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City Cast Denver

The City Cast Denver team recently hosted a members-only event at the new-ish Schoolyard Beer Garden in the Golden Triangle neighborhood and it got me thinking. If you’re a 

 and joined us — or you’ve stopped by Schoolyard for a beer — you might have wondered about the gorgeous building. Yes, it used to be a school, but what’s the story behind this beautiful piece of Denver architecture?

The building at 1115 Acoma St. was built in 1904 and designed by architect David W. Dryden as the prototype for Denver’s public schools. You can see Dryden’s other work in the Renaissance Revival design of local schools like North High and the Steele Elementary School. The Evans Elementary School opened in 1905 — named after then-governor John Evans, who donated the land for the project.

For much of its 69-year history as an educational space, Evans School was the only one in the Denver area serving children who were deaf, blind, or living with physical disabilities. The school’s enrollment took a hit after the white flight to the suburbs in the 1960s, eventually leading to its closure in the early 1970s.

There was a looming prospect of demolition after Evans School closed, so Denverites Richard and Alan Eber purchased the property at auction in 1974 for $620,000 in an effort to save the building, despite having no real plans for it. The Ebers renovated many parts of the old school, but it sat mostly vacant for more than 40 years until it was sold for $18 million in 2019 and immediately sold again for $11 million.

Before opening in its current form, the school was temporarily home to nearly 60 artists who utilized the freshly-remodeled building as studio space through RedLine Gallery’s Satellite Studio program. Eventually, the artists were uprooted to make way for the Schoolyard Beer Garden.

Schoolyard Beer Garden and Schoolyard Cafe opened in April 2025, repurposing the first floor and 5,000 square-foot outdoor patio into a casual food and beer hall. As for the rest of the vintage structure, developers have plans to add retail and offices on the second and third floors, and turn the 4,000-square-foot auditorium into an event space.

How this historic building went from an elementary school to a modern beer hall and event space.

The History of Denver's Evans School Building

Denver History

People, places, and scenes from Denver's past.

A Day In Denver History

Before 16th Street was christened a “mall” back in 1982 and officially became a pedestrian-centered thoroughfare, it was just like any other street downtown. If you didn’t get to experience that auto-friendly version of the strip, it can be hard to picture just how different these 13 blocks of built environment looked way back when.

Luckily, architecture photographer Thorney Lieberman 

, working for world renowned architecture firm I.M. Pei & Partners — the designers of the original 16th Street Mall concept — and he captured this urban landscape on the verge of a massive transformation. The Denver Public Library acquired 

, which include many a department store, empty parking lot, and office building along 16th, as well as the hotels, movie palaces, and restaurants on surrounding blocks.

The image at the top of this story is of several businesses at Court Place and 16th Street, including a Japanese restaurant, a souvenir store, and an optical shop. The second floor of the strip is occupied by Gart Bros., the sporting goods empire that once ruled the Mile High City (with the former 

 on Broadway being their most famous location). The building and the businesses along 16th are long gone and have since been replaced by an office building with restaurants on the ground floor.

 for their reporting and additional resources on this topic.

Photos showing 16th Street before it was christened a “mall” back in 1982 and officially became a pedestrian-centered thoroughfare.

A Look Back at 16th Street Before the Mall

With potential school closures on the horizon, all eyes are on DPS. The district has a long and complicated history within Denver, and each school tells a story. One of the schools on the list for possible closure is Castro Elementary in Westwood. So, who was Castro? 

Richard T. Castro was a born and raised Coloradan who lived a life of service. Before his death at the age of 44 in 1991, he was elected to state office, worked under Mayor Federico Peña, and became a foundational figure within the Chicano Civil Rights Movement. He was also a champion of marginalized youth and their right to an education.

While in college, Castro worked as a street outreach worker serving young people on the city’s Eastside; he was also co-founder of the Westside Coalition, a group formed to address the issues of Chicanos and Latinos displaced from their Auraria community. But this work also put him at odds with others who were organizing in the same sphere – he survived being shot in the neck by a member of Corky Gonzales’ Crusade for Justice and an unattributed bombing of his neighbor’s house was thought to be meant for Castro.

At the age of 25, he was elected to represent Denver’s District 6 in the Colorado State Legislature and served five terms. Peña later appointed Castro to run the Agency for Human Rights and Community Relations. Politically, he devoted his time to addressing gerrymandering and its impacts on marginalized communities, advocating for Denver’s Equal Protection Ordinance, and worked to strengthen representation of Chicanos and Latinos in local politics.

