The Flatirons are a unique geological feature that are by far the most famous attraction in Boulder. Accessible through Chautauqua park and visible anywhere in the city, the Flatirons are a completely natural formation that occurred when a glacier pushed the mountains onto their sides, leaving the flattened undersides and layers of sediment visible in a way they usually aren't. The Flatirons take their name from their shape, which resembles three irons set down on the ground. A popular hiking spot, rappelling destination and visual treat in one, the Flatirons must be seen to be believed. Hidden under the cover of white snow or blazing red in the summer heat, Flatirons and its meadows filled with vibrant wildflowers, are a picturesque getaway and ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
This picturesque park, nestled at the base of the Flatirons, is one of three remaining areas from the historic Chautauqua Movement. The progressive movement, born in Chautauqua, New York, created a multitude of peaceful gathering places across the nation for educational and cultural programs. The original structures, built from 1898 to 1918, remain intact today and include such historic gems as the Dining Hall, and Academic Center. Still a prominent center for Boulder culture, the association hosts numerous activities year round, including the popular Summer Concert Series. There are hiking trails which lead up into the Flatirons and during the winter this is a popular sledding spot.
Macky Auditorium is the venue of choice for many orchestras and it is the primary home of the Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra. It is run under the learned hands of the internationally acclaimed director, Theodore Kuchar, who also leads the prestigious Australian Festival of Chamber Music every year, in fact, this Philharmonic has long been recognized as one of the finest in the West. Guest appearances have featured the likes of Itzhak Perlman, Mstislav Rostropovich, Yo-Yo Ma, and Sarah Chang.
Established in 1960 to examine and explore world weather patterns and climate, NCAR (pronounced en-car) is a center that works under the auspices of the National Science Foundation. The center is housed inside a landmark building and its filled with busy doctors and scientists looking over patterns and algorithms. It also doubles as an educational center packed with interactive displays that will amaze adults and kids alike. The scenic nature trails surrounding the complex contain learning stations that explain weather patterns and there are also brochures as well that allow you to guide yourself.
Take the kids on an expedition deep into the natural history of Colorado. The exhibits entice the visitor to explore the mysteries of native cultures and prehistoric lands as well as the region's flora and fauna. There are six exhibit halls which contain over three-million geological, archaeological paleontological and zoological specimens. The Discovery corner offers kids hands-on adventures and other interesting features include the Dinosaur Hall, Anasazi artifacts and a bug room. New exhibits are featured at the museum every month. Admission is free although donations are suggested.
One of Boulder's most treasured landmarks, this outdoor pedestrian mall boasts an array of boutiques and shops peddling an assortment of goods, from music to kites to trendy clothing. Located in the heart of the city, the tree lined, brick walkway also features a regular host of street performers and unusual Boulder characters. After shopping for the perfect present or browsing one of the art galleries, spend the afternoon on one of the many cafe patios. Sip your favorite beverage, soak in the sunshine and take in the street activity. A play area for children features an assortment of boulders to climb on.
Lapis Gallery has the market on diversity by selling all kinds of art, ranging from sculpture and pottery to works made from stone, glass, metal and wood. It focuses on local artists, but occasionally displays established regional and national artists. The owners here are also skilled craftsmen. They build and sell custom-made furniture which manages to blend function with style. They also do some steel grinding, and sell their own oil-based paint.
Specializing in antique prints and antiquarian books along with original art from the 1800s, this quaint gallery has something for every kind of art lover and collector. Peruse through a wide array of botanical extracts, historic photographs and vintage Western movie posters. Artists include John Gould, George Catlin, Thomas Moran and Edward S. Curtis. One of the ongoing exhibits showcases antique prints from 1839 portraying Native American life.
This is a city location for Muslim worship and other services. Masjid Ikhlas is the city's solution to all those who are religious. The mosque provides facilities to Muslims to offer their prayers and also conducts various services pertaining to the Muslim culture. The strategic location of the mosque enables all to offer their prayers in a calm and sanctified environment.
Eugenia Rawls Courtyard Theater is located in the King Academic & Performing Arts Center. And the center itself is based on the campus of Auraria Higher Education Center. The theater is a 350 seater with a rotating seating arrangement, and hosts wonderful plays. When in Denver if you want to have your fill of theatrical performances, come here.
Ted Asti Park is a memorial park located near the huge Superior Shopping Center, in the oldest part of the town of Superior. The park was dedicated in 2010 in honor of Ted Asti, a Superior resident who contributed much to the city, including funds, land, and other forms of support during Superior's fledgling days. The park is small but makes for a lovely picnic spot. The centerpiece of the park is the first house ever built in Superior, a fun and informative visit. Ted Asti was also a multiple war veteran and the park is dedicated not only to him but in memory of other soldiers who have called Superior their home. -Sabrina Zirakzadeh