Explore Denver's cultural neighborhoods, discover local artists, browse independent shops, and find ways to support the small businesses that make the city unique.
There’s a lot more to Denver, Colorado than just the gateway to the Rocky Mountains. The city is filled with a variety of communities, lots of art, historic areas, independent businesses and culture. With vibrant murals, contemporary art galleries, vintage shops and local businesses, there are plenty of ways to experience the local community.
Whether you’re a local wanting to try something new, a new resident wanting to get to know your local community or just a visitor wanting to find some hidden gems, there are plenty of fun ways to explore Denver’s cultural areas and support local artists and businesses.
1. Art District On Santa Fe
The Art District On Santa Fe is one of Denver’s most unique areas to visit. This area has lots of galleries, studios, creative businesses and vibrant murals.
There are lots of different art styles, including painting, photography, sculpture, textiles and contemporary art. This area is a great place to find new artists and chat with local gallery owners. You’ll also find lots of unique pieces.
The area is well known for its monthly First Friday Art Walk. Each month you can visit some of the galleries and studios open in the area. Be sure to check the official calendar for the latest dates, venues and times.
Why Visit?
Find local art, independent creative businesses and a community that embraces art.
Find out more here: https://visitdenver.com/neighborhoods/art-district-on-santa-fe/
2. RiNo
The River North Art District (or RiNo) is famous for its vibrant murals, upcycled buildings, galleries, studios and creative businesses.
This area is a great alternative to a traditional museum. You can find lots of art on the walls of the buildings.
In addition to murals, you’ll find lots of independent creatives, designers, photographers, illustrators, specialist shops, restaurants and more. You’ll be able to spend an afternoon exploring the street art, creative businesses and local businesses.
As the murals and exhibitions change regularly, you’ll always find new art to look at.
Why Visit?
Public art, unique products and businesses from the creative community.
3. Five Points
Five Points is one of Denver’s historic areas. It plays an important role in Denver’s African American culture.
Often referred to as the ‘Harlem of the West’, this area became well known for its jazz scene and influential musicians who played in the clubs throughout the 20 th century. There are lots of music, historic landmarks, community organisations, local restaurants and art.
You’ll be able to explore the area’s history, find local food businesses and learn more about the people and places that helped shape Denver.
You’ll get a real feel for the community by finding out more about the history and supporting the local businesses.
Why Visit?
Learn about Denver’s jazz history, African American history and support local businesses.
Find out more- Visit Denver
4. South Broadway & Baker
If you love vintage fashion, independent boutiques, second-hand books, records, antiques and unique gifts then South Broadway and Baker are great areas to visit.
These areas have a great mix of historic buildings, local businesses, music venues, specialist shops and eating places. If you enjoy supporting independent businesses, then you’ll love these areas.
You’ll be able to find lots of unique products and meet local business owners. Depending on the shop you’ll find vintage clothing, second-hand furniture, handmade accessories, art and unique gifts.
Be sure to check the opening times and what’s currently in stock.
Why Visit?
Unique products, support independent businesses and enjoy a different side of Denver.
5. Golden Triangle Creative District
If you love art, museums, galleries and creative areas then the Golden Triangle Creative District is another great place to visit.
This area has lots of big-name cultural organisations and smaller galleries. Great if you want to visit a museum and independent exhibitions.
You’ll be able to find lots of different art styles from traditional and realistic to contemporary. You’ll also be able to learn more about the artists and exhibitions.
Be sure to check the current exhibition times and opening hours. Some galleries have limited opening times and change their exhibitions throughout the year.
Why Visit?
Experience a wider variety of art, see different styles and find some new galleries that showcase local and regional artists.
6. Independent Art Spaces
Denver has lots of creative areas outside of the best-known areas. There are plenty of independent galleries, artist collectives, community art spaces and creative reuse organisations to visit.
The Denver Art Society is a great community-focused place to explore artists and creative businesses. The RedLine Contemporary Art Centre helps support contemporary art.
These areas can help you understand how creative communities are built and may help you find some artists that you wouldn’t find in larger galleries.
You may want to visit an exhibition, explore a community art space or find out more about workshops. Be sure to check current opening times.
Why Visit?
Find new artists and creative projects, learn about local art initiatives and find organisations that help contribute to Denver’s culture.
7. Support Local Businesses
When visiting Denver’s cultural areas, you can also support local businesses.
Here are a few simple ways to make the most of your visit:
Buy local art – Find some prints, handmade pieces, ceramics or any other art from artists that you love.
Independent shops – Find local boutiques, vintage shops, bookshops and specialist stores.
Local businesses – Find a local café or restaurant.
Community events – Find some art walks, exhibitions, workshops or community events. This will help you find local creatives.
Recommend – Recommend the places you love to your friends. This will help other locals find some independent businesses.
Ask questions – If you can, ask questions about locally made products, artists and the history of the area.
By doing little things like this you’ll help more people find independent businesses.
8. A Simple Way To Explore Denver’s Culture
You don’t need to visit all the areas. Just choose one and spend time exploring the galleries, shops and culture.
Morning
Visit the Art District On Santa Fe. Explore the galleries and find local art. Find some local independent businesses.
Afternoon
Visit RiNo. Find some murals, creative businesses and makers. Be sure to check the current opening times.
Another Day
Visit Five Points to learn about Denver’s jazz and African American history. Or visit South Broadway and Baker for some vintage shops and independent businesses.
If you love museums and galleries, then visit the Golden Triangle Creative District.
Each area offers a different experience so you may enjoy visiting them separately. Be sure to check transport links, accessibility, parking and event times.
9. Find More Local Businesses In Denver
Finding independent businesses and local artists can take some time. As exhibitions change, new businesses open and there are events throughout the year.
A local discovery platform can help find businesses, services, events, jobs and community opportunities.
With WooWhoLocal, locals can easily find local businesses, community events, and connect with their area. Business owners can also use local discovery to show off their work.
Find out what’s on offer in your local area by finding businesses you’re interested in.
Find local businesses, events, services, and opportunities here.
Final Thoughts
Denver’s cultural areas show you how much history, creativity and independent businesses the city has to offer. With vibrant murals in RiNo, galleries along Santa Fe Drive, jazz history in Five Points and independent businesses around South Broadway, there are lots of ways to find out more about the people and businesses that make Denver unique.
You don’t need to know much about art and you don’t need to be a local. Simply choose an area, explore at your leisure, learn a little about the history, and support a local business.
Go local.
Find local businesses and community opportunities with WooWhoLocal
