| Visiting the Mesa Laboratory |
Although we work at several locations, most of our public programs and exhibits are located at the Mesa Laboratory. This building, designed by architect I. M. Pei, is set high above Boulder against the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The laboratory is a striking, futuristic structure, but its design was influenced by the ancient Indian cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado. It was Pei's intention to create a building that would harmonize with its dramatic backdrop, the soaring rock formations called the Flatirons. Since the completion of the Mesa Laboratory in 1966, Pei has emerged as one of the world's foremost architects whose most famous designs include additions to the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, and the glass pyramid of the Louvre museum in Paris. The Mesa Lab remains one of Pei's favorite creations and an often-studied architectural icon. The inspiring setting, poking into the clouds we study, is worth a visit in itself. We maintain the site as a nature preserve. Mule deer and other wildlife range over the area and the city-owned mountain parks adjoining it. |
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Our public spaces, including the exhibits area, galleries, library, and cafeteria, are open daily throughout the year, including holidays. Items can be purchased at the reception desk during the work week. The Walter Orr Roberts Nature Trail, a wheelchair-accessible loop, crosses the site. Hikers are always welcome. We are committed to preserving our unique natural site. Please keep vehicles on the paved roads, park in designated areas, keep dogs leashed, and do not deface any natural features or carry away plants, animals, rocks, or other indigenous materials. Fires, firearms, hunting, and camping are not allowed. |
