When the sun goes down and so do the temps, that's when the people emerge to explore. This summer, add an art walk to your list of activities to do! They’re free and give you an opportunity to discover a local artist, explore a new neighborhood or simply swap another evening on the couch for something a little more inspiring. Here are seven art walks throughout the Southwest worth adding to your calendar this summer.
First Friday Roosevelt Row | Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix's arts scene happens on First Fridays, when Roosevelt Row and downtown streets transform into one of the nation's largest self-guided art walks. More than 70 galleries, art spaces and venues participate. Browse exhibitions, enjoy food vendors, meet artists and explore murals tucked between downtown buildings. Plus, the museums join in on the fun with free admission from 5 – 9 p.m. at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix and Phoenix Art Museum. Learn more at dtphx.org/do/first-friday-1.
Scottsdale ArtWalk | Scottsdale, Arizona
Every Thursday evening, Old Town Scottsdale becomes an outdoor gallery. Scottsdale ArtWalk has been running since 1975, and allows visitors to stroll through galleries along Main Street and Marshall Way.
From Western masterpieces and Native American artwork to contemporary pieces, the district offers something for nearly every artistic taste. Plus, complimentary trolley and horse-drawn carriage rides are available for a fun and cultured summer night out. Learn more at scottsdaleartsdistrict.com.
Bailey Badillo
Bisbee After 5 Art Walk | Bisbee, Arizona
The last Arizona art walk on the list, Bisbee’s art walk is less polished and more of a delightfully quirky vibe, in the best way. About an hour south of Tucson, this former copper-mining town has transformed into a creative community, where galleries, studios and colorful storefronts fill the winding streets of Old Bisbee. Held on the second Saturday of each month from 5 to 8 p.m., Bisbee After 5 invites visitors to stroll through galleries, shops and restaurants while enjoying artist receptions and live music throughout town. More than 25 participating businesses keep their doors open late, so you can browsing paintings, chat with local artists or soak up the bohemian atmosphere. Learn more at discoverbisbee.com/ad/bisbee-after-5-art-walk.
Visit Denver
First Friday Art Walk | Denver, Colorado
Denver's Santa Fe Arts District hosts one of the largest First Friday celebrations in the West. Galleries, studios and creative spaces stay open late, creating a lively atmosphere as you explore everything from contemporary paintings to sculpture and photography.
Street performers, food vendors and crowds filling the sidewalks make this feel more like a neighborhood festival than a traditional gallery opening. Learn more at denversartdistrict.org/first-Friday.
ABQ ArtWalk | Albuquerque, New Mexico
Centered within the Arts & Cultural District, Albuquerque’s ArtWalk turns downtown into a block-by-block showcase of local artists, makers and performers. Expect gallery exhibitions, public art, live entertainment and plenty of opportunities to connect with the people helping shape New Mexico's thriving arts scene. Learn more at abqartwalk.com.
First Thursdays Art Walk | Laguna Beach, California
Art and ocean views are a pretty unbeatable combination. During Laguna Beach's First Thursdays Art Walk, galleries throughout the city welcome visitors for an evening of exhibitions, artist receptions and special events. Experience the town's long-standing reputation as one of California's premier arts communities while enjoying a sunset stroll just blocks from the Pacific. Learn more at firstthursdaysartwalk.org.
First Friday Art Walk | Las Vegas, Nevada
On the first Friday of each month, Main Street fills with local artists, food trucks, live music and thousands of visitors. Watch artists paint live, browse local artwork, visit galleries and enjoy performances throughout the evening. It's a celebration of local creativity that continues to grow year after year. Learn more at ffflv.org.