Top 100 best museums in Colorado

The Downtown Aquarium, previously known as Colorado's Ocean Journey, is a public aquarium and restaurant situated in Denver, Colorado. It is conveniently located at the intersection of I-25 and 23rd Ave. This makes it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique combination of aquatic exploration and dining experience.

The Denver Botanic Gardens is a public botanical garden situated in the Cheesman Park neighborhood of Denver, Colorado. This 23-acre park is a haven for plant lovers, featuring a conservatory, a variety of theme gardens, and a sunken amphitheater that hosts various concerts during the summer months.

The Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum, also known as WOTR, is situated on the grounds of the former Lowry Air Force Base in Denver, Colorado, United States. This location is steeped in history, having served as a significant military base from 1938 to 1994. The museum's location adds a layer of historical significance to its exhibits, providing visitors with a unique perspective on the evolution of aviation and space exploration.

The United States Olympic & Paralympic Museum (USOPM) is a historical and cultural sports museum that first opened its doors to the public on July 30, 2020. It is located in the city of Colorado Springs, Colorado, in the United States. The museum is dedicated to the history and culture of sports, particularly focusing on the Olympic and Paralympic athletes who have represented Team USA.

The Denver Art Museum, established in 1893, is a prominent art gallery located near the Civic Center Park in the heart of Denver, Colorado. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city. The museum is known for its significant collections and exhibitions, including collections of Native American craftsmanship.

The Denver Museum of Nature and Science is a city museum situated in Denver, the capital city of Colorado in the United States. This museum is a significant cultural and educational institution in the city, offering a wide range of exhibits and programs that cater to various interests.

The Manitou Cliff Dwellings are a unique tourist attraction located just west of Colorado Springs, Colorado, on U.S. Highway 24 in Manitou Springs. This privately owned site features replica Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings and interpretive exhibits, providing visitors with an immersive experience into the life and culture of the Ancestral Puebloan peoples.

The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a museum railway located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, USA. It operates on a narrow gauge of 914.4 mm, equivalent to 3 feet. This historic railway offers a unique experience of the scenic beauty of the Rocky Mountains, providing a glimpse into the past of American railroading.

The Denver Zoo, situated in the city of Denver, Colorado, has been a popular destination since its opening in 1896. Each year, it attracts around 2 million visitors, making it a significant attraction in the region. As a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the zoo is recognized for its commitment to animal conservation and education.

The Molly Brown House Museum, located in Denver, Colorado, is a historic site that once served as the residence of Margaret Brown, a renowned American philanthropist, activist, and socialite. This museum offers a unique glimpse into the life of this remarkable woman, who is best known for her heroic actions during the sinking of the RMS Titanic.

The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, located southwest of downtown Colorado Springs, Colorado, on Cheyenne Mountain, is the highest zoo in the United States with an elevation of 6,714 feet above sea level. This unique location offers a distinct experience for visitors, providing a unique perspective on the animals and their habitats.

Take a guided tour through this mint to see how coins are produced. The tour will also inform you about the history of US mints. Be sure to hop into the gift shop as well, all kinds of coins to be bought there. Before the tour, you have to go through a security screening and metal detectors. Items

The Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus is conveniently located in downtown Denver at 2121 Children’s Museum Drive. This central location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city.

The Colorado Railroad Museum is a non-profit organization situated on a 15-acre property in Golden, Colorado. This location is not only scenic but also historically significant, as it is where Clear Creek flows between the North and South Table Mountains. The museum was established in 1959 with the aim of preserving the rich history of Colorado's railroad era, particularly the state's pioneering narrow-gauge mountain railroads.

The Forney Transportation Museum, located in Denver, Colorado, is a tribute to the legacy of its founder, J.D. Forney. J.D. Forney was the founder of Forney Industries, Inc., which was established in Fort Collins. The museum is a testament to his contributions to the transportation industry and his passion for antique and classic cars.

The Butterfly Pavilion, situated in Westminster, Colorado, holds the distinction of being the first stand-alone non-profit insect zoo in the United States. It opened its doors to the public on July 15, 1995, and has since been a popular destination for those interested in butterflies and other invertebrates.

Miramont Castle is a museum located in Manitou Springs, Colorado . The Castle was originally built in 1895 as a private home for Father Jean Baptist Francolon, a French-born Catholic priest. Located in the Manitou Springs Historic District , it is a National Register of Historic Places listing.

Founded in 1979, the Aspen Art Museum (AAM) is a non-collecting contemporary art museum located in Aspen, Colorado . AAM exhibitions include drawings , paintings , sculptures , multimedia installations and electronic media .

