Best Bars With Classic Jukeboxes in Denver
Nothing says nostalgia like an old fashioned push-button jukebox. These rarities are getting harder and harder to find, being replace with smaller, digital versions that people can dial up on their phones. For some the tactile method of pressing those large buttons and finding that magical B-side is still fun. Here are a few places where you can still find vinyl records in a shiny neon box.
Lion’s Lair: Although better known around town as a punk rock bar, the jukebox at the Lion’s Lair is less…jarring. The Lair’s juke contains everything from Miles Davis to 70s R&B to Led Zeppelin. As the bar likes to say, “the beer’s cheap, the jukebox is soulful and solid” (2022 E. Colfax Ave.; 303-320-9200).
P S Lounge: This bar is either completely unique or very peculiar, depending on one’s point of view. Every patron receives a complimentary Alabama slammer when they sit down and each lady is given a single rose. Since the lounge doesn’t serve food, guests can have pizza delivered from Enzo’s next door. The jukebox is also a bit eclectic with everything from 50’s swing to 90’s grunge and maybe a Madonna song or two (3416 E. Colfax Ave.; 303-320-1200).
The Cruise Room: Downtown’s coolest bar is also one of its oldest. The Cruise Room at the historic Oxford Hotel opened in 1933 on the day after Prohibition's repeal, and was designed to resemble one of the lounges on the Queen Mary. The jukebox still plays old school 45s and it’s FREE. Play a classic tune while drinking a classic cocktail like their signature Martini (1600 17th St.; 303-628-5400).
Skylark Lounge: The historic Skylark Lounge has been rockin’ since 1943. Along with a jivin’ jukebox featuring retro music like swing, big band, rockabilly and country, the Skylark also has a wide variety of live music acts and dancing. The second floor houses the Pair O’ Dice Poolroom, which was named one of Billiards Digest top three new pool rooms in the US. The bar has vintage décor and a museum quality collection of photos and movie posters (140 S. Broadway; 303-722-7844).
Don’s Club Tavern: We couldn't completely avoid the high tech. Another Denver oddity, Don's Club Tavern is of the oldest bars in Denver yet has the latest technology in jukeboxes. Don’s opened in 1947 and, although they have no physical proof, the tavern claims Jack Kerouac drank here during his On the Road Denver stay. By contrast, the jukebox at Don’s is all digital with a T-1 line and can play just about any song that has ever been recorded. (723 E. 6th Ave.; 303-861-0144).
Tags: Bar Crawl, Music