Arts-based Placemaking

Arts-based Placemaking is an integrative approach to urban planning and community building that stimulates local economies and leads to increased innovation, cultural diversity, and civic engagement.  Successful arts-based placemaking projects go beyond the idea of art for art’s sake. The objective of this work is to build strong, healthy, and resilient communities by incorporating the arts into broader community design. It is about leveraging the power of arts and culture to strengthen communities. The arts have always played an important role in the life of Littleton and need to be a central component in our planning and policy discussions.

  • Downtown Littleton

    Historic downtown Littleton has been the cultural heart and hub of the city for over 100 years. In addition to the many merchants, restaurants and service providers that make up this neighborhood, many arts and cultural organizations call downtown home. Be sure to visit Littleton’s award-winning theater at Town Hall arts Center, the Depot Art Gallery, or visit Bega Park, dedicated to Littleton’s Australian Sister City.

  • Littleton Blvd

    Bookended by downtown on the west and the East Community Center, Littleton’s original automobile “drag” features a significant architectural portfolio, diverse restaurants, coffee shops, and breweries. Dotted with arts organizations, nonprofits, and art/design-oriented businesses, the potential for this stretch as a cultural corridor is endless.

  • Santa Fe Corridor

    What was once barely a dusty road has become a significant metro thoroughfare through Littleton. Flanked by light rail on the east and the Platte River on the west, Santa Fe Road is lined with some of the city’s most significant, and visible, arts and cultural centers. These include Arapahoe Community College, Hudson Gardens, Aspen Grove, and a sea of new development that promises a place for new residents and cultural opportunities. There are also several local establishments alone the Platte River that feature regular performances from local groups including the Symphony of the Rockies annual 4th of July Celebration.

  • Cultural Campus

    In the heart of one of Littleton’s oldest neighborhoods is the central Cultural Campus. Home to the city’s Museum, historic farms, and Bemis Public Library. The area is home to the Littleton Symphony Orchestra and features beautiful parks and trails including the spectacular Crabapple Tree Route. Other cultural gems include the Memorial Rose Garden, historic Bemis House (home to the Western Welcome Week organization), and annual events including concerts in the park and Stride 5/10k.