Thunderbird Inn

Perhaps my review is skewed due to sentimental reasons, but we can’t always be objectie, right?
My grandparents have a cabin right near Thunderbird Inn that my family visited every summer when I was young. The giant Thunderbird Inn sign illuminating the intersection of Teller County Rd. and the 24 always fascinated me. In my mind’s eye I always pictured a roadhouse atmosphere with a jukebox and pool tables. Well, that’s pretty much what it is. Just a good ol’ jukejoint.
This was the second time I’d been here, but first time in the day. The bartender was not very welcoming at first, but what does one expect in a place like this? Anyhow, she soon opened up her small town charm. The décor is cool. Lot’s of Willie, lot’s of old beer bottles and cans, and the odd anti-​goverment, right wing conspiracy memorabilia. The jukebox has some classic country & rock as well as CDs of musicians that play T-​Bird Inn. I think that is very cool of them to try to give their performers more exposure.

Sometines this place truly IS a biker bar, but usually it’s just a small local place good for a beer and a few laughs. From time to time they host great musicians… smaller bands with great talent and they open up their «sand box» in the back. You can sit out there, dig your toes into the sand, listen to tunes, drink beer and other libations and munch on a burger or other finger foods while enjoying the crisp mountain air. Then the place can really be magical.

I know the name Thunderbird Inn makes you think big bad bike bar, but this was just a simple old town bar. The bar inside was nice… nice patio… some funny stickers on the wall, nice juke box. However this was all crushed by the lack of service.