City: Boulder, CO

Category: Tours & Attractions

Telephone: (303) 497-1000

Description: Anyone who has ever gazed at the sky can find something of interest at NCAR (pronounced “en-car”). Founded in 1960 for research on the world’s climate, NCAR draws scientists from all over the globe to study our wonderful blanket of air. Interesting displays present the fundamentals of the scientists’ fields of expertise. Sky-watchers can learn about clouds, air currents, lightning, hail, tornadoes, and other weather phenomena, including global warming. I. M. Pei designed this mesa-top complex, which helped establish his reputation as a world-class architect. “The mountains,” said Pei, “gave us scale trouble from the beginning. We had to return to elemental forms. The Rockies humbled us.” Local red limestone was mixed into the concrete so it would blend with the Flatirons. The building’s angular forms mimic keyhole doors at the Mesa Verde cliff dwellings. This building is considered one of the nation’s finest public structures. Two galleries feature community art. The computers in the basement are some of the world’s fastest and largest.The center is open daily for self-guided tours; pick up a brochure in the lobby. Guided walking tours take place at noon throughout the year including weekends and holidays. No reservations are needed for the guided tours, but for more information call (303) 497-1174. If you want to bring a school class, scout troop, or any other group, tours must be arranged in advance by calling (303) 497-1173. The Walter Orr Roberts Weather Trail at NCAR is the only one of its kind in the country. Just west of the building, the 0.4-mile trail is not paved but is wheelchair accessible. There are signs posted at regular intervals along the trail explaining weather patterns that hikers are then able to observe. In addition, there are many short nature trails near NCAR that are spectacular for more ambitious hikers.The NCAR is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends and holidays. Admission is free.