Best Cocktails in Boulder, Colorado: Where to Sip the Finest Drinks

Boulder, Colorado, is home to an incredible craft cocktail scene, offering everything from tiki-inspired creations to expertly crafted classics. Whether you're looking for a speakeasy vibe, a lively rooftop bar, or a laid-back dive with a strong pour, Boulder has something for every cocktail lover.

If you're searching for the best cocktails in Boulder, you’ll want to check out Jungle, License No. 1, The Bitter Bar, Outback Saloon, Rosetta Hall, and West End Tavern. These bars offer creative mixology, fresh ingredients, and unforgettable atmospheres.

Jungle – Tiki Vibes, Fun Glasses & Tropical Cocktails

Location: 2018 10th St, Boulder, CO

Must-Try Cocktails:

• Zombie – A boozy blend of rums, absinthe, passionfruit, and citrus

• Painkiller – A creamy, tropical mix of rum, coconut, pineapple, and orange

• Jungle Bird – A bittersweet mix of dark rum, Campari, pineapple, and lime

• Mojito – A refreshing mix of white rum, fresh mint, lime, sugar, and soda

Vibe: Laid-back, island-inspired, and full of fun energy with creative tiki mugs and glassware

Pro Tip: The Cubano sandwich here is amazing—packed with roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, and mustard on perfectly pressed bread. Pair it with crispy fried plantains for the full tropical experience.

License No. 1 – The Ultimate Speakeasy Experience

Location: 2115 13th St (Basement of Hotel Boulderado), Boulder, CO

Must-Try Cocktails:

• Old Fashioned – A perfectly balanced mix of bourbon, sugar, and bitters

• Corpse Reviver No. 2 – A refreshing gin cocktail with Lillet Blanc, orange liqueur, and absinthe

• French 75 – A crisp and bubbly mix of gin, lemon, and Champagne

Vibe: Dark, moody, and perfect for a speakeasy-style night out

The Bitter Bar – Boulder’s Cocktail Institution

Location: 835 Walnut St, Boulder, CO

Must-Try Cocktails:

• Bitter Bar Negroni – A bold mix of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth

• Gold Rush – A smooth blend of bourbon, honey, and lemon

• Mezcal Margarita – A smoky twist on the classic with fresh lime and agave

Vibe: Stylish, intimate, and focused on serious mixology

Outback Saloon – Dive Bar Cocktails with Strong Pours & Hearty Breakfast

Location: 3141 28th St, Boulder, CO

Must-Try Cocktails:

• Boilermaker – A classic dive bar combo: a shot of whiskey dropped into a pint of beer

• Whiskey Coke – Simple, strong, and perfectly mixed

• Tequila Sunrise – A classic mix of tequila, orange juice, and grenadine

• Long Island Iced Tea – A dangerously smooth blend of vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and triple sec

Vibe: Laid-back, unpretentious, and perfect for a low-key night out

Pro Tip: Try eating breakfast at Outback! Their hearty breakfast menu is a local favorite and a great way to start your day.

Rosetta Hall – Rooftop Cocktails & Global Bites

Location: 1109 Walnut St, Boulder, CO

Must-Try Cocktails:

• Aperol Spritz – Light, bubbly, and perfect for sipping on the rooftop

• Espresso Martini – A smooth and energizing blend of vodka, espresso, and coffee liqueur

• House Margarita – A perfectly balanced classic with fresh lime and premium tequila

Vibe: Trendy, modern, and ideal for a lively night out with great drinks and food

Plenty of Food Options: Enjoy a variety of global cuisines from different food vendors, making it a great place to grab a bite while sipping on cocktails.

West End Tavern – Rooftop Whiskey Bar & Craft Cocktails

Location: 926 Pearl St, Boulder, CO

Must-Try Cocktails:

• Smoked Old Fashioned – A bold and smoky take on the classic whiskey cocktail

• West End Mule – A refreshing mix of vodka, ginger beer, and lime

• Barrel-Aged Manhattan – A rich and smooth blend of whiskey, vermouth, and bitters, aged in-house

Vibe: Cozy, lively, and ideal for whiskey lovers and rooftop enthusiasts

Happy Hours:

• Afternoon Happy Hour: Weekdays from 3 PM – 5 PM

• Late-Night Happy Hour: Sundays through Thursdays from 9 PM – Close

Pro Tip: Don’t skip the deviled eggs—they’re a local favorite. And if you love barbecue, try the burnt ends! These smoky, tender bites are packed with flavor and pair perfectly with a whiskey cocktail or craft beer.

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