Denver’s a sports town. Denver’s a drinking town. But there’s also plenty of culture. Not surprisingly, there are several places in the Mile High City where drinkers can turn off the Broncos game and turn their attention to more artistic endeavors. Here are five places you can mix your alcohol with a splash of art.

Dada Art Bar: DADA rests along the edges of two of Denver’s coolest neighborhoods—Ballpark and RiNo. At DADA, you’ll get some crafty cocktails and beer selections served amidst an exhibition of visual art. Right now, the exhibition consists of drawings and paintings by John Moinzad and Sharon Healy respectively. DADA also does music. Tuesdays feature a painting class, Wednesdays are open mic night and Thursdays feature Taste(s)—$2 off wine with food and chocolate pairings throughout the night. (2470 Broadway; 720-350-4716)

La Cour: This is another great bar that gives space to artists—local and international, as well as known and unknown. With a healthy roster of events and a wonderful art wall, the French-inspired La Cour also sports an intriguing collection of cocktails and food. Happy Hour runs from 3–6 PM each day and all day Sunday. (1643 S Broadway; 303-777-5000)

The Interstate Kitchen and Bar: This one isn’t an art bar per se, but there’s almost no better place to sit and sip during First Fridays in the Santa Fe Arts District. Of note on the drink selection is the whisky list, which is one of the most extensive in town and includes white whiskies, too. Happy hour runs 4–6 PM and midnight–close, daily. (1001 Santa Fe Dr.; 720-479-8829)

Upstairs Circus: If you're looking to get a little more hands on, Upstairs Circus is a place where you get a drink and the creative bug. Drinkers here get together to actually make art instead of the more passive participation you’ll find in other art bars around town. Choose from a variety of arts and crafts projects that you want to make and have at it while drinking and socializing with friends both old and new. (1500 Wynkoop St. #100; 720-722-2105)

Mad Beans and Wine Café: This Cafe is close to the Daniel Liebeskind-designed Denver Art Museum. In addition to cheese and small plates, imbibers have a decent selection of wine, spirits, and cocktails to choose from. The convenient location means it’s perfect for a drink on the way into or out of one of the museum’s exhibitions or main collections. (1200 Acoma St.; 720-496-4158)

Photo via DADA