Steamboat Creates Historic Depot Art Center

Built in 1909 to welcome the first passenger coach into rural Steamboat Springs, this historic Depot now houses two fine art galleries and a spacious Baggage Room that hosts classes, private parties, and meetings. The building’s survival is credited to Eleanor Bliss, who led a Save the Depot campaign in 1980 after passenger service ended in 1968, saving the structure from condemnation. Today, Steamboat Creates operates out of this 1908-era building, serving as the administrative home for the Steamboat Springs Arts Council, which was originally founded in 1972 by Bliss, Carol Finoff, George Tolles, and friends. The organization runs signature events including Art in the Park, Cabaret, Young At Art Creativity Camps, Holidays in the Rockies, and Snow Sculptures during Winter Carnival. Since becoming a certified Colorado Creative District in 2017 and officially renaming to Steamboat Creates in January 2019, the center has expanded its role to include advocacy and promotion for the local creative sector. Visitors can expect wheelchair accessible facilities, ample parking, and a calendar rich with exhibitions and cultural programming designed to enhance the quality of life in Steamboat Springs.