Along with a brief term on the DPS board, Castro was a professor of what would become the Chicana/o Studies program at MSU Denver – a school on the Auraria Campus, the very place where he began his community work as an advocate for the displaced Westside neighborhood. Throughout his life, he advocated for equal educational opportunities for Chicano and Latino students, supported them as a counselor and educator at MSU Denver, and rooted his advocacy in education as a tool for liberation. 



This is just a short summation of Richard T. Castro’s short life and prolific impact on Colorado – special thanks to the 

Richard Castro, an important figure in Denver's Chicano Civil Rights Movement and champion for education 

The Life of Education Activist Richard Castro

Richard T. Castro: Champion For Education

Brace yourself — passenger numbers at the Denver International Airport continue to reach 

. So here are a few tried-and-true tips to hopefully help you navigate the chaos.

 on the DIA website, and save time by checking the airport's 

 on TSA wait times at each of the airport's security check points. 

You can monitor flight delays at any airport nationwide using the 

 You may have better luck flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday. Historically, Sundays, Mondays, and Fridays have the longest average wait times.

 old debate. Showing up to the airport no later than two hours before your flight is scheduled to depart is the standard recommendation (and no, that doesn’t include parking and catching the shuttle). I personally like to add a half hour to that around the holidays.

 Good! Grab a bagel, refill your water bottle, take a bathroom break, and revel in the sweet luxury of knowing you’re not going to miss your flight. Still waiting around? Here are 

How to Deftly Navigate DIA

Life Hacks

Tips and tricks for living your best Denver life, by locals, for locals.

Denver Life Hacks

With the news that Denver’s parks and recreation centers will be 

 for the year, now is a great time to check out your local library. Did you know there’s waaay more on offer through the Denver Public Library system than just books? From DIY tools to tech support to museum passes, you can find it all at your neighborhood DPL branch.

 — with a DPL card, you can check out Chromebooks, wifi hotspots, bicycle repair kits, state park passes, museum passes, cameras, sewing machines, and tools!

Running out of bed time story ideas? Dial 720-865-8500 for a vast collection of 

 available 24/7 in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Amharic.

DPL provides services — like reemployment assistance and housing / transportation resources — to 

 make the transition back into the community.

 geared toward the community’s senior citizens.

Borrow a pass to visit some of Denver’s 

, like the Butterfly Pavilion, the Botanic Gardens, the Denver Trolley, the Denver Zoo, Dinosaur Ridge, a number of local art museums, and much more!

Practice a different language, prepare for citizenship, or research immigration legal services through DPL 

But that’s just the tip of the resource iceberg at Denver’s public libraries. Check out DPL’s other services including home book delivery, meeting spaces, services for people with disabilities, resources for students and educators, tech help, and more.

👉 Browse All DPL’s Services

Did you know there’s waaay more on offer through the Denver Public Library system than just books? From DIY tools to tech support to museum passes, you can find it all at your neighborhood DPL branch.

How To Make The Most Of Denver’s Libraries 

The world of western boots is full of endless possibilities — from the type of leather to colors and styles — so where do you even begin?

First, let’s talk about fit. Unlike traditional laced boots, western boots must fit snugly (not tight) so that they stay on your feet. A well-fitting pair of western boots should give you 

, referred to as the “boot pop,” when you put them on.

Your best bet is to stop by a store like Tecovas in Cherry Creek North — the vibes are great and one of their boot experts will help you find the perfect pair of boots.

Arguably the most emblematic piece of western wear, the right hat can make or break an outfit. But how do you choose a hat that won’t make you look like you’re cosplaying?

The key to a good western hat is finding the sweet spot between form and function — it should provide you with ample head cover and shade. Once the basics are covered, find the style that fits you the best. Mine is the “Gus” style, but the most common western hat is the “cattleman’s crease.”

And what about material? The convention goes that a felt hat is for the cold months, and a straw hat is for the warmer months.

You’ve picked the perfect pair of boots, a tooled leather belt, and maybe even a nice leather jacket. The best part about leather is that it ages beautifully — if you take care of it. So let’s talk about how to take care of your leather goods.

One of the most often overlooked elements of leather care is cleaning. After regular wear, be sure to brush off any debris from the leather — this will keep the leather from drying out and developing cracks.

