National Center for Atmospheric Research

Description:

  • Inspired by the cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park, I. M. Pei designed this striking pink-sandstone building, which overlooks Boulder from high atop Table Mesa in the southwestern foothills. (You might recognize the center from Woody Allen's Sleeper; scenes were shot here.) Scientists study such phenomena as the greenhouse effect, wind shear, and ozone depletion to gain a better understanding of the earth's atmosphere. Among the technological tools on display are satellites, weather balloons, interactive computer monitors, robots, and supercomputers that can simulate the world's climate. There are also hands-on, weather-oriented exhibits and a theater. The Walter Orr Roberts Weather Trail outside the building's west doors takes visitors on a .4-mile, wheelchair-accessible loop along a path with interpretive signs describing various aspects of weather and climate plus the plants and animals of the area. The center also houses a changing art exhibit and a science-oriented gift shop. Allow 1 to 2 hours.

  • © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's
Frommer's
  •  Recommended 2010
  • Details
    • Contact:

    • visit website
    • tel: +1 303 497 1371
    • fax: +1 303 497 1298
    • send email
    • Address:

    • 1850 Table Mesa Dr
    • Boulder, CO 80307
    • Neighborhood:

    • South Boulder
    • Hours:

    • Self-guided tours weekdays 8am-5pm; weekends and holidays 9am-4pm. 1-hr. guided tours daily at noon; there is also a self-guided audio tour
    • Strenuousness:

    • Easy

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