When spring comes around there is nowhere better to sip a tipple in Denver than a rooftop bar or patio overlooking the skyline and mountains. While the city has several to choose from, Denver’s highest rooftop bar has officially opened its doors to the public. 54thirty on the roof of Le Meridien Denver Downtown will entice you with its lush décor, bright cocktails and Mile High views.

54thirty, which is the rooftop’s elevation above sea level, is well over a mile high and the highest bar in the city. The building’s location near the much lower roofline of the Colorado Convention Center guarantees stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and, for those who can stand the heights, guests can glimpse down to see Denver’s most famous art instillation I See What You Mean AKA the Big Blue Bear

The bar’s “Elevated Cocktails” are light and colorful concoctions including treats like Prickly Pear Marg made with Avion Tequila and prickly pear puree and City Peaks made with Aviation Gin, honey, lemon, blackberry and a hint of bubbles. The Japanese Highball features Suntory Whisky Toki, soda, thyme, and lemon. Even the bar’s Elevated Old Fashioned features a bright and refreshing apple infused Buffalo Trace Bourbon, salted maple syrup and bitters.

The bar’s other specialty is a selection of pink and sparkling wines from France, Italy, Washington and Oregon along with traditional reds and whites. There is also a mix of local and national craft beers including a selection of Colorado cans from Great Divide, Stem Ciders, Avery and Denver Beer Co.

Fashion your own cocktails with the bar’s curated assortment of premium spirits featuring some of Denver’s best distilleries, Laws, Stranahan’s, Downslope, Denver Dry and Leopold Bros. For those taking in the views without taking in the alcohol, there is a choice of non-alcoholic San Pellegrino, Mint Lime Cooler, and Fresh Blackberry Lemonade to quench your thirst.

One cannot imbibe all this liquid goodness without ingesting some tasty food. The small bites menu features Habanero Popcorn with white cheddar cheese, the perfect counter balance to a tangy or sweet cocktail or wine. Truffle Chips with onion dip are also great for snacking. Heartier plates that guests can share include BBQ Pork Potstickers, Spicy Shrimp Lettuce Cups, Soy Braised Short Rib, and Tuna Tartare.

Enjoy live music on Thursdays with 54thirty’s Elevated Beats DJ series. The bar opens at 3 PM Monday through Friday and at 1 PM Saturdays and Sundays. 

Photos via Carrie Dow