Boulder’s newest gathering space, the Rayback Collective, opens its doors to the public on July 15, 2016. Situated on 15,000 square feet at 28th and Valmont in the heart of Boulder, Colorado, the Rayback is a food truck park with a beer garden vibe, featuring a rotating lineup of food trucks, music, and brews. Here are our top five reasons why we can’t wait to check it out:
The Food
This one’s obvious and practically goes without saying, but the Rayback serves up an impressive array of food and drink. Come hungry! More than 30 local beers, cider, and wine on tap (including gluten free options) and a rotating set of delicious food trucks are ready to serve up some of Boulder’s most eclectic and tasty cuisine.
A Space for Every Occasion
The Rayback offers several distinct spaces to accommodate all moods, occasions, and groups. Want to catch up on email? Take a seat in the Lounge and relax with a brew or cup of joe. Meeting friends? There’s no better place than the bar. Want to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air? Bring the family and kick back on the outdoor porch or show off your Bocce Ball and Corn Hole skills in the yard. Throwing a party? The Marion, a 2,000 square foot private event space outfitted with a stage, projector, and A/V hookup can hold you and a couple hundred of your closest friends. Central to all of these locations is the stage, which will feature awesome local acts and performances.
Boosts the Food Truck Economy
If you twinge with jealousy any time you hear about an awesome new food truck idea, you’ll be excited to know that this will open the door for more budding food truck businesses in Boulder, which hasn’t always been the easiest town for food trucks to operate. Over the last few years, the Rayback’s founders have been paving the way for Boulder food trucks to park within 150 feet of brick and mortar restaurants. With these changes, plus the addition of the Rayback, it’s now easier than ever for small food truck businesses to get started and grow in Boulder.
Environmentally Friendly
Inspired by zero-waste movements in cities like Portland and San Francisco, the Rayback’s goal is to be the first zero-waste food truck park in the country. All food trucks will use eco-friendly equipment, like utensils and glassware.
It Pays Homage to a Boulder Legend
The space occupies the site of the former Rayback Plumbing & Supply building from the 1970s. Its previous owner, Marion Rayback, was a veteran and longtime Boulder resident and community activist. The Rayback adopted the family name in memory of the former owner and in the spirit of the good vibes of the previous tenants.
We certainly know where we’ll be hanging out the rest of the summer. What are you most excited about in anticipation of the Rayback’s opening? Let us know in the comments below!