Ute Indian Museum, Western Slope Travel Guide

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

The Ute Indian Museum in Montrose, Colorado, stands on the original homestead of Chief Ouray and his wife, Chipeta, offering a comprehensive look into the history and culture of the Ute people. Through artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays, visitors can explore the Ute's story from nomadic hunters to their present-day tribal sovereignty.

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.

Start at the visitor center to pick up a map and brochure for an overview of the museum's layout and exhibits.
Allow ample time to explore the three main galleries, focusing on Ute history, culture, and art.
Don't miss the outdoor attractions, including the Chief Ouray Memorial Park, Chipeta's Crypt, and the native plants garden.
Check out the gift shop for Ute-made jewelry, pottery, and other Native American arts and crafts.

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Getting There

Driving

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

While public transportation options directly to the Ute Indian Museum may be limited, check local Montrose bus routes for any services that may operate near US-550 and Chipeta Road. From a bus stop, it may be necessary to walk or take a short taxi or ride-share to the museum. Taxi or ride-share from downtown Montrose to the museum will typically cost around $10-$15.

Discover more about Ute Indian Museum

Nestled in Montrose, Colorado, the Ute Indian Museum offers an immersive experience into the lives and history of the Ute people, who are Colorado's longest continuous residents. 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.Built in 1956 and expanded in 1998 and again in 2017, the museum features a vast collection of Ute Indian artifacts. Exhibits focus on the Ute's history of adaptation and persistence, highlighting significant locations and stories. Visitors can explore topics such as cultural survival, political determination, economic opportunity, and the celebration of the Bear Dance. The exhibits also include contemporary views of Ute life, with artifacts like beaded cell phone cases and modern regalia for the Bear Dance.The museum grounds include the Chief Ouray Memorial Park, Chipeta's Crypt, and a native plants garden. Visitors can walk the paths, enter teepees, and reflect on the history of the Ute people. The museum also features community spaces for events and programs, as well as a gift shop offering Native American jewelry, pottery, and books.