It’s important to keep in mind that leather is skin, and skin needs moisturizing. 

 to your leather boots to help them keep their shape when you’re not wearing them.

It’s all about the details. That’s true for most things in life, including accessorizing a western outfit. This is a rich category of western wear. Plus, it’s the best way to add a little western flare to any outfit. Here are the best western accessories.

: Truly endless possibilities that will keep your pants up and your style on point.

Jewelry: Spring for a bolo tie, a set of gemstone earrings, or a silver ring for an added yeehaw.

: Add one of these western staples with your favorite print or pattern to make your outfit pop.

Denver is a great place to get western outfits and learn about the history of the west, but is there anywhere to actually ride a horse?

Take in the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park on horseback. 

 offers day rides and overnight stays. Plus, the park pass is included, so you don’t have to pay extra to get yourself and your horse into the park.

If you’re looking for the full ranch experience, check out 

. They offer weekly accommodations at two different ranches in Colorado, where you’ll learn about sustainable ranching.

Places Around Denver to Learn About Western Culture

Don’t let anyone tell you that Denver is the midwest. We are an essential part of the western culture, so where can you go to learn about the history of the Old West?

 is a great place to start. You can learn about the evolution of Denver from the wild west to modern times, including exhibitions about the Native tribes that call this area home.

 for a deep dive into one of the most iconic figures of western history.

And if you want to experience wildlife as it might have looked in the old west, take a drive through the Rocky Mountain Arsenal & Wildlife Refuge, where you’ll see bison, coyotes, and more.

Today’s tip is all about eating like a cowboy and cowgirl in Denver. This is a cuisine often born out of necessity, from long packing trips and cattle drives. Here’s where you can have a western culinary experience.

 is in town, so take advantage of the dozens of food vendors participating in the annual event. My go-to is a giant turkey leg, but you can also find some of the best steaks, soups, and BBQ throughout the complex.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try the famous Rocky Mountain oysters at 

 — a place full of western paraphernalia and Denver’s oldest continuously operating restaurant.

You’ve got your boots, you’ve got your hat, now you’re ready to go line dancing. Here’s where you can brush up on your dance skills.

 has been a Denver institution since it opened in 1989. It’s a must-visit for live country music and a good ol’ time.

Dive east to Aurora and spend the night at 

, where you’ll find everything from line dancing to Mexican regional bands and more.

 on Colfax is an iconic gay bar with cowboy nights and a very competitive dance floor.

And, of course, during the National Western Stock Show, the Stockyard Saloon is the best place to grab a cold drink and take your partner for a spontaneous dance.

Your guide to all things western culture.

A Denverite's Guide to Western Culture from Tecovas

8 Tips for an Authentic Western Life

Find the best of everything that Denver has to offer.

Denver’s Best

Denver's Best

Colder temperatures often mean higher energy costs. According to the Department of Energy, space and water heating together eat up 

 of the average American’s annual energy consumption. But the DOE also estimates as much as 20% of the energy we pay for to create and maintain warmth in our homes is 

 due to drafts and other inefficiencies. Here are a few simple steps to help you reduce energy waste and save money this winter.

Insulation helps keep cold air out, and warm air in. But just one gap could allow your precious heat to slip outside. Conduct a simple energy audit by walking around your home and identifying any spaces where you feel cold, drafty air. Then check for the source — usually window frames, door frames, or outlets and light switches on external walls — and consider 

Water heating consumes as much as 18% of an average American household’s energy costs. Lower those costs by 

 your water heater is set to maintain. Most manufacturers set water heaters to 140 F, but the DOE recommends setting it to 120 F. 

 is a fantastic way to save on energy costs. Lowering the temperature when you’re not at home, and only setting it to around 68-70 F when you are, can save you as much as 10% on heating costs, the DOE estimates. Bonus: Setting a schedule to lower temperatures at night can actually help you get a 

Yes, these summer favorites can actually help you feel warmer in winter months. Most ceiling fans have a switch to flip the direction they rotate and how they circulate air. Adjusting it to 

 can force warmer air to move further down in the room.

The simplest, easiest step you can take? Dress warmly. Trade out your tank tops and T-shirts for sweaters, sweatpants, and chunky blankets!

