Background

House With the Eye Museum: A Glimpse into Leadville's Past

Explore Leadville's history through the all-seeing eye. A unique museum experience filled with artifacts and stories from the past.

4.3

The House With the Eye Museum in Leadville, Colorado, is a captivating historic home distinguished by a stained-glass eye in its roofline. Built in 1879, the museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts donated by Leadville citizens, offering a glimpse into the life and times of this vibrant mining town.

A brief summary to House With the Eye Museum

  • 127 W 4th St, Leadville, Colorado, 80461, US

Local tips

  • Check the museum's operating hours, as they may vary seasonally.
  • Allow at least one hour to fully explore the museum's exhibits.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around Leadville's historic district to appreciate the town's Victorian architecture.
  • Consider purchasing a Leadville Museums Passport for discounts at multiple museums.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The House With the Eye Museum is located at 127 W 4th St in Leadville. From the intersection of Harrison Ave and W 4th St, walk one block west on W 4th St. The museum will be on your left.

  • Public Transport

    Lake County Transit provides free bus service around Leadville on Mondays through Fridays. Check the Lake County Transit website for routes and schedules. Disembark near Harrison Ave and W 4th St, then walk one block west on W 4th St to reach the museum.

  • Parking

    Limited 2-hour parking is available on Harrison Avenue and the 100 blocks going east and west. All-day parking is available at public lots near the High School and Middle School. Please be aware that parking restrictions are enforced. Leadville also has free summer weekend shuttle service from downtown Leadville to Twin Lakes. Stops include Harrison + 3rd (parking behind Tabor Opera House).

Unlock the Best of House With the Eye Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about House With the Eye Museum

Step back in time at the House With the Eye Museum, a unique architectural and historical landmark in Leadville, Colorado. Constructed in 1879 by Eugene Robitaille, a Canadian architect and carpenter, the house is best known for the distinctive stained-glass eye gazing from its roof. Contrary to local legend, the eye wasn't intended to curse the nearby red-light district but was a reflection of Robitaille's deep religious beliefs and a popular architectural trend of adding unusual stained glass to homes. Originally Robitaille's residence, the house briefly served as his company's office and model home before becoming a museum in 1964. After a period of closure, it reopened to the public, displaying a fascinating array of 19th- and 20th-century objects donated by Leadville residents. Inside, visitors can explore exhibits featuring items such as a Studebaker horse-drawn hearse from the 1890s, a 1925 electric player piano, and even hangman's nooses. A guest book signed by Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher adds a touch of Hollywood glamour. The museum offers a glimpse into the daily life, virtues, and vices of Leadville's upper-middle class during its boom days. The House with the Eye Museum is a tribute to Leadville's rich and vibrant history.

Popular Experiences near House With the Eye Museum

Popular Hotels near House With the Eye Museum

Select Currency