Furman's Drug Store
1 / 10

Museum of the Mountain West Montrose Colorado

4.8
·543 reviews·Montrose, United States

A vast collection of Western memorabilia and historic buildings, curated by a lifelong collector. A true hidden gem!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Furman's Drug Store

Museum of the Mountain West Montrose Colorado

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast collection of Western memorabilia and historic buildings, curated by a lifelong collector. A true hidden gem!

4.8
(543 reviews)

"Absolutely loved everything! Highly recommend a guided tour, you'll learn a lot and get closer to the buildings/rooms."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book a Guided Tour

Highly recommended for deeper insights and stories behind the exhibits.

🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration

Leashed pets are welcome to join you on your visit!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Buildings

Historic Buildings

Outdoor exhibits

Step back in time exploring authentic historic buildings, some relocated and restored, offering a glimpse into the past.

Reddit
Vast Memorabilia Collection

Vast Memorabilia Collection

Indoor exhibits

Discover an incredible array of artifacts, from old advertisements and furniture to tools and personal items, spanning decades of Western life.

Reddit+1
The Owner's Passion Project

The Owner's Passion Project

Throughout the museum

Experience the lifelong passion of the owner, who began collecting at age 4, evident in every meticulously curated piece.

Reddit+1
Filming Location Artifacts

Filming Location Artifacts

Specific exhibits

See items like the train car used in the filming of 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,' adding a cinematic touch to your visit.

Instagram
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Don't Miss the Guided Tour

Many visitors rave about the guided tour, highlighting how the owner and staff share fascinating stories behind the artifacts and buildings. Opting for this immersive experience can significantly enhance your understanding and appreciation of the museum's vast collection. Reddit+1

Embrace the Dog-Friendly Atmosphere

Bring your furry friends along! The Museum of the Mountain West is dog-friendly, allowing leashed pets to explore the grounds with you. This is a huge plus for travelers who don't want to leave their companions behind. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Staff available for tours
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#museumofthemountainwest in #montrosecolorado This cute place was so full of history. We could have spent hours there looking at everything. The staff was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. One of my favorite stops. #roadtripwithme
@icecreamparlorgirl
16 likes • 327 views

🎯 Book a Guided Tour

Highly recommended for deeper insights and stories behind the exhibits. Reddit+1

🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration

Leashed pets are welcome to join you on your visit! Reddit+1

The coolest little town/museum we ran into on the roadtrip #museumofthemountainwest #colorado #roadtrip
@jessicapanno
23 likes • 335 views
Little bit of the Wild West to touch and walk through. I stumbled upon the gem on the way back from the black canyon and pulled over out of curiosity — gotta say being a curious cat payed of this time. What began as a private collection is now a massively impressive collection of paraphernalia from old ads, posters, products, furniture and complete original houses from the region that have been bo...
miakeringel
72 likes • 0 views

⏳ Allow Ample Time

You'll want at least 2 hours to explore this extensive collection. Reddit

📸 Capture the Charm

The unique buildings and artifacts make for fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram

Museum of the Mountain West, Montrose #colorado #montroseco #westmuseum #wildwest #usa
imps93
45 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book a Guided Tour

Highly recommended for deeper insights and stories behind the exhibits. Reddit+1

🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration

Leashed pets are welcome to join you on your visit! Reddit+1

⏳ Allow Ample Time

You'll want at least 2 hours to explore this extensive collection. Reddit

📸 Capture the Charm

The unique buildings and artifacts make for fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram

📍 Off the Beaten Path

A true hidden gem, worth the detour from main routes. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(543 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Museum of the Mountain West as a hidden gem, highlighting the incredible breadth of its historical collection and the passion of its owner. Many recommend the guided tours for their insightful storytelling and appreciate the dog-friendly atmosphere. While some find the sheer volume overwhelming, the overall sentiment is one of delight and surprise at this unique historical treasure.

"Passed this on our way down to telluride. Had to stop when we made the trip back toward Denver. Absolutely loved everything! Highly recommend a guided tour, you'll learn a lot and get closer to the buildings/rooms to look around and ask questions. All staff is super friendly, the whole place is also dog friendly so you don't have to leave your pup in the car. Will definitely be back if we make our way through Montrose in the future!"

