Boulder's Art Scene and Cultural Experience

Boulder’s vibrant, unexpectedly playful art scene brings creativity to life in every corner of the city. From galleries tucked inside historic buildings to murals splashed across bright alleyways, artistic expression pops up wherever you go.

Whether you’re a gallery hopper, a mural chaser, or just nosy about local culture, Boulder’s art landscape offers a little something for everyone.

It’s no surprise, then, that Boulder was spotlighted in Skyscanner’s Elsewhereism campaign, which celebrates unexpected destinations and the hidden gems often missed by mainstream travel guides.
Here are the top art and culture hotspots to explore in this Colorado-based city.

Boulder’s Street Art Scene

Mirror, mirror, on the wall… Boulder’s got some of the brightest murals of them all. Over the past few years, the city’s gone full-on canvas mode, turning blank walls into bold, colorful statements thanks to public arts programs like the annual Street Wise festival and the Creative Neighborhoods project. Some of the City’s most iconic murals include:

Adrienne Norris’s Afro Triangle

Adri Norris didn’t love history class as a kid, but now she channels her curiosity into art. Her mural is a bold, colorful celebration of Black identity and female empowerment.
Located on 9800 Pearl St.

Johnny Draco’s Shadow

Draco uses his mural to question the ethics of consumerism and its impact on the future. With bold lines and striking colors, Shadow pulls you in while inviting you to reconnect with your inner child and the purest form of creativity…simply being yourself.
Located at 2055 26th St.

Pat Milbery’s Love Always Wins

Pat Milbery created this piece as a gift to Boulder, using a rainbow of colors to spread a message of love and hope after community tragedies. A glowing geometric heart rises from a clenched fist with heart-shaped nails, reminding everyone to give love, both to others and to themselves.
Located at 1245 Pearl St.

NoBo Art District

If you’re looking to see Boulder’s arts scene come alive, there’s no better place than the NoBo Art District. Every first Friday of the month, this corner of town transforms into a self-guided gallery crawl where you can wander from studio to studio and watch artists at

If you’re not one for large and busy crowds, the district also hosts Second Saturdays, a more laid-back daytime version.

The best part is that both of these events are completely free. Listen to live music, chow down on some local street food, and enjoy live demos and activations.

Get Creative in Boulder's Art Scene

Boulder’s art and culture scene proves that this city isn’t just about hiking trails and tech startups. We hope that we’ve shown you there’s creativity hiding around every corner.

You don’t even need to be an art expert or a music insider to enjoy it. Wander, explore, and embrace a little Elsewhereism.

Because Boulder’s art scene will have you living, laughing, and leaving with a little more color in your day.