Wheeler/Stallard Museum - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting
About Wheeler/Stallard Museum
The Wheeler–Stallard Museum in Aspen, Colorado is a museum dedicated to the history of the American West. The museum was founded in 1977 by brothers John and Malcolm Wheeler, and houses a collection of artifacts and artworks relating to the subject. The museum is located in the former Wheeler Opera House, which was built in 1889. The building itself is a landmark, and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974.Things to Do at Wheeler/Stallard Museum
Wheeler–Stallard Museum is one of the many historical landmarks in Pitkin County, Colorado. The museum offers a variety of exhibits that showcase the area's rich history. Visitors can learn about the area's early settlers, the Ute Indians, and the area's mining and ranching heritage. The museum also features a number of interactive exhibits, such as a life-sized replica of an old west town. In addition to the exhibits, Wheeler–Stallard Museum also offers a variety of educational programs for both children and adults. These programs include everything from tours of the museum to demonstrations of traditional pioneer skills. Whether you're looking to learn about the area's history or just want to have some fun, Wheeler–Stallard Museum is sure to have something for everyone.
Top Activities Near Wheeler/Stallard Museum
History of Wheeler/Stallard Museum
The Wheeler–Stallard Museum is located in Aspen, Colorado, and is dedicated to preserving the history of the Pitkin county region. The museum was founded in 1968 by local historian and businessman Frank Wheeler, who donated his personal collection of artifacts and documents to the city. The museum's collections include items related to the area's mining, ranching, and skiing history, as well as its Native American heritage. In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Wheeler–Stallard Museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions and educational programs throughout the year. The museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Aspen, and attracts visitors from all over the world.
Best Time to Visit Wheeler/Stallard Museum
The best time to visit the Wheeler–Stallard Museum in Pitkin County, Colorado is during the summer months.
Tips for Visiting Wheeler/Stallard Museum
- Plan your visit in advance. The museum is open from June to September, and reservations are recommended for groups of 10 or more.
- Start at the beginning. The museum chronicles the history of the West from its earliest days, so it's best to start at the beginning and work your way through chronologically.
- Don't miss the dioramas. These lifelike displays provide a fascinating glimpse into life in the West during different periods of history.
- Cameras are allowed in the museum, but flash photography is not permitted.
- Visitors are welcome to bring food and drink into the museum, butPicnicking is not allowed on the grounds.
- Take your time in the exhibits. There is a lot of information to take in, so take your time and read everything carefully.
- Ask questions. The museum's staff are happy to answer any questions you have about the exhibits or the history of the building.
- Arrive early to avoid the crowds. The museum typically gets busy after 10am, so aim to arrive around opening time (9am) to enjoy a peaceful experience.
- Take advantage of the free audio tour. The audio tour is an excellent way to learn about the museum's exhibits andAspen's history. Simply pick up a headset at the front desk and follow along as you explore.
- Check out the museum shop before you leave. The museum shop offers a great selection of books, souvenirs, and other items related to Aspen's history. Be sure to browse through the shop before you head out!
Interesting Facts and Trivias About Wheeler/Stallard Museum
- The building was designed in the Richardsonian Romanesque style by noted architect J.J. Ethan Allen Struthers and The museum's collection includes over 3,000 artifacts, ranging from pre-historic tools to 20th-century paintings.
- The museum is also home to a historic library, which contains over 8,000 books and periodicals.
- In addition to its permanent collections, the Wheeler–Stallard Museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
- The museum houses a significant collection of archival materials related to the history of Aspen and the Aspen Music Festival.
- In addition to the Wheelers' collections, the museum also houses the John Caulkins Collection of Western Artifacts and the Margaret Sanger Collection of Women's suffrage ephemera.
- The Wheeler–Stallard Museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and is a member of both the Colorado Association of Museums and the American Association for State and Local History."
How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at Wheeler/Stallard Museum
Visitors should allow at least two hours to fully experience all that the museum has to offer. By taking their time to explore the different galleries and exhibits, visitors will be able to appreciate the many different styles and perspectives represented in the collections.
How to Reach Wheeler/Stallard Museum
Wheeler-Stallard Museum is located at 620 West Lionshead Circle in Aspen, Colorado. The easiest way to reach the museum is by car. From Interstate 70, take exit 141 for CO-82 toward Aspen. Head south on CO-82 S for 3.2 miles. Turn left onto W Lionshead Cir and the destination will be on the right. There is also a free shuttle that runs from downtown Aspen to the Wheeler-Stallard Museum. The shuttle runs every 20 minutes and stops at several locations along the way. For more information, please visit the Wheeler-Stallard Museum website.
Entrance Fee of Wheeler/Stallard Museum
Admission to the museum is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $5 for students aged 6-18 years old . Children under 6 years old are free .
Opening Hours of Wheeler/Stallard Museum
The museum is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM.