Longmont: The best place to live if you’re an artist

Longmont’s history as an ag town is still a major part of the town. There is also a thriving arts, theater and cultural movement that makes Longmont a destination for artists, artisans and culturati. West of Main Street and between 9th and 3rd, the homes are big and old, shaded by giant, old trees. They are in walking distance of the Longmont Theater Company, Muse Gallery, the Old Firehouse Art Center, Jester’s Dinner Theater and Friday night ArtWalk. Down the road, just a bike ride or short car ride away, residents enjoy the Longmont Museum & Cultural Center, which hosts some spectacular artistic exhibitions.

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Best pre-show dinner:
Sugarbeet
Rustic yet upscale with bold,
lovely flavors.

Best place to nurse your post-ArtWalk hunger:
Pumphouse
A pint of Wildfire Wheat and
a flame-thrower burger.

Best place to nurture
your inner artist:
Crackpots
Bring the whole family
and get crafty.

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Longmont’s claim to fame: Charles Dickens’ relative was a civic leader here in the 1880s.

Year the Longmont Symphony Orchestra was founded: 1966

Who’s in charge: Longmont’s mayor is also a part-owner of the popular brewpub, The Pumphouse.

Perks: 3rd Street in the fall; getting a new pair at Brown’s Shoes; wine and apps at Terroir; coffee
at Ziggi’s.