When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
The Block Distilling Co.
Why The Block Distilling Co. is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Block Distilling Co., located in Denver's vibrant River North Arts District, offers a unique and welcoming environment ideal for meeting up with friends. Established in 2017 by brothers Kraig and Kameron Weaver along with Kraig’s wife Michelle, the distillery blends artistry, science, and a deep dedication to quality in crafting seasonal gins, whiskies, vodkas, and other spirits. Housed in a building that once served as an art gallery, remnants of its creative past, including murals and street art, decorate the space and infuse it with a distinct character. This juxtaposition of urban art and elegant spirit production creates a distinctive atmosphere that appeals to both casual visitors and spirit connoisseurs. The Block Distilling Co. is known for its commitment to innovation and craftsmanship, with a rotating selection of limited and seasonal releases that showcase their expertise and creativity. Open for dine-in and takeout, the distillery invites guests to enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and socialize in a rustic yet modern setting with comfortable lounge areas. The knowledgeable staff enhances the experience by guiding visitors through the diverse menu, making it a perfect spot to discover new favorite drinks. Beyond just a bar, The Block also offers tours that educate guests about the distillation process, deepening appreciation for the craft. With its lively social atmosphere and commitment to quality, The Block Distilling Co. serves as both a community gathering place and a destination for those seeking exceptional locally crafted spirits.
Here's what people think of The Block Distilling Co.
As of recent, The Block Distilling Co. holds a 4.6-star rating based on 325 reviews.
Reviews of The Block Distilling Co. reveal an overwhelmingly positive reception from visitors who appreciate both the quality of the spirits and the inviting atmosphere. Many reviewers praise the distillery’s artisanal approach, highlighting the seasonal and limited edition gins, whiskies, and other spirits that are crafted with care and creativity. Patrons frequently mention the friendly and knowledgeable staff, noting their enthusiasm in sharing the distillation process and helping guests select drinks suited to their tastes. The unique decor reflecting the building’s past as an art gallery adds an extra layer of charm, contributing to a memorable setting for socializing with friends. Positive reviews often note the distillery’s commitment to using quality local ingredients and the well-balanced cocktails served, making it a favored destination for both locals and visitors. On the other hand, some negative feedback centers around occasional crowding during peak hours, potentially impacting seating availability and service speed. A few reviewers mention that the pricing can be a bit on the higher side, reflecting the artisanal nature of the products. However, these critiques are generally overshadowed by the overwhelmingly positive experiences. In conclusion, the consensus among reviewers underscores The Block Distilling Co. as a must-visit spot in Denver for those seeking exceptional craft spirits in a lively and stylish environment, where quality, creativity, and community intersect seamlessly.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lisa Kotyk
Really fun - stopped in to meet some friends and was blown away by the drinks. I’m a big craft cocktail fan and was especially impressed by Frank’s seasonal gins (he let us try spring and summer). Chill place with laid back vibes. Not stuffy or pretentious like some craft spots tend to be.
Christine Yeager
The old fashion was good. They have non-alcoholic options. They have a good vibe. We sat in the shipping container. Very hip vibe according to these 40somethings. We enjoyed the rocking chairs.
Stephen Hawking
I'm a big fan of gin, and they make an incredible negroni! Seriously, one of the best! I bought one of their dry gins and saw that they have a pour room in Rino. Gave them a chance and it didn't disappoint. The pour room is rough yet inviting and the staff was amazing!
Liv R
Came in for a friend’s birthday and was not disappointed. The bar has a stunning display with bottles that are too eye catching to ignore. You can take one home for a comparable price to a nice bottle at your local liquor store - but with significantly better taste. The cocktails are crafted - so know you’ll wait a minute or two longer than your regular gin & tonic, and it’s worth it. The espresso martini, pictured here, was rich and fluffy…and I may not be able to have one elsewhere anymore because it was delectable. Also pictured is the Denver’s Ready - another winner in my book. Overall, the location is well lit, great seating options, and there is always a food truck on the street. Definitely recommend!
Michael Jones
I'm sorry to give a 1 Star review but that's all I can give. I visited The Block to try their spirits. All of the chairs at the bar were full (Maybe 6-8 chairs) but I was the only patron sitting at a table. I scanned the menu and decided on doing a flight. The bartenders, 2 of them, were behind the bar talking to each other. I sat for 12 minutes, watching them talk to each other, drink their own drinks, make 2 drinks for men sitting at the bar and they never came to get my order. Maybe I was supposed to go to them but there was no indication of needing to do that to make my order. I finally left and went to Deviation, where I did a flight and a cocktail and bought several bottles and spent $270. Maybe, as a 62 year old, I don't fit The Blocks' target audience. In any case, there are over 100 distilleries in Colorado. I've been to about 60 of them. I will now count that I've been to the Block, but I won't be back.
