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City Cast Denver

Hoping to make this an especially spectacular summer? We’ve got you covered. We sat down with entertainment expert John Moore, who’s been reporting on the local arts and culture scene for decades, to get his personal recommendations for the shows we should see this summer! 

. Here’s a sneak peek of John’s 2023 Summer of Shows bucket list! 👇

🎧 Hear More of John’s Recs

Movie-goers enjoy an evening of Film on the Rocks at Red Rocks in Morrison. (Mark Makela / Getty Images)

Since our launch over two and a half years ago, our local team has been exploring and explaining all things Denver, and so far, we've published over 650 editions of both our podcast and newsletter. It's a true labor of love.

It's no secret that local journalism in Denver has struggled significantly over the past two decades, and while we're off to a great start, the only way we'll be here for years to come is through the support of our readers and listeners.

That’s why we’re inviting you to become a founding member of City Cast Denver today.

In exchange for your financial support, you’ll receive special perks like ad-free listening and exclusive members-only updates.

Oooh, yes! I’ll join today!

We’re inviting you to become a founding member of City Cast Denver today.

City Cast Denver Launches Membership Program

Why We're Launching a Membership Program

Announcements

This suburban enclave in southwest Denver is known for its quiet streets and proximity to the Loretto Heights campus currently under redevelopment. But did you know that Harvey Park is also home to dozens of mid-century modern homes 

designed by famed California architect Cliff May?

 The community is really worth a wander for contemporary design buffs looking to soak in those clean lines and sleek home designs — but it also offers great food, expansive greenspace, and so much more. Check it out:

 — league bowlers, kids’ birthday parties, and folks looking for a fun Friday night out are all welcome at Crown Lanes. The bar inside offers stiff drinks and go-to greasy bowling alley grub. 

A quintessential neighborhood park, this expansive greenspace offers a great paved walking trail, tennis courts, 

, and of course, Harvey Park Lake, a fan-favorite for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.

Conchas, donuts, orejas, fruit-filled empanadas, and chocolate flan (!!) — any pastry imaginable lines the shelves at this delectable, 

. Along with grab-n-go sweets, San Antonio also takes orders for everything from Rosca de Reyes cakes to multi-tiered wedding delights.

, a restaurant-shaped hole was left in the community. But some good news is on the horizon: 

 is moving in! This brand new concept from the folks behind beloved brunch locale Jelly Cafe promises a refreshed interior, a yet-to-be-revealed lunch and dinner menu, and if all goes well, a full bar.

📧 What Do You Love About Harvey Park?

This suburban enclave in southwest Denver is known for its quiet streets and proximity to the Loretto Heights campus currently under redevelopment — but it also offers great food, expansive greenspace, and so much more. Check it out.

Where to Hang in Harvey Park

Neighborhood Guides

This week on Denver’s dining scene: It’s Pueblo Chile season … so where are all the roasters? Plus, more national dining accolades and why robots will never replace real, human restaurant workers. Let’s dig in.

? A late harvest this year due to inclement weather means that Metro Denver’s roadside stands are 

🏆 Michelin Guide, “Bon Appétit,” James Beard — the Denver dining scene is without a doubt having its moment. Now we can add the New York Times’ 2023 list of 

 to that tally of growing accomplishments after it 

, dining and technology experts at Denver’s Startup Week said 

automation will never replace chefs and waitstaff

🥕 Now through October 15, certain local restaurants are participating in Denver’s inaugural 

🍔 For reasons this particular food writer will never understand, Metro Denver might soon get its ninth 

🎟️ Nonprofits EatDenver and GrowHaus are teaming up for the 16th annual 

elevated, family-style, multi-course dinners

 featuring local, independent restaurants. Some of the nights have already sold out, so 

 is slated to open next week on West Colfax, courtesy of 

, who has most notably saved My Brother’s Bar, the Mercury Cafe, and the top of the Denver clocktower. [BusinessDen]

🥃 It’s National Negroni Week. Here are 

 in Denver pouring something extra special for the occasion. Bonus: These cocktail bars are 

Where Are All the Pueblo Chiles?

