Historic bar shuttering after 51 years in Boulder

DENVER (KDVR) — A historic bar in Boulder known for its charmingly confusing bathroom and antique decor coating the inside is closing its doors on Saturday after 51 years.

The “world famous” Dark Horse announced that it is closing its doors on Saturday, March 14, after its 51st anniversary. The bar, which first opened in 1975, has poured up beers, served hamburgers and hosted trivia and karaoke in Boulder for decades.

While the bar on Baseline Road is known to locals, you might recognise it from the inside, which includes the unique bathroom doors and walls and ceilings covered in movie props and antiques.

Dark Horse in Boulder (KDVR)
Dark Horse in Boulder (KDVR)
Dark Horse in Boulder (KDVR)

The bar didn’t mention why it was closing, but a University of Colorado Boulder alumni magazine mentioned last year that in 2024, developers announced plans for the space, and construction was slated to begin this year.

“While this is not the path we would have chosen for this historic location or our business, we are deeply grateful to have been part of Boulder’s culture for more than half a century,” the bar said in an Instagram post.

The bar is set to close on Saturday, but that might not be it for Dark Horse. The bar alluded to potentially another spot opening up at some point.

“Thank you for 51 unforgettable years. We hope to see you again, in another time and another place. Stay tuned…,” the bar said.