Founded in 1876, the first class at this renowned institute only featured 44 students and three lecturers. Since that time the University of Colorado has grown into a reputed university.  Visitors to this university will discover a rich variety of buildings that carry through the rugged feel of the Flatirons, the backdrop of Boulder. 

The University also houses a vast and impressive library that houses a remarkable collection of books. Originally part of another building the structure was eventually relocated to feature its own separate building. The library was the largest in the region when it opened and it is today still one of the largest libraries in the countries.

The library also houses two art galleries within its walls. The Colorado University Art Museum features a range of modern and contemporary artwork that spans several time periods and originates from different cultures. Visitors to the museum can find over 5,000 pieces of art housed here. The UMC Art Gallery on the other hand features art that includes pieces done by students to presentations that were prepared by internationally recognized artists.

The Macky Auditorium is one of the most prominent buildings at the university and is host to a variety of plays, talks and musical performances. The auditorium also houses an art gallery that is known as the Macky Art Gallery. This gallery houses a variety of different exhibits that change over time. The gallery is free for public access but is only open on Wednesdays from 9 am till 4 pm. The gallery is also open for ticketed patrons attending an evening show at the Auditorium. The hall houses almost all the performances by the Boulder Philharmonic, the Artist Series and the CU Opera.

Guests looking for a Boulder hotel near the University of Colorado will find that Millennium Harvest House Boulder is an exceptional choice as the hotel is within walking distance of the university. Additionally hotel guests can also enjoy concerts and entertainment hosted by the hotel during the Friday Afternoon Club (FAC) in the summer and Saturday Afternoon Club (SAC) during CU Football season.