Arts, Culture, & History

Inspired by Grand Lake’s breathtaking natural beauty, artists and creatives have flocked to the area for over a century, building a lasting cultural legacy that continues to shape the community today. Today, Grand Lake is now a certified Creative District, a designation that is committed to fostering a vibrant arts scene by providing resources to support its thriving community of artists, makers, and cultural organizations. This creative energy is woven into Grand Lake’s rich cultural landscape, from the renowned Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre, which brings captivating theatrical performances to life, to the Rocky Mountain Folk School, where traditional crafts and skills are taught and celebrated. The Grand Lake Area Historical Society (GLAHS) museums add depth to the Grand Lake’s  heritage, while preserving and sharing the stories that have shaped our mountain town.

Repertory Theatre:

The Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre in Grand Lake is a beloved destination, renowned for delivering Broadway-caliber performances in an intimate mountain setting. Each season, the theater dazzles audiences with an exciting lineup, typically including three major summer productions, followed by a fall musical and special holiday offerings. Over the years, RMRT has brought fan favorites like Les Misérables, Mamma Mia!, Kinky Boots, and The Sound of Music to the stage, showcasing an impressive mix of classic and contemporary hits. In December, the theater lights up with special holiday performances, bringing seasonal cheer to the community. With top-tier talent from across the country, RMRT has earned a reputation for excellence, offering unforgettable experiences that draw both locals and visitors back each season.

Rocky Mountain Folk School:

The Rocky Mountain Folk School in Grand Lake is a recent and exciting addition to the town’s creative scene, steadily expanding its range of class offerings since its opening. Dedicated to teaching traditional and contemporary crafts, the Folk School invites students of all ages and skill levels to explore hands-on learning in a beautiful mountain setting. Class offerings are diverse and ever-growing, including workshops on pottery, watercolor painting, knitting, woodcarving, and even gourd painting. The school has become a gathering place for those eager to learn new skills or deepen their appreciation of handmade arts, with big plans to expand as the school grows!

Creative Events:

The Grand Arts Council plays a vital role in enriching the cultural landscape of Grand Lake by bringing various creative events to life throughout the year. They organize a delightful free summer concert series in the park, providing residents and visitors with an opportunity to enjoy live music in a scenic outdoor setting. Additionally, the Council hosts the festive Olde Fashioned Holiday Craft Bazaar, showcasing artisans and their handmade creations. One of their most beloved offerings is the iconic Comedy in the House events, held in May and December, where laughter and entertainment fill the air, uniting the community in joyous celebration. Through these events, and many more, the Grand Arts Council fosters creativity and community spirit in Grand Lake, making it a vibrant hub for arts and culture.

Arts & Crafts Fairs:

Grand Lake's craft fairs, traditionally held on the second weekends of July and August, are a wonderful showcase of local creativity and craftsmanship. With over 50 vendors offering handmade goods, art, jewelry, and more, these fairs bring the community together in support of a meaningful cause. Proceeds from the fairs benefit the Kole Fund, a Grand Lake nonprofit dedicated to providing financial aid to those facing cancer battles. These events offer a unique shopping experience with a heartwarming mission behind them. Vendors interested in participating can reach out to kolefund@gmail.com for more information on joining this eclectic community event.

Museums and Tours:

The Grand Lake Area Historical Society (GLAHS) plays a vital role in preserving and celebrating the rich history of Grand Lake. Through dedicated preservation efforts, the Society maintains historic sites like the Kauffman House Museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. In addition to its physical archives, GLAHS has created an accessible digital archive, making it easy for locals and history buffs alike to explore Grand Lake’s heritage online. The Society also hosts special events throughout the year, including historical tours, seasonal exhibits, and community gatherings, which keep Grand Lake's stories and traditions alive for future generations.

Kauffman House Museum:

The Kauffman House Museum in Grand Lake, built in 1892, is one of the oldest original log structures in the area and serves as a fascinating glimpse into the town’s frontier past. Originally a hotel, it was owned by the Kauffman family, who played a pivotal role in the early days of Grand Lake. Today, the house has been carefully preserved and transformed into a museum by the Grand Lake Area Historical Society, showcasing exhibits on local history, pioneer life, and the rugged lifestyle of the late 1800s. Open during the summer season and select weekends, the museum offers guided tours that enrich visitors' understanding of the area’s heritage and provide a unique step back in time.

Cottage Court and Eslick Store

The Grand Lake Cottage Court Museum, featuring the newly restored Eslick Cottage, offers a unique look into early 20th-century lodging and lake life in Grand Lake. Built in 1915, the Eslick Cottage was part of the original “motor court” concept, welcoming travelers to Colorado’s scenic Grand Lake. After a meticulous restoration in 2024, the cottage now stands as a beautifully preserved example of early tourism architecture and includes an ADA-accessible ramp, making it more welcoming to all visitors. Operated by the Grand Lake Area Historical Society, this museum gives visitors a charming window into the past, showcasing artifacts, period furnishings, and the rustic charm that defined early vacationing in the Rockies.

The Moffat Railroad Museum:

Just a short drive from Grand Lake, the Moffat Road Railroad Museum in Granby offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of railroads in the Rockies, making it well worth the trip. This museum features incredible model train displays, full-sized train cars, and detailed exhibits that showcase the impact of railroads on Colorado’s mountain communities. From kids to history buffs, visitors of all ages will enjoy exploring the meticulously crafted displays and learning about the legendary Moffat Tunnel that connected remote regions.