The Denver Stockyard Saloon, a century-old honkey-tonk on the National Western Complex campus, closed its doors for the last time this past weekend as the Denver Stock Show season came to an end. Due to a lost lease, the Saloon will undergo extensive renovations for a year before reopening in 2026. Owner Dean Maus, who ran the tavern for 25 years, expressed disappointment at the closure, claiming he was not treated fairly by the new property owners.
The Saloon was part of the historic Livestock Exchange complex where animals were bought and sold in the early 1900s. Despite its age and leaning structure, the Saloon maintained a loyal following of patrons who enjoyed its rustic charm. The closure marks the end of an era for many regulars who have frequented the establishment for generations.
At the Saloon’s Last Dance, attendees reminisced about the good times had at the establishment, with many wearing traditional cowboy attire in honor of the occasion. A special tribute was made to a deceased patron whose ashes were brought in a jar with a tiny cowboy hat on top, adding a touch of humor to the bittersweet farewell.
The closure of the Denver Stockyard Saloon represents the end of an era for a piece of Colorado’s history. Despite the changes in the surrounding area and the need for renovation, the memories and stories shared at the Saloon will live on in the hearts of its patrons.
