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Denver Hidden Gems: A Local's Guide to Offbeat Favorites

tech <p><img alt="" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/9836/blog/Babes-Tea-Room-min.jpg" style="width: 900px; height: 600px;" class="featured"><small><em>Babe's Tea Room. Photo credit: babestearoom.com/denver</em></small></p> <p>Sure, Denver is known for its craft breweries, <a href="https://www.corcoranperry.com/posts/over-the-river-and-through-the-woods-colorado-s-ultimate-snowy-adventure-guide" target="_blank">outdoor adventures</a>, and vibrant art scene. But what about the lesser-known spots—the quirky, cozy, and captivating places that locals cherish? Whether you're a long-time resident or a curious visitor, this guide to Denver's hidden gems will take you off the beaten path and into the heart of the city’s best-kept secrets.  </p> <h2>Denver Hidden Gems</h2> <h3>1. For the Creatively Curious: H.R. Meininger Co.  </h3> <p>Artists and doodlers, rejoice! <a href="https://www.meininger.com/denver-location/" target="_blank">Meininger’</a>s is a treasure trove of art supplies, from professional-grade paints to quirky craft kits. It’s not just a store; it’s an inspiration hub where creativity feels contagious. Pro tip: Pick up a new sketchbook and unleash your inner Picasso.  </p> <p><img alt="" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/9836/blog/TDP-L-MuseumElves-min.jpg" style="width: 900px; height: 603px;"><small><em>Photo credit: Photo by Richard M. Wicker is provided by the Denver Museum of Nature & Science</em></small></p> <h3>2. The Secret Seekers: Hidden Elves at Denver Museum of Nature & Science  </h3> <p>Before you breeze past the usual <a href="https://www.denverpost.com/2022/12/05/elf-gnome-scavenger-hunt-denver-museum-nature-science/" target="_blank">exhibits</a>, keep your eyes peeled for tiny, mischievous elves hidden throughout the museum. It’s part scavenger hunt, part whimsy, and entirely delightful. Who knew science could be so sneaky?  </p> <h3>3. Retro Rewind: Fifty-Two 80s  </h3> <p>Step back into your childhood (or someone else’s) at <a href="http://the80sareawesome.com/" target="_blank">Fifty-Two 80s</a>, a retro shop filled with nostalgic toys, lunchboxes, and quirky collectibles. If you’ve ever wanted to relive the glory of owning a Lisa Frank Trapper Keeper, this is your mecca.  </p> <h3>4. Pizza Perfection: Angelo’s Taverna on 6th Ave  </h3> <p>Forget about deep-dish or thin-crust debates—<a href="https://angelosdenver.com/" target="_blank">Angelo’s</a> wins for its garlic oysters and perfect pies. A Denver staple since 1974, it’s the kind of neighborhood spot that feels like home, with food that’ll ruin you for all other pizza.  </p> <p><img alt="" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/9836/blog/Corcoran-Tiki-Holiday-3-min.jpg" style="width: 900px; height: 600px;"><small><em>Adrift Tiki Bar</em></small></p> <h3>5. A Tiki Oasis: Adrift Tiki Bar  </h3> <p>Escape to the tropics without leaving Denver. <a href="https://www.adriftbar.com/" target="_blank">Adrift</a> serves up Polynesian-inspired cocktails with a vibe so transportive you’ll swear you can hear waves crashing. Don’t miss the Mai Tai—it’s legendary.  </p> <h3>6. Dinner and a Show: Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox  </h3> <p>This isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an experience. Part live music venue, part restaurant, <a href="https://opheliasdenver.com/" target="_blank">Ophelia’s</a> pairs eclectic food with performances that range from funk bands to burlesque shows. It’s effortlessly cool and undeniably Denver.  </p> <h3>7. The Broadway Beat: Broadway Roxy  </h3> <p><a href="https://broadwayroxy.com/" target="_blank">Roxy on Broadway</a> is your go-to for live music, delicious bites, and that perfectly relaxed Denver vibe. Whether you’re vibing to a local band or indulging in their truffle fries, it’s a hidden gem worth discovering.  </p> <p><img alt="" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/9836/blog/Rosy-Rings-WorkShop.jpg" style="width: 900px; height: 541px;"><small><em>Rosy Rings. Photo credit: rosyringsstudio.com</em></small></p> <h3>8. DIY Dreams: Rosy Rings Workshops  </h3> <p>Step into <a href="https://rosyringsstudio.com/collections/studio-workshops?srsltid=AfmBOoqWneDpOaVysGLnTnvADDjDjmSS_Dlr-nXxgwYHcH9M-M2nFQz3" target="_blank">Rosy Rings</a> and breathe deeply—this candle studio smells like heaven. Sign up for one of their workshops to craft your own botanical-inspired candle or diffuser. It’s therapeutic, Instagram-worthy, and oh-so-fragrant.  </p> <h3>9. For Cheese Aficionados: St. Killian’s Cheese Shop  </h3> <p>In the heart of Denver’s Highland neighborhood lies <a href="https://stkilianscheeseshop.com/" target="_blank">St. Killian’s</a>, a cheese lover’s paradise. With an array of imported and local cheeses (plus charcuterie and accouterments), it’s the perfect spot to build your dream board.  </p> <p><img alt="" src="https://d15zjc2r4e8kr7.cloudfront.net/9836/blog/Room-For-Milly.jpg" style="width: 901px; height: 600px;"><small><em>Room for Milly. Photo credit: roomformilly.com</em></small></p> <h3>10. Chic Cocktails: Room for Milly </h3> <p><a href="https://www.roomformilly.com/" target="_blank">Room for Milly</a> is as pretty as it is delicious, offering beautifully crafted cocktails in a chic, inviting space. The art deco vibes seamlessly mingle with feminine flair and dapper delight for a memorable evening out. </p> <h3>11. Tea Time, Elevated: Babe’s Tea Room  </h3> <p>Feel like royalty at <a href="https://babestearoom.com/" target="_blank">Babe’s Tea Room</a>, where classic high tea gets a modern twist. With Instagram-ready interiors and a tea menu that includes bubbles, it’s a charming spot for a leisurely afternoon escape.  </p> <p>From tiki bars to tiny elves, these Denver hidden gems prove that the Mile High City is full of surprises. Whether you're sipping a craft cocktail, hunting for nostalgia, or diving into a DIY workshop, these spots are sure to show you a side of Denver that’s refreshingly unexpected.  </p> <p>Didn’t get your fill of the roads less traveled? Denver’s full of secrets and our <a href="https://www.corcoranperry.com/agents" target="_blank">neighborhood experts</a> can guide you to some of the best! </p>

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