The center was opened in 1976 as a Bicentennial project for the United States.
The facility's design centers around a central 'great hall' that serves as an internal plaza.
The outdoor amphitheater has a capacity for approximately 1,700 patrons during summer concert series.
The venue maintains its own professional theater company, producing multiple large-scale musicals annually.
The complex houses dedicated studio space for professional ceramics and metalworking artists.
Its art galleries are free to the public and rotate exhibits approximately every three months.
The site includes over 10 acres of outdoor grounds used for public sculpture displays and community events.
The Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities is a comprehensive cultural complex featuring three theater spaces, three museum galleries, and an outdoor amphitheater. It operates as one of the largest multidisciplinary arts centers in the United States. The venue hosts professional Broadway-style theatrical productions, children's theater, and rotating contemporary art exhibitions. The campus includes extensive ceramics studios and education facilities for arts instruction. It is situated on a landscaped site featuring a public outdoor sculpture park. The facility is owned and operated by the City of Arvada. Programming focuses on a blend of touring acts, locally produced plays, and arts outreach initiatives. The galleries prioritize showcasing regional and national contemporary artists throughout the year. The center is a primary regional destination for arts education and performance in the Denver metropolitan area.
The elevated outdoor terrace overlooking the sculpture park and grounds.
Check the schedule for gallery events, as they often host artist talks or opening receptions on weeknights.
Arrive early to walk the outdoor sculpture park, which is accessible independently of ticketed performances.
Consider booking theater tickets well in advance, as popular Broadway-style productions frequently sell out.
Do not overlook the smaller 'Black Box' theater performances, which often feature more experimental and intimate productions than the main stage.
The galleries are typically closed on Mondays; amphitheater programming is limited to the late spring through early autumn seasons.
Business casual is recommended for evening theater performances; casual attire is acceptable for gallery visits.
