Boulder Colorado has been mentioned a lot lately in top lists. It placed second for the healthiest towns in America by Men’s Health, first place in Backpackers’ Magazine for best cities to raise outdoor kids, and number one in Inside Triathlon Magazines’ “top triathlon towns.” It is also climbing the charts in the top 25 art destinations, currently ranking number #8 by American Style Magazine. Just what is making Boulder such an artsy town?

The Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art is a big draw for many visitors. It was established in 1972 to help promote the visual arts and has been going strong ever since. The museum now cycles art works seasonally in the building’s three galleries. Anyone wishing to gain an insight into contemporary art will get a good start here. The Dairy Center is also helping to bring the vibrant art scene to life with visual arts and galleries to enjoy, as well as theater, film, and dance all in one building.

The other reason Boulder is climbing the lists is because of all of the art galleries and shops popping up all over Downtown Boulder. The Art and Soul Gallery and the SmithKlein Gallery are both on Pearl Street and they both offer fine art for viewing and for sale. Boulder Arts and Crafts Gallery, as well as Earthwood Gallery, feature handmade art and crafts by local artists. Those in town wanting to try their own hand at art can stop by Color Me Mine, where they can pick out their own piece of unfinished ceramics and go to it with a paintbrush and their own artistic vision.

If you are more into the art of dance and theater, downtown is sure not to disappoint. Check out the Historical Boulder Theater on 14th street, Boulder’s Dinner Theater, the Naropa University Performing Arts Center, and the Nomad Theater to get you started.

With all of the happenings in the Boulder art scene, no wonder it’s ranking so high on many art lists. If you have a love for the arts then you will love the city of Boulder.