Museums are a great way to get in touch with the roots of Ouray, Colorado, which has a rich and lively history. Ouray is named after Chief Ouray of the Ute Indian tribe. The town of Ouray was founded in 1875 by miners on the hunt for ore. Since then, Ouray has become well known for its beautiful hot springs like the ones at our Ouray Colorado lodging location and its beautiful Rocky Mountain scenery throughout the year.
While you’re in Ouray, be sure to check out the Ouray County Ranch History Museum. The museum’s mission is to procure, preserve and exhibit items from the ranching history in Ouray and started when local ranch families wanted to preserve their families’ legacy. They are open from May 28 to October 13 on Wednesdays through Saturdays from 11 am to 4 pm and 12 pm to 4 pm on Sundays. Admission is free for members and active military, $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $3 for students, and free for children six and under.
The Ouray County Museum from the Ouray County Historical Society, close to Ouray Colorado lodging, is funded by admissions, donations, and memberships and is housed in the original St. Joseph’s Miner’s Hospital built-in 1886. The museum, near Ouray Colorado lodging, has been in operation since 1976 after the historical society purchased the building. The museum features the mining, ranching, and railroading history of Ouray and displays minerals and Indian artifacts. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for youth. Children six and under are free.
The Ridgway Railroad Museum displays the significance of railroads in Ouray’s history through exhibits, a reference library, educational program, and other publications, along with preserving railroad equipment artifacts, dates, books, and photographs. It’s a fun and interactive way to get in touch with Ouray’s roots!
