When asking yourself about something to do near me in Boulder with a group of friends or family, consider
Velvet Elk Lounge
Why Velvet Elk Lounge is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Velvet Elk Lounge in Boulder, Colorado, stands out as a refined, adults-only venue that combines live music, craft cocktails, and a stylish atmosphere ideal for meeting up with friends. Unlike college bars, Velvet Elk offers a mature, mellow vibe with a focus on quality live entertainment and exquisite drinks, making it a top choice for locals seeking a sophisticated night out. The lounge features deep green velvet booths, dim, golden-hour lighting, and an intimate setting that encourages conversation and enjoyment. Additionally, Velvet Elk Lounge houses a private Event & Entertainment Room with a professional sound system and stage, perfect for hosting private gatherings ranging from birthdays to business dinners. The venue's carefully curated menu, crafted by The Post, and a selection of seasonal cocktails alongside locally-made beer and wine elevate the social experience. Open late into the night Thursday through Saturday, and with a daily happy hour, the lounge fosters a friendly and enjoyable atmosphere for friends to catch up, dance, and appreciate live music performances in a cozy yet vibrant setting.
Here's what people think of Velvet Elk Lounge
As of recent, Velvet Elk Lounge holds a 4.7-star rating based on 110 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise Velvet Elk Lounge for its excellent live music offerings and adult-oriented ambiance, highlighting the venue as a rare mature alternative to typical college bars in Boulder. Many guests appreciate the stylish decor, quality cocktails, and the welcoming, laid-back atmosphere that facilitates great conversations and memorable nights out. Positive reviews often mention the attentive staff, the lush velvet seating, and the well-produced music events as standout features, making Velvet Elk a cherished local spot. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to occasional crowding during popular shows and the limited seating capacity that can make it harder to find a spot on busy nights. A few reviewers noted that noise levels could be a bit high, which might affect those seeking a quieter environment. However, the majority consensus celebrates the lounge’s unique niche in Boulder’s nightlife with its dedication to live music and crafted experiences. Overall, Velvet Elk Lounge enjoys excellent ratings reflecting a strong positive reception with minor critiques mainly related to the popularity and demand associated with its quality entertainment and cozy ambiance.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ruthie Bohemian Writer
Yesterday was my birthday, a very special one and my dear friend Jane and I, after having an amazing dinner at Sherpa’s In Boulder, turned the car around and went to the Velvet Elk Lounge, new to both of us. We had tickets for the show, which was a klezmer band. The stage was crowded with maybe 11 musicians, mostly horns, a clarinet and drums and perhaps a guitar that I couldn’t see from the back of the room it was so packed. The energy was flying! People were dancing and moving like popcorn and the music was joyous and uplifting. Honestly, it was the perfect place to hear a band. It was just the right size, felt intimate and yet it was spacious enough to dance. We already had dinner and didn’t have drinks or food however, what we did see looked tasty. The servers were all friendly, including the guy at the door who let us in with our tickets. I would love to make this a regular place to go to. It’s open until midnight and just has the best atmosphere.
Caleb Kronen
The food drinks and atmosphere were all top notch here. The sound quality for the live band was amazing and even though it’s a cold night, the venue is nice and warm. Bartenders were friendly and kind and the manager was great.
Stephen J. Hatfield
Nice vibe, small music venue, in the heart Boulder nestled under the Flatirons.
Sergio Patino
I have become a huge fan of the Velvet Elk in the past year. My friend group and I had some criticisms about this place after it first opened, most notably with the quality of the sound (often too loud in a not properly acoustically treated room). But they have really dialed it in the past few months. They are also attracting some great bands and we've really enjoyed some fun shows their lately like Rebirth Brass band last week. It looks like they added some more outdoor seating recently as well. I also can't say enough good things about the staff there. The bar tenders and front of house folks keep things humming, often in a very crowded and hectic environment. Super friendly and always great to chat with. Velvet is a welcomed addition to Boulder's music scene. Keep it up guys!
Ed S
Had a good time listening to the live music show after dinner. Nice little intimate venue with great sound. The service amazing, everyone was super friendly and helpful. The food was good. However, not amazing. I'd still order the chicken tenders tho.
Ruthie Bohemian Writer
Yesterday was my birthday, a very special one and my dear friend Jane and I, after having an amazing dinner at Sherpa’s In Boulder, turned the car around and went to the Velvet Elk Lounge, new to both of us. We had tickets for the show, which was a klezmer band. The stage was crowded with maybe 11 musicians, mostly horns, a clarinet and drums and perhaps a guitar that I couldn’t see from the back of the room it was so packed. The energy was flying! People were dancing and moving like popcorn and the music was joyous and uplifting. Honestly, it was the perfect place to hear a band. It was just the right size, felt intimate and yet it was spacious enough to dance. We already had dinner and didn’t have drinks or food however, what we did see looked tasty. The servers were all friendly, including the guy at the door who let us in with our tickets. I would love to make this a regular place to go to. It’s open until midnight and just has the best atmosphere.
