One Perfect Day at… Dairy Block

Tucked between Blake and Wazee streets, Dairy Block sits at the center of LoDo’s historic grid. Once home to the Windsor Dairy, the block has been reimagined as a compact creative district where boutique retail, chef-driven dining, and public art intersect within historical architecture. On weekday afternoons, Dairy Block is perfect for gig workers tapping away at their laptops while having a cup of coffee; on weekends, the Alley hums with shoppers, couples having brunch, and groups grabbing cocktails. Whether you’re planning a staycation or a full Saturday in LoDo, here’s how to make the most of your day.

9:30 a.m.: Coffee at Huckleberry
Start the morning at Huckleberry Roasters inside The Maven, where oversized windows and velvet seating give the lobby a warm, comfortable feel. This space functions as both a hotel lounge and a neighborhood coffee stop, drawing a mix of visitors, remote workers, and locals easing into the day.

11:30 a.m.: Explore the Alley and Shops
By late morning, the Alley becomes the focal point of Dairy Block. The pedestrian corridor runs through the center of the block and is lined with rotating art installations and a mix of retail. Blue Ruby Boutique offers a curated mix of fashion, accessories, and lifestyle items, while you can find custom engagement rings and one-of-a-kind gemstone pieces at Sarah O Jewelry. Free Market showcases ever-changing pop-ups, giving visitors a chance to discover something unexpected each time they visit.

1:30 p.m.: Lunch at Denver Milk Market
You’ll have plenty of options for refueling at local restaurateur Frank Bonanno’s Denver Milk Market. The vibrant food hall features vendors serving New York-style pizza (Fuso), fresh poke bowls (Green Huntsman), and hearty Ethiopian dishes (Konjo), along with standards like burgers, pasta, and salads. Central seating encourages a communal, lively atmosphere, making it a great spot to pause and soak in the energy of the block.

4:00 p.m.: Afternoon Drinks at Poka Lola Social Club
Poka Lola’s design may be inspired by early 20th-century soda fountains, but the cocktail list is au courant, with house specials like the Pink Poka Club, made with pink peppercorn–infused tequila, guava, and lychee.

6:30 p.m.: Dinner at Kachina Cantina
Kachina Cantina’s menu draws inspiration from the American Southwest, with dishes like beef birria, date-mole braised lamb shank—and seven different kinds of margaritas—anchoring the experience. The dining room, which is next to the Maven Hotel’s lobby, is lively, and the patio becomes especially popular in warmer months. Reservations are recommended on weekends.

9:00 p.m.: Nightcap at Run for the Roses
To close out the day, head to Run for the Roses, a basement cocktail lounge that feels like a well-kept secret. The menu leans into classic cocktails that are shaken and stirred with precision. The lighting is low and the atmosphere is restrained, making for an understated finish to your day.

Staying Overnight: The Maven
For visitors, The Maven is the most seamless way to experience the Dairy Block. The loft-style rooms pay homage to the building’s industrial history, and staying on-site means Dairy Block's restaurants and shops are just steps away. For locals, The Maven is an easy staycation option that feels connected to the rhythm of LoDo.

Before You Go

Art is everywhere
More than 700 original works are installed throughout the Dairy Block, many of them commissioned from Denver and Front Range artists.

Parking requires planning
Street parking can be limited, particularly on weekends. The Maven offers valet service, and an underground garage is accessible via 19th Street.

Enjoy the Alley responsibly
Check with individual restaurants and bars for their policies on where drinks can be consumed—rules vary by vendor and seating area.