Wheeler Opera House | Aspen

Information

Landmark: Wheeler Opera House
City: Aspen
Country: USA Colorado
Continent: North America

Wheeler Opera House, Aspen, USA Colorado, North America

The Wheeler Opera House is a historic performance venue located in Aspen, Colorado. It is a municipally owned building that hosts a variety of cultural events.

Visual Characteristics

The Wheeler Opera House is a three-story brick building with a prominent clock tower. Its architectural style is Victorian, featuring decorative cornices and arched windows. The exterior brickwork is a deep red, and the roof is a dark slate. The main entrance is marked by a large, ornate marquee.

Location & Access Logistics

The Wheeler Opera House is situated at 320 East Hyman Avenue in downtown Aspen. It is approximately 0.5km East of the city center. On-street parking is available in the surrounding blocks, though it is metered and often limited. Several public parking garages are also within a 0.5km radius. Aspen's free RFTA bus system services the downtown area, with stops located within a 2-minute walk of the venue.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Wheeler Opera House began in 1889 and was completed in 1890. It was funded by Jerome B. Wheeler, a prominent businessman and former mayor of Aspen. The building was originally designed as a multi-purpose venue, intended for theatrical performances, concerts, and public gatherings. It is constructed from locally sourced brick and timber.

Key Highlights & Activities

Attend a live performance, which can include theater productions, musical concerts, comedy shows, and film screenings. Check the venue's schedule for specific event listings. Guided tours of the building's interior and history are sometimes offered; inquire at the box office for availability.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the building. Limited seating areas are present in the lobby. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available inside the venue. Food and beverage options are typically available for purchase during scheduled events, and numerous restaurants and cafes are located within a 0.5km radius.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is during scheduled performances. For photography of the exterior, late afternoon light provides good illumination on the brickwork. The venue operates year-round, with event schedules varying by season.

Facts & Legends

During its early years, the opera house was a central hub for Aspen's social life, hosting everything from political rallies to opera performances. A local anecdote suggests that the ghost of a former performer occasionally makes its presence known during late-night rehearsals, though this is unverified.