Food & Drink

Last week, Mayor Mike Johnston released his 

 — which is kind of a big deal, since it’s Denver’s first spending plan coming from someone other than Michael Hancock in 12 years. In his budget letter to the city, Johnston listed his priorities as affordability, safety, downtown revitalization, climate protection, and housing for all. Out of the 770-page, $4 billion plan, here are some of the big numbers you should know:

$242 million for transitional housing and support services

$100 million to build permanent affordable housing

$39.2 million to get another 1,000 unhoused Denverites off the streets in 2024

$14.6 million for rental assistance and legal defense for people facing eviction

$58 million to finish renovations on the 16th Street Mall and the Convention Center, plus creating incentives for attracting local businesses

$15 million for bike lanes, transit projects, and new traffic infrastructure

$9 million to expand staff and operating hours for police alternative programs (like 

$8.2 million to recruit new police officers

$7.6 million for electric vehicles, e-bikes, and charging stations

City Council is conducting hearings all week to discuss the budget. After council gives its recommendations next month, the mayor is expected to release his final draft by Oct. 16. Council plans to hold a public hearing where community members can comment on Oct. 23. Council should pass a final budget Nov. 13.

Last week, Mayor Mike Johnston released his 2024 budget proposal — which is kind of a big deal, since it is Denver’s first spending plan coming from someone other than Michael Hancock in 12 years.

Breaking Down Johnston’s 2024 Budget Plan

Denver, Explained

For centuries, beavers have been seen as little more than a nuisance to farmers and ranchers, with their dams causing flooding and unwanted changes to local vegetation. But in recent years, wildlife experts have begun trying to raise awareness about the critical role that beavers actually play in the local ecosystem. Earlier this summer, the Pitkin County Healthy Rivers program kicked off new research on Colorado beaver populations in an effort to restore the animal to areas where they’ve been eradicated. County officials have also launched this 

 to teach landowners how to peacefully coexist with the critters.

Here are just some of the ecological benefits that beavers have on their surrounding habitats:

Beavers typically prefer slow-moving streams surrounded by willows, aspens, cottonwoods, and alders for food and building materials.

In the wild, beavers tend to live up to 10-12 years and grow to weigh anywhere from 35-65 pounds.

Beavers are herbivores, eating bark, leaves, and aquatic vegetation.

Beavers’ teeth are as strong as metal and never stop growing (they can grow up to 4 feet per year!). A thick coating of iron makes their teeth appear orange.

Contrary to popular belief, beavers don’t use their tails to pat down mud. Rather, beavers use their long, flat tails as rudders while swimming in the water, a prop for balancing when carrying large loads of sticks, and to slap the water in communication with other beavers.

Beavers are monogamous. They live and work in family colonies of 2-12 members.

For centuries, beavers have been seen as little more than a nuisance to farmers and ranchers, with their dams causing flooding and unwanted changes to local vegetation. But in recent years, wildlife experts have begun trying to raise awareness about the critical role that beavers actually play in the local ecosystem. 

Why Colorado Needs Its Beavers

Urban Almanac

The Twister III: Storm Chaser debuted this year at Elitch Gardens — a bigger, better, and faster version of its previous roller coaster iteration. 

 this third take on the OG Mister Twister thrill ride “has the same track as Twister II, which is longer, taller and faster than the original Mr. Twister. Elitch Gardens upgraded the ride to Twister II after moving the park from Tennyson Street to downtown Denver in 1995.” The photo above shows remnants of the original ride on the grounds of “Old Elitches” — the park on 38th and Tennyson before Elitch Gardens was moved to its current downtown location. This image of a derelict coaster entrance was taken in 1998, four years after the Northside park closed. Most rides went with the move, but many of the park’s original structures did not, left to rot among the gorgeous, mature trees that also couldn’t make the trek.

As the park embarks on a possible move to a third location since its grand opening in 1890, we’re excited to see what an 

 might bring 😊Were you a visitor (or an employee) of “Old” old Elitch’s? 

Share your memories and photographs with us

The photo above shows remnants of the original ride on the grounds of “Old Elitches” — the park on 38th and Tennyson before Elitch Gardens was moved to its current downtown location. 

A Denver Roller Coaster History

A Day In Denver History

In today’s age, online reviews can be a godsend. How’s the food at that new restaurant you want to check out? Is that latest museum exhibit worth the hype? What are people saying about that buzzy new music venue? And while online reviews are not 

 helpful, sometimes they’re downright entertaining 😂

We recently scoured the internet for the best 1-star reviews of Denver landmarks and had some fun with them on the City Cast Denver podcast. Can you guess which institutions these reviewers are complaining about just using context clues from their 1-star reviews? Scroll to the bottom of the newsletter for the answers.

“If [this restaurant] is a museum, close the kitchen, and charge admission, so the taxidermy collection doesn't have to look over the flesh of their descendents that have died in vain. If it's a steakhouse, hire a chef.”

“Pros: it's blue; it's fun to make fun of; allows me to better my Photoshop skills

Cons: completely hideous; $650,000 to build; have you seen the genitals on this sucker?; horrible pose with ridiculous proportions (it's like a T-rex mixed with an elephant, mixed with a donkey).”

“Don't even think about standing in one spot for too long, trying to use the bathroom, using an electrical outlet or sitting on any furniture. Unless of course you're dropping like $500 a night for the hotel that was gifted the beautiful space of a historic old train station.”

In today’s age, online reviews can be a godsend. How’s the food at that new restaurant you want to check out? Is that latest museum exhibit worth the hype? What are people saying about that buzzy new music venue? And while online reviews are not always helpful, sometimes they’re downright entertaining 😂

Denver's Best 1-Star Reviews

Denver's Best

This week on Denver’s dining scene: Who got a coveted Michelin star … and who didn’t?? Plus, Oktoberfest parties, Great American Beer Festival, and fast food in the forest. Let’s dig in.

🌟 Drumroll please … And Colorado’s 

You may not be able to buy a Michelin star, but that 

🚫 It looks like the Grateful Dead-themed bar 

 after failing multiple police stings. [Denver Post 🔒]

, his downtown food hall featuring Bonanno concepts in all 16 vendor stalls. Sage Hospitality, the new owner and longtime friend of Bonanno, says it plans to keep operating things “business as usual.” [BusinessDen 🔒]

 parties where you can celebrate. [Denver Post 🔒]

 is almost here. Our friends at Westword have the lowdown on how to 

🍔 Would you hike four miles to eat … 

? To debut its brand new elk-and-venison burger, the fast-food company is holding a one-day pop-up at an undisclosed, remote, high-elevation location in the mountains. If you’re willing to 

, you can try the burger for free. [Denver Post 🔒]

5 Colorado Restaurant Receive a Michelin Star

5 Colorado Restaurants Receive a Michelin Star

Can't-Miss Colorado Shows This Summer

Summer’s finally here. Here's how to make the most of it.

Summer Guide

Denver is full of tourist traps that can fool even the most experienced local. Last week, the City Cast Denver podcast got together to share 

 — the touristy places around town that, in our opinion, are actually worth it. Here are the highlights.

Peyton resisted the urge to pick her fave city-close getaway, Estes Park, and instead shouts out the Denver Zoo.: “They have everything and they're so focused on conservation and education. It's just a great example of what a zoo should be.”

Our City Cast Denver producer says: “When I was a kid in Kansas City, there was this little park I used to go to that had this miniature town. So when I was reporting in Morrison, this is like what I did as a kid, but way better, because it is a literal model of every building.”

Producer Paul says of the unique park site: “The Buffalo Bill Museum is phenomenal. It's owned by the city of Denver, it's part of our mountain park system. It is chock-full of incredible artifacts.”

Even though she grew up in Colorado, host Bree has thoughts on the mountains: “as a person that doesn't like skiing or snow or being cold, my favorite time to go to the mountains is the summertime. So my pick is Winter Park — they have this 

 and it includes a gondola ride, so you can go 10,000 feet up and see the Continental Divide..

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

Just ten miles northeast of Denver, this place has some of the best wildlife you will ever see in one place. It was originally used by the Army to develop chemical weapons during World War II, and now boasts 20 miles of hiking trails, an archery range, and tons of educational opportunities.

What are your favorite tourist traps?

