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Wright Opera House

4.7
·61 reviews·Ouray, United States

A historic 1888 opera house in Ouray, CO, and the building housing a massive used bookstore in Denton, TX.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Lively events and pleasant weather

CrowdMedium
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Wright Opera House - Image 1

Wright Opera House

Best Time

Summer evenings

Lively events and pleasant weather

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic 1888 opera house in Ouray, CO, and the building housing a massive used bookstore in Denton, TX.

4.7
(61 reviews)

"A just-see when in Ouray! Iconic and recently restored venue with something for everyone."

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TIP

Check Event Schedules

Visit the Wright Opera House website for the latest events, from film festivals to live music.

Book Tickets Early

Popular shows and events can sell out quickly, especially during peak season.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ouray's Historic Theater

Ouray's Historic Theater

Ouray, Colorado

Experience a beautifully restored 1888 venue hosting film festivals, live music, and community events.

Recycled Books

Recycled Books

Denton, Texas

A massive, multi-story used bookstore within the historic Wright Opera House building.

Murder Mystery Dinners

Murder Mystery Dinners

Ouray, Colorado

Engaging interactive events where guests participate in solving a mystery over a delicious meal.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Popular Shows

The Wright Opera House hosts a variety of events, from film festivals to live music. For popular performances, especially during peak tourist seasons in Ouray, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. Check their schedule online.

Explore Both Locations

The Wright Opera House has two distinct identities: a historic performance venue in Ouray, Colorado, and the building housing Recycled Books in Denton, Texas. Ensure you know which location you're interested in visiting before planning your trip.

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Lively events and pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
More programming and community events
Crowd
Medium
When
Off-season weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🇺🇸”I am a American Soldier”🇺🇸 Credit: R.J. Wright #duet #reaction #armyvalues #army #veteranguy #misson #realtalk #americansoldier #fyp
@_shawnb
185.2K likes • 1.6M views

Check Event Schedules

Visit the Wright Opera House website for the latest events, from film festivals to live music. Instagram

Book Tickets Early

Popular shows and events can sell out quickly, especially during peak season. Instagram

@thatdaneshguy
60K likes • 346.3K views
Come join us tonight @wrightoperahouse ❄️ We got to chat with Kelvin who will be in attendance and helped organize this showing. #SnowLeopardSisters is showing tonight at the #WrightOperaHouse and we’re excited to see you there! #WrightOperaHouse #OurayColorado #localbank #communitybank #banklocal #CSBOuray #CSBColorado
csbcolorado
6 likes • 134 views

Explore All Floors

At Recycled Books, don't miss the vast collections spread across three floors. Instagram

Enjoy the Tavern

Grab a drink at the onsite tavern for a relaxed pre- or post-event experience. Reddit

A hidden gem in Denton, TX 📚. Once the historic Wright Opera House, this 3-story book store holds over half a million books! Here you will find recycled books, records, CD’s, movies, & video games. @recycledbooksdenton #texas #texaslife #texastravel #texastodo #exploretexas #visittexas #dfw #dentontx #dentontexas
atasteoftexas_
27.1K likes • 490.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Event Schedules

Visit the Wright Opera House website for the latest events, from film festivals to live music. Instagram

Book Tickets Early

Popular shows and events can sell out quickly, especially during peak season. Instagram

Explore All Floors

At Recycled Books, don't miss the vast collections spread across three floors. Instagram

Enjoy the Tavern

Grab a drink at the onsite tavern for a relaxed pre- or post-event experience. Reddit

Immerse in the Mystery

Fully participate in murder mystery dinners for the most fun! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(61 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Wright Opera House in Ouray for its beautifully restored historic ambiance and diverse programming, from film festivals to engaging murder mystery dinners. In Denton, Recycled Books is celebrated as a vast, treasure-filled used bookstore. Some minor concerns include limited parking during peak times in Ouray and the sheer overwhelming nature of the book collection for some.

"Went for a murder mystery dinner here at the Wright and it was an absolute delight. The food was lovely. Our host Kate was a wonderful MC and detective. Will definitely be back very very soon."

Olivia Rose

"Iconic and recently restored venue which has something for everyone. Whether it’s a drink in the Tavern, programming in the theater (international film festival, melodrama, musical acts) or a community arts reception. They also have fundraising events including a 4th of July cornhole tournament which was a blast. A just-see when in Ouray!"