How to reach The Block Distilling Co.
None
Website: None
Why The Block Distilling Co. may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
Gathering at The Block Distilling Co. offers a unique and spirited experience that goes far beyond your usual bar or restaurant meetup. Situated in Denver’s vibrant RiNo Art District, this craft distillery has earned a stellar reputation, boasting a 4.6-star rating from over 300 reviews, signaling a consistently high-quality guest experience. If you and your friends value authenticity, creativity, and a welcoming environment that embraces diversity and community, this is the place to be. The Block Distilling Co. crafts every drop of their spirits in-house using raw, thoughtfully sourced ingredients, making each sip a taste of true artisanal passion. Beyond the drinks, The Block offers a warm and inclusive atmosphere where people from all walks of life come together—to celebrate, to connect, and to make memories. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want an evening filled with great cocktails, interesting conversations, and infectious energy, The Block Distilling Co. is designed to be a hub of connection and joy. This combination of experiential drinking, community spirit, and exceptional craftsmanship makes it a top destination for a memorable group outing.
What activities does The Block Distilling Co. offer for groups?
The Block Distilling Co. goes beyond just serving drinks; it provides an immersive experience that caters perfectly to group gatherings. One of the standout activities is the distillery tour, where you and your friends can explore the entire spirit-making process guided by knowledge-rich head distillers. The tours offer behind-the-scenes insights into how raw grains are transformed using a blend of culinary and chemistry methods into exceptional craft spirits. This kind of experience is not only educational but a great icebreaker that will spark engaging conversations among your group. Plus, the tours are held regularly, making it easy to schedule around your meetup plans. After the tour, your group can sample a variety of house-distilled spirits in their tasting room, allowing everyone to find something they love while enjoying expert recommendations. For those wanting a more laid-back meetup, the distillery’s spacious and eclectic tasting room is perfect for simply relaxing, enjoying cocktails, and soaking in the lively yet welcoming atmosphere.
Why is The Block Distilling Co. perfect for a group meetup?
There are several reasons why The Block Distilling Co. is an ideal setting for groups looking to socialize and celebrate together. Firstly, the environment is designed to foster connection between diverse groups—from punks and politicians to creatives and professionals—making anyone feel comfortable and welcome. The inclusive and vibrant atmosphere encourages mingling and bonding over high-quality drinks carefully crafted on-site. Secondly, The Block boasts extensive hours, including evenings and weekends, providing plenty of flexibility to organize meetups at convenient times for all friends and family members. The spacious layout of the tasting room allows ample seating for larger parties without feeling cramped, and the staff is known for being accommodating, friendly, and knowledgeable, ensuring your group is well taken care of. Additionally, the curated cocktail menu, crafted from spirits made on-site, offers something for every palate, from bold and daring flavors to smooth, classic options. This wide selection means it’s easy to cater to differing tastes, elevating the social experience.
How does The Block Distilling Co. make their spirits unique and appealing to groups?
At the heart of The Block Distilling Co.’s success is their commitment to quality and creativity, which shines through in their unique spirits. They work directly with farming families to select the finest grains, ensuring their ingredients are top-notch right from the start. This farm-to-bottle philosophy allows for customization and control over every element of flavor and quality. The distillery does not settle for mere replication of familiar spirits; they aim to push boundaries and explore diverse, complex flavor profiles that appeal to adventurous drinkers. This approach results in spirits that are not only flavorful but also offer something different for your group to discover and debate over. Sampling these artisanal creations together can turn a simple night out into a shared journey of taste exploration. For groups interested in the craft of distilling itself, the opportunity to witness and learn about the entire process adds an educational layer to their visit, deepening appreciation for every sip.
What makes the tasting room experience at The Block Distilling Co. outstanding for social meetups?
