Where to be a jukebox hero 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 rarity is still fun. Here are a few places where you can still find vinyl records in a shiny neon box.

Lion’s Lair:  2022 E. Colfax Ave.; 303-320-9200

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.

P S Lounge:  3416 E. Colfax Ave.; 303-320-1200

This bar on East Colfax is completely unique or rather peculiar depending on one’s point of view. Every guest receives a complimentary Alabama slammer and each female patron 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.

The Cruise Room:  1600 17^th St.; 303-628-5400

Downtown’s coolest bar is also one of its oldest. The Cruise Room at the historic Oxford Hotel opened in 1933 the day after Prohibition was repealed and was designed to resemble one of the lounges on the Queen Mary. The jukebox still plays old school 45s and it’s FREE.

Skylark Lounge:  140 S. Broadway; 303-722-7844

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 and the bar has vintage décor and a museum quality collection of photos and movie posters.

Don’s Club Tavern:  723 E. 6^th Ave.; 303-861-0144

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. Opened in 1947, the tavern claims Jack Kerouac drank here. By contrast, the jukebox at Don’s is all digital with a T-1 line and the bar brags it can play any song that has ever been recorded.