Get ready for an exciting and educational journey chronicling days past at the History Colorado Center. Once known as the Colorado History Museum in Denver, Colorado, in its previous location (one block south of its current address in the Golden Triangle neighborhood), its grand reopening in 2012 spurred a revival of interest. The Center strikes a perfect balance between educational and entertaining for the best of both worlds, thanks to a multitude of permanent and temporary exhibits for both kids and adults.
History Colorado Center Exhibits
There are six permanent exhibits at the History Colorado Center as well as several continually changing temporary exhibits that cover a variety of topics. For the most up-to-date information on current and temporary displays, check out the official website. The permanent History Colorado Center exhibits include:
- Living West: This sprawling display covers a massive 7,000 square feet and explores how people and animals flourished historically in Colorado's varied environmental regions. It is divided into three areas: Mesa Verde, Dust Bowl, and Mountains.
- Destination Colorado: Lose yourself in a full-blown replica of the Old West homestead, Keota, Colorado, as you meander past a school, general store, and other buildings all the while listening to the narration about real residents of the abandoned town.
- Colorado Stories: Follow in-depth portrayals of the challenges faced by various ethnic groups in Colorado's history, as well as life in a silver mine and what it's like to work in Rocky Mountain National Park as a forest ranger.
- Time Machine: Roll a "steampunk" style time machine over a giant 40' x 60' interactive map of the state to read stories from different time periods and regions.
- Denver A-Z: Each letter of the alphabet reveals an interesting tidbit about Denver, including its mild obsession with zombies. It's chock full of fascinating Colorado facts!
- The Denver Diorama: A local favorite that depicts the Mile High City's humble beginnings as a small town in the 1800's.
If you're keen to do firsthand research on the Centennial State (so named because it officially joined the union in 1876), the Stephen H. Hart Research Center on the second floor of the History Colorado Center has what you need. Filled with photography, artifacts, newspaper collections, and more, the Research Center is almost a museum in it of itself.
Where is the History Colorado Center?
Located in the Golden Triangle neighborhood, (which boasts an eclectic mix of old Victorian houses, art galleries, and commercial establishments), the History Colorado Center is smack in the middle of one of Denver's most vibrant areas. Nearby you'll find the Denver Art Museum, the Clyfford Still Museum, and the Byers-Evans House Museum, all within a few blocks. There are also plenty of spots to grab a bite to eat or drink to unwind after a long day of exploring.
Interesting Colorado Facts
You'll learn plenty of factoids throughout your visit to the History Colorado Center, but here are a few to pique your interest before you go:
- Colorado is the only state in the history of the games to turn down the Olympics! Officials decided the pollution, cost, and swell in population were not worth it.
- You can take a selfie exactly one mile above sea level on the 13th step of the stairs leading to the state capital building in Denver.
- Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico are all literally just a hop, skip, or a jump away at the southwest corner of the state, also known as the "Four Corners."
- The highest city in the United States is Leadville, Colorado, at over 10,000 feet above sea level.
History Colorado Center Parking
Covered parking is available just one block away at the Cultural Complex Garage, which offers covered parking for a range of local attractions. Visitors can also find additional metered street and paid garage parking nearby. While there is a covered lot next to the Center itself, note that it is not public parking for visitors.
Tickets for the History Colorado Center
Visitors can buy tickets online on the official website. However, for discounted History Colorado Center museum tickets, check out Denver CityPASS® tickets. CityPASS® tickets can save almost off full admission prices for a range of top tourist attractions in the Mile High City including the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum, Denver Art Museum, Denver Botanic Gardens, and more. It's a great opportunity for residents and visitors alike to explore the cultural abundance and natural beauty of Denver.
When is the History Colorado Center Open?
Check the History Colorado Center website to find the latest information on days and hours of operation. If you want to beat the crowds, try to plan your visit to the Center on a weekday morning.
Anyone looking to learn more about Colorado's storied past, from its beginnings as a wild frontier filled with would-be miners to its current presence as a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, will have a blast exploring the History Colorado Center. Next time you're looking for something to do in Denver, put this incredible museum on your list!
Nearby Lodging
To get the most out of your stay in Denver, we recommend finding lodging near Denver's top attractions like History Colorado Center. Use this map to find the right lodging for you:
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