First Friday in Denver: Visit These Local Businesses & Galleries!

Denver’s First Friday Art Walk is one of the city’s most celebrated monthly traditions, bringing together artists, makers, musicians, and small businesses throughout the Santa Fe Arts District. At The Sherman Agency, we’re proud to support local entrepreneurs who help make this vibrant community such a unique destination. Whether you’re looking for handcrafted goods, contemporary art, or an unforgettable shopping experience, be sure to stop by these incredible tenants during your next First Friday visit!

Ember & Stitch

Whether you’re a leather enthusiast or simply looking for a unique First Friday experience, Ember & Stitch is a must-visit destination in Denver’s Santa Fe Arts District. Located at  918 W 8th Ave, this creative studio blends artisan retail, hands-on leather-working workshops, and its signature Branding Bar. All visitors can personalize leather goods with custom initials, symbols, or designs using traditional iron-branding and embossing technique making it a welcoming space to make, learn, and leave your mark. During First Friday, Ember & Stitch offers a special $15 Bring Your Own Branding experience—bring your own genuine leather item, and have it customized with a personalized brand, making it a one-of-a-kind keepsake. Tune into their Instagram here for upcoming events and workshops!

Curious Nature & Co.

More than just a retail shop, Curious Nature & Co., located at 773 Santa Fe Dr, is a creative collective where local artists, makers, and entrepreneurs come together under one roof. Home to 11 small businesses, 6 working artist studios, and a rotating showcase featuring new creatives, every visit offers something new to discover. Visitors can shop an eclectic mix of handcrafted goods, vintage finds, botanical treasures, artwork, and unique gifts while meeting the talented makers behind them. Looking ahead, Curious Nature & Co. is continuing to grow with the addition of a wellness center expected to open in the next few months, creating an even more vibrant destination for creativity, community, and connection in the Santa Fe Arts District. Stay updated with all upcoming events, such as yoga classes, meditation workshops, and much more by checking out their Instagram here.

POP Gallery

Located at 767 Santa Fe Drive, POP Gallery is a cornerstone of the Santa Fe Arts District. The gallery showcases a dynamic mix of established and emerging contemporary artists with its exhibitions featuring pop surrealism, contemporary illustration, and modern fine art. Visitors can explore a wide range of styles from local and national creators. A defining feature of the gallery is POP Understudios, which offers working studio space for artists. This gives visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process in real time. The environment helps build stronger connections between artists and the community. POP Gallery participates in every First Friday Art Walk in Denver. It also hosts rotating exhibitions, art classes, and community events throughout the year. These programs keep the space active and constantly evolving. Visitors can always find something new to experience. Check their Website or Instagram for updates on exhibitions, classes, and events.

ReCreative

Located at 765 Santa Fe Drive, ReCreative is a community-focused creative reuse center that transforms donated art supplies into new opportunities for artists, educators, and makers. The shop offers an ever-changing selection of affordable creative materials. It is a go-to destination for anyone looking to create sustainably. ReCreative also supports environmental responsibility and expands access to the arts in Denver. Visitors can browse unique supplies, join workshops, and discover new ways to reuse materials. The gallery will also feature Megan Morgan’s exhibition, “OVERLOOK,” opening on the next First Friday, July 3. Stop by during the First Friday Art Walk to experience the exhibition and explore the space. Visit their Website and Instagram to learn more about everything ReCreative brings to the Santa Fe Arts District.

Beyond the galleries and exhibitions, the Santa Fe Arts District is also home to a diverse mix of local businesses that bring creativity, wellness, food, and community into everyday life. These Sherman Agency tenants each offer something unique, whether you’re stopping in for First Friday, booking a service, or exploring the neighborhood.

Be sure to check out Renegade Brewery for First Friday food trucks and a laid-back brewery setting (925 W 9th Ave, 4–9 pm). Visit Mystic Lounge, which pairs a cocktail lounge with immersive escape room experiences (921 W 9th Ave). For fitness and performance training, Proper Fitness offers personal and semi-private coaching, HYROX-style workouts, and nutrition support (923 W 9th Ave).

On the dining side, Mon Thai serves authentic Thai cuisine in a casual local setting (750 Santa Fe Dr). For wellness and spiritual experiences, The Wytches Brew offers organic teas alongside sound healing, meditation, tarot, and divination (757 Santa Fe Dr). Creativity continues at KORL Tattoo and Kestrel Studios, both offering custom tattoo artistry and piercing services in the district.

For photography, Blue Flame Studio Co. specializes in empowering boudoir, branding, and maternity sessions (771 Santa Fe Dr #202). Jungle House provides eco-friendly hair services including cuts, color, extensions, and scalp care (928 W 8th Ave). Finally, Petit Loup Academy offers French immersion preschool education that blends language, art, and culture (938 W 8th Ave).

Together, these tenants help define the Santa Fe Arts District as a vibrant, creative, and community-driven destination beyond First Friday!