About Cactus Jack's Saloon & Grill
Cactus Jack’s Saloon & Grill is a popular mountain-town bar and restaurant in downtown Evergreen, Colorado. Locally owned by Gary and Megan Mitchell since 2001, CJ’s has become a community staple by the Bear Creek riverfront . It offers a rustic “biker bar” vibe with a large creekside patio and full bar, serving up classic American pub fare. Patrons rave about the ice-cold beer and “fantastic” burgers, and even note that some menu items pay homage to jam-band culture (for example, burgers named after Widespread Panic songs) . The venue is known for its outdoor seating overlooking Bear Creek, which provides a scenic “authentic Evergreen” experience . In short, Cactus Jack’s mixes a laid-back mountain atmosphere with reliably good food and drink, making it a hallmark of the local dining and music scene.
The history of CJ’s adds to its character. The current owners purchased the bar in 2001 and have steered it through major events: the venue was heavily damaged by the September 2013 floods (the floodwaters reached up to 18 inches inside) and then later closed temporarily during the COVID-19 pandemic. Each time, the Mitchell family rebuilt and improved the space – for example, they rebuilt the destroyed creekside deck and added new restrooms and a fireplace during the remodel . Consequently, locals often view CJ’s as a resilient Evergreen landmark. After each rebuild, the bar came back stronger, continuing its role as one of the town’s best live-music venues and gathering spots .
Events and Programming
CJ’s is best known for its steady lineup of live music. In the busy season (spring through early fall), the saloon hosts bands almost every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night . The genres are broadly eclectic – everything from bluegrass and Americana to classic rock and country appears on the schedule. For example, summer 2024 concerts included acts like Jubilingo, Johnny Mullenax, Mark Brut, Orca the Band and Grits & Greens . These shows typically have $10–$20 cover charges (or are included with food/drink) and run in the evenings starting around 8pm. Many live music nights are general-admission, so casual drop-in attendance is common. In general, CJ’s attracts regional touring acts and community groups rather than national headliners, making for an intimate club feel. One long-running tradition is the “Creekside Music Series” in summer on the outdoor deck – a mix of local jam sessions and booked bands playing right by the creek .
Cactus Jack’s also hosts special one-off events beyond the regular band nights. Notably, the Evergreen Chamber Orchestra has made the CJ’s patio its venue for several “season preview” concerts. Dubbed “Classic Night at Cactus Jack’s,” these annual late-summer events feature a full orchestra performing symphonic classics and pops (Beethoven, Mozart, patriotic marches, etc.) in a casual setting . ECO’s 2019 preview concert (September 4, 2019) and other recent previews have included complimentary dinners from CJ’s as part of the ticket . These concerts (which organizers emphasize will sell out quickly) blend classical music with the bar’s “biker bar” charm . In addition, CJ’s holds community-oriented gatherings (for example, an annual Friendsgiving potluck dinner) and plays host to local fundraisers. Overall, CJ’s is a hub for both casual jam sessions and occasional big-ticket acoustic concerts.
Tickets and Booking
For most nights at CJ’s, you can simply show up and pay at the door; there is no separate box office or ticketing website for regular live-music shows. However, planning ahead is wise for special events. For instance, the Evergreen Chamber Orchestra preview concerts held at CJ’s had advance ticket prices in the $65–$75 range (which included a meal) and were known to “sell out in advance” . Because these special events often have limited seating, ECO urged fans to “get your tickets today” when they were announced . In practice, CJ’s itself doesn’t run an online ticket store — any tickets for these charity shows are sold through the event organizer (such as ECO) or by phone. For other live shows, simply show up and pay cover at the door, and you can often dine while watching with no advance purchase. For popular concerts, the best strategy is to arrive early (at least 30-60 minutes before showtime) to get a good spot and ensure you’re not turned away if capacity is reached.
