pumpkins, or celebrating special occasions in a unique atmosphere. Guests appreciate the two full bars on-site, enabling relaxed socializing before and after shows. Located on East Colfax Avenue in Denver's Capitol Hill neighborhood, the theatre offers a perfect blend of historic charm and modern concert amenities. Whether you want to catch eclectic music acts, experience an intimate performance, or simply share memorable times with friends in a lively yet welcoming environment, the Ogden Theatre offers a vibrant cultural hub with rich history, excellent acoustics, and a friendly vibe throughout the year.
Here's what people think of Ogden Theatre
As of recent, Ogden Theatre holds a 4.5-star rating based on 4416 reviews.
User reviews highlight the Ogden Theatre as an authentic and enjoyable concert venue with a strong historic atmosphere and great sightlines both upstairs and downstairs. Visitors often praise the friendly and accommodating staff, noting that even logistical issues like ticket problems are managed well with supportive service. The venue's intimate setting combined with decent parking options, including free parking a few blocks away, contributes to an overall positive experience. Positive feedback frequently mentions the welcoming spirit of the staff, quality sound, and the theater’s ability to create a memorable live music experience that draws fans back repeatedly. On the negative side, some attendees find the venue to be adequate but not particularly special compared to others, and comfort levels can depend on the crowd and type of performer playing. Additionally, parking costs can be a downside for those unwilling to walk from free areas. Despite these minor critiques, the consensus is overwhelmingly favorable, with many visitors recommending Ogden Theatre as a top spot to enjoy live music in Denver. The combination of historic character, lively events, and attentive service ensures it remains a beloved cultural landmark for locals and tourists alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
A D
A standout local experience for me and my friend. What set this venue apart from some of the other excellent venues I’ve been to, (as I make my way through each one) in part, was the great light work. My friend and I loved the band, the hype was real. The venue had some large fans in the ceiling that kept the air moving. Drink prices were reasonable. The bathrooms were shaped weird for women but clean and line moved quickly. The line to get in moved efficiently and security did as well. Acoustics seemed great too. I think my friend and I lucked out with there being awesome fellow fans, great theater setup, and amazing light work. I paid for parking in advance which was a bit of a fee, but it was kind of nice to have the car nearby when we were ready to leave.
Mike Davidson
Great little venue in downtown Denver holding about 1600 people with a large, tiered pit and large balconies upstairs. The bar has a decent selection at reasonable prices (I got a double bourbon for ~$18) and the staff is super friendly. I would recommend taking a hat or putting on sunscreen if you line up for a show early as you'll be in the sun the whole time. The surrounding location is a little sketchy but if you're going early and want to grab a drink, go next door (to the right) to Crazy Mountain Brewing and try the stouts and play darts and foosball. There's not much else in walking distance. If you get there early there's free parking on the street in the neighborhood across from the venue, just pay attention to the signs.
Tommy Stephens (Essence Head)
I had a wonderful evening at the Ogden Theater for Larkin Poe and Parker Millsap. It was an open floor with handicapped seating available for those who could not stand for the duration. The staff and security really made the experience and were all in such good spirits, adding to the overall vibe. The tickets were surprisingly affordable, especially as close to the stage as I was. I would show up early as access to the front is first come, first serve outside fast pass users who are obviously five early access for the premium. Drinks are a little on the pricey side, but given the cheap ticket prices, I was more than happy to pay a bit extra for the ambiance and to support the local music scene. The show itself was uh-mazing. The lighting was great, matched the music, a prismatic display of vibrant colors and swirling fog that added a dramatic flair to the performances. The crowd was well managed by staff and one of the best groups of people! I had so much fun. When the lighting is low and the venue is packed, it can be hard to get around and see, so those with visual impairments or mobility issues should be very careful getting around. The restrooms were accessible with plenty of stalls for everyone. I just want to thank all the wonderful staff and artists for making a memorable experience. I will obviously be back!
Pedro Colon
Got there a little early to grab a stool for the event. Balcony center, perfect to see the stage. Not far at all. I think anywhere on the balcony is fine. Being packed in like a can of sardines is not my think, but everyone on the floor didn't seem to mind... They did get to be up close and personal with the Mack!
Grace Bitton
So incredibly hot. Extremely small and crowded. Dress light and flowy, and arrive to your events an hour or more early to get a good spot to stand.
How to reach Ogden Theatre
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Why Ogden Theatre may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Ogden Theatre with your friends?
