When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
Squire Lounge
Why Squire Lounge is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Squire Lounge is a legendary neighborhood bar and music venue located at 1800 East Colfax Avenue in Denver, Colorado. With over 75 years of history, it stands as a cherished local institution and a cornerstone of the vibrant Colfax Avenue corridor. The Squire Lounge offers a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for gathering with friends to enjoy cold drinks, live music, and a laid-back vibe. Its daily happy hour until 8 PM and $7 shot & beer combos available 24/7 make it an attractive spot for both locals and visitors looking for great value and solid drinks. The lounge features an inviting patio where patrons can relax and soak up the lively ambiance. Beyond just a bar, it serves as a cultural hub showcasing local art, including a famous Colfax mural by Chris Huth, enhancing its distinct community feel. The attentive staff and steady lineup of live bands provide excellent entertainment, making it an ideal place for music lovers and friends to connect in a relaxed setting. Despite recent challenges from major street construction projects impacting accessibility on Colfax Avenue, the Squire Lounge has remained a resilient and treasured venue that continues to foster a strong sense of neighborhood camaraderie.
Here's what people think of Squire Lounge
As of recent, Squire Lounge holds a 4.3-star rating based on 419 reviews.
Reviews of the Squire Lounge highlight its authentic and unpretentious charm that appeals to a wide range of patrons. Customers often praise the friendly staff and the welcoming, casual atmosphere that makes it easy to unwind with friends. The live music programming receives strong positive mentions, with many appreciating the venue's commitment to featuring local bands and maintaining an energetic scene in Denver's nightlife. Many reviews also commend the affordable drink specials and the convenient happy hour, which add to the venue's appeal as a go-to neighborhood bar. On the downside, some visitors note challenges arising from ongoing construction on East Colfax Avenue, leading to decreased foot traffic, limited parking, and occasional accessibility issues. A few reviewers mention the noise levels and crowding at peak times, which can detract from the experience for those seeking a quieter environment. Despite these drawbacks, most guests understand the temporary nature of these issues and remain loyal to the establishment. Overall, reviews convey that the Squire Lounge remains a beloved fixture on Colfax Avenue, praised for its lively music, good drinks, and friendly vibe, while withstanding external pressures with grit and community support.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kyle Plummer
Music based bar with Colfax and history at its heart. Bartenders are friendly and is a watering hole for locals. Surrounding can be a bit seedy but don’t step past this oasis :)
Rono Stinnett
4 stars for the great selection of beers. Friendly bar staff quick service. Alternative-ish crowd. I couldn’t tell if it was a straight but gay friendly bar or a gay but straight friendly bar. Perhaps it does not matter - I think any one would feel comfortable here. After you get a beer you feel like you fit right in. Live music and live art (at least the day that I went). 2 beers later $10 spent. Not bad.
Amy Gabriel
Best dive bar ever. Service is always so great and drinks are affordable. I always laugh that it’s “Squire Lounge & Grill” but all they have is a vending machine - adds to the character. They also have a parking lot which is rare in this part of town!
Amy Lovey
I will never not love this place. Best bartenders, and cheapest, strongest drinks you can get in Denver. Beth made me the best green tea drink I've ever had. And I normally just drink whisky.
Andy Wooten
Great place if you want to wait 10 minutes to pay $9 for a PBR
How to reach Squire Lounge
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Why Squire Lounge may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Squire Lounge with your friends?
Gathering friends at Squire Lounge promises an experience brimming with relaxed camaraderie and genuine welcome, making it a prime choice for anyone looking to host a memorable meetup. With a solid rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on over 400 reviews, Squire Lounge has earned a reputation as a friendly and inviting place where guests feel right at home from the moment they arrive. Whether it's a night out with longtime friends or a casual family gathering, the venue offers a refreshing atmosphere that blends comfort with lively energy. Visitors have often praised its friendly staff and the overall vibe that encourages conversation and connection. This welcoming ambiance, coupled with the venue’s accessibility, makes Squire Lounge a dependable spot for groups wanting to relax, chat, and enjoy good times together without the hassle of formal planning or noisy overcrowding.