The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College, also known as FAC, is an arts center situated just north of downtown Colorado Springs, Colorado. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city. The center is a hub for various forms of art, offering a diverse range of experiences for art enthusiasts.

A Victorian house which belonged to a former slave and a civil rights leader. It houses a museum focused on his life and work.

The Clyfford Still Museum, located in Denver, Colorado, was officially opened to the public on November 18, 2011. The museum was designed by American architect Brad Cloepfil and houses the entire estate of Clyfford Still, including 94% of his total painted works. It offers a comprehensive insight into Still's life and artistic journey.

The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, located near Cripple Creek, Colorado, is a historic vertical shaft mine. This mine offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of mining in the region and understand the techniques used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The Peterson Air and Space Museum, located at Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado Springs, Colorado, is an aviation museum with a focus on the history of the Air Defense Command, Aerospace Defense Command, and Air Force Space Command. This museum provides a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the rich history of these significant military commands and their role in the development of aviation and space exploration.

The Western Museum of Mining & Industry, situated at 225 North Gate Boulevard in Colorado Springs, Colorado, is a unique institution that delves into the rich mining history and industrial technology of the western United States. This museum provides an in-depth look into the evolution of mining and industry in the region, offering a comprehensive understanding of the role these sectors played in shaping the West.

The Morrison Natural History Museum is situated in the scenic town of Morrison, Colorado. This museum is dedicated to the study and exhibition of natural history, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the rich biodiversity and geological history of the region.

Vintage Aero Flying Museum (VAFM), formally LaFayette Escadrille Flying Museum , is Colorado 's international aviation museum at Platte Valley Airpark , 4 miles (6.4 km) northwest of Hudson, Colorado and 40 miles (64 km) northeast of Denver, Colorado . Andy Parks, son of the last World War I Lafay

The American Museum of Western Art – The Anschutz Collection is a non-profit institution situated in Denver, Colorado. This museum is dedicated to showcasing the art of the American West from the early 19th century to the present.

This historical building once was the home of Edwin Carter, a pioneer and documenter of local nature.

The University of Colorado Museum of Natural History is located in Boulder, Colorado. This museum is dedicated to the study and preservation of natural history, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about the natural world.

The Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center and Museum, previously known as the Anasazi Heritage Center, is situated in Dolores, Colorado. This archaeological museum is dedicated to the Native American pueblo and hunter-gatherer cultures. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the rich history and traditions of these ancient civilizations.

The Cross Orchards Historic Site, located in Grand Junction, Colorado, is a living history museum that forms part of the Museums of Western Colorado. This site provides a unique opportunity for visitors to experience and learn about life on an orchard at the turn of the twentieth century.

The Colorado Sports Hall of Fame (CSHoF) is a museum that pays tribute to individuals who have made significant contributions to sports and athletic endeavors in the state of Colorado. It is a place where visitors can learn about the accomplishments of these individuals and their impact on the sports scene in Colorado.

Learn about the past of Breckenridge and the region through exhibitions, guided tours and various events. There's something for everyone.

The History Colorado Center, located at 1200 Broadway in Denver, Colorado, is a museum dedicated to the history of the state. Opened in April 2012, the museum offers a comprehensive look into the rich and diverse history of Colorado, making it an interesting destination for those wanting to learn more about the state's past.

The Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls and Toys is a unique destination for those interested in the world of miniatures, dolls, and toys. This private, non-profit museum is situated in Lakewood, Colorado, and offers a fascinating collection for visitors to explore.

The Art Center of Western Colorado, previously known as The Western Colorado Center for the Arts, is a significant cultural institution in Grand Junction, Colorado. Established in 1953, the center boasts a permanent collection primarily consisting of regional Western art. This collection provides a unique insight into the artistic heritage of the region, making it a worthwhile destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Dinosaur Ridge, located in Jefferson County, Colorado, near the town of Morrison and just west of Denver, is a segment of the Dakota Hogback in the Morrison Fossil Area National Natural Landmark. This area is renowned for its rich history and unique geological features, making it a popular destination for tourists and dinosaur enthusiasts alike.

Come and discover the truly historical Engine No. 9 that was one of the first ones used around Breckenridge. It features a unique rotary snowplow.

The Pueblo Zoo, located in Pueblo, Colorado, spans across 25 acres. It is a significant attraction in the United States, offering a vast space for visitors to explore and interact with a variety of animals.

The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is a comprehensive museum that caters to all ages. Established in 2008, it offers a blend of science, history, and culture, making it a diverse and enriching experience for visitors. Whether you're a history buff, a science enthusiast, or someone who appreciates culture, there's something for everyone at this museum.

