Denton is known for being quirky and unique, and has so many fun things worth searching for.
Here are some hidden gems you have to find while exploring Denton!
Denton's Speakeasy: Paschall Bar
It’s hard to imagine that the Roaring Twenties happened 100 years ago, especially if you make a visit to Denton’s secret speakeasy. Pachall Bar, hidden behind a discreet door and up a flight of stairs, evokes the feel of an old-world cocktail lounge. This quiet parlor boasts leather furniture, large wooden bookshelves, and game sets like darts and chess. The bar is most celebrated for its drink menu, blending both classic and new world cocktail techniques. So if you’re looking for a quiet spot to sip a gin and tonic, look no further. This is the speakeasy for you! Paschall Bar is located at 122 N. Locust Street in Denton. Look for the red light above the inconspicuous door.
The Purple Door
When phenomena like Denton’s Purple Door spring up, it’s only natural to have some questions. Why is this door purple? Why do so many people on Instagram take their picture with it? Well, besides being painted a vibrant color and making a good Instagram background, Denton’s Purple Door also has a bit of a game to it. The next logical question is, of course, where is this door? But that’s part of the game. While it’s generally understood to be somewhere near the Square, seekers must do a bit of sleuthing to locate this hidden landmark. If you do find it, snap a picture there as proof. It’s no easy feat to find the Purple Door…
Komodo Loco | 109 Oakland St.
Hidden in an alley just off the Square, Komodo Loco is one of Downtown Denton’s hidden gems!
This non-traditional Japanese spot brings Asian flavors with a Texas twist! Komodo Loco serves up bold flavors, creative cocktails, and one-of-a-kind dishes you’ll be thinking about long after you leave. Most of the menu is tapas-style (perfect for sharing), so grab your friends and order a little bit of everything!
Murals around every corner
Get ready to explore some of Denton’s most iconic and beautiful outdoor works of art, each unique in its own way. Many of our murals are within our walkable downtown Denton Square and can be visited within a single trip, while others will require you to drive to their location to view them in person. Ready to start hunting for murals around Denton? Click here to sign up for our mobile pass that will lead you to some of our favorite murals.
Secret After-Hours Gourmet Doughnuts | 115 E. Hickory Street
Doughnuts aren’t just a morning affair, at least that’s what the people behind Backdough believe. Queenie’s Steakhouse serves tasty meals by day and is one of Denton’s favored fine dining experiences. By night, Queenie's runs a nighttime side project out of the back, hence the name “Backdough.” These aren’t your typical donuts, either. You'll find gourmet, unique flavor combinations, both sweet and savory. The menu changes week to week, so the only way to find out what flavors are available is to swing by Queenie’s back door by the cover of darkness on Fridays and Saturdays starting at 10pm. Look for the neon sign (and line of people)!
Downtown Denton's Craft Beer District
Craft breweries are a staple in downtown Denton, and while locals know and love them, they’re still a fun discovery for anyone new to town. Consider this your challenge to explore all four breweries tucked around the square! Spots like Denton County Brewing Company are always serving up their latest creations, while hangouts like Harvest House and East Side Denton pour a variety of local flavors and fun vibes. It all comes together to make Denton’s Craft Beer District the perfect place to kick off your next adventure. Click here to take the Denton Brew City Tour!
John B. Denton's Grave
Not every town can say its founder is laid to rest on the courthouse lawn, but Denton can! The final resting place of John B. Denton sits right in the heart of downtown, on the grounds of the Denton County Courthouse-on-the-Square—a unique reminder of the city’s roots and the legacy that helped shape it. Head over to the Denton Square to find this unique attraction, pay your respects to the founder of our favorite city.
Recycled Books, Records, & CDs
Visitors to Denton might look at the large purple building on the Square and be intrigued, but it isn’t until entering Recycled Books, Records, & CDs that the true spectacle of the establishment becomes apparent. This Denton landmark is housed inside the sprawling structure that once was the Wright Opera House built in 1900. Yet despite Recycled Books’ staggering size and labyrinthine layout, the largest indie bookstore in Texas retains an intimacy and sense of community. There is a warmth about the place that makes you want to spend time there, poring over their extensive collection and coming away with five or six books you didn’t even expect to find. Recycled Books, Records, & CDs is an absolute treasure and is always worth a visit. Head over to 200 N. Locust Street to start exploring for hidden gems on every shelf.
