The Aspen Art Museum features international contemporary art installations in a building designed by world-renowned architect Shigeru Ban. Revolving exhibits and education programs (as well as free admission for all) make it an essential stop for culture vultures. It's also the only art museum in the country with a ski rack out front (at least that we know of!). Note: presently, the museum has new guidelines for timed, scheduled admission.
Aspen's arts and culture scene rivals that of some major cities and is certainly at the top of the list for Colorado arts and culture destinations. Aspen has a long history of fostering the arts. For decades, a highly engaged population with a diverse set of interests and opinions has helped foster a community that loves a good discussion. In recent years, even Snowmass Village has become a hotbed for arts patrons and culture vultures, too.
The busy summer season of fine arts, ballet, theater, film, live music and speakers series continue right into the winter, with some programming and venue changes. And don't forget the uniquely winter offerings, too, like touring a historic ghost town on snowshoe, or screening contenders for the "Best Picture" Oscars with some of the Academy's voting members.
Below is your comprehensive guide to arts and culture in Aspen Snowmass this winter season.
The busy summer season of fine arts, ballet, theater, film, live music and speakers series continue right into the winter, with some programming and venue changes. And don't forget the uniquely winter offerings, too, like touring a historic ghost town on snowshoe, or screening contenders for the "Best Picture" Oscars with some of the Academy's voting members.
Below is your comprehensive guide to arts and culture in Aspen Snowmass this winter season.
Note: Due to the ongoing pandemic, we recommend contacting each museum, theater and institution listed below for current procedures, opening times, reservation policies and safety protocols before visiting.
Aspen Art Museum
Aspen Art Museum
The Aspen Institute
The Aspen Institute in winter
A center for thought-leaders, intellectuals, dignitaries, world leaders and innovators, the Aspen Institute hosts numerous events worldwide. Here in its hometown, its signature event is the Aspen Ideas Festival in summer, but winter includes many compelling speakers as well, including the popular sessions entitled "Great Books."
Wheeler Opera House
Arts & Culture Winter Aspen
Aspen's grandest and most historic performing arts venue remains this jewel from 1889. Throughout the year, the Wheeler Opera House hosts concerts, stand-up comedy, film festivals and other events that draw an audience from far and wide. It also serves as one of the host venues for the Academy Screenings in December (see above).
Snowmass Luminescence
We could all use a little more light in our lives these days. And now, when the lifts close at Snowmass, things really brighten up. Snowmass Luminescence, an interactive art and light display brought to you by Snowmass Tourism and Aspen Snowmass, will immerse you and your family in a dazzling world of light and art.
Art on the Mountain
Elk Camp art
Throughout our resort, you will find art installations that celebrate the way Aspen rejuvenates our mind, body and spirit. Whether its the colorful mural at Elk Camp Restaurant (pictured), our annual art on our lift tickets, or Walter Niedermayr's numerous Aspen Series photographic installations, you'll regularly discover "art in unexpected places."