Mago’s Magic Shoppe

A few nights ago my wife and I wandered into this amazing little gem of a neighborhood shop (a small, local family owned business) as we came out of Tocabe across the street.
As a life-​long fan of magic and magic shops (as well as the whole vaudeville, carny atmosphere, side-​shows, haunted house attraction and similar kitsch-​y culture and asthetic) my first reaction on spotting the shop across the street was, «an independent magic shop? Here? In that (assumed expensive) location, in this expensive neighborhood? Wow, that’s daring…»
But then I thought about it a bit more, and they’re probably opening at exactly the right place and time, as more younger and more upscale couples and families move into this neighborhood.
Not sure when they opened, but given all the neat stuff they have for sale besides magic tricks and performances, the Hallowe’en season ought to be a good boost for them — the first few months and then years are always the most crucial for any small business, and these folks are working hard — it’s clear they love what they do.
So what’s Mago’s all about? Even before their products and services, I gotta sell the sizzle first here, before the steak: Mago’s is about mystery, and magic, and wonder.
Mago’s is making an effort to attain some of that old-​fashioned… how to put this? It’s an almost Hollywood movie set quality and vibe of the classic, slightly spooky, slightly creepy, and definitely wonder-​filled Real Olde Fashioned Magic Shoppe… the sort of place described in stories and cartoons and movies which older folks cross themselves upon seeing it, where parents struggle to keep their kids out of, and of course, the kind of spooky wonderland (full of impossibilities and miracles) that kids yearn to visit.
Although the owners themselves are wonderful, outgoing, and almost disappointingly UN-​creepy, they take an obvious pride in the décor of their shop, which is saturated with Victorian and vaudeville-​era advertising posters, décor, stage props, gorgeous art (some of which is for sale) equipment for stage illusions, and reproductions of classic side-​show fakes and horrors for which P.T. Barnum himself would shed a tear.
Mago’s has for sale magic tricks and books for learning magic skills or history, including tricks and puzzles for almost any age old enough to handle stuff without dropping it, I would imagine.
They also offer profesional magical performances for events, plus they host walk-​in magic shows and demonstrations on First Friday Art Walk nights…
I think they’re a great addition to the neighborhood, and I wish them much success.

My new favorite place !!! Everything about this place is amazing! If I could give 10 stars on here I would give 10 billion loli. Most def be back!

They are what Denver needs! The things you don’t find anywhere else! Love this place and the owners rock socks! First Fridays magic tricks. …love, love, love!

This gem is a unique treat filled with curiosities and trickery. Although I was a little paranoid that I’d get pick pocketed by a trickster, I was welcomed by Max and put at ease quickly. Obviously, I have a healthy dose of paranoia running through my veins. The fun little shop has a variety of goods including numerous tricks. He graciously demonstrated a few and was inspirational and impressive! There are tricks available in a variety of skill levels and he was knowledgeable on them all.
If you find yourself in the area waiting for a slice or sandwich in one of the spots on that block, swing in for some fun. Or, if you want a magical experience near downtown, this is ideal. It contributes some unique personality to the area and has events on occasion. Enjoy!

This is not your average magic shop! My wife and I stopped by today expecting to see your typical, chintzy gag gifts and pranks but instead found a beautiful shop filled with antiques, local art, and of course, magic tricks. The staff was super friendly and a pleasure to buy from. If you’re looking for the shop you used to visit when you were a kid, you’ve found it!

There was once a more simple time, when enthusiastic children could wander into the local toy store or magic shop, meet the owner and spend a bit of time checking out the new toys and finding something special. Today, that idealistic time seems to have faded into obscurity, leaving mass-​market big-​box stores looming in the distance to suck your hard earned money. Gone are the friendly shopkeepers, with giant «you-​scan-​it» registers in their stead.
Enter Mago’s Magic Shoppe. This new gem on 11^th Avenue is a beautiful addition to the Denver community. Max Mago is the resident magician and co-​owner. You can learn some new tricks, watch a magic show, and buy some fun items to amaze and delight your friends. If you are a magic lover, then this is a must-​visit shop.
There is a 2^nd part of this store too. The oddities and curios part of the store. If you are searching for a truly special gift for that hard-​to-​please someone (and let’s face it, we ALL have one or two of those in our lives) then you MUST stop by this shop. From medical instruments to delightful paintings and amusing sculptures, there are lots of fun knick knacks that fall into the «oddities and curios» part of the store title.
It’s a brand new store, and every item for sale is hand picked by the owners, giving this shop it’s own unique identity and personality within the retail world. The space itself is on the small side, but warm and very welcoming. The merchandise will certainly change often, so I know I’ll be checking back to see what new items they have in stock very soon. Check them out. You’ll be glad you did.