Sangre de Cristo Arts & Conference Center - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center is a multi-use facility located in Pueblo, Colorado. The center houses an art museum, a performing arts theater, and a convention center. It is also home to the Steel City Jazz Festival and the Pueblo Symphony Orchestra. Visitors can enjoy a variety of art exhibitions and performances throughout the year. The center also offers educational opportunities for both children and adults. Classes in painting, drawing, photography, and other art forms are available. In addition, the center hosts lectures, workshops, and special events on a variety of topics. Whether you're interested in the arts or simply looking for a place to enjoy a meal or shop, the Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center is sure to have something for you.

The Sangre de Cristo Arts & Conference Center has a long and rich history in Pueblo County, Colorado. Founded in 1971, the center was originally known as the Sangre de Cristo Cultural & Recreation Center. It was created as a way to bring the arts and culture of the area to the community, and it quickly became a hub for local artists and performers. In its early years, the center hosted a variety of events, including concerts, exhibitions, and workshops. It also served as a meeting place for community groups and organizations. In recent years, the center has undergone a number of changes, including a name change to its current moniker. Despite these changes, the center remains dedicated to its original mission of promoting the arts and culture of Pueblo County.

There's no bad time to visit the Sangre de Cristo Arts & Conference Center, but the best time is probably during the summer. That's when the weather is warm and pleasant, and the center's lineup of events is at its fullest. 

1. Arrive early to explore the center's three art galleries. With a rotating schedule of exhibitions, there's always something new to see.
2. Check out the center's public art collection, which includes sculptures, paintings, and murals by local and regional artists.
3. Attend a performance in the Hoag Auditorium. From concerts and dance recitals to stand-up comedy and magic shows, there's something for everyone.
4. Shop for unique gifts in the Gift Shop, which features items from local artisans and craftspeople.
5. Visit the theater box office to purchase tickets for upcoming shows at the Sangre de Cristo Arts Center or elsewhere in Pueblo County.
6. Learn about the center's history at the Heritage Museum, which chronicles the arts in Pueblo from its early days as a railroad town through its present-day status as a thriving cultural hub.
7. The center is accessible for wheelchair users - please ask staff for assistance if needed.
8. Visit during one of the center's free admission days, held the first Friday of every month.
9.  If you're traveling with kids, be sure to check out the Creative Playground - it's a great place for them to burn off some energy!
    

1. The museum houses a collection of over 3,000 works of art, ranging from paintings and sculptures to pottery and textiles. 
2. The theater hosts a variety of live performances, including music, dance, and theater productions. 
3. The performing arts school offers classes in dance, music, and theater for both children and adults. 
4. The center also hosts special events throughout the year, such as the Pueblo Chieftain Celebrity Waiters Dinner & Auction and the Festival of Trees Gala.
5. In 2017, the center underwent a $5 million renovation that added new exhibits to the museum and updated the theater's lighting and sound system. 
6. The center offers a wide range of educational programs for both children and adults, including art classes, dance classes, and music lessons.
7. The Sangre de Cristo Arts & Conference Center is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and the National Association of Counties.
8. The center is supported by many generous individuals, businesses, and foundations who believe in its mission to enrich the lives of those who live in and visit Pueblo County through the power of the arts.

Visitors can explore the center in as little as 2 hours, though those who want to really take their time and enjoy all the center has to offer should plan on spending at least 3 hours there.

To reach Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Centre, take I-70 West to exit 276 for US-50 West toward Pueblo. Follow US-50 West for approximately 43 miles. Take exit403 on the left to merge onto I-25 S/US-87 S/US-85 S toward Walsenburg. Take exit 99B to merge onto CO-47 S/W 6th St toward downtown Pueblo. Turn right at N Santa Fe Ave, and the Centre will be on your right.

The fee for adults is $7, and the fee for seniors and students is $5.

The Center is open Monday through Saturday from 10 AM. to 5 PM., and Sundays from noon to 4 PM. The center is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.