The Gurtler Family of Elitch Gardens

Hall Of Fame Inductee — 2000

“Not to See Elitch’s Is Not to See Denver.” For more than 100 years, that was the slogan of what was often called “America’s Most Distinctive Amusement Park.” Mary and John Elitch originally opened the park in 1890 as a zoo and gardens. In 1910, ownership and management of the park was transferred to the Gurtler Family, who were to own and operate Elitch’s for the next nine decades. Three generations of the Gurtler family managed Elitch’s, transforming it into one of the top attractions of its kind in the world.

Under the Gurtler’s, Elitch’s added the Tracadero, one of the nation’s most famous ballrooms. In its 50-year history, the Tracadero hosted every famous band in America including The Dorseys, Lawrence Welk, Gene Krupa, Harry James and Guy Lombardo. Live broadcasts were carried on KOA throughout the West, making Elitch’s synonymous with Denver.

Another Gurtler innovation was to make the Elitch Summer Theatre the longest running summer theatre program in American history. Grace Kelly made her debut here, and nearly every big name from Hollywood and Broadway made an appearance at Elitch’s.

From the creation of Twister, at one time rated the top wooden roller coaster in America, to the famous gardens and floral clock, three generations of the Gurtler’s put their stamp on Elitch’s and on Denver. Arnold and Marie Gurtler originally managed the park, and were followed by their two sons, Jack and Budd after World War II. Sandy Gurtler took over in 1985, overseeing Elitch’s last great transformation: the move to the Central Platte Valley. Elitch’s has long been a Mile High tradition and one of the top tourist attractions in Denver and Colorado.

Each Denver & Colorado Tourism Hall of Fame inductee reflects the profile of the inductee at the time of the induction.