The tasting room at The Block Distilling Co. is designed to be more than just a space to drink—it’s a venue for building community and sharing authentic experiences. The atmosphere is casual yet carefully curated, featuring industrial-chic décor with plenty of natural light and open seating arrangements that encourage socializing and mingling. Guests regularly share stories and laughter here, creating a lively yet comfortable environment ideal for groups catching up or celebrating together. The bar staff acts as both guides and entertainers, offering expert recommendations and engaging guests in conversations about the distilling process and flavor profiles. Additionally, the tasting room plays host to various events such as cocktail classes and special tastings, which can be booked for private groups seeking a more interactive and hands-on experience. Whether you want to unwind with friends after work or celebrate a milestone, the tasting room is a versatile space that adapts to your group’s vibe.
What other amenities and features support a great group meetup at The Block Distilling Co.?
Aside from the exceptional drinks and ambiance, The Block Distilling Co. offers various amenities that enhance the group meetup experience. The location in Denver’s RiNo district places it within easy reach of other entertainment and dining options, allowing your group to extend the outing or explore the neighborhood collectively. The distillery also offers private barrel programs and merchandise, which can be a fun way for groups to commemorate their visit or enjoy spirits beyond the tasting room. Plus, The Block’s adaptable hours—from noon to late evening on weekends—allow you to plan meetups at both leisurely daytime or lively nighttime hours. For those who want a more relaxed start, morning and early afternoon hours feature coffee and cocktails, offering a unique blend of social and work-friendly environments. Free Wi-Fi, good music, and a friendly vibe make it easy for groups to linger and enjoy their time without feeling rushed.
How does The Block Distilling Co. foster a sense of community and inclusivity?
One of the defining features of The Block Distilling Co. is its deep commitment to welcoming everyone regardless of background, identity, or taste preference. Their brand ethos embraces a broad spectrum of identities—from “punks and politicians” to “pole dancers and priests,” making it a vibrant melting pot where diversity is celebrated. This inclusive spirit is reflected in both the atmosphere and the staff, who strive to make each guest feel valued and at home. This commitment not only makes group gatherings more comfortable and enjoyable but also enriches the social fabric of every meetup, turning strangers into friends and friends into community. The shared experience of enjoying artfully crafted spirits in a welcoming environment creates bonds that transcend the usual social setting, ensuring your group feels connected and appreciated.
Why is The Block Distilling Co. considered a craft distillery and how does that appeal to groups?
As a craft distillery, The Block Distilling Co. emphasizes hand-crafted quality, small-batch production, and complete control over their ingredients and processes. This craftsmanship means each spirit is made with care rather than mass-produced, resulting in richer flavors and more character. For groups, this offers the exciting opportunity to sample drinks that are unique, locally made, and unavailable anywhere else. Craft distilling has become synonymous with creativity and authenticity, values highly prized by today’s socially engaged drinkers. The Block’s transparent approach—sharing stories about their farm partnerships, grain selection, and artistry—also appeals to groups searching for meaningful experiences rather than just casual nightlife. This connection to local agriculture, craft, and innovation elevates your group meetup into an event that is both educational and enjoyable.
How can groups participate in events or classes at The Block Distilling Co.?
For groups looking to expand their experience beyond tastings, The Block Distilling Co. offers various events and classes throughout the year. Popular among these are cocktail classes, where groups can learn to mix creative drinks using the distillery’s own spirits under expert guidance. These sessions foster teamwork and interaction, perfect for friends or family who want a hands-on activity. The distillery also holds regular tours, which groups can book to explore the art and science of distillation, making the outing educational and memorable. Event calendars feature special releases, tasting parties, and community gatherings, providing even more options to plan a unique group visit. Booking these events in advance ensures a tailored experience for your party size and interests, landing closer to what some would call the ultimate group outing.
What practical tips can make a meetup at The Block Distilling Co. even better?
To get the most out of your group visit to The Block Distilling Co., consider these practical tips: Arrive early to secure a comfortable spot in the tasting room, especially on weekends when the venue can get lively. Reserve a distillery tour or cocktail class ahead of time if your group is interested in educational experiences or interactive fun. Explore the menu in advance to identify unique spirits or cocktails that would appeal to your group’s range of tastes. Make use of the distillery’s central location to plan a multi-stop day with nearby restaurants or galleries, enhancing the overall outing. Lastly, communicate with the friendly staff about any special needs or celebrations, as they often accommodate requests to make your group’s experience even more personalized and special.
By choosing The Block Distilling Co. for your next meetup, you are selecting a venue that combines expert craftsmanship, dynamic social settings, and a community-first approach—all ingredients for a memorable get-together. Whether you’re catching up, celebrating, or just enjoying great drinks together, The Block is a destination that will elevate your group’s experience to something truly exceptional.