When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
The Woods

Why The Woods is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Woods Restaurant & Bar offers a unique setting for gatherings, ideal for meeting friends in a lively yet sophisticated environment. Located in South Lake Tahoe amid the scenic Sierra Nevada Mountains, its modern gastropub ambiance combines delicious cuisine with the excitement of a sports lounge. The two-story venue allows guests to choose their preferred vibe: the first floor features a full-service bar with expert mixologists crafting diverse cocktails and a wide selection of local craft beers and premium spirits, all while guests enjoy watching sports on large screens. Upstairs, the outdoor dining area provides breathtaking mountain views and stunning sunsets, complemented by occasional live music to enhance social experiences. Whether it’s cheering on teams with friends or enjoying a relaxed meal in a scenic setting, The Woods balances a welcoming atmosphere with quality offerings, making it a great place to connect and create memorable moments.
Here's what people think of The Woods
As of recent, The Woods holds a 3.8-star rating based on 30 reviews.
Reviewers have given The Woods a moderate overall rating of 3.8 out of 5, reflecting a mix of favorable and critical opinions. Many patrons appreciate the inviting atmosphere, the quality and variety of food and drinks, and the appealing outdoor dining space with scenic views. Positive reviews often highlight the professional and creative bartenders, enjoyable live music, and the opportunity to watch sports events in a vibrant setting, noting that these aspects make The Woods a lively and enjoyable place for socializing. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to inconsistencies in service quality, longer wait times during busy hours, and occasional complaints about noise levels in the sports lounge area, which may detract from a more relaxed dining experience. Despite these critiques, many guests recommend The Woods for its atmosphere and culinary offerings. Overall, while experiences vary, The Woods stands out as a favored spot in South Lake Tahoe for blending good food, drinks, and entertainment under one roof.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kitten Freeman
LOVE THIS VENUE My Fiancé is a DJ and we came here to scout the venue and chat with the men who set up the 'Cry Now Cry Later' event. We are definitely looking forward to having events here in the future and getting the word out to the Goth scene!
Michael Lee
Prob one of the best resturant to come check out in Denver. Came here from Washington as tourist. Place was a vibe at the top and the foods was amazing. Bought the chicken picata and it was amazing. For desserts I recommend the cheesecake. Best cheesecake ever and best dessert ever had
Gim “GimmyPoo” Pooh
I love this place for their music. So good to dance and all. However, I've been observing and I'm quite disappointed with their drinks. They put almost a shot and add tons of soda and charged almost $10. That's not cool. Overall, it's nice to come dance here.
A. G.
This place is ✨ magical 🪄. Good times every time I've been. A second room where they play fresh hip hop, and the main room which is cute too. The ambience is hella cool (+), so both the service and customers all have good/ neutral vibes. For $12+ a drink 🍸 , worth it.
Susan Park
I threw my husband a surprise birthday party at The Woods and had a wonderful experience. Natalie is efficient and quick to respond. She is also accommodating of all our needs. The day of, it had been snowing in Seattle. They closed The Woods but still opened for our event, even letting us use the entire space. We were able to come in early and set up. Jeremy, our bartender was amazing to work with. Super chill, super easy, etc. We had an overall great time. Space is large and beautiful. All guests were happy!
How to reach The Woods
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Website: None

Why The Woods may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Woods with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a meetup requires a place that effortlessly blends ambiance, memorable experiences, and comfort, and The Woods meets these expectations with its unique appeal. Nestled atop The Source Hotel in Denver’s trendy RiNo district, this venue offers more than just a panoramic view; it promises an atmosphere that elevates any social occasion. Whether you and your friends are early risers longing for a delicious breakfast with a scenic backdrop or evening enthusiasts eager to enjoy craft cocktails in a chic, contemporary setting, The Woods caters to diverse tastes and moods. The spacious patio allows groups to enjoy the fresh air and stunning city vistas, making it a perfect gathering spot to relax, chat, and celebrate together. Beyond the picturesque surroundings, the restaurant’s stylish vibe and attentive service create a welcoming environment that feels both lively and intimate, ideal for reconnecting and making new memories.
Moreover, The Woods’ menu offers options accommodating various dietary preferences, including vegan dishes, ensuring everyone in your group can find something enjoyable. Its location within a vibrant district means your meetup can extend into exploring nearby art galleries, breweries, and more, enhancing the social experience. Whether it’s a casual hangout, a birthday celebration, or simply a weekend brunch tradition, The Woods provides the right ingredients that make hosting your friends a hit. The combination of great food, perfect drinks, and spectacular views turns any ordinary meetup into something truly special.
What activities does The Woods offer for group meetups?
The Woods is more than just a restaurant; it offers an experience suited for groups seeking a blend of leisure, socialization, and visual delight. First and foremost, dining together is an activity in itself here, with its diverse menu facilitating shared plates as well as individual choices, including vegan and traditional breakfast dishes. Friends can enjoy a casual breakfast or brunch with options like Belgium waffles or hearty traditional meals, pairing perfectly with their preferred beverages. The venue’s Happy Hour with craft cocktails adds a lively element, encouraging groups to unwind together in a vibrant yet relaxed setting.
The outdoor patio is a big draw for group meetups, providing ample space to mingle while soaking in the sweeping views of the city. This outdoor area lends itself well to photo opportunities, casual conversation, or simply enjoying the fresh air—a great complement to any gathering. Additionally, being situated within The Source Hotel in the RiNo district offers indirect activities such as post-meal strolls around local art installations, breweries, and shops for groups interested in extending their outing beyond the restaurant itself.
