It had been over five years since I last visited Casa Bonita, and I was excited to take our kids, ages 4, 6, and 8, back to this amazing place. With all the recent renovations, we couldn’t wait to see what had changed and what was still the same. After months of waiting for tickets, we were finally ready for our family adventure at the new and improved Casa Bonita with the family.
The History and Renovation of Casa Bonita
For those who grew up in or around Denver, Casa Bonita is a name that brings back a flood of childhood memories. This iconic restaurant, with its distinctive pink façade, has been a staple of family fun and dining since it opened in 1974. Recently, Casa Bonita underwent a significant transformation under its new owners, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, the creators of “South Park.” These renovations aimed to preserve the nostalgia while updating the facilities and offerings for a new generation of visitors.
Casa Bonita Location
The Long Wait for Tickets
Our journey to Casa Bonita began months ago when we signed up for the waitlist to get tickets. Currently, the only way to visit Casa Bonita is by being selected for tickets, which means signing up and waiting for an invitation.
You must submit your email on their website to join the waitlist: https://www.casabonitadenver.com/
This system is less than ideal for those planning a visit to Denver with limited time, as the wait can stretch into several months. It’s a process more suited to locals who have the flexibility to wait. Once we received our tickets, we had to reserve a specific day and time from the limited available slots, which can be tricky to coordinate with a busy family schedule.
Want to fill your time while you wait for your Casa Bonita tickets?
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Arriving at Casa Bonita
On the day of our visit, we were greeted outside and showed our tickets before going through security. This was a new addition; the old Casa Bonita did not have such stringent measures. After passing through security, we joined the familiar line to order our food, noticing a few updates and new decorations along the way. Despite the changes, the wait wasn’t too long, and we soon found ourselves at the counter, ready to place our orders.
Dining in the Mine
We were then escorted to our table, which was located in the mine section. This area was a hit with the kids, complete with sound effects of mine explosions and a fun atmosphere. During our meal, we were visited by a few characters, adding to the entertainment. The food, while not gourmet, was a definite improvement from the past, making the dining experience enjoyable.
Exploring the Attractions
After our meal, the real fun began. We first attended the famous dive show, a hallmark of Casa Bonita that never fails to impress. Next, we experienced a magic show, a new feature that delighted the entire family. The cave, akin to a haunted house, was our next stop. While our four-year-old handled it well, it might be a bit too scary for some younger kids. We also enjoyed a puppet show that humorously referenced the old Casa Bonita, adding a nostalgic touch.
Wrapping Up the Visit
Our visit concluded with free balloon creations and a lively mariachi show. Although my daughter wanted her face painted, the line was too long, so we opted to skip it. Despite this minor disappointment, the overall experience was fantastic. We spent about three hours at Casa Bonita, and the kids loved every minute. The limited capacity, due to the ticket system, meant the venue didn’t feel overcrowded, which was a pleasant surprise.
Returning To Casa Bonita With The Family
The renovations at Casa Bonita have struck a perfect balance between modern upgrades and preserving the cherished elements of the past. While the ticket system can be a hassle, it does ensure a more enjoyable experience once you’re inside. We hope that in the future, Casa Bonita will allow for regular reservations, making it easier for everyone to visit. Until then, we’ll eagerly await our next ticket invitation and look forward to another unforgettable family adventure at this beloved Denver landmark.