Seating and Layout
CJ’s is a small, club-like venue with an intimate layout. The main bar area is a single open room: the stage sits at one end and the bar itself runs along the side wall. There are no reserved seats or balconies – seating is first-come, first-served around the tables and stools on the main floor. According to event seating guides, the stage is literally “within arm’s reach” of the audience, meaning almost every vantage point feels close . Patrons note that even the farthest seats have great sightlines, so anywhere in the house (or at the bar) gives you a front-row view. When weather allows, the outdoor patio becomes an extension of the venue. In fact, Wanderlog reports that CJ’s features a “2,000-square-foot deck” alongside the creek , and owners specifically highlight their “creekside seating on the new patio” after the remodel . The outdoor patio is partially covered and overlooks Bear Creek, adding a scenic backdrop to outdoor concerts or dining. No VIP or separate sections exist — there are no obstructed-view seats to speak of. In practice, for the best experience come early and camp out near the stage (inside or outside); the front half of the room and covered deck have the clearest views of performers.
Getting There and Parking
Cactus Jack’s is located in central Evergreen at **4651 County Highway 73, Evergreen, CO 80439** (the Evergreen Chamber Orchestra confirms this address for their events ). It sits right on Highway 73 near the Bear Creek bridge, in the heart of Evergreen’s small downtown area. Because Evergreen has limited public transit, most visitors arrive by car. There is no large dedicated parking lot for CJ’s – street parking along County Hwy 73/Plettner Lane is the primary option. Parkopedia indicates the nearby Highland Haven Creekside Inn lot (just behind CJ’s) is for guests only , so it’s not available for casual patrons. Street parking on Hwy 73 is usually free (watch for any posted time limits or traffic direction rules), and there are a few small municipal lots a block over on Hwy 74. During peak hours, these can fill up, so plan to arrive early. As a last resort, nearby RTD park-and-ride lots (such as Evergreen P&R with ~45 spaces) offer free parking, but they are about half a mile away . Rideshares or taxis can drop you off at the front door on Hwy 73 if you prefer not to drive. To reach CJ’s from Denver, take I-70 W to Mount Vernon (Highway 73) exit, then head south into Evergreen. The scenic route from Denver (or Boulder) via Highway 93/Mount Vernon Pkwy is also an option, though it can be winding.
Inside the Venue
Once inside CJ’s, you’ll find a classic saloon atmosphere: wood-paneled walls, country-rock décor, and (since the remodel) a portrait of local culture. A full bar stretches along one wall, serving craft beers, margaritas and cocktails. Food service works much like a pub – several patrons have noted that you order and pay at the bar or counter, then carry your own drinks to the table . During busy live music nights, this means servers may be spread thin, so it’s smart to grab menus when seated and place your order promptly (one reviewer reported having to track down staff after long waits ). The kitchen is known for hearty fare: classic cheeseburgers (even with fun jam-band themes), award-winning chili, Buffalo-style wings, and beer-battered appetizers . Restrooms and a newly upgraded coat-check area are located at the back of the building – note that CJ’s installed multiple new restroom stalls as part of its post-flood renovations . On cold nights the indoor fireplace (added in remodeling) keeps things cozy . Overall the vibe is casual and lively: even if the music is thumping, the building isn’t huge, so conversations at tables or the bar area are still possible. One more perk – the venue is dog-friendly in spirit: CJ’s annual Friendsgiving dinner specifically allows “puppers” (dogs) on the patio , so the lighthearted culture may allow well-behaved pets on the deck during quieter daytime events (though on music nights the patio fills with people and music, making it less practical for pets).
