Cold pints and classic pub bites steps from Old Colorado City.
A Legendary Old Colorado City Story
The story of Thunder and Buttons begins in the late 1800s, when Colorado City was a lively frontier town filled with colorful characters and bustling saloons. Local legend tells of Prairie Dog O’Byrne, a well-known resident who hitched two bull elk named Thunder and Buttons to his carriage, creating one of the area's most memorable sights.
The Elk That Became Local Icons
Thunder and Buttons quickly became part of local folklore as O’Byrne and his elk-drawn carriage traveled along Colorado Avenue and into Colorado Springs. Their adventures became a lasting symbol of the spirited, independent character that helped shape Old Colorado City and its unique place in Colorado history.
Inspired by Colorado Springs History
Nearly a century later, a local historian shared the remarkable story of Thunder and Buttons with an entrepreneur looking to open a restaurant in one of Colorado Avenue’s historic buildings. Inspired by the tale and the area's rich heritage, Thunder and Buttons was established as a gathering place that celebrates local history, hospitality, and great food.
A Tradition That Continues Today
Although the original restaurant faced challenges over the years, the spirit of Thunder and Buttons lives on. Today, Thunder and Buttons II continues the tradition by welcoming guests with scratch-made American favorites, community events, and a dining experience rooted in the history and character of Old Colorado City.
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