South Park City Museum

Have you ever wished you could step back in time and experience life as it was in the wild, wild West? Pack your bags and head to South Park City Museum in Fairplay, Colorado, where history isn't just told; it's lived! 

This open-air museum is a treasure trove of the past, a remarkable restoration of the gold mining towns dotting America's frontier from 1860 to 1900.

Spanning an era of dreams, drama, and daring, South Park City brings the 19th-century boomtown life to the 21st century with stunning authenticity. Imagine walking into a town frozen in time, with forty-four original buildings housing over 60,000 artifacts! 

Seven buildings are on their original sites, while others have been lovingly relocated from ghost towns in South Park.

The journey of South Park City began in 1957 with a vision of preserving the region's rich history. After two years of meticulous gathering and restoration, the museum opened its doors in 1959, instantly becoming a portal to the past. 

Each building, from the South Park Brewery to Father Dyer's Chapel, tells a unique story, offering glimpses into the lives of miners, pioneers, and the families calling these mountains home.

But South Park City is more than just a museum. Here, history is tangible, and you can touch, feel, and live the past. South Park City Museum awaits if you're ready for an adventure through time!

Fun Facts & Cool Features

South Park City Museum is more than a collection of old buildings and artifacts. It's a vibrant testament to the spirit of the American West, offering fascinating features and fun facts, making every visit memorable. One cool feature is Living History Days, when history comes alive during the second weekend of August. The museum bustles with volunteers in period dress, reenacting life in a 19th-century mining town. From playing Faro at Rachel's Place Saloon to witnessing the daily routines of the townsfolk, it's a history lesson like no other!

Regarding fun facts, did you know that the South Park City Museum has over 60,000 artifacts? Every building in South Park City is a mini-museum. Each item tells a unique story of resilience and innovation, from the dentist/barber's dual-purpose chair to the muslin wall coverings in homes.

Unlike typical museums, South Park City encourages you to engage with history. Sit in the chairs, play the pianos, ring the school bell - immerse yourself in the life of a bygone era!

Another fun fact history buffs will appreciate is that the attention to detail in recreating an 1880s mining town is remarkable. The layout, the furnishing of the buildings, and even the small everyday items are carefully curated to offer an authentic experience.

If you're a cat lover, you'll be pleased to meet "Thelma and Louise," the charming feline residents of the museum. While Louise enjoys her naps in the gift shop, Thelma prefers greeting visitors along the boardwalk.

For a fun-filled Colorado day trip back in time, saddle up the horses, round up your kin, and get to South Park City Museum!

Getting There

Here is how you can get to the South Park City Museum from Denver:

• Take US-285 S toward Fairplay. The drive is scenic and takes about two hours.
• Upon reaching Fairplay, follow Main Street until you reach 4th Street.
• Turn right on 4th Street, and you'll find South Park City at the west end of Front Street.
• Ample parking is available near the museum.
• Address: 100 4th St, Fairplay, Colorado

Cost

Visiting South Park City Museum is an affordable adventure. Here's the breakdown of the admission fees:

• Children (0 – 5): Free
• Children (6 – 12): $5.00
• Adults (13 – 64): $10.00
• Seniors (65+): $9.00
• Members: Free

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates​.