Last updated: October 11, 2025
Craft Breweries | Speakeasies | Live Music | Game Bars | Late-Night Eats | Date Night Ideas | Safety Tips
When the Mountains Sleep, the City Wakes Up
Colorado Springs isn't Denver. You won't find velvet rope clubs or bottle service here. What you will find is something better: authentic neighborhood bars, nationally recognized breweries, hidden speakeasies that actually feel secret, and live music venues where touring acts play intimate shows.
The vibe? Think post-hike beers on patios with Pikes Peak views, craft cocktails in basement lounges, and late-night pizza that tastes even better after a few IPAs.
This guide covers where locals actually go—no tourist traps, no chains, just the spots that make Colorado Springs nightlife worth experiencing.
Pro tip: Most breweries close by 10 PM. Plan accordingly: start at a brewery patio around 5-6 PM, transition to cocktails by 8 PM, catch live music by 9 PM, and end with late-night food.
🍺 Craft Breweries Worth Your Time
Phantom Canyon Brewing Co.
📍 Location: 2 E Pikes Peak Ave, Downtown
⏰ Hours: Daily 11 AM – 10 PM
🎯 Why go: Historic downtown landmark in a beautifully restored 1901 building
The scene: Three floors of brewing history. First floor is the restaurant and main bar. Second floor has pool tables and a more relaxed vibe. Rooftop patio offers downtown views—though "rooftop" is generous; it's more of a second-story outdoor space.
What to order:
- Phantom IPA – Their flagship for 30+ years
- Zebulon Peated Porter – Smoky, complex, not for beginners
- Food: Loaded nachos (actually good), fish and chips
Best for: After-work crowds, groups that want food + beer, visitors wanting a safe downtown bet
Local knowledge: Gets touristy on weekends. Go Tuesday-Thursday for the authentic experience. The billiards floor is underutilized—great spot if you want some space.
Bristol Brewing Company (Ivywild School)
📍 Location: 1604 S Cascade Ave
⏰ Hours: Mon-Thu 11 AM – 9 PM, Fri-Sat 11 AM – 10 PM, Sun 11 AM – 8 PM
🎯 Why go: Converted elementary school with multiple venues and community events
The scene: This isn't just a brewery—it's a community hub. The old school building houses Bristol Brewing, food vendors, performance spaces, and event areas. The gym hosts concerts and markets. Classrooms are tap rooms.
What to order:
- Laughing Lab Scottish Ale – Smooth, malty, sessionable
- Compass IPA – West Coast style, citrus-forward
- Red Rocket Ale – Their most awarded beer
Best for: Early evening hangouts before shows at Lulu's Downstairs (also in the building), families (yes, it's kid-friendly until 8 PM), exploring Old Colorado City
Local knowledge: Check the Ivywild event calendar—random things happen here. Artisan markets, yoga sessions, acoustic nights. It's weird in the best way.
Cerberus Brewing Co.
📍 Location: 702 W Colorado Ave, Old Colorado City
⏰ Hours: Mon-Thu 11 AM – 9 PM, Fri-Sat 11 AM – 10 PM, Sun 11 AM – 8 PM
🎯 Why go: Best sunset patio views of Pikes Peak, legitimately good food
The scene: Spacious patio that catches the late afternoon sun perfectly. Dog-friendly. Mix of hikers, bikers, and locals who know good beer when they taste it.
What to order:
- Three Headed Helles – Clean German lager, crushable
- Brisket Fries – Smoked brisket, cheese, jalapeños on beer-battered fries
- Craft sandwiches – Actually good, not "brewery food" good
Best for: Sunset beers after Garden of the Gods, dog owners, groups that want solid food with craft beer
Local knowledge: The 5-7 PM window is prime time for that golden hour Pikes Peak view. Arrive by 5:30 to claim a patio table.
