Denver's 5 Friendliest Neighborhood Bars

Looking for that place where everybody knows your name? Denver is full of friendly, comfy neighborhood bars that people can call a second home. Whether you frequent these places on a regular basis or drop in when you’re on that side of town, there is a barstool with your name on it at any of these five places.

Govnr’s Park: Located just one block from the residence of the state’s highest office, Govnr’s Park has been serving the folks of the Capitol Hill area since 1976 — the spot even hosted two Governors’ acceptance speeches. There's a little bit of everything — pool room, a dozen TVs, a dog-friendly patio and not one, but two happy hours daily. With 23 taps, Gov’s Park is known primarily as a beer bar, but they also serve Denver’s strongest Long Islands and offer weekend mimosa and Bloody Mary specials. Bonus: parking is free between Sixth and Seventh Street on Pennsylvania everyday (672 Logan St.; 303-831-8604).

Platte River Bar & Grill: The Platte, as it’s affectionately known, has been a popular suburban hangout for over 20 years. Active city dwellers often find themselves here after a league game at one of the nearby softball fields, cycling the Greenway Trail from downtown or playing 18 holes at one of the surrounding golf courses. A recent renovation brought a huge expansion of the outdoor bar and back patio. While this Mexican restaurant’s eight flavored margaritas have always been popular, you'll also find mojitos and caipirinhas, plus 15 beers on tap (5995 S. Santa Fe Dr., Littleton; 303-798-9356).

The Candlelight Tavern: This 50-plus-year-old institution proudly calls itself Denver’s Best Dive Bar. Located in Wash Park, an interesting mix of people populate the bar, including longtime locals, neighborhood pool sharks, sports fans rooting for their favorite team and students from nearby DU. The Candlelight is one of the few spots to have all the best bar games — shuffleboard, billiards, foosball and darts. There's even a Bar Olympics every October. Each day brings a different cocktail special, and from 5:30–10 PM, Monday–Thursday, you can munch on $5 all-you-can-eat chicken wings (383 S. Pearl St.; 303-778-9530).