If you have ever read a Colorado history book or took a state history class in high school, you know that the Centennial State has a fascinating Old West past that we can only begin to imagine. While those of us living today will never fully understand what the original Coloradans had to endure, we can still get a small glimpse of it, thanks to the Fort Garland Museum & Cultural Center:

Located in southern Colorado, the Fort Garland Museum & Cultural Center is housed inside an old military fort that was built in 1858 (10 years after the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo).

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Built to protect the original settlers of the San Luis Valley, the adobe-style Fort Garland was used by the U.S. military for more than 25 years, which was brought to an end by the arrival of the railroad and removal of the Native Americans. 

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Managed by History Colorado, the Fort Garland Museum & Cultural Center consists of 5 of the original 22 buildings and showcases what life looked like for both the military and civilians around the time of Colorado’s inception. 

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When you visit, be sure to set aside time for all there is to see and do, beginning with walking the grounds of the old fort.

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In addition to touring the original land, the Fort Garland Museum & Cultural Center features fascinating exhibits and events, including the Civil War in the West and Saving the Fort. 

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Admission to the Fort Garland Museum & Cultural Center is $5 for adults, $4.50 for seniors, and $3.50 for youth ages 6 to 16.

TripAdvisor/ki0ki For more information, please visit History Colorado’s website.

Fort Garland is open Monday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 2nd through October 31st and Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. November 1st through March 1st. 

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Looking for even more to do while you are in the area? Check out The World’s Largest Valley Is Right Here In Colorado And You’ll Want To Visit!

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For more information, please visit History Colorado’s website.

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Address: 29477 CO-159, Fort Garland, CO 81133, USA