Chautauqua551

Teddy Roosevelt once remarked that chautauquas were "the most American thing in America," but today, only three of them are left. This Chautauqua, the only one west of the Mississippi, houses an auditorium, a dining hall, a community house, and cottages.

The purpose of Chautauqua, in the days before radio and television, was to unite people in common cultural and educational experiences. In the old days, orators, performers, and educators traveled a national Chautauqua circuit of more than 12,000 sites, bringing lectures, performances, concerts, classes, and exhibitions to thousands of people in small towns and cities.

At this Chautauqua, the spirit lives on. The site includes miles of hiking trails and family-friendly programming like concerts, puppet shows, storytelling, and a fabulous Silent Film Festival. You can picnic and relax on the wide, inviting lawns, wander the gardens, and visit the playground. Those who are a little more adventurous can hike toward the magnificent rock outcropping known as the Flatirons, which loom over the park and serve as Boulder's iconic landmark. We like the Enchanted Mesa Loop, and the trail that leads through the meadow, Chautauqua/Bluebell/Baird.

Kids like stopping by the Ranger Cottage to pick up a trail map, chat with rangers about what they've seen, and view the animal exhibits. The cottage can be found at the base of the Meadow, at the west end of the park's main area.

Group tours of Chautauqua Park are available Wednesdays at 1pm. Tours last approximately 45 minutes and require some walking and minimal stair climbing.

The dining hall is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offers a Children's Menu with kid favorites at very reasonable (under $5) prices.

During the summer season, cottages and lodges are available for a four night minimum stay, with longer stays encouraged through a discount that grows with the length of stay. Stays less than four nights may be available with a housekeeping charge. All accommodations are furnished housekeeping units, and where kitchens are available, stocked with dishes and utensils. Throughout the year, a smaller number of housekeeping cottages are available for short term stays, along with the newly restored Missions Lodge. Prices range from $70 up, depending on number of rooms and locations.

Family Membership is $50-$75/year and includes 2 for 1 Silent Film Series tickets, preferred seating at events, and more.