Whether you are running the whole thing, taking charge of a leg or simply cheering your friends and loved ones on from the sidelines, the Colfax Marathon is back – and you should definitely be a part of it. But let’s be real – the best way to cheer is to “cheers,” so we have compiled a list of the top spots to catch the action in person along any part of the route.
On Sunday, May 18, Colfax Avenue will come alive with the sounds of thousands of feet making the 26.2-mile trek along the route of one of the cities longest and most historical streets. Beginning on the east side of Ferrill Lake in Denver’s City Park, the route begins and finishes in City Park, making a path through downtown Denver, along the Cherry Creek Trail, through Empower Field and around Sloan’s Lake. Here are 10 options to “cheers” while you cheer during the event.
Illegal Petes
Where: 2001 E Colfax Ave., Denver
When: Sunday 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
The Lowdown: Open at 9 a.m. on Saturday’s and Sunday’s Illegal Pete’s East Colfax shop marks a great starting – or ending – location to all of the action – all with the comfort of a breakfast burrito, bowl or quesadilla. One of the best spots to spend a sunny afternoon, its laid-back vibe, mission-driven culture encompass a playful menu made with fresh, flavorful ingredients. With several locations throughout the city, it’s a go-to spot for fast-casual eats, late-night bites, and strong margaritas. Beyond the food, Illegal Pete’s stands out for its commitment to supporting local musicians, artists, and community initiatives – blending counter-service dining with a true Colorado spirit. Cheers to that!
Voodoo Doughnut
Where: 1520 E Colfax Ave., Denver
When: Sunday 5 a.m. – 2 a.m.
The Lowdown: Who do the Voodoo – for the doughnut we do, do you? Few things go together like doughnuts and cardio, that’s for sure. Whether you’re looking for a spot to replenish the huge amount of calories you’ve burned or are looking for a treat to enjoy while being grateful it’s not you dying in the Colorado sun, Voodoo Doughnut has you covered. Indulge in the Pothole – filled with Bavarian cream, dipped in decadent chocolate, covered in crunchy chocolate cookies. Or keep it classic with the Old Fashioned Glazed Cake Doughnut. Be the real MVP and pick up a dozen to go, then hand them out to your favorite runner along their route.
Champagne Tiger
Where: 601 E Colfax Ave., Denver
When: Sunday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Lowdown: If your plans already involved seeking out the best drag brunch in town – it’s your lucky day because new kid on the block, Champagne Tiger will be open at 10 a.m. for its weekly brunch show in addition to being a prime spot for catching some of the endeavor happening right outside. The East Colfax leg is sure to be a speedy competition and what better way to dive in than with a reinvented classic like the Fried Green Tomato Benedict – 2 poached eggs, fried green tomato hollandaise. Or really treat yoself’ after all of your hard work and splurge on a Caviar Ashtray – Crème fraîche & chives accompany caviar on a bed of tater tots. You deserve it – cheering is really hard.
Cheba Hut
Where: 638 E Colfax Ave., Denver; 4245 W Colfax Ave., Denver
When: Sunday 10 a.m. – 11:45 p.m.
The Lowdown: With two locations along the route to choose from, Cheba Hut is a great option when you are looking for a quick but delicious sandwich, a fun atmosphere and chill crowd. Choose from a wide variety of sandwiches loaded with meat like the KGB – roast beef, horseradish, green bell pepper, mushrooms, swiss, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, Shake and House dressing. Or do your runner bestie a favor and help them refuel with the Power Plant – guacamole, hummus, feta, spring mix, tomato, onion, pickle, cucumber, shrooms, black olive, green bell pepper, Shake & House dressing – offering a full bar and plenty of kool-aid, Cheba is as cool as it is delicious.
Brew Culture
Where: 3620 W Colfax Ave., Denver
When: Sunday 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The Lowdown: Caffeine and exercise are besties – everyone knows that. Or at the very least, it’ll keep you perked up from a spectator’s standpoint. Brew Culture is one of several local coffee shops in the Sloan’s Lake area that provide a sense of community by showcasing local products in-house. With eight kombuchas on tap from different Denver makers and Sweet Bloom Coffee Makers providing the beans for some deliciously curated coffee drinks it should be a no brainer for that mid morning pick up or post run replenish your body is looking for.