Ethan

"We happened to see the historic buildings on our way to black canyon and decided to take a look. We're so glad we stopped by! AMAZING collection. Also dog friendly, leashed. Option to do guided tour or self guided. Guided tour is about 1.5hr, highly recommend! There are artifacts of all kinds guns, apparel, saloons, medical/dentistry, tools, foods, music literally everything. The owner, Mr.Fike, was also there! You will love it"

joanna c

"An amazing place - buildings and everyday life items 200-100 years old, gathered for many years with love by a passionate man. The director was so kind to show us through the inside collection, where every little thing had a story to be told. At the end we also got a great restaurant recommendation from a lovely lady runing the place. We spent two hours there, and the time passed super fast. I highly recommend visiting this museum."

Ola abc

What People Like

Vast historical collection
Passionate owner/staff
Dog-friendly policy

What People Dislike

Can be overwhelming

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located just outside Montrose, Colorado. Many visitors discover it while traveling to or from the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park or Telluride. It's easily accessible by car, making it a convenient stop on a Colorado road trip. InstagramReddit

While it's a bit of a hidden gem, it's generally well-marked once you're in the vicinity. Travelers often mention stumbling upon it and being pleasantly surprised. InstagramReddit

Specific directions can be found on most GPS apps. It's typically accessed via local roads from Montrose, often mentioned in conjunction with routes to the Black Canyon. Instagram

Yes, ample parking is available for visitors, allowing for easy access to the exhibits. Instagram

Absolutely! It's a perfect stop when exploring the Western Slope of Colorado, especially if you're visiting the Black Canyon of the Gunnison or heading towards Telluride. InstagramReddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While specific prices can vary, visitors generally find the entry fee to be very reasonable for the extensive experience offered. It's considered a worthwhile investment for the historical immersion. Reddit

Advance booking is typically not required. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival. However, for guided tours, it might be beneficial to inquire about availability. Reddit

Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Instagram

The guided tour is an additional experience that many highly recommend. While it may have a separate cost, visitors feel it's well worth the price for the enhanced understanding and access it provides. Reddit+1

Most visitor centers and museums in the area accept credit cards, but it's always wise to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or in case of any technical issues. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Prepare to be amazed by a vast collection of memorabilia, historic buildings, old advertisements, furniture, tools, and everyday items from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. InstagramReddit+1

Both are great options! A self-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace, while a guided tour offers in-depth stories and insights from knowledgeable staff or the owner himself. Many visitors highly recommend the guided tour. Reddit+2

Most visitors spend at least two hours exploring the museum, especially if they opt for a guided tour. You could easily spend longer if you're a history enthusiast. Reddit

Yes, restroom facilities are available for visitors. Instagram

The outdoor exhibits with historic buildings may present challenges due to uneven terrain. However, the indoor collection areas are generally more accessible. It's best to inquire directly about specific accessibility needs. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed, and encouraged, to capture the unique historical artifacts and buildings. However, always be mindful of any specific signage or staff instructions regarding photography, especially in sensitive areas. Instagram

While personal photography is usually permitted, commercial photography or the use of tripods might require special permission. It's best to ask at the entrance if you plan on extensive photo shoots. Instagram

The restored historic buildings, the vintage train car, and the displays of old advertisements and everyday items offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The entire museum is a visual treat! Instagram+1

It's generally advisable to avoid using flash photography, especially in indoor exhibits, as it can damage delicate artifacts over time. Check for any posted rules regarding flash. Instagram

Many visitors enjoy capturing the exteriors of the historic buildings and the unique details of the memorabilia. The train car used in 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid' is also a popular photo spot. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Museum of the Mountain West offers a unique and engaging experience for families. The historic buildings provide a fun, interactive element where kids can imagine themselves living in the past. Instagram The dog-friendly policy is also a huge plus, allowing the whole family, including furry members, to explore together. Reddit+1

While the sheer volume of artifacts might be best appreciated by older children and adults, the visual nature of the exhibits and the opportunity to walk through old structures can captivate younger minds. Consider opting for a guided tour if your children enjoy stories, as the passionate staff can make history come alive. Instagram It's a fantastic way to introduce kids to local history in a memorable and accessible setting.

