Colorado’s lovely Indian summers stretch way into the fall, ensuring there are still plenty of rays to soak up. This is where you’ll find us grabbing a drink and a bite before the first leaf falls.

Root Down
With a direct view of the Denver skyline, the sprawling east-facing patio is the ultimate spot to relax over fresh local fare and the 42-Below vodka–spiked rosemary-lavender lemonade.
1600 W. 33rd Ave.,
303-993-4200,
rootdowndenver.com

5280 August 2011
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Vita
Sitting on Vita’s rooftop patio sipping refreshing açai sangría during happy hour (3–6:30 p.m. daily) is almost like being on vacation. Squint and you might be able to convince yourself that the glistening Denver panorama is actually palm trees and crashing waves.
1575 Boulder St., Suite A,
303-477-4600,
vitadenver.com

Solera Wine Bar
A sip of Charles Smith Eve Chardonnay and a nibble of Roth Käse’s Grand Cru Gruyère cheese on this secluded, Mediterranean-inspired garden patio sets the tone for a romantic summer date.
5410 E. Colfax Ave.,
303-388-8429,
solerarestaurant.com

My Brother’s Bar
We love the juxtaposition of greasy burgers and twinkling classical music that’s found on My Brother’s beer-garden patio. To make the experience even more irresistible, add a pint of local favorite Great Divide Denver Pale Ale.
2376 15th St.,
303-455-9991

Alba Restaurant and Wine Bar
Take a trip to Langhe, Italy’s renowned wine growing region, and you’ll find exactly what you would during an evening excursion to this Boulder spot. Relax with a glass of Ticollo Ernesto next to the fireplace on the cozy ristorante’s patio.
2480 Canyon Blvd., Boulder,
303-938-8800,
albaboulder.com

Jill’s Terrace at St Julien Hotel & Spa
You’ll feel like a European aristocrat as you lounge in the St Julien’s elegant garden, gazing at the Flatirons and sipping your oh-so-fancy Frambuesa Pera martini, shaken with Grey Goose la Poire vodka, bubbles, and muddled raspberries.
900 Walnut St., Boulder,
720-406-7399,
jillsdining.com