The Trinidad History Museum, located in Trinidad, Colorado, United States, is a local history museum that offers a glimpse into the past of the city and its surroundings. It is a place where visitors can learn about the history and culture of Trinidad and the southeastern part of Colorado.

The Powerhouse Science Center, previously known as The Durango Discovery Museum, is an interactive science center situated in Durango, Colorado. This center offers a unique opportunity for visitors to engage with science in a hands-on and interactive way, making it an interesting destination for tourists of all ages.

This museum aims to preserve the memory of William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody who is buried here.

The Ute Indian Museum, located in Montrose, Colorado, United States, is a local history museum. It offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the Ute tribe of Native Americans. The museum is easily accessible and provides a wealth of information for those interested in Native American history.

The Old Hundred Mine is a historical gold mine located in the state of Colorado in the United States. It is situated on Galena Mountain near Silverton in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, at an elevation of 3,885 meters. This mine offers a unique glimpse into the past and the rich history of mining in the region.

The National Mining Hall of Fame, located in Leadville, Colorado, is a museum dedicated to honoring the work of miners and individuals involved in natural resources. It serves as a testament to the significant role that mining and related industries have played in shaping the nation's history and development.

The Limon Railroad Depot, located in Limon, Colorado, was a significant station for both the Union Pacific and Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad. This historic site has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 2003, marking its importance in the history of American railroads.

South Park City is an open-air museum situated at the western end of Front Street in the town of Fairplay, Park County, Colorado. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of the region in an immersive environment.

The Crow Canyon Archaeological Center, located in southwestern Colorado, is a 170-acre research center that also serves as a 'living classroom'. It offers experiential education programs for both students and adults. This unique center provides an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the Ancient Pueblo peoples, who lived in the region over seven centuries ago.

The Molly Brown Summer House, also known as Avoca Lodge, is a recognized Historic Place located in the southwest of Denver, Colorado, near Bear Creek. This location offers a unique glimpse into the past, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore a significant part of Denver's history.

Museo de las Americas, located in Denver, Colorado, is a fine arts museum that aims to educate the community. It does this through the collection, preservation, interpretation, and exhibition of diverse arts and cultures of the Americas. The museum's focus spans from ancient to contemporary times, offering a comprehensive view of the artistic and cultural evolution of the Americas.

The Black American West Museum and Heritage Center was officially established in 1971. It initially resided at 221 24th Street for a year before moving to the intersection of East Colfax Avenue and Detroit Street. The museum was then relocated to the Clayton School for Boys in 1975, and to the Five Points neighborhood in 1985. In 1988, the museum found its permanent home at the Justina Ford residence on California Street and 30th Avenue.

The Cripple Creek District Museum is home to five historic buildings, each with its own unique story. These include the 1894 Colorado Trading & Transfer Company building, the 1895 Midland Terminal Depot, a turn-of-the-century Assay Office, the former one-room home of French Blanche LeCroix, and a miner's cabin dating back to between 1890 and 1930. These buildings provide a tangible link to the past and offer a unique insight into the history of the area.

The Colorado Music Hall of Fame is situated in the Trading Post at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. This location is not only a museum but also a significant part of Colorado's music history. It provides an opportunity for visitors to explore the rich musical heritage of the state.

The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens is a unique botanical garden that spans across 3 hectares and is situated at an altitude of 2,460 meters (8,200 feet), making it the highest botanical garden in the world. It is located in the scenic town of Vail, Colorado. This unique location offers a distinct and diverse range of flora that can be explored and appreciated by visitors.

El Pueblo History Museum is situated in Pueblo, Colorado, in the United States. It is a local history museum that showcases the history and culture of the region. The museum is a significant cultural institution in the area, providing a comprehensive understanding of the local history and heritage.

The Buell Children's Museum, located in Pueblo, Colorado, is a unique destination that offers hands-on exhibits with a focus on arts, science, and history. This interactive experience is designed to engage children and stimulate their curiosity and creativity. The museum's exhibits are not only educational but also fun, making it a perfect place for a family outing.

The Rosemount Museum, also known as 'Rosemont', is a historic house museum located in Pueblo, Colorado. It is situated on a square block at one of the highest points in north Pueblo, directly across the street from the Parkview Medical Center. This location offers visitors a unique perspective of the city's landscape and a glimpse into its rich history.

The Avery House, a historic landmark, is situated at 328 W. Mountain Ave. in Fort Collins, Colorado. This notable structure was constructed in the year 1879, marking it as one of the oldest buildings in the city.

The WOW! Children's Museum, previously known as the World of Wonder, is an interactive museum situated in Lafayette, Colorado. It is primarily designed for children under the age of 12, offering a variety of exhibits and activities that promote learning through play. The museum provides a safe and engaging environment where children can explore, discover, and learn.