The Best Tourist Treasures Around Denver

Hey readers! The City Cast Denver team is back with the third and final installment of our CCD Summer Entertainment Guide. Missed the first two? Listen now 👇

The summer events we’re most excited about

For this episode, we rounded up our picks for local tourist traps

What are the Colorado attractions that are absolutely worth the drive / money / wait in line? And which, in our opinions, get a hard pass?

Below is a rundown of our picks. For the full scoop on each one, 

This incredible natural wonder in southern Colorado has become over-commercialized to the point that it overshadows the nature-loving experience you might think is in store. 

The history of this “ancient site” just outside of Colorado Springs isn’t quite what it pretends to be …

This popular Denver water park is great … if you’re OK standing under the baking sun in endless lines for the rides, the food, the bathrooms, and, well, everything else, to be quite honest.

What was once a local institution for aquatic wildlife has become a gimmicky cash-grab with its front-and-center restaurant, overpriced “experiences,” and that poor, lonely tiger on display.

The perfect place for a wholesome, affordable, all-ages afternoon in the mountains!

A quick trip to one of the most iconic settings in the foothills and the chance to learn about one of the quirkiest characters in Colorado history.

An affordable way to get out of town with the whole family and enjoy the summer time offerings of the Rockies.

An underrated Denver gem — the zoo has something for everyone! (Hello, adults-only night!) Plus, it goes largely unrecognized for its acclaimed programs focusing on conservation and education.

📧 What’s Your Favorite ‘Tourist Trap’?

The City Cast Denver team is back with the third and final installment of our CCD Summer Entertainment Guide. We rounded up our picks for local tourist traps and treats! What are the Colorado attractions that are absolutely worth the drive / money / wait in line? And which, in our opinions, get a hard pass? 


Local Tourist Traps and Treats

Hey readers, the City Cast Denver team is back with the second installment of our CCD 

For this episode, I rounded up 12 of the best, off-the-beaten-path, super epic, local summertime events — together with the rest of the City Cast Denver team, we narrowed it down to one 

Below are all the events we talked about on the show. But you’ll have to 

 to find out which one you just might see us at 😉

“Colorado Native”: A Native American Comedy Showcase


Thursday, Aug. 24, 7 p.m. | The Holiday Theater (Highlands) | $20

REVEALED: John Fielder’s Favorite Place


Saturday, July 22 | History Colorado (Cap Hill) | GA $15; Members free 

Grand Opening: “Desert Rider: Dreaming in Motion” 

Sunday, July 9, 11am-4pm | Denver Art Museum (Civic Center) | Free


June 16-18 | Glenwood Springs (3 hours from Denver) | Free


Aug. 4-5 | Olathe, Colorado (5 hours from Denver) | Free; $30 for the concert


Saturday, July 15, 10am-6pm | Edgewater | GA $10; VIP $100


June 15-18 | Salida, Colorado (2.5 hours from Denver) | Free to be a spectator


July 7-16 | Crested Butte (4.5 hours from Denver) | Varies by event ($50-$125)


July 18-30 | Classes at St. Joseph’s Hospital (City Park West); Field trips TBD | $25.87 to become a member; an additional $50 for the course


Sunday, June 25, 10am-3pm | Butterfly Pavilion (Westminster) | Free; admission required for indoor exhibits (adults $15; kids $10)


Aug. 19-20, 26-27 | Georgetown (1 hour from Denver) | Free; Train rides $35 for adults, $29 for kids


June 23-25 | Estes Park (1.5 hours from Denver) | Free

I sifted through nearly 50(!) events to find our top 12 contenders

. Check out the full list of events below, and may your summer be epic.

Summer Guide

Can't-Miss Colorado Shows This Summer

🎭 For the theater buffs:

🎷 For the jazz fans:

🎞️ For the cinephiles:

🔎 Something off the wall:

Summer Guide

The Best Tourist Treasures Around Denver

Local Tourist Traps and Treats

Our Best Event Recommendations for Your Summer

The latest in Denver

Why We're Launching a Membership Program

Where to Hang in Harvey Park

Where Are All the Pueblo Chiles?

Breaking Down Johnston’s 2024 Budget Plan

Why Colorado Needs Its Beavers

A Denver Roller Coaster History

Denver's Best 1-Star Reviews

5 Colorado Restaurants Receive a Michelin Star