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Wheeler Opera House: Aspen's Cultural Gem

4.7 (149)

Experience arts, culture, and history at Aspen's iconic Wheeler Opera House, a beautifully restored Victorian-era theater in the heart of downtown.

The Wheeler Opera House, built in 1889 during Aspen's silver boom, is a beautifully restored Victorian-era theater and a vibrant center for arts, entertainment, and community events. It stands as a testament to Aspen's rich history and cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Wheeler Opera House

  • Tuesday 12 pm-5 pm
  • Wednesday 12 pm-5 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-5 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-5 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-5 pm

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets in advance, especially for popular shows and events, to ensure availability.
  • Consider using public transportation or arriving early to secure parking, as parking in Aspen can be limited.
  • Check the Wheeler Opera House website for upcoming events, tours, and detailed information about current programs.
  • Take advantage of the free RFTA bus service to get around Aspen and the Roaring Fork Valley.
  • If driving, be aware that downtown street parking is free after 6 PM, and the Rio Grande Parking Garage offers free parking from 5 PM to 5 AM.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Wheeler Opera House is centrally located in downtown Aspen at 320 E Hyman Ave, making it easily accessible on foot from most locations in the downtown area. From Rubey Park Bus Terminal, walk two blocks east on Durant Avenue, then turn left onto Mill Street and walk one block north to Hyman Avenue. The Opera House is on the corner of Hyman and Mill. No cost involved.

  • Public Transport

    Aspen offers free public transportation throughout the city and the Roaring Fork Valley via the Roaring Fork Transit Authority (RFTA). From any RFTA bus stop within Aspen, take the bus to Rubey Park Bus Terminal. From there, walk two blocks east on Durant Avenue, then turn left onto Mill Street and walk one block north to Hyman Avenue. The Opera House is on the corner of Hyman and Mill. The bus service itself is free within Aspen.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Aspen. A taxi ride from Aspen Pitkin County Airport (ASE) to the Wheeler Opera House is estimated to cost around $12.87. From other locations within Aspen, a typical 5 km ride would cost approximately $13.80. Note that rates may vary depending on the provider and time of day.

  • Parking

    If driving, be aware that parking in Aspen can be limited. Downtown street parking is free after 6 PM. The Rio Grande Parking Plaza, located at 427 Rio Grande Place, offers 24-hour covered parking. Rates are $1.50 for 0-1 hours, $3 for 1-2 hours, $4.50 for 2-3 hours, and $10 for a full day. There are also two designated ADA parking spots on E. Hyman Avenue.

Discover more about Wheeler Opera House

The Wheeler Opera House, located in the heart of downtown Aspen, has been a cultural cornerstone since its opening in 1889. Commissioned by Jerome B. Wheeler, a prominent businessman and mining investor, the opera house was designed to reflect Aspen's prosperity during the silver boom. The building quickly became a premier venue on the 'Silver Circuit,' hosting a variety of performances from operas to lectures. The Wheeler's history has been marked by both grandeur and adversity. Opening night featured satin programs scented with rose water and showcased some of the region's first electric lights. However, the Panic of 1893 and subsequent fires led to its closure and disuse for many years. The City of Aspen purchased the building in 1918 due to back taxes owed. It wasn't until the mid-20th century that a series of renovations, including work by Bauhaus architect Herbert Bayer, revived the opera house. A significant restoration in 1984 returned the Wheeler to its original Victorian splendor. Today, the Wheeler Opera House hosts a diverse array of events, including concerts, film festivals, comedy shows, and community gatherings. With a seating capacity of approximately 500, the theater provides an intimate setting for experiencing arts and culture. Free guided tours are offered seasonally by the Aspen Historical Society, providing an insider's look at this iconic building. The Wheeler Opera House remains a beloved landmark, symbolizing Aspen's enduring commitment to the arts and community engagement.

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