Telluride Arts & Culture Journey
If you’re looking for a getaway, filled with fresh mountain air, fun, a four-seasons climate, and plenty of arts and cultural adventures to explore, the small, historic towns of Colorado are for you. Zero in on Telluride and its many Telluride arts and culture experiences for a one-of-a-kind getaway that’s sure to please the entire group.
Start your journey through the town’s arts and cultural scene with a look at its history. A variety of permanent and temporary exhibits depict Telluride’s past from Native Americans to Butch Cassidy’s first bank robbery, to the history of the development of the town into a ski mecca, and more. They also offer historic walking tours of the town and other educational programs.
Historic Telluride
Wander historic Telluride. The historic downtown area was designated a National Historic Landmark District in 1964, due to its significant role in the history of the American West. Visit the town museum and learn about the town’s evolution, all the way from Ute tribe summer camp up to the mountain ski mecca many come to enjoy today. Shop in stores and boutiques, many of which are housed in some of the original buildings that date back to the 1800s.
Built in 1913, the property started as a Vaudeville theater and cultural center. It’s a hot spot for arts and cultural activities including live music, theater, recitals, lectures, and more. It can be rented out for private events, too. The Sheridan Arts Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that helps restore and preserve the SOH and bring quality arts programs to the people of Telluride.
The festival is an essential fundraiser for the 501(c)(3) charity, the Sheridan Arts Foundation (SAF), which is committed to restoring and preserving the Sheridan Opera House and bringing quality arts and entertainment events to the town of Telluride. You’ll be able to observe some of the artists at work, and 40% of proceeds from each sale goes to supporting SAF, community programming, and the Sheridan Opera House. This year’s festival runs June 30-July 7 2024.
Telluride Art + Architecture
The history of Telluride is showcased in its historic downtown area, where modern businesses like restaurants and boutiques are located in original 1800s-era structures. These buildings are included in the area’s unique architecture.
Telluride is the self-proclaimed “Summer Music Capital of Colorado,” and there’s a long list of music festivals that help the town earn the title on an annual basis. Throughout the summer, settle in for the Sunset Music Series, featuring live performances of a variety of musical styles. June brings the Bluegrass Festival, while July sees Telluride Americana Music Festival. Celebrate jazz and chamber music in August and wrap up the summer in September with the “Blues & Brews” Festival.
Telluride celebrates local artists every first Thursday of the month. If your trip includes a “first Thursday” make sure attending is part of your itinerary. Participating venues are open 5-8 p.m. and offer receptions to introduce their newest exhibits and artists. Make your exploration easier with the complimentary Telluride fine art Gallery Guide, good for use during the event as well as on days the galleries are open to the public for regular showings. Telluride Arts, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization helps elevate and promote the culture of the arts in the Telluride Arts District and helps organize the monthly events.
The organizations annual “HAHA” annual fundraiser is billed as a one-of-a-kind immersive artist takeover and art experience.” The event transforms the school into multiple, interactive environments and participatory “realms.” Each of the participating arts is given a set of logistical parameters, a materials stipend, and creative “carte blanche” to design and implement their unique immersive experience reflecting their personal creative practice. Some of this year’s artists have been featured on National Public Radio, The Los Angeles Times, TEDx, TAB, and in locations including the White House, community arts centers, and even national and international museums!
The Art and Culture of Telluride
Telluride is a Colorado destination you’ll want to focus your unique arts and culture journey around. As you plan how to spend your time, the things you’ll see, and the events you’ll attend, don’t forget to book a vacation rental with Lodging in Telluride for a convenient ‘home base’ for all the fun. Choose a cozy studio-style unit for a solo or small family experience. For an arts and cultural journey that includes all your loved ones, there are units as large as six bedrooms! Prepare a home-cooked meal in the fully equipped kitchen or stretch out and relax in a private bedroom or open living space after a day of fun.
Contact us today to start planning your Telluride arts and culture journey!