Also Worth Checking Out
Red Leg Brewing – Military-veteran owned, strong German styles
2630 W Colorado Ave
Goat Patch Brewing – Quirky, experimental beers, local artist vibe
2727 N Cascade Ave
Fossil Craft Beer Company – Trivia nights, food trucks, neighborhood feel
2390 Research Pkwy
🍸 Speakeasies & Cocktail Lounges That Actually Feel Hidden
The Archives Underground Libations
📍 Location: 15 S Tejon St, Downtown (below Colorado Craft)
⏰ Hours: Daily 5 PM – 12 AM (enter through back alley after 10 PM)
🎯 Why go: Most legitimate speakeasy vibe in Colorado Springs
How to find it: Located downstairs inside Colorado Craft Social. Before 10 PM, enter through Colorado Craft. After 10 PM, use the backdoor in AdAmAn Alley (the alley between Tejon and Cascade).
The scene: Dim lighting, exposed brick, leather booths, jazz playing low. This isn't theme-park speakeasy—it genuinely feels like you discovered something.
What to order:
- Smoke & Dagger Old Fashioned – Smoked cherry wood, worth the hype
- Dealer's Choice – Tell the bartender your spirit preference and let them create
- Mac and Cheese – Yes, really. The late-night food here is surprisingly solid
Best for: Date nights, craft cocktail enthusiasts, people who want to feel like they're in on a secret
Local knowledge: Reservations recommended Friday-Saturday nights, but walk-ins usually find bar seats. The back corner booths are the most intimate. Last call is 30 minutes before closing.
Correction from article: The Archives is NOT below "Rooster's House of Ramen"—it's below Colorado Craft Social. This matters if you're trying to find it.
Brooklyn's on Boulder Street
📍 Location: 2441 W Colorado Ave
⏰ Hours: Wed-Sat 5 PM – 12 AM
🎯 Why go: Small-batch gin distillery with 1920s atmosphere
The scene: Intimate, about 30 seats total. Craft gin is their specialty—they distill on-site. The space feels like a Prohibition-era parlor.
What to order:
- Aviation – Classic gin cocktail, Brooklyn's does it right
- Elderflower Spritz – Lighter, floral, refreshing
- Gin flights – If you want to taste their distilling work
Best for: Gin lovers, small group gatherings, people who prefer conversation over crowds
Local knowledge: No sign outside, just a brass "B" above the door. Make reservations—they fill up fast despite the small size. Cash preferred but they take cards.
Shuga's Lounge
📍 Location: 702 S Cascade Ave
⏰ Hours: Café 7 AM – 11 PM, Bar 5 PM – 11 PM
🎯 Why go: Retro-eclectic café by day, vibrant cocktail hub by night
The scene: Mismatched vintage furniture, local art on walls, bohemian vibe. Transitions from coffee shop to cocktail bar seamlessly around 5 PM.
What to order:
- Lemon Ginger Mojito – Fresh, zingy, summer in a glass
- Honey Lavender Martini – Floral, not too sweet
- Small plates – Cheese boards, hummus, light bites
Best for: Casual cocktails, pre-dinner drinks, groups that want a relaxed atmosphere
Local knowledge: One of the few places you can get quality cocktails in a non-pretentious setting. Perfect for "I want a good drink but not a whole scene" nights.
Also Worth Exploring
Allusion Speakeasy – Themed pop-up experiences (check their calendar)
1324 S 8th St
The Rabbit Hole – Upscale underground bistro, cocktails + dinner
101 N Tejon St
🎶 Live Music Venues Where Touring Acts Actually Play
Lulu's Downstairs
📍 Location: Ivywild School, 1604 S Cascade Ave, Manitou Springs
⏰ Hours: Show-dependent, typically 8 PM doors
🎯 Why go: Intimate basement venue with national touring acts
The scene: Art-deco basement bar that books surprisingly big names. Blues, funk, indie rock, Americana—genre varies widely. Capacity around 200, so every show feels personal.
What to know:
- Tickets usually $15-$35 via Eventbrite or at door
- Cash bar, beers from Bristol upstairs
- Standing room only, some bar seating
- Acoustics are excellent for the space
Best for: Music lovers who want to see touring acts in a setting where you can actually see the stage, discovering new artists
Local knowledge: Get there when doors open if you want a good spot. The sound in this room is outstanding—small basement should sound bad, but somehow it doesn't.
The Black Sheep
📍 Location: 2106 E Platte Ave
⏰ Hours: Show-dependent, typically 7-10 PM doors
🎯 Why go: Colorado Springs' iconic venue for rock, punk, metal, hardcore
The scene: If Lulu's is polished, Black Sheep is raw. This is where you see bands on their way up and veterans keeping it real. Standing room only, energetic crowds, great sound system.
