Twelve Great Spaces to Find Boulder Arts & Culture

Boulder is home to a thriving arts and culture scene. The city is filled with art galleries, museums, performance venues, and a variety of public art installations. Here are twelve of the best places to experience the arts in Boulder.
Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art
The Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art is a non-profit art museum that features rotating contemporary art exhibitions. The museum offers educational programs, public events, and an extensive permanent collection.
Dairy Arts Center
The Dairy Arts Center is a multi-disciplinary arts center that houses several art galleries, a performance venue, and several arts education organizations. The Dairy Arts Center is also home to the Boulder Fringe Festival, an annual celebration of independent theater and performance art.
Firehouse Art Center
The Firehouse Art Center is a community art center that offers classes, workshops, and exhibitions in various mediums. The Firehouse Art Center also has a residency program for artists in residence from around the world.
Boulder Opera Company
The Boulder Opera Company is a professional opera company that produces operas and musical theater productions. The Boulder Opera Company also offers educational programs and events for the community.
Colorado Shakespeare Festival
The Colorado Shakespeare Festival is a professional theater company that produces Shakespearean plays and other classic theater works. The Colorado Shakespeare Festival also offers educational programs and events for the community.
Naropa University
Naropa University is a private university that offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in liberal arts and contemplative studies. Naropa University is also home to the Jack Kerouac School of Disembodied Poetics, which provides workshops and classes in poetry and creative writing.
Boulder Pottery Lab
For a more hands-on art experience, check out the Boulder Pottery Lab. This studio offers classes for all levels, so you can learn how to make your pottery creations.
Dushanbe Tea House
The Dushanbe Tea House is a work of art in itself. This beautiful building was a gift from the city of Dushanbe, Tajikistan, built entirely by hand. Be sure to try one of the many delicious teas available here.
Chautauqua Park Amphitheater
The Chautauqua Park Amphitheater is another excellent spot for simultaneously taking in some art and nature. This historic venue hosts various events throughout the year, from concerts to plays to dance performances.
UFO Watchtower
Looking for something a little more off the beaten path? Check out the UFO Watchtower in nearby Hooper, Colorado. This strange structure was built by a self-proclaimed “contactee” who claimed to have been visited by aliens. Whether you believe his story or not, the UFO Watchtower is an exciting place to check out.
Boot Hill Museum
For a taste of Old West history, head to the Boot Hill Museum in nearby Longmont, Colorado. This museum houses a collection of artifacts from the days when Longmont was a frontier town.