Stoney’s Bar and Grill
Where: 1565 N Raleigh St., Denver
When: Sunday 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
The Lowdown: One of the city’s beloved diners has a new location right in the heart of Sloan’s Lake, Stoney’s is a perfect spot for marathon viewing and all day hangs. You can expect the same Colorado-themed sports-centric atmosphere with the added bonus of a lakeside scene. Its elevated bar food makes it a great choice for spectators and runners alike – share an order of Buffalo Chicken Fries – waffle fries, smothered in queso, topped with crispy buffalo chicken, bleu cheese crumbles & green onions. Or go a little lighter with a Turkey Club – sliced turkey, pesto, bacon, Swiss cheese, spring mix, tomato, onion, and avocado on toasted bread. Whether you’re a longtime Stoney’s regular or new to the scene, this location blends neighborhood charm with lively energy for a prime option on race day.
Cholon
Where: 1691 N Raleigh St., Denver
When: Sunday 2 – 9 p.m.; Happy Hour 2 – 5:30 p.m.
The Lowdown: There is never a bad reason to hang out in the Sloan’s Lake neighborhood, and fortunately for all of us, during the Colfax Marathon, Cholon will be opening early at 2 p.m. and offering happy hour until 5:30 p.m. What could be better than taking advantage of $6 French Soup Dumplings or a Pork Belly Bao Bun as you catch the end of the marathon – or make it a perfect place to celebrate your achievements with friends and family as you sip on a Full Moon Margarita. You definitely earned it.
Side Pony
Where: 4635 W Colfax Ave., #100, Denver
When: Sunday 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The Lowdown: Name a more perfect spot to post up during the Sloan’s Lake leg than Side Pony. With several coffee and non-alcoholic offerings in additional to a thoughtful and inventive cocktail program it is the prime location to catch the runners either in the action from the street-side patio or through the floor to ceiling windows from your favorite bar seat or cozy table. Sip on a newly featured Orange Creamsicle Protein Shake – whey vanilla protein, orange juice and milk – or go full send with the High Proof & High Heels – Planteray OFTD, falernum, lime, simple syrup – and catch your own runner’s buzz. From 7 a.m. – 10 a.m. join it watch party with $8 mimosas you might as well cozy up and stay awhile.
Hits The Spot Diner
Where: 5637 W Colfax, Lakewood
When: Sunday 6:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The Lowdown: Sunday breakfast and brunch calls for scoping out the homemade, locally-owned and operated joints that really hit the spot. Even better, Hits The Spot Diner is also a family business. Get there early and stay ahead of the crowd – with breakfast starting at 6:30 a.m. Prepare for the day and get “yolked” like the runners do and try your belly with its namesake omelet – four eggs, gyros, ham, bacon, sausage, cheese, tomatoes, peppers and onions. Or carb-load for a marathon of your own with a short stack of pancakes. Enjoy the day amongst a crowd of locals and indulge in a true Sunday funday.
Pizzeria Leopold
Where: 1990 Wadsworth Blvd., Lakewood
When: Sunday 11 a.m. – 8p.m.
The Lowdown: One of the last spots before the turn back, Pizzeria Leopold is a great option if you’re out and about looking for lunch on the west side of town – even if you have to dodge some runners to get there. With its prime location just off the main Colfax route, you will find a cozy retreat for participants and spectators alike. Grab a table and share an Inspecktah Speck Pie – garlic sauce, speck, pecorino Romano, spinach, goat cheese and pepperoncini. Or opt for the Eazy Caprese Sandwich – fresh mozzarella, roasted red peppers, house basil pesto, tomatoes, balsamic glaze and arugula. Whether you are stopping in for a quick bite, or looking for a spot to belly up for awhile as you rest your feet – it’s a great choice for those seeking a satisfying post-marathon meal.
The Colfax Marathon takes place on Sunday, May 18, beginning at 6:30 a.m.