If you are looking to gather your friends for an unforgettable experience, the Ogden Theatre in Denver stands out as an iconic and vibrant destination that perfectly blends history, culture, and entertainment. This venue offers a unique atmosphere rooted in over a century of storytelling—from vaudeville performances to legendary concerts—making it more than just a place to see a show. Located in the lively Capitol Hill neighborhood, the Ogden Theatre exudes a charm that combines its Mediterranean Revival architectural style with modern upgrades, ensuring both comfort and a captivating historic ambiance. With a 4.5-star rating from over 4,400 reviews, the theater has proven to consistently deliver exceptional live music experiences, ranging from intimate gigs to major concerts, accommodating up to 1,600 guests. For a group meetup, it offers ample space, two full-service bars, and flexible seating that adapts to different types of shows and group sizes. Whether you want to enjoy your favorite band, explore new sounds, or simply soak in the vibrant social scene, the Ogden Theatre fosters a shared memorable vibe that bonds friends through music, culture, and the excitement of live events.
What activities can groups enjoy at Ogden Theatre?
The Ogden Theatre is a hive of activity throughout the year, making it an outstanding venue for gathering with friends. Primarily, it hosts approximately 150 concerts annually, covering a broad spectrum of genres such as rock, indie, hip-hop, electronic, and folk, so there’s something to appeal to every musical taste. The venue’s multi-level layout includes an intimate wrap-around balcony, giving groups multiple vantage points for enjoying performances while socializing in comfort. Apart from concerts, the theatre’s bars offer a social setting to kick off the night or unwind after shows, providing a relaxed environment for your group to mingle over drinks. The historic venue also opens its doors for private events like corporate parties, award shows, and benefit concerts, meaning your group can have a personalized experience tailored to your needs. Beyond music, the Ogden occasionally hosts special film screenings and cultural events, expanding the possibilities for group entertainment. The flexible seating arrangement—featuring removable seats and railings—further enhances its appeal for diverse activities, making it an adaptable space perfect for any group size or occasion.
Why is Ogden Theatre perfect for group meetups?
Several factors combine to make the Ogden Theatre an ideal place to meet up with friends or family. First, its historic and atmospheric setting creates a unique ambiance that elevates any social gathering, making events there feel both special and memorable. The venue’s location on East Colfax Avenue, a bustling cultural corridor, ensures accessibility and a vibrant surrounding neighborhood with dining and nightlife options to extend your outing before or after the show. Capacity-wise, accommodating up to 1,600 guests means your group won’t feel cramped, and you can enjoy both the energy of a lively crowd and personal space. The presence of two full-service bars inside the theatre adds convenience, eliminating the need to leave the venue for refreshments, which keeps your group together and the night flowing smoothly. Furthermore, the theater’s staff and management have a long-standing reputation for creating safe, inclusive, and well-run events, so your meetups can focus on enjoyment without logistical concerns. Whether your group is into high-energy concerts, laid-back shows, or special events, the Ogden Theatre balances historic charm with modern amenities perfectly suited for social gatherings.
What makes Ogden Theatre historically significant and how does that add to your experience?
The Ogden Theatre is steeped in history, opening its doors back in 1917 and initially serving as Denver’s premier vaudeville house. Over the decades, it has showcased legendary performers like Harry Houdini, Iggy Pop, and the Smashing Pumpkins, embedding it deeply in American cultural heritage. This rich legacy contributes a palpable sense of place and nostalgia that transforms a typical night out into an immersive experience. Its listing on the National Register of Historic Places and inclusion on the Colorado State Register of Historic Properties testify to its architectural and cultural importance. The 2006 renovation was carefully executed to preserve the building’s historic integrity while adding contemporary features such as a modern balcony and flexible seating, ensuring top-notch acoustics and comfort without losing its old-world charm. When you gather with friends at the Ogden Theatre, you are participating in a living piece of Denver’s history, sharing moments in the same space where entertainment greats have performed. This historic backdrop enriches conversations and memories, making every meetup more meaningful and impactful.
How can you make the most of your group meetup at Ogden Theatre?
To maximize your group meetup at the Ogden Theatre, planning ahead is key. Start by checking the venue’s event calendar to select shows that suit your group's taste and availability. Advance ticket purchase is highly recommended due to the venue’s popularity, ensuring your entire party can secure seats together. Arriving early allows your group to enjoy the lobby’s whimsical design and historic motifs, setting the tone for an engaging evening. Take advantage of the two full bars by socializing over cocktails or local brews before the show, as this downtime deepens connections and builds excitement. Exploring the venue’s multi-level spaces gives your group options to find the perfect spot—whether it’s the energetic main floor or the cozy balcony vantage points. Consider coordinating rides if your group is large, as parking and transportation options on East Colfax can get busy during major events. Finally, plan to explore the nearby Capitol Hill area post-show, which boasts fantastic late-night eateries and bars to continue the celebration. Combining the Ogden’s vibrant music scene with its rich historical setting and lively neighborhood creates an all-encompassing social experience that’s hard to beat.