What to know:
- All ages (most shows)
- Tickets $10-$25 typically
- Expect to stand, expect to move
- Bar in back for 21+
Best for: Rock/punk/metal fans, high-energy shows, supporting local and touring underground acts
Local knowledge: This venue has been the heartbeat of Colorado Springs' alt-music scene for years. If you care about live music, you owe it a visit.
OCC Brewing Live Lounge
📍 Location: 2316 W Colorado Ave, Old Colorado City
⏰ Hours: Mon-Thu 3-9 PM, Fri-Sun 12-10 PM
🎯 Why go: Intimate acoustic sets, craft beer, low-key atmosphere
The scene: Small stage in the corner, maybe 50 people max. Acoustic acts, singer-songwriters, occasional open mic nights. This isn't amplified rock—it's listening room vibes.
What to know:
- Usually free or $5-$10 cover
- Sunday nights often feature local acts
- OCC beers on tap (solid lineup)
- Food trucks occasionally outside
Best for: Acoustic music fans, Sunday evening hangs, discovering local talent
Local knowledge: Ask the bartenders about the weekly schedule—they're plugged into the local music scene and will point you to hidden gems.
Bonus: Unplugged Nights
Kinship Landing Lobby Bar – Locals occasionally jam unplugged near the fireplace. No schedule, just happens. Worth checking if you're wandering downtown.
7 E Bijou St
🕹️ Laid-Back Bars, Arcades & Game Nights
Supernova Bar & Arcade
📍 Location: 1835 E Boulder St
⏰ Hours: Mon-Thu 4 PM – 12 AM, Fri-Sun 12 PM – 2 AM
🎯 Why go: Retro arcade games, craft beer, zero pretension
The scene: Vintage pinball machines, classic arcade cabinets (Pac-Man, Galaga, Street Fighter II), craft beers on tap. Free entry, games take coins or tokens.
What to know:
- No food (but you can bring in takeout from nearby spots)
- Change machine available
- Mix of serious gamers and casual players
- Gets crowded Friday-Saturday nights
Best for: Nostalgic gamers, casual hangouts, avoiding the downtown bar scene, date nights with an activity
Local knowledge: Tuesday nights are typically quieter—better if you actually want to play games without waiting. Combine with Fat Sully's Pizza next door for the perfect casual night.
Atomic Cowboy / Denver Biscuit Company
📍 Location: 3237 E Platte Ave
⏰ Hours: Daily 7 AM – 2 AM
🎯 Why go: Brunch spot transforms into bar with board games after 7 PM
The scene: By day: line-out-the-door brunch. By night: local drafts, board game library, laid-back bar crowd. It's a weird transition but it works.
What to know:
- Full bar after 7 PM
- Board game collection free to use
- Kitchen serves late (bar food, not brunch after dinner hours)
- Patio seating available
Best for: Post-brunch drinks, casual game nights, groups that want options
Local knowledge: The afternoon transition (3-5 PM) is the sweet spot—not too crowded, still serving food, but bar menu available.
Tony's Downtown Bar
📍 Location: 15 E Cucharras St
⏰ Hours: Daily 11 AM – 2 AM
🎯 Why go: Classic dive bar energy, late kitchen, karaoke weekends
The scene: This is a DIVE BAR in the best sense. Pool tables, jukebox, locals who've been coming here for decades. No craft cocktails, no Instagram moments, just cold beers and strong pours.
What to know:
- One of the few spots open until 2 AM
- Kitchen serves until 1 AM (bar food: burgers, wings, nachos)
- Karaoke Friday-Saturday nights
- Cash gets you better deals
Best for: Late-night hangs, people who want authentic local bar culture, karaoke enthusiasts, affordable drinks
Local knowledge: Tony's is a Colorado Springs institution. You'll see military folks, service industry workers getting off shift, and locals who know everyone's name. Respect the vibe and you'll be welcomed.
