Historic Buffalo Bill Museum Shop to Showcase Indigenous Culture Through New Colorado Food Venture
A historic mountain landmark overlooking the Front Range is getting a cultural transformation as Denver Parks and Recreation seeks an Indigenous food and beverage specialist to breathe new life into the Pahaska Tepee building near the Buffalo Bill Museum on Lookout Mountain.
The wooden structure, which has served Colorado visitors since 1921, sits empty for the first time in decades as Denver officials work to reimagine the space as a celebration of Native American culture and cuisine. The initiative aims to provide Front Range residents and tourists with an authentic cultural experience while addressing historical misrepresentations.
"This is an opportunity to bring more Indigenous perspective and voices to the site and the storytelling, and also to really have a modern interpretation of what Buffalo Bill was trying to achieve," said Shannon Dennison, director of Denver Mountain Parks. "And that is introducing culture and history through food."
According to Denver Parks and Recreation, the department is actively seeking proposals from potential vendors who can:
- Operate an Indigenous-focused food and beverage service
- Manage the facility's gift shop operations
- Develop cultural programming for visitors
- Honor the site's historical significance while providing modern amenities
The century-old building, which originally included staff living quarters, requires significant updates before full operations can resume. Denver Mountain Parks plans to conduct a comprehensive architectural assessment to address code compliance and preservation needs.
For Colorado families and educators, this transformation presents a unique opportunity to experience authentic Indigenous culture and cuisine while learning about the complex history of Buffalo Bill's legacy. The site's proximity to Denver and Colorado Springs makes it an accessible destination for school field trips and family outings.
While the timeline for complete renovation remains uncertain due to funding considerations, officials aim to have an initial vendor operating in a portion of the building by year's end, offering Front Range residents their first taste of this cultural revival.
The project represents a significant shift in how Colorado's historic sites can better reflect and honor Native American perspectives, moving beyond the stereotypes perpetuated by Buffalo Bill's Wild West shows of the 1800s and early 1900s.
This article contains AI-generated content and reflects opinion only. Readers are encouraged to verify all information independently before drawing conclusions or making decisions.
