Ophelia's Electric Soapbox

It's hard to classify Ophelia's Electric Soapbox, there's basically a little something for everyone.

Whether you are in the mood for a seamier-sided happy hour, live music, or eclectic dining experience; Ophelia's has it all--with some interesting local history as well. As my waiter described, "The owner went from death to sex."

 

What he meant was, the owner of Ophelia's also operates Denver's popular Linger restaurant.  Before it was a trendy dining room/rooftop bar, it was Olinger Mortuary but they literally took off the "O" and kept the Linger. (I guess you could say the "O" became Ophelias). Located at 1215 20th Street, this site was first a brothel and later an adult video store. Several of the art pieces are reminiscent of its sensual past.

Now, with an updated interior and dance floor on the lower level, Ophelia's makes for a nice cozy dining experience during the week. Then, on certain weekends, the space functions as a music hall. Recently they hosted a sold out 90s dance party.

 

Eclectic drink menu

If happy hour is your jam, the couch area next to the bar is super cute and great for people watching. Their happy hour specials are cost-effective, as well as, tastebud approved.

Tip: Parking is mostly by meter. 

 



Beef slider, jalapeno cornbread, fries

Denver: Historic Walking Tours

(The Daniels and Fisher Tower, built in 1910 and once the tallest building West of the Mississippi. The top floors were recently put up for sale and therefore tours of the upper levels may only last for a limited time).

The city of Denver is currently undergoing a surge in population growth, making way for a new wave of businesses and infrastructure adjustments. As these changes continue, let us not tear down all of the old for the new.

On the contrary, Denver's foundations (like all cities) are layered with pieces of the past.

As you walk along the sidewalks, drive along the streets, or sit among the city parks....you are treading where Amerindians, gold seekers, homesteaders, and early entrepreneurs have already walked.

And let's not forget about the architecture.

Many of early Denver's buildings line the streets of downtown, as well as, surrounding neighborhoods. It is apparent the quality of design and thoughtfulness that went into early 20th century construction (especially in contrast to many of the new, fast and cheap designs going up right now).

Denver is the cool place that it is because of the way it has preserved its historic elements. However, whether it be forests or urban jungles, preservation usually takes place because of bold, passionate individuals. (Lower downtown Denver is no exception. See: Dana Crawford).

So, whether you are a Colorado native (and there seem to be fewer and fewer) or perhaps you recently moved here ....and all the rest of us in between....come explore Denver's past.

There are several historic walking tours offered seasonally or year-round.... And at least one that is even dog-friendly! Take a look and then book a tour today!

 

Historic Walking Tours!

 

 

View of the 16th Street Mall and downtown

 

1)  History Colorado offers historic walking tours. A new and exciting program they are offering is their History Hounds program. Tours consist of dog-friendly historic walking tours of Cheesman Park, City Park, and Mt. Falcon Open Space Park. Join expert guides, Shawn Snow or State Archaeologist Holly Norton for a guided tour! Sign up today!

2) Historic Denver initially began as a way to protect the Molly Brown House. Now, they are guiding the way, helping to preserve Denver's architectural treasures and historic past. They have several historic walking tours.

3)  The Crawford Hotel offers tours of Union Station.

4) Walk and sip, anyone? Check out a Denver microbrew tour.

5) Another option is Historic LoDO Walking Tours.

6) And, of course, there are several house museum tours (I have mentioned most of these before): Denver's oldest house, known as the  4 Mile House, the 17 Mile House, Molly Brown House Museum, and the Byer's-Evans house to name a few (there are many more).

7) Here are some ideas if you would rather make up your own walking tour.







So, put your walking shoes on and get out and explore! 

View from behind the clocktower of the Daniels-Fisher Tower