About Us

The unique art gallery at the Painted Pony Cafe & Gallery features equine art including portraits of horses and their owners as well as horses in quiet pastural settings. Enjoy a casual meal, set in a home-style casual setting, and take in a picturesque view of historic downtown Crested Butte. The deli-style menu items include toasty breakfast and lunchtime panini sandwiches, delicious soups and other treats. Open year-round 7 am to 5:30 pm daily except Tuesdays. with extended hours on ArtWalk evenings 'till 8 pm -- serving complimentary hot cocoa and special treats for art lovers. For over 35 years, Artist and Gallery Owner, Melissa Gates has been blessed to merge her passion for horses and pets in creating commissioned portraits of horses, pets and “their people.” The Painted Pony Cafe and Gallery is one of the few art galleries in the USA that focuses primarily on the art of horses. Visit us during ArtWalk Crested Butte and the many other community special events.