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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Boulder

Nightlife

You want a night out that feels like a deliberate choice rather than just settling for the nearest open door.

Based on 432 Opinions
+429
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Updated May 2026
01
Velvet Elk Lounge image 1
Velvet Elk Lounge image 2
Velvet Elk Lounge image 3
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Live music venue

Long, narrow bar with intimate live music and great sound quality sets a warm, festive mood. Hipster style blends with high-quality cocktails and attentive service. Fantastic lineups keep the lively atmosphere going until midnight for fun nights out.

A small club with a fun hipster style offers music, drinks, and food until midnight. It features fantastic lineups and attentive servers, creating a lively atmosphere for celebrations and nights out.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are great guys and keep things running smoothly."

"The cocktails here are unique and tasty."

"The music and drinks here make for great nightlife."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with half-price drinks and appetizers.

2

Entry fee for shows is $12, with a two-drink minimum per person.

3

Live music events are free on most nights, featuring local solo or duo acts.

02
Heady Bauer image 1
Vintage clothing store

Vintage clothing store shines with eclectic selection and colorful decor. Music lounge offers live performances and a chance to jam. Friendly dog adds to the vibrant energy and welcoming vibe.

A small music lounge offers live music performances and a spot to jam out. The vibe stays awesome with good music and good energy.

People are saying

"I found the coolest vintage clothes at this thrift store."

"I loved jamming out in the music lounge and playing tunes."

"The music lounge has an amazing vibe and great music."

Good to know

1

Heady Bauer has a great selection of vintage clothes at fair prices.

2

The store features unique items curated by the owner.

3

Expect a fun atmosphere with a variety of quirky finds.

03
Boulder Theater image 1
Live music venue

Historic art deco theater offers an intimate setting with vintage decor and a crisp sound system. Lounge next door serves espresso martinis and flatbread with great service, perfect for starting the night. Space allows room to dance and enjoy an up-close music experience.

A lounge next door offers food and drinks before the show, including a notable espresso martini and flatbread. It opens an hour before showtime and has great service, providing a solid spot to start the night.

People are saying

"It's a cozy, old-school venue for live performing arts."

"You should go early to the Day Lounge for yummy flatbread and great drinks."

"I thought this venue was totally awesome."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for popular shows to ensure entry.

2

Expect long wait times for the bathroom during sold-out events.

3

The venue has limited parking, so arrive early or consider public transport.

04
Junkyard Social Club image 1

Enormously creative junkyard space offers whimsical decor and interactive playgrounds perfect for kids and adults. Live local music and a cozy cafe create a vibrant community hub. Welcomes families, making it ideal for celebrations and casual lounging.

A fun and unique spot that works well for celebrations and casual lounging. It welcomes children and families, making it a versatile choice for birthdays and gatherings.

People are saying

"It's a super fun and creative Kid Friendly spot for kids and adults."

"It's a fun place with creative junkyard parts for kids to explore."

"It's a fun place for kids and celebrations."

Good to know

1

You must sign a waiver before entering the play areas.

2

Sunscreen, water, and clean restrooms are available on-site.

3

The venue hosts unique events like drag shows and comedy nights.

05
License No. 1 image 1

Low-ceilinged brick basement bar offers an intimate, speakeasy vibe with dim, warm lighting and cozy nooks. Comedy shows create a fun, lively atmosphere while lounging spots provide a relaxed vibe for unwinding. Rustic decor enhances the classy setting.

Comedy clubs offer a fun and entertaining evening with a cozy and chill atmosphere in the back. Lounging spots provide a relaxed vibe for unwinding.

People are saying

"The comedy show here is great and hilarious."

"The space felt really intimate, like a cool speakeasy."

"The nightlife here has a cozy, intimate vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5 to 7 pm with discounted drinks.

2

The comedy show features at least 3 comics every night.

3

Reservations are recommended for busy weekend shows.

06
Moxy Boulder University image 1

Hotel blends modern design with spacious lounges that buzz with energy. Rooftop hot tub offers stunning mountain views. Bar serves free welcome drinks, making nightlife lively and fun.

Spacious indoor and outdoor lounges create a modern vibe with welcoming energy. Free welcome drinks add to the inviting atmosphere in the bar and lounge areas.

People are saying

"The Hotel staff are so friendly and helpful."

"It's a fun, modern vibe with stylish, well-designed rooms."

"The bar and lounge here feels modern and hip."

Good to know

1

Valet service costs $40 a night, with no other parking options available.

2

Rooms are on the smaller side, with limited amenities like no refrigerator.

3

The hotel is new and in excellent condition, offering a clean environment.

07
St Julien Hotel & Spa image 1

Hotel offers stunning mountain views and a luxurious spa with saltwater pool and sauna. Friendly staff create a warm vibe while live music and a busy bar with fireplace bring lively nightlife on Fridays.

Lively entertainment fills the bar and lounge on Friday nights. The fireplace adds a cozy touch while the area stays very busy in the evening.

People are saying

"The hotel staff are so friendly and helpful."

"You get amazing views of the Flatirons from your room."

"The lounge fireplace and hot tub are perfect for evening relaxation."

Good to know

1

Reservations for events are recommended at least a week in advance.

2

The hotel offers a dedicated space for groups of 12-15 people.

3

Live music is featured from Wednesday to Saturday nights.

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Boulder, Colorado

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