Caleb Kronen
The food drinks and atmosphere were all top notch here. The sound quality for the live band was amazing and even though it’s a cold night, the venue is nice and warm. Bartenders were friendly and kind and the manager was great.
Stephen J. Hatfield
Nice vibe, small music venue, in the heart Boulder nestled under the Flatirons.
Sergio Patino
I have become a huge fan of the Velvet Elk in the past year. My friend group and I had some criticisms about this place after it first opened, most notably with the quality of the sound (often too loud in a not properly acoustically treated room). But they have really dialed it in the past few months. They are also attracting some great bands and we've really enjoyed some fun shows their lately like Rebirth Brass band last week. It looks like they added some more outdoor seating recently as well. I also can't say enough good things about the staff there. The bar tenders and front of house folks keep things humming, often in a very crowded and hectic environment. Super friendly and always great to chat with. Velvet is a welcomed addition to Boulder's music scene. Keep it up guys!
Ed S
Had a good time listening to the live music show after dinner. Nice little intimate venue with great sound. The service amazing, everyone was super friendly and helpful. The food was good. However, not amazing. I'd still order the chicken tenders tho.
Ruthie Bohemian Writer
Yesterday was my birthday, a very special one and my dear friend Jane and I, after having an amazing dinner at Sherpa’s In Boulder, turned the car around and went to the Velvet Elk Lounge, new to both of us. We had tickets for the show, which was a klezmer band. The stage was crowded with maybe 11 musicians, mostly horns, a clarinet and drums and perhaps a guitar that I couldn’t see from the back of the room it was so packed. The energy was flying! People were dancing and moving like popcorn and the music was joyous and uplifting. Honestly, it was the perfect place to hear a band. It was just the right size, felt intimate and yet it was spacious enough to dance. We already had dinner and didn’t have drinks or food however, what we did see looked tasty. The servers were all friendly, including the guy at the door who let us in with our tickets. I would love to make this a regular place to go to. It’s open until midnight and just has the best atmosphere.
Caleb Kronen
The food drinks and atmosphere were all top notch here. The sound quality for the live band was amazing and even though it’s a cold night, the venue is nice and warm. Bartenders were friendly and kind and the manager was great.
Stephen J. Hatfield
Nice vibe, small music venue, in the heart Boulder nestled under the Flatirons.
Sergio Patino
I have become a huge fan of the Velvet Elk in the past year. My friend group and I had some criticisms about this place after it first opened, most notably with the quality of the sound (often too loud in a not properly acoustically treated room). But they have really dialed it in the past few months. They are also attracting some great bands and we've really enjoyed some fun shows their lately like Rebirth Brass band last week. It looks like they added some more outdoor seating recently as well. I also can't say enough good things about the staff there. The bar tenders and front of house folks keep things humming, often in a very crowded and hectic environment. Super friendly and always great to chat with. Velvet is a welcomed addition to Boulder's music scene. Keep it up guys!
Ed S
Had a good time listening to the live music show after dinner. Nice little intimate venue with great sound. The service amazing, everyone was super friendly and helpful. The food was good. However, not amazing. I'd still order the chicken tenders tho.
Ruthie Bohemian Writer
Yesterday was my birthday, a very special one and my dear friend Jane and I, after having an amazing dinner at Sherpa’s In Boulder, turned the car around and went to the Velvet Elk Lounge, new to both of us. We had tickets for the show, which was a klezmer band. The stage was crowded with maybe 11 musicians, mostly horns, a clarinet and drums and perhaps a guitar that I couldn’t see from the back of the room it was so packed. The energy was flying! People were dancing and moving like popcorn and the music was joyous and uplifting. Honestly, it was the perfect place to hear a band. It was just the right size, felt intimate and yet it was spacious enough to dance. We already had dinner and didn’t have drinks or food however, what we did see looked tasty. The servers were all friendly, including the guy at the door who let us in with our tickets. I would love to make this a regular place to go to. It’s open until midnight and just has the best atmosphere.
Caleb Kronen
The food drinks and atmosphere were all top notch here. The sound quality for the live band was amazing and even though it’s a cold night, the venue is nice and warm. Bartenders were friendly and kind and the manager was great.
Stephen J. Hatfield
Nice vibe, small music venue, in the heart Boulder nestled under the Flatirons.
