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Colorado Attractions

The Creative Corridor In Colorado Is A 331-Mile Stretch Full Of Galleries, Food, And Art

By Annie | Published October 05, 2022

We may be a little biased, but we think that Coloradans are some of the most clever and creative folks out there, and we can’t get enough of our natives’ many talents! Do you, too, enjoy supporting the local arts? Then today’s article is for you, as Colorado highlights our artistic natives via the little-known Creative Corridor:

Spanning an incredible 331 miles, the Creative Corridor is one of the most one-of-a-kind drives in the west, as it features a "unique itinerary highlighting arts and cultural experiences."

Linking the towns of Salida, Carbondale, Ridgway, Paonia, and Crested Butte, the Creative Corridor connects not only 5 of Colorado's most visually stunning communities but also 5 of the most artistic, thanks to their many colorful offerings a la galleries, restaurants, street art, and more.

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When you take the Creative Corridor, you will want to set aside at least a weekend to get out and explore, as each community is chock-full of things to see and do, beginning with Salida and its distinguished Certified Creative District, studios, and handmade gift shops.

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The next stop on the drive is beautiful Ridgway: a historic railroad and ranching community with not only tons of shops, restaurants, and galleries but an impressive 20% of residents who work as artists, producers, or creative professionals!

After Ridgway comes Paonia and its can't-miss wineries and vineyards, festivals and special events, and outdoor recreation galore via hiking, watersports, and wildlife watching.

Welcome to Crested Butte, the 4th stop on the Creative Corridor, complete with a state-of-the-art Center for the Arts, art classes, a sculpture garden, and the iconic Alpenglow Summer Concert Series.

Are you hungry? You have come to the right place, as in addition to galleries, street art, and First Friday events, Carbondale also has some incredible places for coffee, beer, and mouthwatering food.

For even more to see and do along the Creative Corridor, please visit their website.

For even more to see and do on your drive, check out Not Many People Know About This Unforgettable Colorado Summer Fun Park.

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Featured Addresses

Salida, CO 81201, USA

Crested Butte, CO 81224, USA

Ridgway, CO 81432, USA

Paonia, CO 81428, USA

Carbondale, CO 81623, USA