Historic music venue revitalized
Ogden Theatre
Why locals love it
Built in 1919 by the same architect as the Bluebird, the Ogden has worn many masks since. Vaudeville acts like Houdindi performed here before the conversion to a cinema in 1937. Inconsistent ownership caused a two year closure in 1990, and the theater was even slated for demolition before being saved by an independent live music promoter.
Why you should visit it
Recently AEG took over operations and brought along new flooring, a state of the art soundsystem and a wraparound balcony. The renovations successfully transformed the historic charity case into one of Denver's premier venues for national acts, mainly of the rock variety. With about 150 annual concerts, the Ogden has finally found its niche.
Special tip
The surrounding neighborhood, Capitol Hill, has perhaps Denver's densest concentration of cool bars and restaurants.