Ben PhilipFrasier Retirement Community in Boulder, Colorado, is a well-established nonprofit Life Plan Community designed to provide older adults with a vibrant, supportive, and secure living environment. Since opening in 1960, Frasier has been known for its beautiful mountain views, wide range of amenities, and strong sense of community. Offering independent living, assisted living, memory support, and skilled nursing care, it allows residents to enjoy an active lifestyle with peace of mind knowing that care is available as needs change.
Frasier Retirement Community – Overview
Frasier, founded in 1958 and opened in 1960, is an independent, nonprofit Life Plan Community (Continuing Care Retirement Community) located on 20 acres in southeast Boulder, Colorado. It began with 100 apartments and now serves nearly 500 residents, supported by over 300 staff. The land was generously donated by Elmer and Mayme Frasier, and that spirit of giving continues to guide the community.
As a Life Plan Community, Frasier offers a full continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, memory support, and skilled nursing, all designed to provide peace of mind and continuity of care.
Campus and Location
The campus spans 20 acres, offering sweeping mountain views and direct access to local parks and lakes. Despite its tranquil setting, it is just minutes away from downtown Boulder’s cultural scene, including museums, theaters, Pearl Street Mall, and the University of Colorado.
Amenities include:
- Wellness Center with pools, yoga, salon, and acupuncture
- Library, craft and woodworking shops
- Resident-operated brewery
- Vibrant gardens, clubs, and social venues
Residences and Living Options
Independent Living
Two main buildings define Frasier’s independent living residences: The Peaks, which are legacy residences with stunning views, and The Prairies, a newer, modern building with balconies, nine-foot ceilings, in-unit laundry, and contemporary finishes completed in 2020.
Assisted Living
The Meadows offers 19 private studio or one-bedroom units with tailored care, including around-the-clock staff, medication assistance, and support with activities of daily living.
Memory Support
Also located within The Meadows, memory care features 19 private units ranging from 270 to 450 square feet, designed for safety and comfort. Residents have easy access to communal spaces, gardens, and walking paths.
Expansion, Design, and Sustainability
Frasier underwent a major \$100 million-plus capital improvement beginning in 2015. Enhancements included:
- Expansion of independent living through The Prairies
- A new Wellness Center with a 25-meter lap pool, fitness areas, and locker rooms
- Revamped dining venues, including Mayme’s Market bistro
- A new Arts and Education Center known as The Canyons Center
The architectural design was led by Hord Coplan Macht. The community occupies roughly 315,000 square feet, with renovations completed around 2019. It is the first continuing care retirement community in the United States designed to meet the WELL Building Standard for health-focused architecture.
Frasier achieved Gold-level WELL certification, emphasizing sustainable and health-oriented design. Attributes such as air quality, natural light, fitness, comfort, nourishment, and mental wellness are top priorities.
Culture and Community Values
Frasier’s mission is to build community that inspires and celebrates life. Its values include fostering community, cultivating curiosity, accountability, respect, and excellence.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Frasier encourages giving through volunteering, endowment funds, and philanthropic programs. These efforts help residents who outlive their financial resources and support community initiatives.
In 2025, Frasier planned a series of celebrations from April through October to honor its 65th anniversary and highlight its history and community spirit.
Resident Experience and Reputation
Frasier has earned strong reviews, with residents and families praising its compassionate staff, clean and inviting environment, engaging programming, and sense of community. One reviewer noted:
“From the moment we walked through the doors… the staff is not only highly skilled but also incredibly compassionate and attentive… The facility itself is clean, welcoming, and well-maintained… residents are engaged and connected, making it a true community.”
Helpful tips for prospective visitors include touring on weekdays to observe daily routines, asking thoughtful questions, and attending special events to get a sense of life at Frasier.
Summary Table
Feature | Highlights |
| ——————– | ——————————————————————- |
History | Founded 1960, nonprofit, nearly 500 residents, 20 acres |
Location | Boulder with mountain views, parks, and downtown access |
Residences | Independent (Peaks & Prairies), Assisted (Meadows), Memory Support |
Amenities | Wellness center, arts, dining, gardens, salon, brewery, craft shops |
Expansion and Design | \$100M+ improvements, WELL-certified, modern architecture |
Values and Culture | Inclusive, community-focused, nonprofit with philanthropic mission |
Reputation | Highly rated; compassionate staff, rich programming |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is Frasier Retirement Community?
A. Frasier Retirement Community is a nonprofit Life Plan Community that offers a continuum of care for older adults. It provides independent living, assisted living, memory support, and skilled nursing services on a single campus. Residents benefit from a variety of amenities, programs, and activities in a scenic Boulder setting.
Q: How many homes are in the community?
A. Frasier has close to 500 residences across its independent living, assisted living, and memory support areas. These include a mix of apartments and private units designed to meet different lifestyle and care needs.
Q: What types of homes are available?
A. Housing options include modern independent living apartments in The Prairies, legacy residences in The Peaks, private assisted living suites in The Meadows, and safe, comfortable memory care units. Many residences feature private balconies, mountain views, and spacious floor plans.
Q: What amenities are available?
A. Amenities at Frasier include a state-of-the-art Wellness Center with a lap pool and fitness spaces, multiple dining venues, a library, woodworking and craft shops, resident gardens, a salon and spa, and even a resident-operated brewery. The campus also features gathering areas for events, clubs, and performances.
Q: Are there educational opportunities?
A. Yes. Frasier offers lifelong learning opportunities, including lectures, discussion groups, art workshops, technology classes, and cultural programs. The on-site Canyons Center hosts regular educational and entertainment events for residents.
Q: What healthcare facilities are nearby?
A. In addition to its on-site skilled nursing and healthcare services, Frasier is located near top medical facilities in Boulder, including Boulder Community Health and other specialist clinics. Residents have convenient access to both routine and emergency care.
Q: What shopping and dining options are available?
A. Frasier is just minutes from downtown Boulder, where residents can enjoy the Pearl Street Mall, local boutiques, art galleries, coffee shops, and a wide range of restaurants. On campus, residents can dine at multiple venues offering fresh and seasonal menus.
Q: What recreational activities are nearby?
A. The community is surrounded by parks, lakes, and walking trails, with easy access to hiking in the Flatirons and nearby open spaces. Boulder’s cultural scene, including theaters, museums, and music venues, offers plenty of leisure opportunities.
Q: What committees are available for residents?
A. Frasier encourages resident participation through committees focused on gardening, dining services, library operations, resident events, sustainability, and wellness programming. These committees help shape community life and allow residents to share their skills and ideas.
Conclusion
Frasier Retirement Community combines a scenic location, modern residences, outstanding amenities, and a supportive atmosphere to create a welcoming home for older adults. With a focus on wellness, lifelong learning, and community engagement, Frasier offers both independence and security. Its commitment to high-quality care and vibrant living ensures residents can enjoy every stage of retirement to the fullest.