The 3 Best Cocktails Around Glenwood Springs

A good cocktail isn’t just a drink—it’s a story in a glass. Whether shaken, stirred, smoked, or salted, craft cocktails are part chemistry, part theater, and all about experience. From vintage-inspired speakeasies to mountain-town gastropubs, Glenwood Springs and the surrounding towns have embraced the art of mixology with a spirited enthusiasm. According to the Distilled Spirits Council, cocktail culture has surged across the country in the past decade, with younger drinkers leading the charge toward complex, house-made, and hyper-local libations. Here in the heart of Colorado’s high country, creative bartenders are crafting drinks that are as memorable as the mountain views.

Miner's Claim

Walk into Miner's Claim in Silt and you immediately get the sense that they didn’t build their cocktail menu from a template. This isn’t just another bar tacking on a martini or two. Their award-winning drinks program is as curated as their seafood-forward dinner menu. House-infused liquors and fresh herbs show up in more than one creation, and they don’t shy away from bold combinations—think lavender lemon drops or a serrano-kissed margarita. The restaurant emphasizes high-quality ingredients and polished service, which extends to every pour. Set in a historic mining town, the vibe is contemporary but nods to its roots, giving guests a unique mix of classic Colorado character and upscale innovation.

Down Valley Brewing

At Down Valley Brewing in New Castle, the vibe is relaxed, the beer is brewed onsite, and the cocktail list—while shorter—is made with intention. This isn’t your average brewery trying to dabble in spirits. Instead, Down Valley brings the same small-batch, craft-first ethos that drives its beer production into its cocktail offerings. Think of it as a bonus round for those who come for the IPA but stay for a perfectly balanced whiskey sour. The space itself is casual and welcoming, ideal for a post-hike refresh or just a no-pressure hangout where the drink in your hand is never an afterthought.

The Pullman

The Pullman in Glenwood Springs doesn’t treat cocktails as second fiddle to the food—they’re a headline act. This modern American eatery serves up house-made syrups, thoughtfully chosen spirits, and seasonal elements that evolve throughout the year. The bar staff takes pride in precision, whether it’s building a barrel-aged Negroni or garnishing a citrus-forward spritz. Their cocktail list is inventive but approachable—clever without being gimmicky. And it pairs seamlessly with a menu that favors local ingredients and bold flavors. You won’t find a cookie-cutter cosmopolitan here, but you will find something that makes you want to linger just a bit longer at the bar.

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