Leanin' Tree Museum | Boulder

Information

Landmark: Leanin' Tree Museum
City: Boulder
Country: USA Colorado
Continent: North America

Leanin' Tree Museum, Boulder, USA Colorado, North America

The Leanin' Tree Museum is a museum located in Boulder, Colorado, USA, dedicated to preserving and showcasing Western art and artifacts.

Visual Characteristics

The museum building is a single-story structure constructed primarily of red brick. It features a low-pitched roof and large, rectangular windows. The exterior is unadorned, focusing on functional design. The interior exhibition spaces are designed with neutral wall colors to highlight the artwork.

Location & Access Logistics

The Leanin' Tree Museum is situated at 4015 North Broadway, Boulder, Colorado. It is approximately 4.8 kilometers (3 miles) north of the Boulder city center. Access is via North Broadway, a major arterial road. Ample free parking is available in a dedicated lot adjacent to the museum. Public transport options include the RTD bus line 225, which stops within a 5-minute walk of the entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Leanin' Tree Museum was established in 1977 by Bill and Mary Ann Ellingson, who collected Western art and artifacts for over 40 years. The collection was originally housed in a smaller gallery before moving to its current, purpose-built facility. The building itself was constructed in the late 1970s.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can view a permanent collection of over 1,000 works of Western art, including paintings, sculptures, and Native American artifacts. Rotating exhibitions feature contemporary and historical Western artists. The museum shop offers books and art reproductions. Photography without flash is permitted in designated areas.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Limited shaded seating is provided in the outdoor courtyard area. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable within the museum. No on-site food vendors are present, but several restaurants are located within a 1.6 km (1 mile) radius along North Broadway.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is open year-round. Weekday mornings, particularly between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM, tend to have fewer visitors. The best months for comfortable travel to Boulder are typically May through October, avoiding potential winter weather disruptions.

Facts & Legends

The museum's collection includes a significant number of works by artist Joe Beeler, a co-founder of the Cowboy Artists of America. A unique aspect of the museum is its focus on preserving the stories and traditions of the American West through its diverse collection.