🍽️ Late-Night Eats (When Everything Else Closes)
Quick Reference Table
| Spot | Type | Open Until | Best For | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fat Sully's Pizza | NY-style slices | 2 AM Fri-Sat, 12 AM other nights | Post-bar carb fix | 1833 E Boulder St |
| The Rabbit Hole | Upscale bistro | 1 AM | Cocktails + dinner | 101 N Tejon St |
| King's Chef Diner | Retro diner | 24 hours | Breakfast anytime | 110 E Costilla St |
| Dos Santos Tacos | Modern Mexican | 11 PM | Shareable plates | 411 N Nevada Ave |
| Tony's Downtown Bar | Dive bar kitchen | 1 AM | Wings, burgers, nachos | 15 E Cucharras St |
Fat Sully's Pizza (The Default Late-Night Move)
Why it works: Giant NY-style slices, open latest, right next to Supernova. Cash preferred but cards accepted. Expect a line after midnight on weekends—it's part of the experience.
Order: Pepperoni slice ($4-5), or go all-in with a whole pie if you've got a crew.
The Rabbit Hole (When You Want to Feel Fancy Late)
Why it works: Underground speakeasy-style bistro with full dinner menu and craft cocktails until 1 AM. This is date-night quality food, not drunk food.
Important: Reservations essential, especially weekends. Don't show up at 11 PM expecting a table.
Order: Charcuterie, seasonal entrees, craft cocktails. Check their Instagram for current menu.
King's Chef Diner (The Purple Castle)
Why it works: 24 hours. That's the whole pitch. It's a retro diner in a purple castle-shaped building serving breakfast all day/night.
Order: Pancakes, omelets, biscuits and gravy. Classic American diner food.
Vibe: Families, night shift workers, drunk people sobering up, tourists who stumbled upon it. Everyone's welcome.
🧭 Date Night Itineraries (Planned For You)
Romantic Evening (Upscale)
6:00 PM – Dinner at The Rabbit Hole (reservations required)
8:00 PM – Jazz cocktails at The Archives
9:30 PM – Scenic drive up Mesa Road for city lights overlook
11:00 PM – Nightcap at Shuga's Lounge
Budget: $150-200 for two
Vibe: Intimate, sophisticated, memorable
Adventure + Chill (Active to Relaxed)
5:00 PM – Sunset beers at Cerberus Brewing patio
7:00 PM – Live show at The Black Sheep or Lulu's
10:00 PM – Fat Sully's slice before heading home
Budget: $80-100 for two
Vibe: Energetic, music-focused, casual
Local Sampler (Best of Everything)
5:30 PM – Start at Bristol Brewing in Ivywild
7:00 PM – Explore Old Colorado City galleries and shops
8:30 PM – Cocktails at Brooklyn's
10:30 PM – Games at Supernova
Budget: $100-120 for two
Vibe: Exploratory, variety, no pressure
Budget-Friendly Night Out
6:00 PM – Happy hour at Phantom Canyon
8:00 PM – Free/cheap show at OCC Brewing
10:00 PM – Pool and beers at Tony's
Budget: $50-60 for two
Vibe: Relaxed, authentic, no pretense
🚗 Safety & Local Etiquette (What You Should Know)
Getting Around
Rideshare: Uber and Lyft operate in Colorado Springs. Expect surge pricing after 10 PM on weekends. Base rates are lower than Denver.
Parking: Downtown garages are safest after dark:
- Bijou Garage (corner of Bijou and Nevada)
- Nevada Garage (between Colorado and Kiowa)
- Cascade Garage (behind Tejon businesses)
First 2 hours typically free, then $1-2/hour. Rates vary by garage and time.
Street parking: Generally safe in well-lit areas. Avoid poorly lit side streets late at night.
Walking downtown: Tejon and Bijou corridors are well-trafficked and safe. Use common sense—stick to lit areas, be aware of surroundings.
Dress Code
Short answer: Casual everywhere except The Rabbit Hole and high-end restaurants.
Breweries: Jeans and t-shirts are the norm. Post-hike attire totally acceptable.
Speakeasies: Smart casual works. You won't be turned away in jeans, but people tend to dress slightly up.
Dive bars: Come as you are.
Colorado Springs fact: This is a military town with outdoor recreation culture. Nobody cares about fashion. Comfort > style.
Noise Curfews & Timing
Outdoor patios close at 10 PM – City ordinance. Indoor service continues, but outdoor spaces shut down.
