The Best Cities to Open a Bar or Restaurant in Colorado
Colorado’s growing cities offer great opportunities for opening new bars and restaurants. This guide explores the best cities to consider, highlighting unique aspects of each city, such as population, history, points of interest, major colleges, and sports teams, that can help drive customer traffic to your venue.
1. Boulder
Boulder, home to over 100,000 residents, is known for its stunning scenery and eco-conscious culture. It’s a college town at heart, centered around the University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder), which enrolls over 35,000 students. The city’s history of progressive movements and innovative thinking has shaped its arts, technology, and culinary scenes.
Why Open Here?
The combination of students, tech professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts creates a need for both relaxed and upscale dining options. Hosting events like Trivia or Acoustic Open Mics, especially those geared towards students and professionals, would fit Boulder’s artistic, intellectual vibe. Craft cocktails, local brews, and vegetarian-friendly menus align well with Boulder’s eco-conscious values.
Colleges & Sports Teams:
The University of Colorado Boulder is the city’s heartbeat, creating a constant demand for bars, restaurants, and nightlife. CU Boulder’s sports teams, the Buffaloes, draw in large crowds for football games and other events, creating opportunities for game-day promotions.
Points of Interest:
The Pearl Street Mall, a pedestrian area with shopping, galleries, and street performers, is a major attraction. The nearby Flatirons mountains offer hiking and panoramic views, and Boulder’s annual festivals keep the city lively.
2. Denver
Denver is the capital and largest city in Colorado, with a population of over 730,000. It began as a gold rush settlement in 1858 and has since grown into a major economic center. Known as the “Mile High City” due to its elevation, Denver boasts a diverse cultural scene, a vibrant downtown, and a huge tourism industry. The city’s growth has been propelled by its strong tech, finance, and tourism sectors.
Why Open Here?
Denver’s thriving food and nightlife scenes mean there’s room for a wide range of restaurant and bar concepts, from craft breweries to themed cocktail lounges. Establishments in neighborhoods like LoDo and RiNo are known for creative menus and frequent live events. Sports bars are also a great fit in this sports-loving city, which is home to major teams like the Denver Broncos (NFL), the Colorado Rockies (MLB), and the Denver Nuggets (NBA). Weekly events like Sports Trivia, SpeedQuizzing, and Musical Bingo draw diverse crowds looking to socialize and enjoy the city’s lively vibe.
Colleges & Sports Teams:
The University of Denver and Metropolitan State University of Denver add a steady stream of students and faculty looking for nightlife options. Major sports teams include the Broncos, Rockies, Nuggets, and the Avalanche, making sports-themed nights a surefire hit.
Points of Interest:
Coors Field and Red Rocks Amphitheatre attract millions of visitors each year. The Denver Art Museum and Union Station are also key attractions. Strategically position your venue near these high-traffic areas for maximum visibility.
3. Aurora
Aurora is Colorado’s third-largest city, with a population of over 386,000. Founded in the 1880s as the small town of Fletcher, Aurora grew alongside the development of the local military installations, becoming the diverse and vibrant city it is today. The presence of Buckley Space Force Base ensures a strong military community, and Aurora is also known for its extensive park system, with over 100 parks.
Why Open Here?
Aurora’s cultural diversity creates demand for international cuisine and innovative restaurant concepts. The city’s booming healthcare and military sectors draw professionals and families seeking family-friendly eateries and dynamic nightlife spots. Hosting weekly events like Musical Bingo or SpeedQuizzing can create a reliable weekly crowd. Aim for creative, global twists in your menu or special events that celebrate different cultures.
Colleges & Sports Teams:
Aurora is home to the Anschutz Medical Campus, part of the University of Colorado system, which brings in thousands of students, staff, and visitors annually. The Colorado Rapids (MLS) and the Colorado Avalanche (NHL) in nearby Denver make sports-themed nights a hit in Aurora bars.
Points of Interest:
Cherry Creek State Park is a major draw for camping, fishing, and watersports. Stanley Marketplace, a former aviation factory turned into a food hall, is also popular among locals. Leverage partnerships with nearby attractions to offer promotions or themed events.
4. Edgewater
Edgewater is a small city just west of Denver, known for its proximity to Sloan’s Lake and its laid-back vibe. The city, with around 5,000 residents, is growing rapidly thanks to new developments like the Edgewater Public Market, a trendy communal space with local vendors.
Why Open Here?
Edgewater’s downtown revitalization and proximity to Sloan’s Lake create a demand for community-oriented venues with an intimate feel. Consider offering weekly events like Music Bingo or informal Open Mics to tap into the local crowd. Embrace the city’s love for the outdoors with outdoor seating and casual, lake-inspired décor.
