Grab a seat on the wrap around porch to eat breakfast, lunch or dinner at the Dining Hall

Discover Colorado Chautauqua in Boulder

It’s no secret that Boulder, CO is sought after by outdoor lovers seeking some of the best in rock
climbing, mountain biking and hiking. It’s also quite the golden nugget for art enthusiasts and those that
enjoy crafty local fare. A less discovered part of the city is the Colorado Chautauqua, which offers a little
bit of all things grand. “It’s a community worth exploring,” says Marketing and Development Director, Ann Obenchain.

Grab a seat on the wrap around porch to eat breakfast, lunch or dinner at the Dining Hall

Setting off on a tour of the 114-year-old campus, I could already feel the magical quiet charm. Boulder’s
chautauqua, snuggled up at the base of the Flatirons, is one of the few remaining chautauquas and is the
only one west of the Mississippi that operates year around and has its original structures still intact.

Hundreds of chautauquas sprang up during the late 19th century to connect people with education and
culture. The Boulder campus is still vital with a full program of activities. Original structures are still
intact offering concerts, films, theatre, lectures and an audience for the speaker series.

“You can learn, be entertained and realize in an inspiring setting,” says Ann as we enter the Auditorium.
The original projection booth and some original bleachers are still planted. “Dirt used to make up the
floors. We have come a long way since then,” Ann smiles.

The auditorium brings out culture through speakers, film, concerts and dance.

“This Chautauqua was built on three values. Education, Art and Nature,” reveals Ann. “Those values are
becoming even more important in a digital age. It’s so important to have shared experiences with family
and community.”

Unplug and connect with nature inside your cabin

Sixty historic cottages are dressed up with accommodating kitchens, comfy beds and screened in porches.
“Notice we have these beautiful flatirons out here. But still the porches face inward. That was by
design,” notes Ann. “You see the original creators wanted to promote a community.”

As I cozied up on the porch I realized how brilliant the idea was. To hear people laughing on the porch
next door, to watch someone read in the garden and kids laugh on the playground centered me. “Come
here to connect or for me time,” Ann tells me. “Either way you will unplug.” I couldn’t agree more.

Colorado Chautauqua National Historic Landmark

www.chautauqua.com

900 Baseline Rd

Boulder, CO 80302

303.442.3282

Choose between a studio or one, two or three bedroom cottages.

Perfect for accommodating larger guest parties, the eight bedroom Mission House offers a kitchen,
screen-in porch, eight private bathrooms and a shared family room area.

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