Sergio Patino
I have become a huge fan of the Velvet Elk in the past year. My friend group and I had some criticisms about this place after it first opened, most notably with the quality of the sound (often too loud in a not properly acoustically treated room). But they have really dialed it in the past few months. They are also attracting some great bands and we've really enjoyed some fun shows their lately like Rebirth Brass band last week. It looks like they added some more outdoor seating recently as well. I also can't say enough good things about the staff there. The bar tenders and front of house folks keep things humming, often in a very crowded and hectic environment. Super friendly and always great to chat with. Velvet is a welcomed addition to Boulder's music scene. Keep it up guys!
Ed S
Had a good time listening to the live music show after dinner. Nice little intimate venue with great sound. The service amazing, everyone was super friendly and helpful. The food was good. However, not amazing. I'd still order the chicken tenders tho.
Ruthie Bohemian Writer
Yesterday was my birthday, a very special one and my dear friend Jane and I, after having an amazing dinner at Sherpa’s In Boulder, turned the car around and went to the Velvet Elk Lounge, new to both of us. We had tickets for the show, which was a klezmer band. The stage was crowded with maybe 11 musicians, mostly horns, a clarinet and drums and perhaps a guitar that I couldn’t see from the back of the room it was so packed. The energy was flying! People were dancing and moving like popcorn and the music was joyous and uplifting. Honestly, it was the perfect place to hear a band. It was just the right size, felt intimate and yet it was spacious enough to dance. We already had dinner and didn’t have drinks or food however, what we did see looked tasty. The servers were all friendly, including the guy at the door who let us in with our tickets. I would love to make this a regular place to go to. It’s open until midnight and just has the best atmosphere.
Caleb Kronen
The food drinks and atmosphere were all top notch here. The sound quality for the live band was amazing and even though it’s a cold night, the venue is nice and warm. Bartenders were friendly and kind and the manager was great.
Stephen J. Hatfield
Nice vibe, small music venue, in the heart Boulder nestled under the Flatirons.
Sergio Patino
I have become a huge fan of the Velvet Elk in the past year. My friend group and I had some criticisms about this place after it first opened, most notably with the quality of the sound (often too loud in a not properly acoustically treated room). But they have really dialed it in the past few months. They are also attracting some great bands and we've really enjoyed some fun shows their lately like Rebirth Brass band last week. It looks like they added some more outdoor seating recently as well. I also can't say enough good things about the staff there. The bar tenders and front of house folks keep things humming, often in a very crowded and hectic environment. Super friendly and always great to chat with. Velvet is a welcomed addition to Boulder's music scene. Keep it up guys!
Ed S
Had a good time listening to the live music show after dinner. Nice little intimate venue with great sound. The service amazing, everyone was super friendly and helpful. The food was good. However, not amazing. I'd still order the chicken tenders tho.
How to reach Velvet Elk Lounge
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Why Velvet Elk Lounge may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
When deciding where to gather with friends or family for a memorable night out, the Velvet Elk Lounge in Boulder, Colorado, emerges as an ideal destination with its blend of vibrant atmosphere, live music, and quality cocktails. This venue is more than just a lounge; it is a communal space where you can enjoy excellent live performances while savoring well-crafted drinks in an intimate setting. Rated 4.7 out of 5 based on over 110 reviews, it clearly resonates with locals and visitors alike who seek a lively but comfortable spot to socialize and celebrate. Whether you're a fan of local bands or just want to enjoy a relaxed evening with great acoustics and tasty food, the Velvet Elk Lounge delivers a unique ambiance that encourages connection and enjoyment. Its convenient location in Boulder's urban core makes it easily accessible, and the welcoming staff contribute to a friendly environment that feels like a home away from home for groups. The combination of quality music, thoughtful cocktails, and a warm crowd makes it the perfect rallying point for casual meetups or special occasions.
What activities can you enjoy at Velvet Elk Lounge?
Velvet Elk Lounge offers a dynamic range of activities centered around live music and social engagement, making it perfect for groups looking for more than just a place to sit and chat. The venue's primary attraction is its regular schedule of live concerts featuring a variety of artists across genres. Patrons can enjoy performances by notable local bands such as The Pickpockets and Pert' Near Sandstone, alongside emerging acts, ensuring there's always fresh entertainment. The club’s 220-person capacity creates an intimate setting that brings attendees closer to the performers, enhancing the live music experience. Alongside music, the lounge serves expertly crafted cocktails and offers appetizing bar fare, allowing groups to indulge in delicious food and drinks while enjoying the show. The venue accommodates meetups from Wednesday through Sunday, often with extended closing hours on weekends, so there's ample time to gather and enjoy the night. Additionally, a happy hour on Wednesdays attracts early visitors seeking good deals, contributing to the vibrant Thursday-to-Saturday nightlife that defines the spot.
