Despite being widely hailed for its world-class skiing and outdoor recreation opportunities, Steamboat Springs also boasts a thriving and diverse arts and culture scene. The iconic mountain town is able to blend its unique Western cultural heritage with contemporary creativity aplenty, which results in a one-of-a-kind blend of artistic expression that locals and visitors alike are able to appreciate. Steamboat Springs is home to a variety of local galleries that showcase pieces from traditional Western artwork to modern sculptures and abstract works.
Whether you’re just stopping in town for a weekend or you’re looking to explore the region more in-depth, swing by the Steamboat Art Museum to peruse rotating exhibits that highlight both regionally and nationally recognized artists. If you have more time, start working your way down the list of independent galleries in town — such as the Jace Romick Gallery and Pine Moon Fine Art.
Steamboat Springs invites visitors, guests, and locals alike to partake in the town’s art scene by participating in one of their First Friday Artwalks. These self-guided tours are hosted monthly, allowing art lovers to visit galleries and connect with artists in the community.
Art Galleries & Museums in Steamboat Springs
Steamboat’s Art Museum is an anchor of sorts when it comes to the art scene around town. The museum features rotating pieces and exhibits while offering patrons a deep dive into the creative spirit of the region. Steamboat is also home to a diverse selection of independent galleries, including fine art photography, innovative multimedia pieces, and more. If you’re not sure where to begin — check out the First Friday Artwalk that’s held monthly and you’ll get a taste of everything in the span of one evening!
Steamboat Art Museum
Where? 801 Lincoln Avenue
The Steamboat Art Museum is widely considered a cultural gem in Steamboat. The museum is conveniently located downtown, making it accessible to both residents and tourists. The museum is housed in the beautifully restored First National Bank/Rehder building, which is a historic landmark that dates back to the early 1900s. The museum itself was established in 2006 and is dedicated to showcasing art that reflects Steamboat’s Western heritage, with a specialized focus on landscapes, wildlife, and an array of cultural narratives that have defined the Yampa Valley and the surrounding regions for decades. Museum visitors can explore rotating exhibits from both nationally and locally recognized talents, from traditional oil paintings and Western realism to contemporary pieces and even multimedia installations.
Aside from its exhibits, the Steamboat Art Museum also plays an important community role as far as providing a venue for educational programs, workshops, and speakers throughout the year. These programs are designed to attract visitors of all ages and to promote community engagement. Visitors interested in gaining deeper insights into the art will appreciate artist talks, guided tours, and more. The museum offers free admission, making it more accessible than ever for visitors to immerse themselves in the rich artistic heritage of Steamboat. Currently on display is Art in Sport: Motion, Emotion, Moments, and Light. The exhibit explores the dynamic interplay of movement and emotion in sports through a collection of photography, sculpture and painting.
Pine Moon Fine Art
Where? 117 9th Street
Pine Moon Fine Art was established in 2016 and is located in downtown Steamboat. The gallery offers visitors access to a wide range of artwork by 12 local artists. New exhibitions are curated each month, meaning there’s always something new to see! At Pine Moon Fine Art, visitors can enjoy both traditional and contemporary works across acrylic, bronze, graphite, oil, paper, photography, printmaking, ceramics, and watercolor mediums. The art gallery also features handmade jewelry and a multitude of pieces that visitors can take home with them from the store. Pine Moon Fine Art was voted Best Art Gallery 2024, so make sure to swing by and check out the displays!
Jace Romick Gallery
Where? 833 Lincoln Avenue
Steamboat’s Jace Romick Gallery is in fact three galleries in one location. The owner, Jace Romick, is a former Olympic skier, rodeo competitor, woodworker, and wildlife photographer who grew up on a ranch in Steamboat Springs. Romick’s incredible array of life experiences have combined to influence his powerful photography and unique creative vision. Aside from curating compelling photographs, Jace Romick also designs and builds custom frames for his work that elevate the images and present them in a way that’s compelling and evocative for viewers. The gallery focuses on the exhibition and sale of Western contemporary artwork, with staff curating quarterly exhibitions and hosting various special events throughout the year. Through active involvement in the local art community, the gallery strives to stay connected with designers, collectors, and art enthusiasts throughout the region.
Schoonover Gallery Fine Art
Where? 929 Lincoln Avenue
Schoonover Gallery Fine Art can be best described as mountain contemporary with a mix of modern west. The gallery brings artists from around the world to Steamboat’s robust art scene. Katie Schoonover, the owner, has a unique knack for assembling unique, emotionally inspiring, and skillfully curated pieces for the benefit of her patrons. The gallery proudly represents 30 artists from around the world. Visitors will be greeted by a diverse combination of artists and styles. Stay up to date on new arrivals via the gallery’s website or swing by to see what’s new! Past exhibitions at the gallery have included A Short & Concise History of Butch Cassidy and Celebrating Steamboat Springs.
Zandee Gallery
Where? 703 Lincoln Avenue Unit B 104
The Zandee Gallery in Steamboat is situated downtown on Lincoln and 7th, near Stio. The beautiful 2400 square foot space hosts events throughout the year, as well as exhibits Tim Zandee’s fine art photography that adorns the gallery. There are also pieces from several guest artists throughout the gallery, so make sure to check out what’s new and what’s available! During the summer months, the gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Sundays, and by appointment on Mondays.