The lounge's charm lies in its ability to balance a chill, casual feel with a buzz that keeps the energy just right for socializing. It’s neither too loud to hinder easy conversation nor too quiet to feel dull, which is key when hosting groups who want to engage and enjoy each other’s company. The venue’s popularity across diverse patrons—locals and visitors alike—speaks to its inclusive nature, making it a place where all feel welcome. These qualities ensure that rallies and meetups here don't just happen; they become occasions that friends eagerly anticipate. Choosing Squire Lounge means opting for a space where good memories and easy enjoyment are practically guaranteed.
What activities are available at Squire Lounge that make it great for a group meetup?
Squire Lounge stands out as an ideal meet-up spot largely because it offers a variety of engaging activities tailored to group dynamics, ensuring there's always something fun for everyone. One of its top draws is live music, which offers an energetic backdrop to any gathering. The lounge often hosts up-and-coming bands, giving visitors a chance to enjoy fresh sounds and perhaps discover their new favorite artist. This live music element multitasks perfectly: it fuels the ambiance with enjoyable entertainment but is curated so music volumes support conversation rather than overwhelm it. Groups can enjoy the vibe of a mini concert while still easily connecting over drinks and food.
In addition to music, Squire Lounge is known for its competitive drink prices, making it a budget-friendly option for groups looking to extend their hangout without breaking the bank. Affordable drinks keep the spirits high and energy flowing, which is perfect for unwinding together. Whether guests prefer classic cocktails, craft beers, or specialty mixed drinks, choices are plentiful, catering to different tastes within a group. This versatility means no one feels left out, and it encourages sharing and sampling among friends.
The lounge also features a spacious patio area that adds an extra dimension to group gatherings. For those who enjoy the outdoors with their social time, the patio provides a relaxed environment to chat under open skies or mild weather conditions. This outdoor space accommodates larger groups comfortably and allows a dynamic flow between indoor and outdoor settings, keeping the mood fresh and invigorating. Together, these activities—live music, wallet-friendly drinks, and versatile indoor-outdoor spaces—create a collective experience that is both entertaining and personal, making Squire Lounge uniquely suited for groups.
Why is Squire Lounge considered one of Denver's best dive bars for meetups?
Squire Lounge is often celebrated as one of Denver’s best dive bars, a title that actually enhances its appeal rather than detracts from it when it comes to group meetups. The term “dive bar” here reflects a place with unpretentious charm and a friendly, laid-back vibe rather than a dingy or rundown establishment. What makes Squire Lounge exceptional in this category is its genuine, welcoming atmosphere combined with attentive service and solid drink options. Groups looking for a venue where everyone feels comfortable and accepted will find this spirit alive and well, contributing greatly to the venue’s group-friendly reputation.
Dive bars are generally favored for their casualness, and Squire Lounge embodies this by providing a space free from pretense or formality. This quality encourages guests to be themselves and enjoy the moment, a perfect formula for any group gathering aiming for relaxed and authentic socializing. The presence of local law enforcement regularly visiting the entrance gives a sense of safety, ensuring the environment is controlled but non-intimidating. These subtleties matter greatly when selecting a place for a meetup, as guests want assurance of both comfort and safety alongside a good time.
Furthermore, the lounge’s location on East Colfax Avenue, a vibrant area in Denver, means it’s easy to access and nestles within a community with plenty of complementary activities nearby. Groups can make a full evening of their meetup by exploring other nearby spots before or after their time at the lounge. This contextual advantage combines with the dive bar’s lively but easygoing ambiance to make Squire Lounge the perfect meetup spot for groups looking for a blend of spirited fun and genuine connection in a no-fuss environment.
What food and drink options enhance the experience for groups at Squire Lounge?
