8 Long Gone Places Every Denverite Misses
×
Laura Konrade
Author
If you have lived in the Mile HIgh City for some time, than you have witnessed many changes to Denver along the way. Some beloved places that you used to shop, attend games, or simply have a good time at are long gone. Take a walk down memory lane and check out this list of 8 Denver places that are greatly missed by locals.
When this Denver landmark closed down in 1994 after 34 years of entertainment for many, there seemed to be a void that just couldn't be filled. Many Denverites have fond memories of the past that include the 80 bowling lanes, 300 video games and pinball machnes, 50-meter pool with 3 slides, and so much more that made Celebrity Sports Center THE place to have fun back in the day.
Many can recall their fairytale shopping experiences at Cinderella City which was known as the, "Largest Mall West of the Mississippi" at the time it was open (1968-1999). When it opened it was unlike anything Denver shoppers had experienced before with 1.5 million square feet of space including 5 distinct malls and an exquisite fountain.
Advertisement
Some might remember watching a hockey or basketball game at this indoor arena that was adjacent to Mile HIgh Stadium. The "Big Mac" was also home to many music concerts including a performance by the one and only, Elvis Presley. Built in 1975, it was only 24 years old when it was demolished to make space for a parking lot surrounding Sports Authority Field.
Advertisement
Many locals can recall flying in or out of the Stapleton International Airport as it was the primary airport that served Denver from 1929-1995. The iconic air traffic control tower has stood vacant until recently, with a new restaurant called Punch Bowl Social taking residence in the first couple of floors of the tower.
Related Stories
There's No Chapel In The World Like This One Near Denver
Here Are The 8 Most Dangerous Places In Denver After Dark
6 Secret Scenic Hikes Near Denver That Almost Nobody Knows About
Oh, the memories that come to mind of taking in a double feature at the Cinderella Twin Drive-In with your own snacks and beer and high hopes of getting that first kiss. This theater opened in 1973 and had an 800 car capacity. Unfortunately it closed down in 2007 and was replaced by condos.
No matter how new and improved the downtown Denver location of Elitch Gardens becomes, the original location on 38th and Tennyson will always hold a special pace in our hearts. Who remembers taking a rickety ride on Mr. Twister or adding to the "collection" on the gum tree? Elitch's made the move downtown in 1994, but many locals hold on to those earlier memories of the "old Elitch's."
Many of you might recognize where this group was ice skating in the above picture. Remembering May D& F Department Store, which opened in 1957, brings you back to ice skating on their outdoor rink, or standing in awe as you gazed at their unforgettable Christmas window displays.
What some of us wouldn't give for a "world famous" Irish coffee from Duffy's Shamrock Bar. For over 50 years, Duffy's was a Downtown Denver institution located on Court Place. Some locals will also undoubtedly recall waiting in line for hours on St. Patrick's Day, just for a chance to indulge in their delicious corn beef and cabbage and green beer.
What are some other beloved places in Denver that are no longer open, but you wish you could visit again? Please share in the comments below.
For even more Mile High City nostalgia, check out these 7 Stores That Anyone Who Grew Up In Denver Will Undoubtedly Remember.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.