Enjoy Some Culture at One of These Denver Area Museums
Whether you're looking to indulge your inner art critic, engage your mind, or learn about local history, Denver's museum scene has something for everyone. Centrally located, these museums are within close proximity of one another, enabling you to explore them on foot or with just a few short drives. To get some culture, head to one of these world-class institutions.
Denver Art Museum
With over 70,000 works spanning North America and beyond, the critically acclaimed Denver Art Museum is one of the largest of its kind between Chicago and the West Coast. Works from Georgia O'Keeffe, Pablo Picasso, and Henri Matisse highlight some of the museum's most popular pieces, while its American Indian art collection remains among the most extensive in the world.
Located at 100 W. 14th Avenue Parkway, the museum is open daily, with extended hours on Tuesday evenings. Children 18 and under receive free general admission every day, and the museum offers several free days throughout the year for all visitors. Ticket pricing varies for Colorado residents versus out-of-state visitors — check the Denver Art Museum website for current rates and the free-day calendar.
Denver Museum of Nature and Science
Covering over 700,000 square feet and housing more than 1 million objects and artifacts, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science remains the largest museum in the city. Geared to entertain both adults and kids, the museum features numerous permanent exhibits alongside rotating traveling exhibitions. The Discovery Zone helps children learn about science, ecology, and nature through hands-on exhibits, while its dinosaur exhibits continue to be a highlight for visitors of all ages.
The on-site planetarium and Sturm Infinity Theater add even more to the experience, from stargazing shows to giant-screen films. The museum is located at 2001 Colorado Blvd. at the eastern end of City Park and is open daily, with extended hours most Fridays. Ticket pricing has increased in recent years — check the museum's website for current admission rates and discount programs, including free days made possible by the Scientific & Cultural Facilities District.
Museum of Contemporary Art Denver
Opened in 1996, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) Denver was the city's first museum dedicated entirely to modern art. With striking architecture, a rotating series of events, and a rooftop cafe and bar, it's a great spot to visit even if you aren't especially into contemporary art. The museum still has no permanent collection — instead, rotating exhibits ensure your experience is different every time you visit.
MCA Denver has grown since it first opened, now operating a second location at the Holiday Theater in Denver's Northside neighborhood in addition to its original home at 1485 Delgany St. Hours vary by day, so check the MCA Denver website for current hours, admission pricing, and their Penny Saturday program, which offers discounted admission on the first Saturday of the month.
FAQ
Are children free at these museums?
Yes — the Denver Art Museum offers free admission for visitors 18 and under every day, and MCA Denver also offers free admission for youth 19 and under.
Do any of these museums have free admission days?
Yes — both the Denver Art Museum and Denver Museum of Nature and Science offer scheduled free days throughout the year, supported by the Scientific & Cultural Facilities District.
Is MCA Denver only located downtown?
No — MCA Denver now has two locations: its original home on Delgany Street and a newer location at the Holiday Theater in the Northside neighborhood.
Do I need advance tickets for these museums?
It's recommended, especially for the Denver Museum of Nature and Science's planetarium and theater showings, and for any special ticketed exhibitions at all three museums, as they can sell out.