Boulder, Colorado, is a city that seamlessly blends natural beauty with artistic expression, making it the perfect destination for an artful day trip. The city is home to a wide range of creative hotspots, from trendy hotels to innovative art exhibitions.
Moxy Boulder: A Stylish Retreat
The newly opened Moxy Boulder hotel is a great place to start your day, with its stylish collegiate vibe and interiors inspired by the city’s iconic rock formations. Design firm AvroKO has incorporated natural textures and Colorado buff sandstone into the common areas, creating a unique and welcoming atmosphere. A sculpture by local artist Emmett Culligan adds a touch of local flavor to the entry, while vintage Boulder concert posters adorn the walls.
The hotel’s open-to-the-public courtyard is designed to showcase a variety of retail and restaurant offerings, making it an ideal spot to relax and unwind. Whether you’re a traveler or a local, the Moxy Boulder has something to offer, from its comfortable rooms to its lively public spaces.
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Boulder Furniture Arts: Handcrafted Wonders
For a glimpse into the city’s thriving design scene, head to the showroom and workshop of Boulder Furniture Arts, a local company that has been handcrafting natural wonders since 1985. Skilled makers select raw materials from sustainable tree farms across the U.S. to create unique and functional pieces. Hannah Rogal, co-owner and lead designer, notes that the company’s signature style includes grain matching, centered elliptical and cathedral patterns, and beautifully balanced color.
Visitors can explore the showroom and discover one-of-a-kind pieces, including new chair designs that defy gravity with cantilevers and steam-bent backs. The company is also rearranging the showroom to feature a dining table made from a colossal 250-year-old walnut tree, a true masterpiece of craftsmanship.
Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art: Optical Illusions
The Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art is currently hosting a group exhibition titled “Smoke & Mirrors,” which explores the allure of optical illusions through a variety of media, including light, liquid, glass, and metal. The show features works by Sasha Alexandra, Joel Swanson, and Doug Spencer, among others, and promises to distort reality and challenge visitors’ perceptions in fascinating and disorienting ways.
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On December 7, visitors can participate in a hands-on Mylar plant-making workshop led by Drew Austin, where they can create their own winter bouquet of metallic plants and flowers. This interactive experience is a unique opportunity to engage with the art and take home a lasting memento of your visit.
As the day comes to a close, reflect on the unique blend of natural beauty and artistic expression that Boulder has to offer. From the stylish Moxy Boulder hotel to the innovative exhibitions at the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art, this city is a treasure trove of creative experiences waiting to be discovered.
With its rich cultural scene and stunning natural surroundings, Boulder is an ideal destination for anyone looking to spend an artful day. Whether you’re interested in design, art, or simply exploring a new city, Boulder has something to offer, and its unique blend of style and substance is sure to leave a lasting impression.
