It’s teatime in Denver, and we’re not talking golf carts or manicured fairways. We mean flaky pastries, porcelain cups, steam curling from a freshly poured pot, and—yes—maybe even a fancy hat or two. In a city better known for craft beer and après-ski cocktails, Denver’s tea scene is an unexpected delight.
Whether you’re planning a girls’ afternoon, a unique group outing or a private event with a touch of whimsy, here are a few ways to enjoy afternoon tea in Denver.
Visit Boulder
Celestial teashop
Tea Tour at Celestial Seasonings
Found in just about every store in the country, Celestial Seasonings is the largest tea manufacturer in North America. And at its one and only factory in Bolder, Celestial Seasonings offers a tea tour—it’s part history lesson, part sensory adventure and completely free.
Guests are guided through the production floor, getting a close-up look at the tea-making and packing process. You’ll then head into the famous Mint Room, where the peppermint in the air is so powerfully fresh, it’s practically a sinus reset. The tour wraps up in the tasting room, where you can sample dozens of teas from classic Sleepytime to seasonal and experimental blends while learning how to brew the perfect cup at home.
Learn more about it at celestialseasonings.com.
Visit Boulder
Dushanbe Teahouse
Afternoon Tea & Dim Sum at Dushanbe Tea House
Also located in Boulder is Dushanbe Tea House, a building that feels like stepping into a living work of art. Handcrafted in Tajikistan and gifted as a symbol of sister-city friendship, the ornate building is adorned with hand-carved wood, colorful tiles and a serene courtyard that practically demands lingering—quite possibly the most aesthetic place for afternoon tea.
Make a reservation on the weekend for the Dim Sum & Tea, a 90-minute experience that pairs oolong and other fragrant blends with a southern China tradition of sharing small plates. Expect handmade dumplings, steamed buns and other seasonal plates all made to pair perfectly with your sip.
While this event is offered twice a month, Dushanbe also hosts a daily afternoon teatime with more traditional sips and pastries to enjoy. Learn more and book your reservation at boulderteahouse.com/afternoon-tea.
The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa
The Brown Palace
A Classic Tea Party at The Brown Palace
If you’re in it more for the vintage glamour, afternoon tea at The Brown Palace Hotel is the place for you. Held in the lobby of the historic hotel, afternoon tea here is as it once was, with a touch of luxury.
Get your tickets and come dressed in your best hat as you sip England-imported tea and enjoy the gentle sounds of the grand piano and harp filling the room. Snack on classic finger sandwiches, scones and handmade pastries. Even the lighting here is elevated, with a stained-glass ceiling that shimmers throughout the room.
Afternoon tea service happens daily starting at noon (11:00 a.m. on the weekends). To purchase tickets and make reservations, visit brownpalace.com/dining/restaurants/afternoon-tea/.
So go ahead—raise your glasses (and your teaspoons). Whether you’re sniffing minty air in Boulder, sampling global flavors, or clinking china in a historic hotel, teatime in Denver proves that the Mile High City knows how to throw one elegant, unforgettable tea party.
Plan your trip to Denver at visitdenver.com.