Visit NCAR

The National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) sits nestled against the foothills to the Rocky Mountains.  NCAR's Visitor Center, open to the public seven days a week, offers state-of-the-art exhibits, a variety of public tour options, and custom school field trips.

NCAR's Mesa Lab in Boulder, CO

Plan Your Trip

Basic information for visitors at the NCAR Mesa Lab Visitor Center

Tim explaining the climate exhibit

NCAR Public Tours

Exploring NCAR's Mesa Laboratory and Visitor Center is a fun and educational way to spend some time in the Denver metro area.

School Field Trips

School Field Trips to NCAR

A field trip to the NCAR Visitor Center is a fun way for your class to learn about weather, the atmosphere, climate, Sun and space weather, and more! 

Have a Virtual Science Experience

Virtual Offerings

We offer live virtual presentations, recorded demos, and Digital Learning Kits for educators and learners in grades K-12.

Visitor Center Self Guided Tour

Visitor Center Self-Guided Tour

Our free app provides the perfect opportunity to explore the NCAR Mesa Lab Visitor Center at your own pace.

About Our Exhibits

About Our Exhibits

Touch a cloud, consider chaos, steer a hurricane, explore climate, take a look at the Sun, and browse art galleries. At the National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder, CO, our exhibits will take you on a hands-on journey through the world of weather and climate.

Yellowstone Rainbow

Accessibility

The NCAR Mesa Lab Visitor Center is committed to opening its doors to everyone, including those with disabilities along with their families and friends. 

Super Science Saturday

Super Science Saturday

Super Science Saturday is a public science celebration that draws thousands of excited and curious people of all ages to the NCAR Mesa Lab to explore science!

Balloon Launch at Super Science Saturday

Public Events

Check our Facebook page for upcoming free events that are open to the public.