Ute Indian Museum, Uncompahgre Plateau Travel Guide

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Explore the rich history and culture of the Ute people at their museum in Montrose, Colorado, on the homestead of Chief Ouray and Chipeta.

The Ute Indian Museum in Montrose, Colorado, preserves and interprets the history and culture of the Ute people, Colorado's longest continuous residents. Located on the historic homestead of Chief Ouray and his wife Chipeta, the museum features exhibits, artifacts, and outdoor spaces that tell the story of the Ute's adaptation, persistence, and cultural survival.

A brief summary to Ute Indian Museum

17253 Chipeta Rd, Montrose, Colorado, 81403, US
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Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
Sunday 11 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ute Indian Museum.

Visit during the summer months for warm weather and special events like storytimes, craft workshops, and dance performances.
Explore the outdoor grounds, including the Chief Ouray Memorial Park, Chipeta's Crypt, and the native plants garden.
Check out the museum's gift shop for unique souvenirs, books, and authentic Native American jewelry and pottery.
Take advantage of the free parking available on-site.

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Getting There

Driving

The Ute Indian Museum is located at 17253 Chipeta Rd, Montrose, CO 81403, approximately 3 miles south of downtown Montrose. From downtown, head south on US-550 S/S Townsend Ave. Continue on US-550 S for roughly 3 miles. Turn right onto Chipeta Rd, and the museum will be on your right. Parking is available in the on-site parking lot. There is no fee for parking.
Public Transport

While there doesn't appear to be direct public transportation to the Ute Indian Museum, a shuttle service is sometimes available from the Target parking lot (3530 Wolverine Dr) during special events. Check the museum's website or call ahead to see if the shuttle is running. From the Target parking lot, the shuttle will drop you off at the museum entrance. Standard bus fares do not apply as this is a special event shuttle.
Walking

Although it is a long walk, you can walk to the Ute Indian Museum from downtown Montrose. Head south on US-550 S/S Townsend Ave. Continue on US-550 S for approximately 3 miles. Turn right onto Chipeta Rd, and the museum will be on your right. Please note that there are no sidewalks for a portion of this route.

Discover more about Ute Indian Museum

Nestled in the heart of traditional Ute territory in Montrose, Colorado, the Ute Indian Museum offers a comprehensive look into the history and culture of the Ute people. As History Colorado's only facility in western Colorado, the museum is located on the original 8.65-acre homestead of Chief Ouray and his wife, Chipeta, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.The museum's exhibits focus on the Ute peoples' history, highlighting significant locations and stories. Visitors can explore topics such as Ute cultural survival, political determination, economic opportunity, and the celebration of the Bear Dance. The exhibits feature a variety of artifacts, including traditional clothing, tools, and art, with some dating back centuries.Beyond the exhibits, the museum grounds offer a deeper connection to Ute history and culture. Visitors can explore the Chief Ouray Memorial Park, Chipeta's Crypt, and a native plants garden. The complex is also linked to the city-wide trail system, offering shady picnic areas and walking paths. The museum also features community spaces for events and programs, as well as a gift shop offering children's gifts, books, and authentic Native American jewelry and pottery.The Ute Indian Museum is not just a repository of the past but also a place of learning, connection, and community, serving as a legacy for tribal youth and the Montrose community.