If you have seen it, you know: Manitou Springs, Colorado, is about as charming and quirky of a small town as you will ever find, thanks to its unique attractions, ample shopping and dining, and its colorful art scene. While all of the above is reason enough to visit, the arts may officially take the cake, as it was just named one of the country’s Best Small Town Art Scenes:
According to USA Today's 10Best, Manitou Springs is officially one of the best art scenes in America, as per the recently released Best Small Town Arts Scene (2021).
Looking at towns with a population of 30,000 or less ("What each lacks in size, it makes up for with a big art scene – museums, art galleries, performing arts and busy event calendars,"), Manitou Springs was somewhat of a no-brainer, thanks to its many mainstay and limited-time attractions.
As per 10Best, "The small downtown area is filled with art galleries and eclectic boutiques," adding that "The Manitou Art Center features a maker space for digital artists and hosts courses in both traditional and non-conventional visual arts."
Incorporated in 1888, Manitou Springs was founded with the intent of creating a "scenic health resort," which can still be experienced today but may just be overshadowed by the thriving art scene.
