Art District on Santa Fe: Denver's Creative Heart
Explore Denver's oldest art district, a vibrant hub of galleries, studios, and cultural experiences on Santa Fe Drive.
The Art District on Santa Fe, Denver's oldest art district, is a vibrant cultural hub brimming with galleries, studios, theaters, and creative businesses. Known for its colorful murals and strong Latino heritage, the district hosts the popular First Friday Art Walks, drawing thousands to celebrate art, community, and culture.
A brief summary to Art District on Santa Fe
- 858 Santa Fe Dr, Denver, Central, Colorado, 80204, US
- +1720-773-2373
- Visit website
Local tips
- Attend the First Friday Art Walks (5:30-9:30 p.m.) for a lively experience with art, food, and community.
- Visit on Third Friday for a more intimate 'Collector's Night' with gallery owners and artists.
- Explore the district's Hispanic heritage through its murals, restaurants, and cultural centers like Museo de las Americas.
- Use public transportation or ride-sharing, especially during First Friday events, to avoid parking hassles.
- Check out the various art galleries and studios, but also explore the local dining scene, including craft breweries and the historic Buckhorn Exchange.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Art District on Santa Fe is accessible via Denver's Regional Transportation District (RTD). From Denver Union Station, take the D Line light rail to the 10th & Osage Station. From there, it's a short walk east to Santa Fe Drive. RTD local fares are $2.75 for a 3-hour pass or $5.50 for a day pass. The new ART District Connector bus route also connects the Santa Fe Art District with other cultural sites. Check the RTD website or app for schedules and real-time updates.
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Walking
If you are in downtown Denver, walking to the Art District on Santa Fe is an option, though it's a considerable distance (approximately 1.5 to 2 miles from the heart of downtown). Head south and west, using landmarks like the Denver Art Museum and the Colorado Convention Center as orientation points. Continue along major streets like Speer Boulevard or Lincoln Street until you reach Santa Fe Drive. Be aware that this walk can take 30-45 minutes.
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Ride Share/Taxi
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, as well as taxis, provide a convenient way to reach the Art District on Santa Fe. From downtown Denver, a ride to the district typically costs between $10 and $20, depending on traffic and demand. Be sure to specify 'Art District on Santa Fe' or a specific gallery address as your destination. Note that during First Friday events, traffic can be heavy, potentially increasing fares.
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Parking
While there is street parking available in the Art District on Santa Fe, it can be limited, especially during peak hours and events like First Friday. Some spots may have 2-hour limits before 6 p.m.. Parking lots are available, such as the Su Teatro N & S parking lots, which cost $2 on weekdays and $5 on weekends and holidays. During First Friday Art Walks, parking is sometimes available at West High School (10th Avenue and Galapago St.) for $5. Always check posted signs for parking restrictions and rates.
Discover more about Art District on Santa Fe
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Colorado Historical Society
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Denver City & County Building
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Camp Weld Historic Marker
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Statue On The Trail
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Denver Press Club
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Governor's Residence at the Boettcher Mansion
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Colorado Veterans Monument
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Mile-High Steps
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Grant-Humphreys Mansion
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Discover Denver Tours: Walking & Bus Tours of the Mile High City
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Denver Omelet Plaque
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VISIT DENVER
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Mountain States Telephone & Telegraph Company Headquarters Building
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Paramount Theatre
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Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception
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Unmissable attractions to see
Sunken Gardens Park
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Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art
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Clyfford Still Museum
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Counterterrorism Education Learning Lab (CELL)
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Center for Colorado Women's History
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Denver Art Museum
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The Wizard's Chest
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Denver's ultimate destination for costumes, games, toys, and magical treasures, offering a whimsical escape for all ages since 1983.
Iii
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United States Mint
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History Colorado Center
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United States Mint Tour Entrance and Gift Shop
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Denver Public Library: Central Library
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The Church Nightclub
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Denver Firefighters Museum
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Denver Christkindlmarket
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Essential places to dine
Buckhorn Exchange
0.6 km
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The 9th Door Capitol Hill
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DiFranco's
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Fire Restaurant & Lounge
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The Ponti at Denver Art Museum
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Mizuna
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Luca
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Yard House
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Angelo’s Taverna
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The Corner Office Restaurant + Martini Bar
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The Nickel
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EDGE Restaurant & Bar
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Beatrice & Woodsley
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French 75
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Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Here In Heaven Vintage
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Giftd
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Wolf & co.
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The Ten Penny Store
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I Heart Denver
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FM
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Simply Colorado
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Capitol Hill Books
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La Lovely Vintage
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Where the Buffalo Roam Denver
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Mt Everest Import
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Wild West of America
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The Common Collective
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Welcome To Denver Store
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Souvenir Warehouse
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Fainting Goat Pub
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Vesper Lounge
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Salita
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Bar Nun Denver
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12 Spirits Tavern
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Peaks Lounge
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BEZEL Bar
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Pub on Penn
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Hudson Hill
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Nob Hill Inn
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Churchill Bar
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Union Lodge No.1
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Teller Bar
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The Front Porch
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Roosevelt
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