Points of Interest:
Sloan’s Lake offers water sports, picnicking, and jogging trails. Edgewater’s Public Market is a central gathering spot, so consider opening a space nearby to capitalize on its popularity.
5. Lafayette
Lafayette, a small city with around 30,000 residents, sits in Boulder County and maintains a strong sense of community. It was founded as a coal-mining town in 1888, and you can still see historical markers throughout the city. The arts and crafts scene is growing, and Lafayette’s quaint downtown is full of local shops and restaurants.
Why Open Here?
Lafayette’s residents are artsy and family-oriented, which makes events like Acoustic Open Mic nights and Art-Themed Trivia a great fit. The city is also known for its environmental consciousness, so highlighting local ingredients and green initiatives can help your business resonate with the community.
Points of Interest:
Waneka Lake Park offers beautiful views and recreational opportunities. Lafayette’s community-focused events, like Art Night Out, draw large crowds.
6. Littleton
Littleton is a historical city in the southern suburbs of Denver with a population of over 48,000. Established during the gold rush, it has grown into a charming suburban area with a bustling Main Street. The historic buildings and community-focused atmosphere create a welcoming vibe for locals and visitors alike.
Why Open Here?
Littleton is perfect for family-oriented restaurants or relaxed community pubs. Downtown Littleton is the city’s hub, filled with boutiques, breweries, and casual eateries. Consider hosting family-friendly events like early-evening Music Bingo or kid-friendly Trivia to draw in locals.
Points of Interest:
Littleton’s Hudson Gardens and the Town Hall Arts Center are key local venues. Position your establishment close to these high-traffic areas to capitalize on the flow of visitors.
7. Lone Tree
Lone Tree is a small, affluent city south of Denver with a population of around 15,000. Known for its luxury amenities, Lone Tree offers residents a high quality of life. The city’s growth has been supported by developments like Park Meadows Mall, which is the largest shopping center in Colorado.
Why Open Here?
Lone Tree’s wealthy and discerning residents are drawn to upscale dining options, craft cocktail lounges, and high-end wine bars. Hosting events like Wine & Paint Nights or exclusive tasting events can help attract Lone Tree’s luxury-oriented audience.
Points of Interest:
Park Meadows Mall and the Lone Tree Arts Center are major attractions, bringing in visitors from across the region. Consider collaborating with these venues to boost your visibility.
8. Parker
Parker is a fast-growing suburb southeast of Denver, with a population of over 60,000. The city has managed to retain a charming downtown area while continuing to expand. Parker’s frequent community events and festivals create a vibrant atmosphere throughout the year.
Why Open Here?
Parker’s active, family-friendly community supports a variety of venues, from casual diners to mid-range restaurants with live music. Hosting events that align with Parker’s local festivals, like outdoor movie nights or brunches with Musical Bingo, could help draw in the crowds. This is an excellent location for kid-friendly Trivia events or daytime-themed Bingo to appeal to families.
Points of Interest:
The PACE Center hosts theater productions, concerts, and art exhibitions, while the Parker Farmers Market is a local staple. Cross-promoting with these popular venues can help you build a loyal customer base.
Tips for Success in Colorado
To thrive in Colorado’s competitive bar and restaurant scene, consider these strategies:
- Embrace Outdoor Experiences: Colorado’s outdoor culture is central to its residents’ lifestyle. Invest in outdoor seating, rooftop patios, or parklet spaces with heating options for year-round usability. Partner with local outdoor activities to offer after-hike brunches or après-ski specials.
- Leverage Major Colleges and Sports Events: Make the most of the traffic generated by universities like CU Boulder and major sports teams in Denver. Offer promotions, game-day specials, or themed events like Trivia that revolve around university life or sports.
- Cater to Unique Local Cultures: Each city in Colorado has its own distinct culture, so tailor your offerings accordingly. Boulder values eco-consciousness, while Lone Tree leans towards luxury. Consider weekly events like Musical Bingo, Karaoke, or Trivia in a way that resonates with each city’s vibe.
- Capitalize on Festivals and Community Events: Colorado’s cities host numerous festivals and events year-round. Align your venue’s events and specials with these festivals or offer exclusive promotions to attendees. For instance, in Parker, align your menu with the town’s seasonal farmers markets or host themed Trivia nights tied to local celebrations.
- Focus on Craft Brews and Local Ingredients: Colorado has a strong craft beer scene and a focus on farm-to-table dining. Integrate local brews and sustainably sourced ingredients into your menu, and consider offering tasting flights or pairing events to connect with Colorado’s culinary culture.
With the right blend of thoughtful planning, community engagement, and creative events, your bar or restaurant can thrive in Colorado’s diverse and dynamic cities. Good luck!
Check out Good Thomas Entertainment for more tips on boosting your service industry business’s traffic and sales or to host Musical Bingo at your establishment!