Our Story
About US
Take a step inside Ivywild School and right away you’ll notice the former student artwork on the walls, repurposed chalkboards, and creaky wood floors. A charming and historic former elementary school built in 1916, Ivywild School is now a vibrant, eclectic community hub where people of all ages and backgrounds come together and connect face-to-face through food, drinks, shared experiences, ideas, and the arts.
Conversation with friends over a delicious drink or meal is a favorite pastime here, with local eateries offering everything from breakfast to burgers, from BBQ to salads, wholesome baked goods, and charcuterie. Plus there’s an artisanal cocktail bar, a whiskey house, and a pub serving craft beer brewed on site.
But Ivywild School is more than a food hall. It’s a central gathering place for the community. A warm and welcoming spot for working remotely, hosting a unique private celebration or business meeting, and engaging with others at a film screening, concert, game night, art opening, or outdoor festival.
We’re proud of our deep connection to the historic Ivywild neighborhood and Colorado Springs, and as stewards of this truly special place we strive to welcome, nourish, inspire, and delight everyone who walks through the double doors. Come spend time with us!
History
Originally built for the children of the town of Ivywild, Ivywild Elementary School was closed due to shifting populations in 2009. It was shortly thereafter that the wheels started turning and the idea to move the 18-year old Bristol Brewery over to the space, along with a bakery, espresso/cocktail bar, delicatessen and office space, started to take shape. It was a unique and bold proposition that would take years of planning and a lot of hard work to achieve but it was just what the neighborhood needed.
The concept behind creating this multi-use district combines the idea of linking commerce and community from Joe Coleman and Mike Bristol with a vision of building sustainable facilities, neighborhoods, and communities from local architect Jim Fennell. After winning support from neighbors and community leaders, the partners purchased the old school building in March 2012.
The thinking was inspired by the idea of strengthening the neighborhood’s identity by restoring its historic centerpiece. But more importantly, it was an alignment of beliefs they all stood behind – the common good of a community, local business, and the environment. By bringing together like-minded people and businesses, sharing byproducts and eliminating waste, they were attempting to do something that had never been done before in the heart of a Colorado Springs neighborhood.