Must-See Art Museums in Colorado Not to be Missed
Art Lovers Unite: A Journey Through Colorado's Cultural Landscape
In the heart of Colorado, the state's artistic scene is thriving, with three remarkable museums offering unique experiences for art enthusiasts. Let's embark on a tour of these cultural hubs, starting with the Aspen Art Museum (AAM) in Aspen, Colorado.
The AAM, located at 637 E. Hyman Avenue, continues to play a pivotal role in Colorado's cultural ecosystem, offering access to cutting-edge contemporary art. Established in 1979, the museum is housed in a modernist building designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Shigeru Ban, featuring a woven wood screen facade, a grand staircase, and a rooftop sculpture garden.
The AAM's exhibitions often address themes relevant to current societal conversations, offering visitors thought-provoking experiences. For instance, the current exhibitions opening on September 12, 2025, include Roni Horn's solo exhibition, "Water, Water on the Wall, You’re the Fairest of Them All," which explores the concept of water in various mediums. Another exhibition, Deborah Jack's "the haunting of estuaries…an (after)math of confluence," features a dynamic six-channel video installation with imagery from shorelines in four different locations.
Visitors can also unwind at the AAM's rooftop café, providing a space for reflection and engaging discussions while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Moving on to Denver, the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver (MCA Denver) is located in the vibrant downtown arts district. Known for its diverse collections, vibrant exhibitions, and inclusive programming, the MCA Denver fosters dialogue around contemporary culture. The museum's current exhibitions, opening on September 12, 2025, and running through February 12, 2026, promise an exciting exploration of contemporary art.
The Denver Art Museum, another renowned art institution in downtown Denver, boasts an extensive and diverse collection. From notable American Indian art and pre-Columbian artifacts to European paintings, contemporary works, textiles, and photography, the museum offers a rich tapestry of artistic expression.
Meanwhile, the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College is a premier cultural destination that blends visual art, performing arts, and art education. The institution's collection includes a notable emphasis on Hispanic and Native American art, 20th-century American painting, modernist works, and regional artists.
Lastly, a special mention goes to the Clyfford Still Museum in Denver, dedicated to the life's work of abstract expressionist pioneer Clyfford Still. The museum houses an astonishing 93% of Still's total output, including nearly 3,200 works.
Each of these museums offers a unique and enriching experience, making Colorado a must-visit destination for art lovers. Whether you're in Aspen, Denver, or Colorado Springs, these institutions promise to inspire, provoke thought, and foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of contemporary art.
- Aspen's fashion-and-beauty aficionados can dine at the rooftop café of AAM, enjoying a break from exploring contemporary art with a picturesque view of the mountains.
- A foodie traveler may find delight in exploring the diverse offerings of the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver's downtown location, which fosters dialogue around contemporary culture.
- A homebody seeking inspiration for their home-and-garden projects could visit the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College, boasting a notable emphasis on Hispanic and Native American art.
