The Art of Living: Denver’s Thriving Culture Scene

If you’re looking to move to an area that is a hub for culture and art, it’s no secret that the scene in Denver is exploding! With brand new galleries popping up all over the city, world-class art museums, an art district, street art, and art in public spaces, exploring the Mile High City’s artistic community is sure to be a vibrant and wild adventure! As you start your home shopping journey, a local mortgage broker can help you get pre-approved and find the best home loan.

The Art District on Sante Fe

First up, let’s start with Denver’s art districts! Just a stone’s throw away from the bustling city center, the Art District on Sante Fe is a melting pot of culture. This neighborhood offers a unique mix of American and Mexican art. This colorful district has over 40 art galleries. It is the home of the Museo de las Americas, which showcases a wide variety of contemporary and traditional art, photography, graphic art, sculptures, and mixed media. During First Friday and Second Saturdays on Sante Fe, galleries open their doors to the public, offering a spirited, open-house atmosphere with live street performances, bands, string quartets, and even a few eccentric poets. Make sure you take advantage of trying the authentic Latino far from local eateries and food trucks while you’re there! 

River North Art District

Next up is the River North Art District, better known as RiNo. This former industrial area has transformed into a trendy art hub. Once home to foundries and pattern shops, this area is now home to a diverse community of painters, photographers, artists, sculptures, illustrators, furniture makers, and designers. Every Friday Night, this district comes to life with the Friday Night Bazaar, which features food, art, drinks, music, and games. 

The Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle Creative District is a must-see for art lovers, with over 50 galleries, specialty shops, and art studios within a tight-knight neighborhood. This district also boasts several iconic cultural establishments and dining experiences, making it a hub of inspiration and creativity. The Tennyson Street Cultural District in the northwest Berkeley neighborhood is becoming a booming creative scene, participating in the First Friday Art Walk and offering a blend of visual and culinary arts, boutiques, music, bars, shops, and restaurants for you to get lost in well into the night. 

Must See Museums in Denver

Denver Art Museum

Denver is also home to the best art museums the West offers, starting with the Denver Art Museum. This nearly one-hundred-year-old institution houses over 68,000 works from all over the globe, including American Indian Art, New World and Modern Art, European art, architecture, design, graphics, and more. Right across the street, you’ll find the award-winning Clyfford Still Museum, a dedicated home for nearly all of the life’s work of the Abstract Expressionist pioneer Clyfford Still, with over 2,400 paintings, prints, drawings, and archives. 

Museum of Contemporary Art

Another hidden gem of the Denver art scene is the Museum of Contemporary Art, housed in a sleek building that David Adjay designed. This museum displays a frequently updated series of exhibits focused on innovation and creativity. Make sure to take a moment to reflect on the works in the tranquil rooftop garden and cafe and pick up a souvenir from the shop’s selection of books, music, and clothing. 

Interested in finding more hidden gems in Denver? Check out our article: 5 Hidden Gems in Denver Neighborhoods Perfect for Young Homebuyers.

The American Museum of Western Art

For anyone interested in the art of the American West, the American Museum of Western Art is a site you’ll be sure to check off your list of must-visits. Showcasing over 300 paintings by over 180 artists, this venue is located in the historic Navarre building. Last but certainly not least, the Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art can be found within the former studio of Vance Kirkland, one of Colorado’s most distinguished painters. Showcasing three collections, including a Kirkland retrospective, work by other Colorado and regional artists, and an international collection of decorative art from the late 19th century to about 1990. 

There’s no question that Denver’s art scene is an ever-evolving and vibrant tapestry of innovation and creativity. If you’re ready to pack up to be part of the exploding art scene in Denver, contact The Mortgage Architects today!