Nearby Amenities
CJ’s sits in the center of a small but walkable downtown “village” in Evergreen. Right across the street and nearby you’ll find other dining and entertainment spots. For example, Beau Jo’s Colorado Style Pizza and the Bait Shack Tavern are just steps from CJ’s on Highway 74 . Need coffee? The Java Groove espresso shop is a two-minute walk away . The Little Bear Saloon (known for local draft beers) is another block over on Pagemill Road. If you plan to make a weekend of it, lodging options in Evergreen range from quaint inns to highway-chain hotels. The highest-rated in-town lodging is the Highland Haven Creekside Inn (a boutique riverfront inn) , which is right behind CJ’s along Bear Creek. A few blocks farther, the Evergreen Lake House and other cabin rentals provide cozy stays along Hwy 74. For convention-style hotels, chains like Comfort Suites Golden West (on Evergreen Parkway) are a few miles down Hwy 40 . In short, Evergreen offers something for every budget, from mountain inns to big-name hotels just outside town.
What Makes This Venue Special
Cactus Jack’s Saloon & Grill is cherished for its uniquely Colorado mountain-bar character and community role. Its creekside patio and scenic location give it a reputation as one of Evergreen’s most beautiful drinking and dining spots . Locals often fondly call it an “old-school biker bar” – a place where you can enjoy live folk or bluegrass on one of the patio swings as easily as you can rock out to a country band indoors . CJ’s historic resilience also stands out: after the 2013 flood, the owners not only rebuilt but improved the venue, earning it praise as a symbol of Evergreen’s strength . The close ties to community events further set it apart. For example, the Evergreen Chamber Orchestra notes that CJ’s is and hosts their concerts, calling the bar “one of the best live music venues in Evergreen” and its orchestra event an “unusual setting – a ‘biker bar’” . CJ’s also plays host to longstanding traditions like the annual Friendsgiving dinner (where “puppers” are welcome) , highlighting its friendly, local spirit. In short, Cactus Jack’s blend of scenic outdoors, hearty food, live music, and genuine community pride makes it a beloved Evergreen landmark.
Visitor Tips and Information
Plan ahead for a smooth experience. CJ’s is popular, especially on summer weekends, so arrive early if you want curbside parking or a primo table near the stage. (For example, ECO concert organizers warn their shows “always sell out in advance” .) If attending a concert, expect shows to start around 8:00 PM – one listing for a Nov-2025 show shows an 8:00 PM start time – with doors typically opening 30–60 minutes earlier. Since CJ’s is a bar, bring valid ID if you plan to drink. A practical tip from regulars: order at the bar quickly after seating – during busy shows the staff get busy, so placing your drink or food order early will help you avoid long waits . Also remember the venue can get loud during concerts, so if you’re sensitive to noise, bring earplugs. Weather is another factor: the large patio is only partly covered, so in cooler weather a jacket is wise, and in summer you might want sunscreen and shade. Finally, note that at CJ’s even their community holiday potlucks welcome dogs – though on regular nights only service animals are allowed under state law. In summary, get there early, dress comfortably, and come ready to enjoy Evergreen’s music scene in a laid-back mountain bar setting.
What kinds of music and events can I find at Cactus Jack’s?
Cactus Jack’s regularly features live music across a variety of genres. You’ll find local and regional bands playing bluegrass, Americana, country, folk, and classic rock, especially on summer weekends . There is usually live music most Friday–Sunday nights during the season. In addition, CJ’s hosts special events such as annual community gatherings and even classical concerts – for example, the Evergreen Chamber Orchestra’s season-preview shows are held on CJ’s outdoor deck . Overall expect a mix of dance-friendly roots music by local acts and occasional one-off shows in a casual setting.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance for shows at Cactus Jack’s?
Generally, most events at CJ’s do not require advance tickets. For regular live-music nights, entry is “cover charge” style: you pay at the door or order food/drinks inside, so no separate tickets are needed. The exception is special ticketed concerts (typically fundraisers or large events). For example, the Evergreen Chamber Orchestra preview concerts at CJ’s were ticketed and required advance purchase ($65–$75, including dinner) due to limited seating . Those key events were advertised as selling out quickly. In short, check the event listing: if it’s a normal band night, just pay at the door. If it’s a special concert, you’ll need to get your ticket in advance through the organizer or CJ’s.