Roman Herrington

"Beautiful venue! I was there for the Ouray International Film Festival and had a great time🎉"

Brett Lewis

What People Like

Beautifully restored historic venue
Diverse event programming
Engaging murder mystery dinners

What People Dislike

Limited parking at times
Overwhelming book selection

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Wright Opera House is located in the heart of Ouray, Colorado, easily accessible by car. Parking is available nearby, though it can be limited during busy times. Many visitors arrive as part of a scenic drive through the San Juan Mountains. Instagram

No, they are two different locations. The Wright Opera House in Ouray, Colorado is a historic performance venue. The building housing Recycled Books in Denton, Texas, also historically known as the Wright Opera House, is a large used bookstore. Instagram+1

Recycled Books is situated on Denton's Town Square, easily reachable by car. The square offers parking, though it can get busy. It's also a walkable area, making it easy to explore other shops and restaurants. Instagram

Public transport options directly to the Wright Opera House in Ouray are limited. Most visitors arrive by personal vehicle or as part of organized tours that often include stops in Ouray. Instagram

Yes, the Wright Opera House is centrally located in Ouray, making it easily walkable from many hotels and accommodations on or near Main Street. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets for events at the Wright Opera House in Ouray can typically be purchased online through their official website or ticketing partners. Some tickets may also be available at the door, but booking in advance is recommended for popular shows. Instagram

Recycled Books in Denton generally operates during standard retail hours, but it's always best to check their specific opening and closing times online before your visit, as these can vary. Instagram

No, there is no admission fee to enter Recycled Books. You can browse the extensive collection of used books, records, and more freely. Instagram

For most ticketed events at the Wright Opera House in Ouray, advance purchase is required. Some community receptions or casual gatherings might be open to the public, but always check the event details. Reddit

Discounts may be available for certain events or for specific groups (e.g., students, seniors). It's advisable to check the event listings on the Wright Opera House website or contact them directly for any available discount information. Reddit

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

The Wright Opera House in Ouray hosts a diverse range of events, including the Ouray International Film Festival, live musical performances, melodrama, community arts receptions, and special fundraisers like cornhole tournaments. InstagramReddit+4

Recycled Books is known for its vast, labyrinthine layout across three floors, filled with an immense collection of used books, vinyl records, CDs, and movies. It's a treasure trove for book lovers and collectors. Instagram+2

Yes, the murder mystery dinners are highly interactive, with guests often participating in character to solve the mystery. Reviewers praise the engaging nature of these events. Reddit+1

While the Wright Opera House is a historic building, efforts have been made to improve accessibility. It's recommended to contact the venue directly to inquire about specific accessibility needs for performances. Instagram

Absolutely! Recycled Books offers a wide array of used vinyl records, CDs, movies, and collectibles, making it a one-stop shop for various forms of media and memorabilia. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, food is often available during events at the Wright Opera House in Ouray, particularly during special events like murder mystery dinners where a meal is included. They also have an onsite tavern for drinks. Reddit+1

Recycled Books is located on Denton's Town Square, which is surrounded by numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries, offering a wide variety of dining choices to complement your bookstore visit. Instagram

The food served at the murder mystery dinners is generally described as delicious and well-prepared, with reviewers highlighting the quality of the dinner experience. Reddit+1

Typically, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the Wright Opera House during performances. There is an onsite tavern and food is often served as part of specific event packages. Reddit

Specific dietary options can vary depending on the event. It's best to inquire with the Wright Opera House directly when booking tickets for events that include meals to confirm vegetarian or vegan choices. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary by event. Generally, casual photography for personal use might be permitted, but professional photography or flash photography during performances is usually restricted. Check with the venue for specific guidelines. Instagram

The sheer scale and unique atmosphere of Recycled Books, with its towering shelves of books and eclectic media, offer numerous visually interesting photo opportunities. Capturing the multi-level layout is a popular choice. Instagram+1

Yes, the historic architecture of the Wright Opera House in Ouray is a significant feature. Exterior shots are generally welcome, and interior photos may be allowed during non-performance times or with permission. Instagram

Filming for commercial purposes or without prior authorization is typically not allowed at the Wright Opera House. Personal video recording might be restricted during performances. Instagram

Daytime hours when the store is well-lit by natural light often provide the best conditions for photography inside Recycled Books. The ambient lighting can create a cozy, vintage feel. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

For families visiting the Wright Opera House in Ouray, check the schedule for family-friendly events like community gatherings or specific film screenings. While the venue itself is historic, its programming can often include options suitable for children. The murder mystery dinners might be more engaging for older children or teens who enjoy interactive games. Reddit+1

In Denton, Texas, Recycled Books offers a unique experience for families. Kids can explore the vast collection of books, potentially finding beloved childhood stories or discovering new interests. The sheer scale of the store can be an adventure in itself, encouraging exploration. It's a great way to spend a rainy afternoon or a quiet break from more active sightseeing.