🐶 Pet Owners

For travelers with canine companions, the Museum of the Mountain West is a dream destination. It's proudly dog-friendly, meaning your leashed pets are welcome to join you as you explore the grounds and historic buildings. Reddit+1 This policy is frequently highlighted by visitors as a major advantage, ensuring no one in the family has to be left behind.

This makes it incredibly convenient for road-trippers who often struggle to find attractions that accommodate their pets. You can enjoy a full day of historical exploration without the worry of leaving your dog in the car, making your visit much more relaxed and enjoyable. Reddit

🚗 Road Trippers

The Museum of the Mountain West is an ideal stop for road trippers exploring Colorado's Western Slope. Its location makes it a convenient detour when traveling between popular destinations like the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Telluride. InstagramReddit Many visitors discover it by chance and are delighted by the unexpected historical immersion. Instagram

It offers a chance to break up long drives with a dose of authentic Western history. The dog-friendly policy is a significant bonus for those on the road with pets. Reddit+1 With ample parking and a manageable size for a few hours of exploration, it's a perfect way to add a unique cultural experience to your journey without a major time commitment. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Visionary Collector: Richard Fike

The Museum of the Mountain West is a testament to the lifelong passion of its founder, Richard Fike. His dedication to preserving the history of the American West began at an astonishingly young age – he started collecting at just four years old! Reddit+1 This incredible museum is the culmination of over 80 years of dedicated collecting, showcasing a vast and eclectic array of artifacts that paint a vivid picture of life in the Mountain West. Visitors often express awe at the sheer volume and variety of items, from everyday household goods to significant historical pieces. Reddit+1

Fike's personal involvement is a highlight for many. He is often present at the museum, and when he is, visitors have the unique opportunity to hear firsthand accounts and stories behind the collection. This personal touch transforms the museum from a static display into a dynamic historical narrative. Reddit The passion and love poured into this collection are palpable, making it a truly special and authentic experience for anyone interested in Western history. InstagramReddit

This deep dive into the founder's journey underscores why the museum feels so personal and impactful. It's not just a collection of objects; it's a curated life's work, shared generously with the public. The Museum of the Mountain West offers a rare chance to connect with history through the eyes of someone who has lived and breathed it for decades. Reddit

Exploring the Historic Buildings

One of the most striking features of the Museum of the Mountain West is its collection of historic buildings. These structures, some of which have been carefully relocated and meticulously restored, offer an immersive glimpse into the past. Walking through these buildings, visitors can imagine life as it was lived by pioneers and early settlers in the Mountain West. InstagramReddit

Each building tells its own story, from old saloons and general stores to homes and workshops. The museum's commitment to authenticity means you can often step inside and see period-appropriate furnishings, tools, and personal effects that bring the spaces to life. This hands-on approach to history is a major draw for visitors, providing a tangible connection to the past that goes beyond simply looking at artifacts. Reddit+1

Whether you're taking a self-guided stroll or benefiting from the detailed explanations during a guided tour, exploring these historic structures is a highlight. They serve as a powerful backdrop to the vast collection of memorabilia, allowing you to contextualize the objects within the environments they were used in. Reddit

A Treasure Trove of Memorabilia

The Museum of the Mountain West is renowned for its extensive collection of memorabilia. Spanning a wide range of categories, the museum houses everything from vintage advertisements and antique furniture to tools, clothing, and personal items that represent everyday life from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. InstagramReddit

Visitors often express surprise at the sheer diversity of the collection. You might find yourself marveling at old medical and dental equipment, examining historical food packaging, or admiring musical instruments from a bygone era. The museum's strength lies in its ability to showcase the breadth of human experience in the West, capturing the spirit of innovation, resilience, and community. Reddit

This comprehensive approach to collecting ensures that there's something to capture everyone's interest. It's a place where you can truly get lost in the details of the past, discovering forgotten brands, understanding historical technologies, and appreciating the ingenuity of those who shaped the American West. Reddit

You may also like