Southern Ute Cultural Center and Museum

Our mission is to foster understanding of and respect for the unique origin, culture, language, history, and way of life of the Núuchi (Ute People) and to advance people-to-people relations through inclusive and effective programming and services.

Our vision is to be a nationally-accredited, internationally-respected cultural center that serves as a model for all tribal museums, archives, and libraries.

Things to Do

Exhibits
As Colorado’s longest continuous residents, the Ute’s have adapted and thrived throughout the years. Our exhibits showcase the story of the Ute people, from prehistory to modern times. Examples of the Bear Dance, prominent Ute leaders, and intricate bead work can be found in the collection of photographs on display

Pino Nuche Indigenous Art Market and Juried Show
The emphasis of the show is on traditional, quality arts and crafts, handmade, one at a time, by Native Americans. Skill and quality are emphasized and valued. We are also committed to making our show affordable for artists and to helping artists achieve their artistic and business goals. Date: September 5-7, 2025.

Gift Shop
The Southern Ute Museum Gift Shop offers Ute and Navajo beadwork, regional horsehair and Acoma pottery, turquoise and silver jewelry, body care products from Native-owned companies, books on Ute history and the local region, and the out-of-print Riders of the West: Portraits From Indian Rodeo (Temporary Gallery Exhibit). The Gift Shop offers something for everyone. Major credit cards accepted.

Guided Tours & School Groups
Take advantage of an enhanced learning opportunity! Learn about the journey an item takes, once it enters the museum, to become a display in an exhibit case. The tours are approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on the size of the group and the number of questions. Maximum of 10 individuals per guided tour; advanced registration is required.

Good Traveler Tips

Plan Your Visit

Facility Hours
Museum, Library, and Gift Shop: Tuesday-Friday 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Admission Fees

Adults: $8.00
Elders (55+) and Veterans: $4.00
Students (18+ with valid ID): $2.00
Children (3-17): $2.00
Children (0-3): No Charge
Ute Tribal Members: No Charge

Special Considerations

All exhibits and galleries are self-guided.
Photography without flash is allowed unless otherwise directed by Museum staff.
Food & drink are not allowed in the Museum galleries or gallery hallways.
Restrooms are multi-stall bathrooms; a Family restroom with changing table is also available.
Backpacks are not allowed in the Museum galleries exhibit and gallery areas; they may be left at the Welcome Desk.
Pencils & writing paper are allowed in the galleries; pens are not allowed (due to ink).
The facility is equipped to offer space for mobility challenges and child strollers.
A wheelchair is available free of charge.
Limited seating is available throughout the Museum galleries and gallery hallway.

Local Points of Interest

Lake Capote, 35 miles from the Southern Ute Museum, 398 Highway 151, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Sky Ute Casino Resort, .5 miles from the Southern Ute Museum, 14324 State Highway 172, Ignacio, CO 81137
Chimney Rock National Monument, 33 miles from the Southern Ute Museum, 3179 State Hwy 151, Chimney Rock, CO 81121
Mesa Verde National Park, 77.5 miles from the Southern Ute Museum, No. 1 Navajo Hill Mesa Verde National Park, CO 81330
Jicarilla Apache Nation
Historic towns of Pagosa Springs, CO, Durango, CO, and Chama, NM
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad