Ouray Alchemist – Ouray, Colorado - Atlas Obscura
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Ouray Alchemist

Ouray, Colorado

A recreation of an Old West apothecary full of curios. 

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The snake on the sign. colins (Atlas Obscura User)
The snake on the sign. colins (Atlas Obscura User)
The Ouray Alchemist Ouray Alchemist
Interior of Ouray Alchemist mikewalker (Atlas Obscura User)
Ouray Alchemist sign mikewalker (Atlas Obscura User)
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Ouray, Colorado (pronounced like “You Ray”), known as the “Switzerland of America” is an old mining town in the Rockies that has become a popular tourist destination. Its history as a gold mining town gives it an Old West appeal that draws visitors up the hair-raising mountain roads and onto its frontier-style Main Street. On this Main Street, you’ll find a recreation of one of the American frontier’s weirdest, most wonderful institutions: the alchemist’s shop.

The Ouray Alchemist shop attempts to recreate a frontier-era pharmacy, although its current iteration only dates back to 2002. The pharmacy sells over the counter goods, but its truly unusual glory can only be experienced on a guided tour. Beautifully ornate medicine bottles, antiquated medical equipment, and stomach-churning remedies are all on display here.  

Know Before You Go

Call ahead for hours. While they are open "most" days there is no telling what days those will be. Be sure to call ahead to book a personalized tour

apothecaries alchemy pharmacy museums old west history
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Published
July 5, 2017
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Nearby
Box Canyon Falls
0.44 miles
Cascade Falls Park
0.48 miles
Mahr Building
9.61 miles
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