The Outpost Club

Howdy, Colorado! Are you looking to step back in time and experience the true spirit of the Old West right here in Aurora? The Outpost Club offers a unique glimpse into Colorado's rich history, particularly its vibrant dance traditions. This venue is touted by many as "the real deal" for an authentic, intimate, and relaxed party atmosphere, feeling like a direct portal to the bygone days of the Wild West. For those with an appreciation for history and a desire to learn traditional western dances, The Outpost Club presents itself as a distinctive choice.

More than just a place to dance, The Outpost Club is deeply rooted in the preservation of Colorado's official state folk dance: square dancing. It's championed by its owner, George Smith, described as a living legend in the square dancing community since the 1930s. Here, you'll find an environment dedicated to maintaining the traditional art of square dance, including a focus on the classic songs that defined "modern western square dance" in its early days. For those interested in round dancing, a cued form of ballroom, lessons are also reportedly available, offering a versatile dance education.

The club members, often described as among the warmest and most welcoming people, contribute to an inviting atmosphere where learning to dance is seen as a fun way to exercise, sharpen the mind, and forge lifelong friendships. It’s presented as an opportunity to be part of preserving a cherished state tradition. However, it's important for potential visitors to note that while many reviews paint a picture of historical charm and welcoming community, some recent experiences indicate significant concerns regarding customer service, venue suitability for diverse events, and professional conduct. We highly recommend direct communication with the venue to ensure it aligns with your specific event needs and expectations.

The Outpost Club is located at 10101 E Colorado Ave, Aurora, CO 80247, USA. This address places it in Aurora, a significant city within the Denver metropolitan area, making it broadly accessible to residents across the Front Range. While it's noted as being "easily accessible from the highway," it is also described as being "tucked back among trees and surrounded with nostalgia," suggesting a location that offers both convenience and a sense of escape from urban hustle.

For Colorado locals, reaching The Outpost Club should be relatively straightforward, especially for those utilizing personal vehicles. The property features a "gravel parking lot," and for large groups, a "parking attendant will be provided," indicating a thoughtful approach to managing guest arrivals, despite the rustic feel. The venue's slightly secluded yet accessible nature contributes to its old-world charm, making visitors feel as though they've "stepped back into another time and place." This blend of accessibility and a nostalgic setting enhances the overall experience for those seeking a unique, traditional western dance environment. However, for event planners, it is crucial to confirm all logistical details directly with the venue, especially concerning parking management for specific event sizes, as well as any other concerns raised in varied customer experiences to ensure that the accessible location truly translates to a smooth event operation for all attendees.

Services Offered:

• Traditional Western Dance Experience: The core offering is an authentic experience of Colorado's old Wild West days, focusing on traditional western dances.
• Square Dance Lessons: Lessons are available, with the owner, George Smith, being a central figure in teaching traditional square dance and the history of "modern western square dance."
• Round Dance Lessons: The venue also offers education in round dancing, described as a cued form of ballroom dance.
• Musical Entertainment: Musical entertainment is provided, featuring traditional old songs that marked the beginning of modern western square dance, as well as performances by both out-of-state National callers and talented local/Colorado state callers for other square dance clubs.
• Catering Services: Exclusive caterers are available who have reportedly been hosting "delightful and delicious events for many years," although some reviews suggest direct catering arrangements might be required for specific events.
• Venue Rental for Parties and Events: The space is available for intimate and relaxed parties, though suitability for specific event types (e.g., those with external DJs, specific food requirements, or diverse guest demographics) should be thoroughly discussed and confirmed directly with the owner, given varying customer feedback.

Features / Highlights:

• Authentic Old West Ambiance: The venue provides a "real deal" experience, feeling like stepping back in time with its "front porch entry and original swinging doors right down to the kitchen and powder rooms."
• Historic Significance: Known for its role in the preservation and history of Colorado's official state folk dance, square dancing, championed by its owner.
• Original Wood Dance Floor: The dance floor is the original wood, meticulously maintained, ensuring an excellent surface for dancing.
• Climate-Controlled Environment: Despite its historic feel, the venue is climate-controlled, ensuring comfort for guests.
• Welcoming Club Members: Club members are described as "warmest and most welcoming," fostering a friendly environment for learning and socializing.
• Mind-Sharpening Exercise: Square dancing is promoted as a great way to combine exercise with mental acuity.
• Nostalgic Decor: The decor is authentic and charming, contributing to the historical immersion.
• Gravel Parking Lot: Ample parking is available, with attendants provided for large groups.
• Potentially Exclusive Caterers: While caterers are mentioned as a service, the exclusive nature and compatibility with external food plans should be verified for specific event needs.
• BYOB Policy (Implied for some events): While not explicitly stated for all public events, traditional dance halls sometimes have BYOB policies or specific bar arrangements; direct inquiry is recommended.

Contact Information:

Address: 10101 E Colorado Ave, Aurora, CO 80247, USA

Phone: (303) 755-0377

Mobile Phone: +1 303-755-0377

For locals in Colorado, especially those in the Denver metropolitan area, The Outpost Club presents a truly unique and historically significant venue, particularly for those passionate about traditional western dance and American folk culture. Its primary suitability lies in its unwavering commitment to preserving and teaching Colorado's official state folk dance, square dancing. For anyone looking for an authentic and traditional education in this art form, guided by a figure described as a "living legend," this venue is unparalleled. It offers a genuine connection to the state's heritage that you won't find just anywhere.

The ambiance of The Outpost Club is another major draw for locals seeking a distinctive experience. Described as feeling like "stepping back into another time and place," with its original swinging doors and historic decor, it provides a powerful sense of nostalgia and an escape from the ordinary. This authentic setting, coupled with the meticulously maintained original wood dance floor, creates an ideal environment for traditional western dancing. The reported warmth and welcoming nature of the club members also contribute significantly to its appeal, fostering a community where new friendships can blossom and individuals feel included, regardless of their dance experience.

However, it is critically important for prospective visitors, particularly those planning events, to exercise due diligence. While many aspects highlight the club's charm and historical value, a recent review raises serious concerns about customer service, flexibility for external event planning, and potentially discriminatory remarks. This contrasting feedback underscores the necessity of direct and thorough communication with the venue owner to ensure that the space and its management align with your specific needs, expectations, and values. For those whose sole purpose is to immerse themselves in traditional square and round dancing within a historic setting and are comfortable with the venue's specific operational style, The Outpost Club offers an unparalleled and authentic Colorado experience. For broader event planning, careful consideration and direct discussion are strongly advised to ensure suitability.

The Outpost Club

10101 E Colorado Ave, Aurora, CO 80247, USA