Set in a stark-looking gray building behind the much larger and more ostentatious Denver Art Museum, the Clyfford Still Museum contains a diverse and impressive collection of the works of its eponymous artist. Consisting of nine mid-sized galleries, the collection itself is rather small, but the breadth of its subject matter is fascinating, and it is well worth spending an hour or two exploring the whole exhibit area.
Best and worst time to go to the Clyfford Still Museum
Given its proximity to several other museums located around Civic Center Park and the Cultural Center, the Clyfford Still Museum can be crowded on weekends. Also note that it is closed all day on Mondays. Take advantage of the museum's extended hours on Friday, when it is open until 8 p.m., and spend a couple hours there before embarking on the rest of your night's activities.
Must see/do at the Clyfford Still Museum
Because of its small size, the entirety of the museum is accessible and manageable in one visit.
The collection rotates throughout the year, so different aspects of Still's work are frequently on display. Be sure to watch the introductory video, on view in the lobby area, to get an introduction to Clyfford Still as an artist and the story of how his works came to be displayed in this space.
Admission to the Clyfford Still Museum
For adults 17-64, admission will cost between $6-$12, so this museum can certainly be less expensive than some of the larger museums in the city. The museum offers a discount for online purchases of tickets in advance, as well as several free days throughout the year; these days vary year-to-year so check the website for the most up-to-date information.
Parking and public transportation to the Clyfford Still Museum
Parking can be tricky in this area of town, but the museum is surrounded by 2-hour parking meters, and the Cultural Center Complex Garage, where you can park starting at $1/hour, is only two blocks away. There are several RTD bus stops nearby, the closest of which is located at the corner of W 13th Ave. and Bannock St, and is served by Routes 16 and 52. In addition, you can take the free 16th St. Mall shuttle from any point on its route, get off at Cleveland Place, and walk through Civic Center Park to the museum.
Food at the Clyfford Still Museum
There is no food available for purchase inside the museum itself. There is a cafe located within the Cultural Center plaza, accessible off of W 12th Ave., and there are a couple bars and restaurants located on Bannock St. within easy walking distance.
Insider tip for visitors to the Clyfford Still Museum
Still's work is unique in that it consists of both abstract pieces and realistic scenes of western life, so there is much here for everyone to enjoy, regardless of their artistic preferences. Consider aligning your visit with one of the regularly scheduled free tours, which take place Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons, to better understand this seeming dichotomy.
Julia O'Connor is a full-time editor and part-time freelance writer transplanted from Boston to Denver. She is thriving on the transition and has enjoyed the exploration of both cities and everything in between.