A new outdoor alcohol consumption space could soon debut in a small plaza in Denver’s RiNo neighborhood, marking the city’s first application for a common consumption area since the program began in 2021. The initiative, designed to help revitalize areas after the pandemic, allows partnered liquor-licensed businesses to create designated outdoor zones where patrons can enjoy drinks.
Developer Westfield Company, which owns Mission Ballroom and the North Wynkoop mixed-use space, hopes to transform the area into an entertainment district. The proposed plaza—located between Mission Ballroom, Chubby Unicorn Cantina, and Left Hand Brewing—would allow visitors to “sip and shop,” moving between participating businesses while enjoying their beverages.
Special Projects Manager Ally Fredeen said the concept has already proven successful at Aurora’s Stanley Marketplace, and she believes it can breathe life into this lesser-known part of RiNo. She hopes it encourages people to linger longer in the neighborhood.
If the city approves the application, Denver City Council will still need to authorize the creation of an entertainment district before the space can open. While there’s no set timeline, Westfield hopes to launch the concept as soon as possible.
