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Science center · Boulder, Colorado
NCAR Mesa Laboratory
Climate research center on a mesa above Boulder, in a building by I. M. Pei, with public exhibits about weather and climate.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About NCAR Mesa Laboratory
Mesa Laboratory is the headquarters of the U.S. National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), on a mesa south of Boulder at the foot of the Flatirons. The building, reddish concrete towers, was designed by I. M. Pei in the 1960s and inspired by the ancestral dwellings of Mesa Verde.
The building offers public exhibits about weather, climate, the Sun and the atmosphere, with simulators, models and explanations of the research carried out at the center. There is no admission fee, and guided tours are offered at certain times.
Outside, the Walter Orr Roberts Trail, a short path with panels about weather and nature, circles the mesa with views of Boulder and the mountains, and connects to longer trails.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours, including the trail.
Best time
In the morning on clear days for the trail views. The exhibits are open year-round.
How to get there
By car, about 5 km from downtown Boulder, driving up Table Mesa Drive to the top of the mesa.
Tip
Check the website for exhibit hours and guided tour schedules.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about NCAR Mesa Laboratory
Is there a fee to visit Mesa Laboratory?
There is no admission fee for Mesa Laboratory’s exhibits. Check hours on the website.
Who designed the NCAR building?
Architect I. M. Pei, in the 1960s.
What is there to see at NCAR?
Exhibits about weather, climate, the Sun and the atmosphere, and a short trail with views of Boulder.