Cheyenne Makers + Creatives

Description

Ever wandered into a place and just felt, instantly, that you’ve stumbled on something special? That was me, first time I set foot in Cheyenne Makers + Creatives. Honestly, if you’re a traveler—especially one who likes to get a little hands-on, or just loves peeking behind the curtain of how things get made—this spot is worth carving out time for. It’s not every day you find a spot that’s equal parts local hangout, working studio, and creative incubator. I mean, you know how sometimes art collectives feel intimidating, almost like you need to know the secret handshake? Nope, not here. This place rolls out the welcome mat, makes space for families, and somehow manages to be both a bustling creative hub and a totally chill spot where you can just sit back and watch some pretty darn talented folks work their magic.

The big draw, for me, is that everyone brings their whole self into this place—woodworkers, jewelry designers, fiber artists, dabblers, even folks just dipping a toe into creativity for the first time. There’s a real feeling of generosity in the air, too—people chat, swap advice, and will literally nudge you into trying something new if you give them half a chance. You’ll see kids with wide eyes, artists deep in a project, and a few old-timers who seem to know every single person who comes in. I find spots like this help you see a city (and its people) in a way you’d never get from a glossy brochure.

Let’s also give a shout-out to accessibility, because the folks here have actually thought about it, down to wheelchair-friendly parking. If you need a break from road-tripping or museums and crave a more hands-on, distinctly local experience, this friendly, bustling artists’ hive is an absolute find.

Key Features

• Open Studio Environment: No glass walls between you and the process. Watch real artists at work, chat, get your own hands messy if the mood strikes.
• Family Friendly: Kids are not only welcome, they’re encouraged. I saw a handful of them making clay creatures as serious as any adult. That’s just awesome.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible parking means more people can join in, and the vibe is just plain inclusive to everyone.
• Local Artists in Residence: Cheyenne’s own creative all-stars and emerging talents call this place home. Sometimes they host demos or pop-up exhibitions—check if you’re lucky.
• Hands-On Workshops: If you’re the type who wants to DO rather than just watch, there’s usually something on the calendar. Pottery, painting, fabric arts—take your pick.
• Community Events: From open houses to makers’ markets, you might just stumble onto a local gathering of creative minds. Feels more like a reunion than an event!
• Friendly Atmosphere: Low-key, unstuffy, and refreshingly judgment-free. Even if you’ve never held a paintbrush in your life, you’ll fit right in.

Best Time to Visit

Now, here’s the thing: Cheyenne Makers + Creatives doesn’t really put on a big show just for the tourists. Instead, the magic comes out during their scheduled workshops or open studio days, which tend to pop up a bit more often in the spring and fall. That’s when you’ve got more locals dropping in, the weather’s a touch less wild, and (from my last two visits) there’s just more creative energy fizzing about.

But if your plans only let you swing by in the summer, you’re still in luck. Cheyenne is downright lively during tourist season—especially when there’s a big event in town. That said, for the most authentic, less-crowded slice of community flavor, try a weekday afternoon. The place feels personal, hands-on, and a little less “look, but don’t touch.” Just keep in mind that some artists keep to their own schedules, so call ahead or check their social before you come expecting a bustling crowd.

How to Get There

Getting to Cheyenne Makers + Creatives isn’t rocket science, and the parking is a treat if you’re used to city-center headaches. Whether you’ve rented a car or you’re rolling in from somewhere else in Wyoming (lots of folks do—seriously, I met a couple from Laramie who plan daytrips around their workshops!), you’ll find it’s super accessible from the main roads. Downtown Cheyenne isn’t sprawling, so hopping over even from the depot or another local museum is easy.

Public transit in Cheyenne isn’t quite major-city level, but it’ll get you within a few blocks if you prefer that route. And I’ll be honest—if you’re doing the classic western road trip or rolling up in an RV, there’s space to park nearby.

If you’re relying on rideshare, you’ll have no problem. Tight on time? Don’t stress about street parking. In my experience, I found a space on the first loop, which rarely happens anywhere else.

Tips for Visiting

Here’s where I get to dish out the good stuff—the sort you wish you knew before you arrived. First up: don’t be shy! The artists and staff here have seen just about every kind of visitor, from seasoned crafters to nervous grandparents thinking about making their first pinch pot with the grandkids. If you’re curious, all you have to do is ask—they genuinely want you to feel at home.

• Check the Calendar: Workshops and open studio slots change week to week. Bookmark their schedule or call ahead to snag a spot—especially if you’re hoping for a popular class.
• Wear Comfy, Mess-Friendly Clothes: You might end up with a bit of paint or clay somewhere you didn’t expect. It’s half the fun—trust me, those “oops” moments make the best souvenirs.
• Bring the Kids: Don’t let them miss out! There are activities just for little ones, and nobody bats an eye if they go a little off-script. My niece once invented “clay spaghetti”—and everyone cheered her on.
• Chat With an Artist: Most are happy to chat about their process or story. It’s like having a behind-the-scenes pass, and you’ll walk away seeing things with new eyes.
• Support Local: If you fall for a piece of art or a maker’s mug, grab it! Your purchase means the world to these creators—and it makes way better travel loot than a fridge magnet. (Although I do love a good magnet, not gonna lie…)
• Accessibility Info: If anyone in your crew uses a wheelchair or walker, let the staff know when you arrive. They really do want to help make your visit hassle-free.
• Be Spontaneous: The best experiences here are sometimes out of the blue—wandering into a showcase, joining a group mid-project, or simply losing track of time while chatting. Don’t over-plan—let a little magic happen.

In all honesty, Cheyenne Makers + Creatives isn’t a glitzy, overproduced “tourist attraction.” But that’s why it’s special—and why, if you’re a traveler who likes to sink beneath the surface of things, you need to make time for it. Who knows? You might even head home with clay under your nails and a fresh itch to make your own masterpiece.

Location

Places to Stay Near Cheyenne Makers + Creatives

Find and Book a Tour

Explore More Travel Guides