Colder temperatures often mean higher energy costs. According to the Department of Energy, space and water heating together eat up as much as 63% of the average American’s annual energy consumption. But the DOE also estimates as much as 20% of the energy we pay for to create and maintain warmth in our homes is wasted due to drafts and other inefficiencies. Here are a few simple steps to help you reduce energy waste and save money this winter.

How To Save Energy (and Money!) This Winter

tried?) CBD. This cannabinoid can be found in oils, capsules, fizzy and delicious sodas, hand creams, and various other remedies to provide relief without mind-altering effects. Sure CBD has been popular for some time now, but there’s a new 

 on the streets, and she’s turning some heads.

, is an active compound found in hemp and cannabis sativa plants. CBG has been referred to as “the mother of all cannabinoids.” What makes this derivative top mama? That’s because 

, the cannabigerolic acid form of CBG. CBGA is a starting compound in the cannabis plant and the precursor to the acidic forms of THC and CBD.

THC gives you that “high” sensation that many people associate with cannabis. CBD and CBG don’t have psychoactive properties and they both have anti-inflammatory properties. But CBD and CBG do have different molecular structures and thus will have slightly different effects. For example, studies show CBG is more likely to be an appetite stimulant, while CBD is more likely to be an appetite suppressant.

While more research is needed to fully understand 

the effects and potential benefits of this cannabinoid

, some studies suggest CBG can reduce anxiety and ease depression, increase appetite, reduce chronic pain, and have demonstrated positive effects for people struggling with Huntington’s disease.

Any suggestions for shops in Denver where your neighbors can talk to a professional about it and give it a try? 

We’d love to share your knowledge, dear reader!

What do you know about CBG?

The CBG Cannabinoid, Explained

What Denverites have been wondering. We break down why things in Denver are the way they are and how they work.

Denver, Explained

This photo from 1988 shows a billboard along Colfax Avenue for the tobacco brand Newport that reads, “Alive with pleasure!” This type of advertising seems like a silly part of the past, but it wasn’t that long ago that tobacco companies were making outlandish claims about their products to make them appealing to consumers.

If you want to dive deeper, John Daley at CPR has a great article on 

how the tobacco industry made it cool to smoke in Colorado’s communities of color

. It includes a bonkers statistic about how companies targeted Black neighborhoods with advertisements for menthol cigarettes that eventually increased the percentage of Black smokers from less than 10% to more than 85%.

Mayoral candidate Kelly Brough says she would support the 

flavored tobacco ban passed by City Council in 2021

. Candidate Mike Johnston says he’s open to the idea. [Denverite]

A Day In Denver History: Big Tobacco

Today’s yucky weather may have you fretting over your spring-ready lawn that was just starting to green up. But local gardening expert Betty Cahill recently shared some tips (originally 

 🔒) for perking your yard back up after Colorado’s cold season. Here are some of the key takeaways:

Cahill says, “Nothing breathes new life into compacted lawns better than core aeration.” Water your lawn well in the day or two before you aerate. The more holes, the better! So give it an extra pass or two with the aerator.

For a small lawn or tight corners where the aerator won’t fit, use a pitchfork to manually aerate.

 Cahill reports that today’s new seed varieties are “bred to improve thickness, drought, heat tolerance, and withstand activity from summer use.” There are a variety of grass seed options to choose from — just read the information on the seed bin and find one that best matches your lawn’s growth and sun conditions. Lay down your seed after you aerate, then top it all off with fertilizer.

When temps are up near the 70s, make sure you’re watering twice a day.

This is when you add a light layer of compost over your grass to reintroduce microorganisms into the soil. (It also helps with drainage.) Cahill suggests using the back side of a metal rake to smooth the compost over your lawn. 

And voilà! Your grass should be picnic-ready in no time! Want more advice? 👇

education

The History of Denver's Evans School Building

A Look Back at 16th Street Before the Mall

Richard T. Castro: Champion For Education

Latest articles

The History of Denver's Evans School Building

A Look Back at 16th Street Before the Mall

Richard T. Castro: Champion For Education

How to Deftly Navigate DIA

How To Make The Most Of Denver’s Libraries

8 Tips for an Authentic Western Life

How To Save Energy (and Money!) This Winter

Latest articles

How to Deftly Navigate DIA

How To Make The Most Of Denver’s Libraries

8 Tips for an Authentic Western Life

How To Save Energy (and Money!) This Winter

The CBG Cannabinoid, Explained

A Day In Denver History: Big Tobacco

How To Cure A Snow-Sick Lawn