Velvet Cellar: LoDo’s Best Wine Bar, Happy Hour, and Private Events

Denver is a city that thrives on energy, adventure, and culture. At the heart of it all is Lower Downtown (LoDo), where history meets modern nightlife, dining, and entertainment. Just steps away from the iconic Union Station, LoDo is packed with trendy bars, acclaimed restaurants, and cultural landmarks.

Among the gems in this vibrant area is The Velvet Cellar—a stylish wine bar and dining destination that’s become a favorite for locals and tourists alike. Known for its lively events, unbeatable happy hour specials, and chic yet welcoming vibe, The Velvet Cellar is more than just a place to grab a drink—it’s a hub for unforgettable experiences in Denver.

Whether you’re planning a night out with friends, celebrating a milestone, or simply exploring the best things to do in Denver, The Velvet Cellar makes every visit special.

The Velvet Cellar: Events & Experiences that Spark Connection

Events at The Velvet Cellar are designed to bring people together, whether over a bottle of wine or a curated private dinner.

Weekly Specials Worth Marking on Your Calendar

Every week, The Velvet Cellar sets the stage for memorable midweek escapes.

• Wined Up Wednesday: Take 25% off bottles of wine and elevate your weeknight with bold reds, crisp whites, or refreshing rosés.
• Thursday Night Flights: Taste your way through curated \$15 wine flights when paired with a \$25+ food purchase. This is the perfect way to explore new varietals without committing to a full bottle.

Signature Wine Events

For those looking for something truly unique, The Velvet Cellar hosts special events like A Night with Ramón Bilbao, where guests enjoy guided tastings, seasonal pairings, and even a Carajillo cocktail to finish. These immersive events are tailored for wine lovers who want to explore both the familiar and the exotic.

Private Parties & Group Dining

Hosting a birthday dinner, bachelorette party, or corporate happy hour? The Velvet Cellar’s flexible event spaces can accommodate groups of 10 to 100. Options include:

• Velvet Lounge: an intimate spot for 10–20 guests
• The Cellar Room: a stylish private dining room for up to 50
• Full Venue Buyout: exclusive use of the entire space for up to 100 guests

Their team handles everything from custom menus to ambiance, so you can focus on enjoying the company of your guests.

Denver’s Best Happy Hour: Drinks, Sliders, and the Perfect Vibe

When people search for the best happy hour in Denver, The Velvet Cellar tops the list. Here’s why:

• Time & Schedule: Happy Hour runs Tuesday through Friday, 4–6 PM. Perfect for winding down after work or meeting friends before a night out.
• Drinks: \$7 well spirits & draft beers, \$9 house wines, and craft cocktails that rival any in the city.
• Food Specials: The menu is designed for sharing—tacos, sliders, and the famous Slap Burger topped with whipped herb cream cheese, crispy jalapeños, and strawberry-onion jam.
• Atmosphere: The vibe is chic but approachable, blending modern décor with warm hospitality. Whether you’re perched at the bar or lounging in a booth, The Velvet Cellar makes happy hour feel like a celebration.

For locals, it’s the go-to place to decompress. For tourists, it’s an authentic slice of the Denver nightlife scene.

Tips for Visiting The Velvet Cellar

To get the most out of your Velvet Cellar experience, keep these practical tips in mind:

• Make a Reservation: Especially on Wednesdays and Thursdays, when specials bring in both locals and out-of-towners.
• Arrive a Little Early: Denver’s LoDo can get busy during peak hours. Give yourself time to stroll Union Station before heading in.
• Ask About Dietary Options: The kitchen happily accommodates gluten-free and vegetarian needs.
• Plan for Groups: If you’re attending with a larger party, confirm headcounts and let the staff know what kind of vibe you want—festive, intimate, or corporate.

The Velvet Cellar staff is known for being approachable and attentive, so don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations on pairings or local activities to do afterward.

Explore LoDo: Union Station, Attractions, and Things to Do Nearby

Part of what makes The Velvet Cellar so appealing is its location. Situated steps from Union Station, it’s surrounded by Denver’s best attractions.

• Union Station: This historic landmark is more than a transit hub. It’s home to boutiques, restaurants, a bustling hotel lobby, and year-round events. Grab a coffee, shop local, or simply enjoy the architecture.
• 16th Street Mall: Just a short walk away, this pedestrian-friendly shopping and dining stretch offers everything from brand-name stores to local boutiques. The free shuttle makes it easy to explore.
• Confluence Park: At the meeting of Cherry Creek and the South Platte River, this park is an urban oasis for walking, biking, and kayaking. It’s also right by REI’s flagship store.
• Sports & Entertainment: Baseball fans can catch a game at Coors Field. Basketball and hockey fans can head to Ball Arena, home to the Denver Nuggets and Colorado Avalanche.
• Local Vibe: LoDo is full of historic brick warehouses that now house breweries, art galleries, and rooftop patios. It’s the perfect blend of old and new, capturing the authentic Denver vibe visitors love.

A Perfect Day in Denver: Sample Itinerary

If you’re visiting Denver or planning a staycation, here’s how you can make the most of a day around Union Station and The Velvet Cellar:

1. Morning: Start your day at Union Station with coffee and pastries at Mercantile or Pigtrain Coffee Co. Take time to admire the grand Beaux-Arts architecture.
2. Midday: Walk or take the shuttle down 16th Street Mall. Browse shops, grab a light lunch, and people-watch in the heart of downtown.
3. Afternoon: Head to Confluence Park for fresh air and a walk along the river.
4. Late Afternoon: Arrive at The Velvet Cellar for happy hour (4–6 PM). Sip craft cocktails, snack on sliders, and soak in the stylish vibe.
5. Evening: Stay for dinner at The Velvet Cellar or explore nearby restaurants like Tavernetta, Stoic & Genuine, or ChoLon.
6. Nightcap: End the evening at a LoDo jazz club or brewery—or catch a late game at Coors Field.

This itinerary perfectly blends Denver sightseeing with food, drink, and nightlife, all centered around The Velvet Cellar.

The Velvet Cellar Is Your Gateway to the Denver Vibe

In a city overflowing with things to do, The Velvet Cellar stands out as a must-visit destination. Its lively events, unbeatable happy hour, and warm yet modern atmosphere make it a top choice for both Denver locals and visiting tourists.

Add in the unbeatable LoDo location near Union Station, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a memorable night out. From sipping wine flights on a Thursday to celebrating milestones in a private cellar room, The Velvet Cellar offers an experience that’s uniquely Denver.

So whether you’re a traveler searching for fun things to do near Union Station or a Denverite looking for your next go-to happy hour spot, The Velvet Cellar welcomes you with open arms, clinking glasses, and the unmistakable Denver vibe.

Plan your visit to The Velvet Cellar today—reserve a table, explore happy hour, or book your next private event. Then step outside and let Denver’s LoDo neighborhood add the final touch to your unforgettable evening.