Salida’s distinct character is enhanced by the Downtown Historic District, consisting of 111 buildings. It is one of the largest in Colorado and was registered as a National Historic District in 1984. The many turn of the last century buildings add to the beautiful and unique natural surroundings.

The Salida Creative District was formed to support the ongoing economic growth in Salida and to create a climate in which creatives and creative enterprises can prosper. While the Creative District was officially formed in late 2011, with application to CCI submitted in January 2012, Salida’s growth as an art and culture center has taken many years. Salida’s Creative District includes not only artists, but creative entrepreneurs of all types, including locally owned restaurants and designers.