The Healy House Museum is not just a historic site, but it is also recognized on the National Register of Historic Places since 1970. Today, it is a Colorado State Historic Site and is managed as a Victorian era museum by the state under History Colorado. Alongside the Healy House, the Dexter Cabin is also part of this historic site, offering visitors a comprehensive view of the Victorian era in Leadville.

Temple Israel, located at 201 West 4th Street in Leadville, Colorado, is a historical site that was constructed in the summer of 1884. This building served as a synagogue for Jewish pioneers, many of whom were downtown merchants. The structure is a rare example of a frontier synagogue, providing a unique glimpse into the history of Jewish settlers in the American West.

The Walsenburg Mining Museum, previously known as the Huerfano County Courthouse and old Walsenburg jail, is a historic site located in Walsenburg, Colorado. These buildings hold a significant place in the history of Huerfano County and now serve as a museum, providing a glimpse into the past.

In 2002, the Longmont Museum & Cultural Center opened a new facility at 400 Quail Road in south Longmont. This $6 million project nearly doubled the museum's exhibition and program space, allowing for a wider range of exhibits and events.

The Kauffman House, located in Grand Lake, Colorado, is a rustic log house that served as a hotel from the time it was built in 1892 until 1973. This historical structure offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural style and functionality of buildings during that period.

The Cozens Ranch House, located in Fraser, Colorado, holds a significant place in the history of the region. It was built by William (Billy) Cozens, a former sheriff of Central City, after his marriage to Mary York. The couple started a ranch in 1874, marking the establishment of the first homestead in the Fraser Valley. This historical context provides a unique insight into the early settlement and development of the area.

The Wall Street Assay Office, now known as the James F. Bailey Assay Office Museum, is a historic commercial building that played a significant role in the precious metal mining industry. It is located in the western outskirts of Boulder, Colorado, in an area known as Wall Street. This area was once a thriving mining town and is now a testament to the rich mining history of Boulder County.

The Castle Rock Museum, formerly known as the Castle Rock Depot, is situated at 420 Elbert St. in Castle Rock, Colorado. This historic location offers visitors a chance to delve into the rich history of the area, with the building itself being a significant part of the local heritage.

The Frisco Schoolhouse, which is now a local museum, is an original one-room schoolhouse that is located in the Frisco Historic Park in Frisco, Colorado. This historic building is registered on the National Register of Historic Places, signifying its importance and value in the history of the area.

The Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art is an art museum situated in Denver, Colorado. It is a significant cultural institution in the city, offering visitors a chance to explore a wide range of art collections. The museum is known for its three main collections and includes the original studio and art school building of artist Vance Kirkland.

Fort Vasquez, located 35 miles northeast of Denver, Colorado, is a former fur trading post. It was established in 1835 by Louis Vasquez and Andrew Sublette. This historical site offers a glimpse into the past, providing an understanding of the fur trade era in the United States.

The National Ballpark Museum, located in Denver, Colorado, is part of a larger network of museums in the state. These museums, as defined by the state, include nonprofit organizations, government entities, and private businesses that collect and care for objects of artistic, scientific, or historical interest. The museum's collections and related exhibits are available for public viewing, offering a unique insight into the history and culture of baseball in America.

Interesting museum dedicated to the history and present of firefighting. Historic machinery on display.

The DAC is a place where people can come together to explore and engage in arts and culture. It fosters creative expression through a variety of in-house exhibitions, performances, and educational programs that cater to all ages and abilities. Whether you're an art enthusiast or a novice, the DAC has something to offer.

The Museum of Outdoor Arts (MOA) is a non-profit institution located in Englewood, Colorado. It was established in 1981 by John W. Madden, Jr. and his daughter, Cynthia Madden Leitner. The museum is dedicated to the integration of art, architecture, and landscape design, and is open throughout the year.

A well-known distillery where you can take a tour to learn about the process of making spirits. Its tasting room is also worth visiting.

Fresh museum displaying amazing exhibitions of American contemporary art. No art connoisseur can miss out this gallery.

This museum presents 'Western' history in an engaging and entertaining way. A must for kids as well as adults.

The Rocky Mountain Quilt Museum, located in Golden, Colorado, is a cultural and historical institution dedicated to the preservation and display of quilts. The museum offers a unique insight into the history of quilting, showcasing a variety of styles and techniques from different periods.

Interesting museum that promotes mountaineering. Innovative exhibitions present its history and various forms.

Interesting museum aimed at kids but not only for them. Exhibitions set-up to develop your imagination, entertain and educate.

Perfectly preserved campus with almost 20 historical buildings will give you an insight into the early era of pioneering and local history.