Why is Velvet Elk Lounge perfect for group meetups?
Velvet Elk Lounge is designed to foster a communal atmosphere ideal for groups of friends or family to meet and enjoy themselves together. Its layout and capacity provide enough room for groups to find comfortable seating while still maintaining the intimacy necessary for easy conversation and shared experiences. Unlike larger arenas where crowds can feel impersonal, Velvet Elk's size allows for a more connected social vibe. The central Boulder location on 13th Street is accessible by multiple modes of transport, with parking options nearby including paid garages and free street parking after 7 PM, which simplifies logistics for group attendees. The absence of reservation requirements makes the place flexible for spontaneous gatherings, encouraging a casual, drop-in style of socializing. Moreover, the staff are known for their friendliness and attentiveness, creating an environment where groups feel welcomed and well cared for. The mix of live entertainment, good drinks, tasty food, and a comfortable setting combines to make Velvet Elk Lounge especially suited for group events, whether it's a casual hangout, a birthday celebration, or a reunion.
What type of food and drink can groups expect?
Velvet Elk Lounge prides itself on delivering quality cocktails alongside a menu of tasty bar food that complements the musical experiences. The lounge offers expertly mixed, creative cocktails that appeal to a wide range of tastes, from classic options to unique signature drinks crafted to surprise and delight patrons. Food-wise, the offerings are designed to be shareable and satisfying, including popular items like burgers praised for their flavor and enhance the experience of an evening out. The food is made with attention to detail, ensuring that even casual meals contribute to the overall enjoyable atmosphere of the venue. This combination of great drinks and good eats supports gatherings of friends, providing both an energizing and comforting backdrop to live entertainment. The menu allows for flexibility in dining choices, making it easy for groups to find something that suits everyone's palate while staying focused on the communal experience.
How does Velvet Elk Lounge contribute to the community and environment?
Beyond being a place for entertainment and socialization, Velvet Elk Lounge is deeply committed to its community and environmental responsibility. The venue emphasizes a sense of community by regularly hosting local musicians and supporting Boulder’s artistic culture, which enriches social gatherings by connecting patrons with the local creative scene. This community-first approach creates a positive impact that extends beyond mere entertainment, fostering a sense of belonging among visitors. Additionally, Velvet Elk Lounge actively works to reduce its environmental footprint and promote sustainability. This commitment is evident in their operational choices and collaborations, demonstrating that they value ecological responsibility as part of their business model. For groups who are conscious about patronizing environmentally responsible venues, this adds an extra layer of appeal. By combining a vibrant social scene with meaningful community engagement and sustainability efforts, Velvet Elk Lounge positions itself as a progressive and conscientious gathering spot.
What practical details should groups know before visiting?
When planning a meetup at Velvet Elk Lounge, groups should note the lounge's operating hours and logistics to ensure a seamless experience. It is open from Wednesday to Sunday, starting at 5:00 PM on weekdays and extending to close on weekends, with earlier hours on Sunday from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Wednesday evenings feature an all-night happy hour, offering an excellent opportunity for early evening gatherings at a budget-friendly price. Parking arrangements are readily available, with paid parking near the venue and free street parking after 7 PM, which is helpful for groups coordinating their arrival times. Reservations are not accepted, so it is advisable for groups to arrive early or be prepared for potential wait times, especially for larger parties or during busy event nights. The venue restricts entry based on age, so confirming that all group members meet any necessary requirements ahead of time will avoid issues at the door. Overall, these practical details help attendees maximize their enjoyment at Velvet Elk Lounge without logistical surprises.
What makes Velvet Elk Lounge stand out in Boulder’s nightlife?
Velvet Elk Lounge stands out as a premier nightlife destination in Boulder thanks to its distinct combination of intimate live music, strong community spirit, and high-quality drinks. Unlike larger clubs or generic bars, Velvet Elk offers a carefully curated environment that showcases local talent while maintaining casual comfort for its guests. Its history as a venue built on Boulder’s evolving cultural landscape adds authenticity and charm to the experience. The focused commitment to creating a welcoming, energetic environment with thoughtful sustainability initiatives further distinguishes Velvet Elk as a venue that cares deeply about patrons and the broader impact it has. This blend of attributes makes it more than just a lounge — it becomes a cultural hub where music lovers, friends, and families can gather in a meaningful way. For those seeking a night out that balances fun, community, and quality, Velvet Elk Lounge remains a top choice in Boulder’s social scene.