Beyond food and scenery, The Woods is ideal for celebratory events or casual social hangouts. Its stylish, contemporary decor creates a perfect backdrop for group photos and memorable moments. Furthermore, attentive yet unobtrusive service ensures the group’s needs are met without interference, letting friends focus on enjoying their time together. Together, these aspects make The Woods a versatile venue that caters well to group dynamics whether you want a relaxed morning meal or an upbeat evening out.
Why is The Woods a perfect place for a group meetup?
The Woods’ appeal for group meetups lies in its balance of an inviting atmosphere, optional outdoor space, and quality food and drinks. The spaciousness of the seating, especially on the patio, allows groups to be comfortable without feeling cramped, which is vital for extended gatherings. The elevated location on the hotel’s top floor offers a unique and attractive element not commonly found in city dining spots—an expansive view that creates an ambiance of exclusivity and tranquility. This setting naturally inspires conversation and relaxation, key components for any successful social event.
Menu diversity is another reason The Woods excels as a group destination. The ability to accommodate vegan and varied dietary needs means groups with mixed preferences can dine together without compromising choice. Additionally, breakfast and brunch offerings provide a great setting for morning or daytime meetups, while Happy Hour specials entice those looking for a fun and affordable evening option. Quality craft cocktails and beer selections enhance the appeal to beverage enthusiasts in the group.
Service quality also plays a crucial role; many guests report attentive and courteous staff who provide a pleasant experience without overwhelming guests. Although reviews mention some inconsistency, many find the overall service helpful and unobtrusive. Location within Denver’s vibrant RiNo district positions The Woods near other attractions, giving groups the flexibility to turn a simple meetup into a day or night out in a cultural hotspot. These combined factors—ambiance, food, drink, service, and locale—make The Woods a dependable choice for gatherings of friends or family.
How can the location of The Woods enhance your group meetup?
Situated in the RiNo District of Denver, The Woods is perfectly placed for groups looking to combine dining with urban exploration. RiNo is well known for its vibrant art scene, brewery culture, and eclectic shops, making it a desirable destination beyond the restaurant itself. After enjoying a meal or drinks at The Woods, your group can easily venture out to nearby galleries or craft breweries, turning a meal into a broader social event. This proximity to cultural hotspots creates natural options for extending your meetup, keeping the energy alive throughout the day or evening.
The location atop The Source Hotel also means your meetup benefits from the energy of a contemporary, lively district while enjoying a respite from street-level noise and bustle. The elevated setting offers a visually pleasing environment, promoting relaxation and enjoyment that contrasts nicely with the urban surroundings below. This juxtaposition adds a layer of excitement and uniqueness to your gathering, as you’re both in the heart of the city and slightly removed for privacy and comfort.
Transportation and accessibility further enhance the group experience. RiNo is accessible via several transport options, making it easy for everyone in your group to attend. The neighborhood’s growing popularity among locals and visitors alike ensures that The Woods enjoys a reputation as a trendy yet approachable venue, attracting groups looking for authenticity and atmosphere combined.
What dining options and food experiences does The Woods provide for your group?
The Woods offers a concise but thoughtfully crafted menu that suits a range of tastes and dietary considerations. Notably, the restaurant shines for breakfast and brunch, offering dishes like Belgium waffles, traditional American breakfasts, and appealing vegan options that have received praise for taste and quality. This distinct breakfast focus encourages groups to meet early in the day for a relaxing meal shared over good food and conversation.
In addition to breakfast, The Woods features Happy Hour specials, including craft cocktails and beers. The cocktail menu adds a sophisticated edge to the drinking experience, with quality preparation highlighted by reviewers. These features make it an inviting venue for groups who prefer casual evening meetups, offering flavorful drinks to pair with light bites or appetizers in a stylish setting.
The food quality, while generally liked, has drawn mixed reviews regarding certain dishes such as pizza, cited as a weaker point by some patrons. However, many reviews note the overall positive dining experience, especially appreciating the vegan options and well-crafted breakfasts. Because of this, it’s recommended to consider your group preferences and perhaps focus your dining choices on The Woods’ breakfast and cocktail strengths to get the best experience for your meetup.
How does the atmosphere at The Woods contribute to group enjoyment?
The Woods is celebrated for its stylish and contemporary atmosphere, which helps create an enjoyable social space for groups. The design combines modern aesthetics with comfortable seating, enhancing the overall experience of gathering with friends. The ambiance is further amplified by panoramic views of the Denver skyline, providing a natural focal point and conversation starter. Whether your group is sitting inside or on the expansive patio, the sleek décor and natural light keep the mood upbeat and inviting.
The staff’s attentiveness also helps maintain a smooth and enjoyable atmosphere without being intrusive. Most visitors appreciate the balance of professional service that lets them focus on each other rather than on the logistics of dining. This balance is important for group dynamics, where comfort and ease are key to good conversations and shared enjoyment.
As a social hub in a trendy urban district, The Woods carries a vibe that feels both exclusive and welcoming, suited to a variety of group types—from laid-back catch-ups to more celebratory gatherings. The venue's ability to provide a peaceful yet lively ambiance makes it a versatile choice for different group occasions.
This comprehensive overview captures why The Woods, with its combination of spectacular views, tailored food and drink options, and prime urban location, is an excellent choice for hosting meetups with friends or family. The atmosphere, diverse menu, and accessible setting provide the foundation for memorable social experiences, making it more than just a restaurant but a hub for connection and enjoyment.