Brush: History, Art, and Wide-Open Plains

Brush lies in the fertile South Platte Valley and the wide-open plains of northeastern Colorado. The town combines historic traces, regional art, and special events with a landscape that can be consciously explored on a journey through Colorado. To get there, follow I-76 and the intersection of US Highways 34 and 6 with Colorado State Highway 71.

History in the Townscape and Museum

Anyone who would like to learn about Brush’s history can take a walking tour through the historic downtown. Staff members of the Brush Museum and Cultural Center also give a history presentation about the historic downtown. A central stop is the Brush Area Museum and Cultural Center, which is housed in the former Knearl School. The historic landmark was added to the National Register of Historic Buildings in 1997.

The museum includes two large galleries and commemorates the Texas-Montana Trail. There, visitors can learn historical information about horse racing, oil, sugar beets, a tuberculosis facility, cattle feedlots, and the Texas-Montana Trail. The route of the former cattle trail is also part of the town’s history: The Texas-Montana Trail ran along Clayton Street through Brush. Every year, 10,000 to 15,000 cattle were driven north along this trail. A visit to the museum and a walk through downtown therefore offer different ways to engage with the region’s past.

Art and Events with Regional Character

The Brush Art Center complements the historical offerings with contemporary creativity from the region. The gallery and shop showcase works by local artists from Morgan County and the surrounding area. At craft fairs, visitors can discover goods made by local artisans. The Art Center also offers Paint-&-Sip events, where a practicing artist provides instruction. These offerings suit travelers who want to combine a cultural stay not only with exhibitions but also with hands-on activity.

A defining event in the annual calendar is the Brush Rodeo. It takes place every year on July 4 and is a three-day event. The program includes bronco riding, barrel racing, bull riding, calf roping, steer wrestling, and Mutton Bustin’. There is also a free barbecue, Little Princess Rides, a July 4 parade, and a concluding fireworks display. If you plan your trip around this date, a clearly defined event experience will be at the center of your stay.

Wide-Open Landscape, Park, and Scenic Byway

Brush also offers various ways to enjoy a varied day away from the museum and events. Fishing is possible at Prairie Trails Park. There are numerous parks and bike trails in and around Brush. From Brush, you can also explore the Pawnee Pioneer Trails Scenic Byway. When choosing your accommodation, this allows you to take your preferred focus into account: A vacation rental or vacation home in Brush suits a travel plan that combines history and art with excursions into the wide-open plains, bike trails, fishing, or a drive along the Scenic Byway.

The location along several important roads is particularly appealing for a trip in which Brush serves as a base for different explorations. At the same time, the town itself remains an independent destination with its historic downtown, museum, Art Center, and annual rodeo traditions. When searching for accommodation, consider which of these experiences should define your trip and how much space you want to give to culture, landscape, or events.

More Destinations to Consider

If you would like to add another destination to your travel plans, you can also visit Fort Morgan.

For the higher-level travel overview: Morgan County.