Although primarily celebrated for its drinks and atmosphere, Squire Lounge also offers food options that serve as another layer of appeal for groups planning meetups. Visitors mention the establishment’s capacity to offer hearty and satisfying fare alongside its beverage selection, helping to round out the experience from merely social drinking to a fuller outing. A well-curated menu with a variety of options caters to the tastes and dietary preferences of diverse groups, ensuring that everyone can find something to enjoy. This versatility is invaluable when managing meetups, as it removes the hassle of finding separate dining spots and lets groups stay comfortably in one location.
The menu's offerings tend to be classic and comforting, enhancing the friendly, unpretentious vibe of the lounge. Sharing plates and appetizers designed for groups can encourage interaction and the lively sharing culture that adds a warm, communal spirit to meetups. Portion sizes are also noteworthy—groups can enjoy good value meals that satisfy without the need for extensive ordering or waiting, maintaining the smooth social flow of the gathering.
Coupled with the lounge’s affordable drink prices, the ability to enjoy both drinks and food at one venue makes Squire Lounge a convenient and efficient choice for group outings. You can start your meetup with some casual appetizers paired with cold drinks, then move seamlessly into live music and conversation without interruption. This integration of food and drink options crucially supports the overall convenience and appeal of the lounge, reinforcing why groups consistently choose it as a solid venue to rally at.
How does the atmosphere at Squire Lounge contribute to memorable meetups?
The atmosphere at Squire Lounge plays a central role in why it’s repeatedly praised as a meetup haven. From the moment guests step inside, they’ll notice a welcoming, friendly vibe that immediately encourages relaxation and enjoyment. The decor and lighting strike a balance—cozy enough to foster intimacy and conversation but lively enough to boost energy and excitement. This careful mix is essential for groups who want both good times and meaningful connection, as it creates a shared space that feels both private and communal.
Staff friendliness and service quality also powerfully shape the atmosphere, with visitors regularly noting attentive, personable interaction that helps groups feel cared for and valued. This human element enhances the comfort level for guests and encourages them to linger, chat, and make the most of their social time. The buzz of regular customers alongside newcomers results in a diverse, dynamic crowd that keeps the energy fresh and inclusive. This sense of community transforms ordinary meetups into events people remember warmly.
Moreover, the lounge’s spatial design respects group needs by offering ample room to spread out or cozy up depending on group size and mood. Seating arrangements can accommodate various group dynamics, whether friends want a long communal table or smaller clusters for more intimate conversations. The option to transition smoothly from indoor to patio spaces furthers this flexibility, allowing the atmosphere to adjust naturally to guest needs, weather, or time of day. All these factors together produce an environment that sparks enjoyable, memorable meetup experiences.
What makes Squire Lounge a safe and convenient option for hosting group events?
Safety and convenience are often critical considerations for anyone organizing group meetups, and Squire Lounge scores highly in both areas, enhancing its attractiveness as a go-to venue. The lounge’s location in a well-trafficked part of Denver with visible community presence, including local police patrols, ensures a secure environment where guests can feel at ease. This visible security helps prevent issues and fosters a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to all ages and group types—even families. Safety assurances reduce stress for hosts and attendees alike, allowing the social experience to focus fully on enjoyment.
Convenience-wise, Squire Lounge benefits from excellent accessibility, positioned within easy reach of public transport, parking, and other city amenities. This accessibility supports a stress-free arrival and departure, which is important for groups who may be traveling together or using varied transportation modes. The venue’s layout and efficient service also minimize wait times and ensure smooth handling of food and drink orders, critical for keeping group events flowing well.
Additionally, the availability of both indoor and outdoor spaces offers hosts flexibility to plan according to weather or group preference. The multi-functional spaces can accommodate larger gatherings or more intimate groupings without feeling cramped or rushed. These practical advantages compound to make Squire Lounge not only a fun and engaging place but a smart, reliable choice for anyone tasked with planning a successful group meetup or event.
In summary, Squire Lounge's mix of welcoming atmosphere, engaging activities, tasty and affordable food and drinks, plus safety and convenience, makes it a standout choice for hosting memorable meetups with friends and family. The venue thoughtfully caters to group dynamics and prioritizes guest comfort, ensuring that every gathering here feels like a special occasion.