How much do tickets or cover charges cost at Cactus Jack’s shows?
Ticket prices vary by event. For most local band nights, there is usually a modest cover charge ranging around $10–$20, or sometimes none if you simply pay for food/drinks. However, special events have higher prices. For example, the Chamber Orchestra season preview concerts were priced around $65–$75 with dinner included . Those fundraiser shows explicitly warned they “sell out” in advance . In contrast, typical Friday/Saturday evening shows only ask a small cover at the door. Always check the specific event announcement for pricing.
Is seating at Cactus Jack’s reserved or first-come?
All seating at CJ’s is general admission. There are no reserved or VIP seats. The interior features tables and bar stools on the main floor, and outside there is patio seating, but none of it is assigned. In fact, as a venue writeup notes, the stage is “within arm’s reach” so sightlines are good from anywhere . Practically, this means it’s best to arrive early to secure a preferable spot, but even late arrivals will find that nearly every spot offers a solid view of the stage.
Where should I sit or stand for the best view of the stage?
CJ’s is small and intimate, so there really aren’t any “bad” spots. Generally, being near the front of the stage or at a center table will give you the clearest view. According to guide sources, even a seat at the back is quite good: “every spot feels like the best seat” in such a small room . If it’s an outdoor or jackpot night, the covered patio also provides direct views of the performers. In short, aim for the front half of the floor or the patio — arrive early to grab a table or spot close to where the music is happening.
What is the address of Cactus Jack’s Saloon?
Cactus Jack’s is located at **4651 County Highway 73, Evergreen, Colorado 80439**. This is confirmed by local event listings . It’s in downtown Evergreen along Hwy 73 near the bridge over Bear Creek. If using GPS or maps, that address will put you right at CJ’s (look for the large wooden building with a patio).
Is parking available at Cactus Jack’s and are there any fees?
CJ’s does not have its own customer parking lot. Visitors typically use street parking on County Hwy 73 or nearby side streets. Parkopedia notes that the parking lot behind CJ’s (owned by Highland Haven Inn) is for hotel guests only . The street parking on Hwy 73 and Plettner Lane is generally free, but spaces are limited and may have short time limits during the day. A few municipal lots on Hwy 74 are free but small. Because of this, it’s wise to arrive early on busy nights. As an alternative, there are RTD park-and-ride lots in Evergreen with dozens of spaces (free) about a mile away . Rideshares can also drop you off at the front door.
What public transit options serve Cactus Jack’s?
Public transit is very limited in Evergreen. There is no bus that goes directly to CJ’s. The closest options are RTD Jefferson County routes that serve park-and-ride lots a bit outside of town. For example, the Evergreen Park & Ride (Route 40) is about a half-mile from CJ’s , and riders would still need to arrange another ride into downtown fine. In practice, most visitors drive or use taxis/rideshares. If you rely on transit, your best bet is to take a bus to one of those park-and-ride lots and then use an Uber or local shuttle from there.
What are some hotels or lodging options near Cactus Jack’s?
Evergreen has a range of lodging near CJ’s. The top-rated local stay is Highland Haven Creekside Inn, located right behind Cactus Jack’s along Bear Creek . This boutique inn offers cozy creekside rooms a few steps from the bar. A couple blocks away are the Evergreen Lake House and cabin rentals on Hwy 74. For chain hotels, the nearest are a few miles to the east on I-70/Hwy 40: for example, Comfort Suites Golden West is about 7 miles away (and appears as #2 on Evergreen’s lodging list) . In summary, you can choose between charming mountain inns within walking distance or larger hotels within a 10–15 minute drive.
What time do concerts usually start at Cactus Jack’s?
Concert start times at CJ’s tend to be in the evening, usually around 8:00 PM. For example, a schedule listing shows a band scheduled for 8:00 PM start . Generally, doors open about 30–60 minutes before the show, allowing time for seating and ordering drinks. To be safe, plan to arrive at least an hour before the advertised start time on busy nights.