Wild Horse Gallery
Where? 802 Lincoln Avenue
Wild Horse Gallery in Steamboat specializes in contemporary realism. The gallery showcases local, regional, and national artists and offers fine pieces for the astute collector. Featured artists throughout the years have celebrated the landscapes, wildlife, and culture of Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region. Experienced curators at Wild Horse Gallery are eager to assist patrons with meaningful and timeless acquisitions for their collections. The gallery is located in the Creative District of historic Downtown Steamboat Springs, making it a convenient location for tourists to stop by and peruse, as well as locals who want to shop and display a local piece of art in their own homes. During the summer and winter months, the gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and during the early spring and late fall “mud season,” the hours are Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Private appointments can be scheduled.
The Westerly
Where? 907 Lincoln Avenue
The Westerly is proudly located in the heart of Steamboat Springs. Boasting a collection of curated goods, including fine art, home decor, apothecary, and curiosities — patrons can shop confidently amongst unique pieces and rest assured when it comes to the high quality and integrity of sourced items. The artwork displayed at The Westerly strives to honor the town’s Western heritage, all while adding that bit of contemporary spice! Artists on display include Kym Day, Drew Christie, Jack Ludlam, Brandon Owen, and many more. Whether you’re shopping for something specific or you’re perusing art with an open mind, swing by The Westerly to see what they have in store for you!
Community Engagement in Steamboat’s Art Scene
Looking to get involved yourself in the art scene in and around Steamboat Springs? Check out these signature events, such as the First Friday Art Walk that recurs monthly or Art in the Park — a summertime event! There are also hands-on workshops and classes, such as the All Levels Pottery Wheel Class at Warehome Studios or Try Me Days at the Steamboat Art Museum!
Steamboat Creates Historic Depot Art Center
Where? 1001 13th Street
Steamboat Creates has a long and storied history of championing the arts that dates back over 50 years! The Depot Art Center operates year-round, with thousands of adult students, art exhibit visitors, and workshop participants annually. This community treasure is a staple in the Steamboat art scene, standing proudly between the mighty Yampa River and the railroad. Steamboat Creates is proud to collaborate with dozens of arts and cultural organizations, 100+ creative entrepreneurs, teachers, creative businesses, and more throughout the community to provide valuable resources for education, support, and inspiration for working artists in the Yampa Valley Region and beyond. Visitors will discover a wealth of creative learning opportunities, ranging from beginner to advanced artists across various locations and venues in Steamboat. Whether you’re interested in hands-on figure drawing workshops at the Depot Art Center or a Threading Blooms workshop in collaboration with Seedhouse Coffee, you can get involved in the local community yourself and indulge your creative side!
First Friday Art Walk
Where? Downtown Steamboat
Steamboat Creates organizes the First Friday Art Walk every month to invite the community to experience the local art community firsthand. These self-guided local tours include art galleries, museums, and alternative venues across downtown Steamboat Springs. Businesses remain open on the first Friday of the month even later than usual, with many offering changing exhibits. This event is free to the public and is typically hosted from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Attendees may even find refreshments and light bites across select venues! From art galleries mentioned above such as Pine Moon Fine Art Gallery and Jace Romick Gallery, to businesses such as Ohana and Roots & Roost, Co. — First Friday Art Walk participants can delve into what the artistry scene around Steamboat is all about.
Art in the Park
Where? West Lincoln Park
Art in the Park is one of the largest art festivals in Northwest Colorado, drawing in local artists from around the country eager to display their handmade work! This is a family-friendly festival that’s free to the public. The event is held during the summer months, with 2025’s dates scheduled for July 12th & 13th. Art in the Park features 120+ artists and vendors, ranging from clay, painting, sculptures, clothes, leather, and craft goods. There will also be delicious food truck options and a beer garden with lawn games and live entertainment. Attendees can also enjoy interactive creative stations and a children’s area with free crafts and engaging activities to keep everyone entertained!
Try Me Days
Where? 801 Lincoln Avenue
Try Me Days at the Steamboat Art Museum are designed for families and kids. These designated days are scheduled on the second Friday of each month and provide a fun, hands-on way to explore creativity. Try Me Days are free and everyone is invited to test out the high-quality supplies available in the museum store with guidance from a helpful, skilled instructor. Participants will also have the opportunity to enter to win exciting prizes. These workshops are often 2 hours in length, giving young artists plenty of time to explore their burgeoning creative spirit! All art supplies will be provided.
Pottery Workshops
Where? 2520 Copper Ridge Drive c2
Have you always wanted to try your hand at the pottery wheel? Warehome Studios offers a range of workshops and classes that are open to the public, such as Wednesday All Levels Pottery Wheel Classes with afternoon and evening times available. This class is priced at $550, which includes 6 weeks of studio access, 25 pounds of clay, as well as glazes and firings. The studio also offers a popular Date Night on the Pottery Wheel class, priced at $200 per couple. In addition, Warehome Studios offers glass-blowing lessons! Participants can find class times listed via the website or there’s also an option to set up custom private sessions.
Start Exploring Steamboat’s Art Scene
Now that you know the ins and outs of the art scene around Steamboat, it’s time to get involved! Whether you’re excited to attend a First Friday Art Walk or you’re already scheduling a class to explore the pottery wheel — there’s a great deal of creative spirit in and around Steamboat and some of it is waiting to be discovered by you!