Denver is quickly becoming a hotbed for millennial relocation due to its thriving arts and entertainment scene, locally owned business, outdoor activities, and legalization of recreational marijuana. With an increased population of young and creative individuals comes a higher demand for art to mirror that mindset. Denver has always been an eclectic city, but certain tattoo establishments represent the city’s attitude better than others. Here are some of the top tattoo shops just outside of the Rocky Mountains.
Certified Customs Tattoo & Piercing
Certified Customs Tattoo & Piercing is located on Broadway in Denver, Colorado and is best known for its array of tattoo styles offered by its multi-talented artists. Everything from watercolor, to photorealistic, to geometric, to traditional tattoos make their way to the shop’s collective portfolio from artists such as Artis Garcia, Chunk Garcia, Salvador Diaz, Skyler Espinoza, Chris Roberts, James Dean, and many more. The shop has an overall urban aesthetic and adamantly practices safe and responsible tattooing alongside piercings and even grillz!
Bound by Design
Bound by Design is a modern tattoo shop found on Capitol Hill in Denver and has previously been awarded the title of “Best of Westword— Best Tattoo and Piercing Studio in Denver.” The shop is immaculate and sleek, and it proudly implements single-use needles to promote tattoo safety. While traditional tattoos can be done, it appears that most of the artists including Harry Catsis, Porno Jim, Lauren Violet, Sam Perry, and “Black Ian” Rice all play with color and shape to produce innovative designs that are influenced by classic techniques.
Dedication Tattoo
Dedication Tattoo is a world famous shop located on South Broadway in Denver and feature an open layout shop design with a clean yet inviting feel. While Dedication Tattoo is well known, it doesn’t stop the artists from accepting walk-ins on a regular basis. It is a cash-only business with a shop minimum of $100, but the artists offer ink stylings ranging from black and grey, to traditional, to portraits, to abstract color, and beyond. Some of the best known names at Dedication Tattoo include Boatman, Thurow, McMahon, and more.