📚 Bookworms & Collectors

If you're a dedicated bookworm, Recycled Books in Denton, Texas, is your ultimate destination. With its immense three-story collection, you're bound to find rare finds, out-of-print books, and a wide array of genres. Don't forget to explore the extensive vinyl records, CDs, and movie collections for a complete media treasure hunt. Instagram+2

For those interested in unique collectibles, the Ouray Wright Opera House might offer events featuring local artisans or antique fairs. While not its primary focus, the historic nature of the venue can sometimes lend itself to events where collectors might find interesting items. Always check the event calendar for such opportunities. Reddit

🎶 Music & Film Enthusiasts

Music and film lovers will find plenty to enjoy at the Wright Opera House in Ouray. The venue regularly hosts live musical performances across various genres and is a key location for the Ouray International Film Festival. Keep an eye on their schedule for upcoming concerts and cinematic events. Instagram+3

At Recycled Books in Denton, music enthusiasts can delve into a vast collection of used vinyl records and CDs, with a notable emphasis on local artists. Film buffs can also browse through a wide selection of movies, offering a chance to find classic or hard-to-get titles. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Dual Identity of the Wright Opera House

The name 'Wright Opera House' refers to two distinct, yet historically linked, locations. In Ouray, Colorado, it's a beautifully restored 1888 venue that serves as a vibrant cultural hub for the community. It hosts a diverse array of events, from the annual Ouray International Film Festival to live music, melodrama, and community gatherings. Its preservation has been recognized with prestigious awards, highlighting its importance to the town's heritage. InstagramReddit+4

Across the state in Denton, Texas, the historic Wright Opera House building is home to Recycled Books. This is not a performance venue but a colossal used bookstore spanning three floors. It's renowned for its extensive collection of books, vinyl records, CDs, and movies, making it a must-visit for bibliophiles and collectors. The building's historical significance is preserved, offering a unique backdrop for a sprawling retail experience. Instagram+2

Understanding which Wright Opera House you intend to visit is crucial for planning your trip, as the experiences offered are vastly different, yet both are rooted in the charm of their respective historic buildings.

Experiencing Events at the Ouray Venue

The Wright Opera House in Ouray, Colorado, offers a rich tapestry of events that cater to various interests. The Ouray International Film Festival is a highlight, drawing filmmakers and cinephiles alike. Beyond film, the venue frequently hosts live musical performances, showcasing local and touring artists. For a taste of local tradition, look out for melodrama performances, which often evoke the spirit of the building's early days. Instagram+4

Beyond scheduled programming, the Wright Opera House is a cornerstone for community events and fundraisers. These can range from art receptions to lively activities like the 4th of July cornhole tournament, demonstrating its integral role in Ouray's social fabric. A particularly popular offering is the murder mystery dinner, an interactive experience where guests dine and play a part in solving a fictional crime, consistently receiving rave reviews for its engaging format and delicious food. Reddit+2

Visitors are encouraged to check the venue's schedule in advance, as events are frequent and varied. The intimate setting of the historic opera house, combined with the diverse programming, makes for a memorable cultural experience in the heart of the San Juan Mountains.

The Book Lover's Paradise: Recycled Books

Recycled Books, housed within the historic Wright Opera House building in Denton, Texas, is an absolute haven for book lovers. Spread across three expansive floors, this store boasts an astonishing collection of over half a million used books. Navigating its aisles feels like an adventure, with genres and titles spanning every imaginable category. It’s a place where you can easily lose track of time, discovering hidden gems and long-sought-after titles. Instagram+2

Beyond its vast literary offerings, Recycled Books also features a significant collection of used vinyl records, CDs, and movies. This makes it a comprehensive destination for media enthusiasts looking for everything from classic films to obscure music genres. The store is particularly noted for its extensive selection of local music knowledge, including a comprehensive collection of CDs and vinyl from local bands and artists. Instagram

The atmosphere at Recycled Books is one of cozy exploration. The sheer volume of items creates a unique, almost labyrinthine environment that invites discovery. It’s more than just a bookstore; it’s a cultural repository and a testament to the enduring appeal of pre-loved media. Visitors often spend hours browsing, making it a perfect stop for a leisurely afternoon.

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