Most breweries close by 10 PM – Plan your brewery visits for early evening (5-8 PM).
Music venues vary – Shows typically end by 11 PM on weekdays, midnight on weekends.
Bar last call: Typically 1:30 AM for 2 AM close.
Altitude Considerations
You're at 6,035 feet. Alcohol hits harder at altitude.
What this means:
- You'll feel drinks faster than at sea level
- Dehydration happens quicker
- Hangovers are worse
Pro tips:
- Drink a glass of water between alcoholic drinks
- Eat before drinking (for real, don't skip dinner)
- Take it slower than you would in other cities
- If you just flew in, give yourself 24 hours to acclimate before going hard
Tipping Culture
Standard: 20% for good service, 15% minimum
Bartenders: $1-2 per drink, or 20% on tab
Complicated cocktails: Tip more—craft cocktails take time and skill
Local Etiquette Tips
✅ Do: Ask bartenders for recommendations. They know the scene.
✅ Do: Strike up conversations. Colorado Springs is friendly.
✅ Do: Respect closing times. Don't be "that person" ordering at last call.
❌ Don't: Compare everything to Denver. Locals are tired of hearing it.
❌ Don't: Expect late-night ragers. This isn't a 3 AM party city.
❌ Don't: Be loud in speakeasies. Read the room.
What Makes Colorado Springs Nightlife Different
It's not trying to be Denver. And that's the point.
Colorado Springs nightlife reflects the city itself: authentic, unpretentious, community-focused. You won't find velvet ropes or bottle service. What you will find are:
- Breweries where the head brewer might chat with you about their process
- Speakeasies that feel genuinely hidden, not manufactured
- Music venues where touring acts play for 200 people instead of 2,000
- Dive bars where locals have been drinking for 30 years
- Late-night pizza that solves all problems
The altitude makes everything hit harder. The mountain backdrop makes sunset beers taste better. The military and outdoor recreation culture keeps things grounded.
If you're looking for Miami club energy or New York cocktail scene sophistication, you'll be disappointed. But if you want genuine local nightlife where you can actually talk to people, hear the band, and remember the night? Colorado Springs delivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does nightlife start in Colorado Springs?
Most locals head out between 6:00-7:00 PM. Breweries close early (10 PM), so plan to transition to cocktail bars or music venues by 8:30-9:00 PM.
Is downtown Colorado Springs safe at night?
Yes, especially around Tejon and Bijou streets. Stick to well-lit areas, park in garages, use common sense. The downtown corridor is well-policed and generally safe.
What's open past midnight?
Tony's Downtown Bar, Fat Sully's Pizza (until 2 AM Friday-Saturday), The Rabbit Hole (until 1 AM), King's Chef Diner (24 hours). Options are limited—plan accordingly.
Do I need reservations?
Fridays and Saturdays: YES for The Archives, The Rabbit Hole, Brooklyn's. Weekdays: Usually walk-ins are fine, but calling ahead never hurts.
Can I bar-hop downtown?
Yes. Most downtown venues are within 2-4 blocks of each other. Park once, walk between spots.
What about Old Colorado City?
Different vibe—more local, less touristy. Cerberus, OCC Brewing, Red Leg, and Goat Patch are all within walking distance on Colorado Avenue. More spread out than downtown but worth exploring.
How expensive is going out?
Beers: $6-8
Cocktails: $10-14
Cover charges: $0-10 (breweries), $5-15 (speakeasies weekends), $15-35 (music venues)
Budget: $50-70 per person for a full night out (transportation, drinks, food)
What's the deal with altitude and drinking?
Alcohol affects you more at 6,000 feet. Pace yourself, drink water, eat food. Don't learn this lesson the hard way.
Next Steps: Explore More Colorado Springs
- Free Things To Do in Colorado Springs – Budget-friendly activities
- Best Coffee Shops – Start your day right
- Hiking Trails by Difficulty – Earn those post-hike beers
Have Updates or Suggestions?
Colorado Springs nightlife evolves constantly. Venues close, new spots open, details change.
Spotted an error? Know a hidden gem we missed? Leave a comment below or email updates@springslocalguide.com.
This guide stays useful because locals like you keep it current.
Leave a Reply