Is Cactus Jack’s wheelchair accessible?
The venue is mostly on one level, so in many ways it can accommodate wheelchairs – there are no stairs inside, and the entrance is at street level. However, the space is fairly compact with tables and a narrow bar aisle, which may be tight for larger wheelchairs. The patio is also flat ground. Because public information is limited, it’s recommended to call ahead if accessibility is a major concern. As a general guideline, CJ’s does not advertise full ADA facilities (like a certified wheelchair restroom), so if accessibility is critical, double-check with the restaurant in advance.
Are children allowed at Cactus Jack’s?
Cactus Jack’s is primarily a bar and music venue, so its atmosphere is geared toward adults. However, minors are generally allowed if accompanied by an adult (at least until evening hours). For very late shows, a 21+ crowd is typical. Special family-friendly events (like holiday meals) do welcome kids, but on regular live-music nights the environment is mostly adult. There is no formal age restriction posted, but expect an adult-oriented crowd except at certain community events.
What food and drink does Cactus Jack’s serve?
Cactus Jack’s is a full saloon and grill. The menu features hearty American bar food. Popular items include burgers (their “fantastic” burgers are a highlight) and cheese curds , as well as chili, Buffalo wings, sandwiches, and appetizers. There is a full liquor license, so you’ll also find draft beers, cocktails, and margaritas. In short, expect a selection of burgers, pub-style salads and sides, and a wide beer and drinks menu. Reading online reviews or the venue’s menu can give you a sense of the specific specials.
Can I bring pets to Cactus Jack’s?
Except for service animals, pets are not typically allowed inside CJ’s, as it is mainly a bar/restaurant. That said, the owners clearly embrace dogs in a casual way – their annual Friendsgiving event explicitly welcomes “puppers” (dogs) on the patio . This suggests that well-behaved dogs might be tolerated on the outdoor patio during off-peak times. In general, though, don’t plan on bringing pets inside during a normal live music night; it’s safest to assume pets should stay at home or in the car.
Is smoking allowed at Cactus Jack’s?
No, indoor smoking is not allowed due to Colorado state law. If you need to smoke, you would have to step outside. The outdoor patio is partially covered and is an area where one might smoke, but this is still outdoors. Inside the building, smoking (including vaping) is prohibited.
Are there any dress code or bag policies?
Cactus Jack’s has a very casual, rustic mountain atmosphere – no formal dress code is enforced. Feel free to wear jeans, boots, t-shirts, or casual attire. As for bags, there’s no published policy, but since it’s a low-tech bar setting, large backpacks are uncommon. For safety, carry only what you need; staff may inspect oversized bags or packages during full-capacity events. Overall, just dress comfortably for a bar setting in the mountains.
Does Cactus Jack’s have Wi-Fi, coat check, or other amenities?
Cactus Jack’s focuses mainly on food, drink and music, and doesn’t heavily advertise extra amenities. They do have new expanded restrooms (with more stalls) after the remodel and one can stow coats there, but there is no formal coat check. There isn’t any mention of free Wi-Fi or charging stations – it’s best to assume internet is not a service they promote. The main attractions are the bar and stage, so amenities are relatively straightforward. If you need something like an ATM, you might have to go to a gas station or bank nearby.
What is the Friendsgiving event at Cactus Jack’s?
Cactus Jack’s hosts a community “Friendsgiving” dinner each Thanksgiving season. This is a potluck-style holiday meal where anyone in town can come to share dinner. According to Evergreen’s event calendar, it’s become a local tradition in its 27th year – “families, solos, puppers are all welcome” to this informal feast . Guests are invited to bring a dish to pass (though it’s not required) and CJ’s provides the tables and drinks. It’s a good example of the relaxed, communal spirit of the venue.
