Looking for a blend of outdoor adventure and progressive culture? Head to Boulder! Nestled at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder offers scenic hiking, eclectic dining, craft breweries, and a vibrant downtown. Whether you’re exploring the Flatirons, catching live music, or sampling farm-to-table cuisine, Boulder is a haven for nature lovers and creatives alike.
Boulder, CO Highlights:
- For Hikers: Explore Chautauqua Park and the Flatirons – Choose from a range of trails that offer jaw-dropping mountain views and quick access from downtown.
- For Foodies: Dine along Pearl Street Mall – Boulder’s walkable downtown features award-winning restaurants, cafés, and street performers.
- For Science Enthusiasts: Tour the CU Boulder Campus and Fiske Planetarium – Explore cutting-edge research centers, beautiful architecture, and stargazing shows.
- For Beer Lovers: Visit Avery Brewing Company – Enjoy local craft beer and pub fare in a lively, welcoming space.
- For Families: Discover the Museum of Boulder – Interactive exhibits, Boulder history, and fun learning for all ages.
Best Time to Visit Boulder, CO
The best time to visit Boulder is during the spring and fall (April–May and September–October), when the weather is mild and the scenery is especially beautiful. Summer is great for festivals and outdoor activities, while winter attracts skiers and snowshoers heading into the nearby foothills.
How to Get to Boulder, CO
- If you are traveling by car: Boulder is easily accessed via US-36, about 30–40 minutes northwest of Denver.
- By Air: Denver International Airport (DEN) is the nearest major airport, about 45–60 minutes away by car or shuttle.
- By Bus: The RTD Flatiron Flyer connects Boulder to Denver with frequent service via express lanes.
Where to Stay in Boulder, CO
- Recommended for Couples: St Julien Hotel & Spa – Luxury accommodations with a full-service spa, mountain views, and walkable downtown access.
- For Boutique Charm: Hotel Boulderado – Historic 1909 hotel with elegant Victorian details and a prime location near Pearl Street.
- For Budget-Friendly Comfort: Boulder University Inn – Clean, simple lodging within walking distance of campus and restaurants.
Best Things to Do in Boulder, CO
1. Best Free thing to do in Boulder: Stroll down the Pearl Street Mall
The Pearl Street Mall is a central hub for visitors and locals alike.
2. Best thing to do with kids: Head to the Fiske Planetarium
Based at the University of Colorado, the Fiske Planetarium features a variety of exhibits, presentations and shows about the sky, the stars and the universe.
Attractions for Couples
3. Admire contemporary artworks at Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art (BMOCA)
Founded in 1972, Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art (BMOCA) is a dynamic art museum that presents significant contemporary artworks. With the aim of educating and inspiring creative experiences and exploration through regional, national and international exhibitions, presentations and performances, BMOCA hosts contemporary art exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Address: 1750 13th Street, Boulder, Colorado 80302, Phone: 303-443-2122
4. Get tickets to watch the Boulder Chamber Orchestra
Since its establishment in 2004, the Boulder Chamber Orchestra (BCO) has been Boulder’s premier chamber orchestra, featuring world-class musicians and playing to sold-out audiences throughout the year.
Address: 1905 Kohler Drive, Boulder, CO 80305, Phone: 303-583-1278
5. Join a Local Table Tour
Experience Colorado’s unique and delicious cuisine with a fun foodie tour: Local Table Tours.
Recommended Activities for Families
6. Take the kids to Eldorado Canyon State Park
Eldorado Canyon State Park has something for everyone.
7. Have a picnic at Boulder Falls
For hikers on the hunt for a beginner-friendly trail in Boulder, Boulder Falls delivers in spades. A quick 0.10-mile loop with a 63-meter elevation gain, the trail has a 3- to 6-foot-wide path that provides a short and easy trek to the small but powerful Boulder Falls. The trail is nestled in the midst of 5-acres of mining claims and has been referred to as the “Yosemite of Boulder Canyon”.
8. Take a tour of NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory (ESRL)
NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory (ESRL) handles the study of atmospheric and other processes that affect air quality, weather, and climate across the globe. Guided tours of the David Skaggs Research Center at the ESRL are available for the public to enjoy, with stops at the Space Weather Prediction Center, the National Weather Forecast Office, and Science on a Sphere. Tours last approximately 1.5 hours.
Address: 325 Broadway, Boulder, Colorado
9. Enjoy Traditional afternoon tea at the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse
Overlooking Boulder Creek in the heart of Central Park, nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse is one of Boulder’s most beautiful and popular tourist attractions. Traditional afternoon tea is served with crisp English-style white linens and teatime accoutrements, including a three-tiered tower of freshly baked cakes and scones, sweet and savory pastries, and cucumber sandwiches, as well as a range of usual and unusual teas.
Address: 1770 13th Street, Boulder, Colorado 80302, Phone: 303-442-4993
10. Take a tour of Cure Organic Farm
Home to ducks, hens, heritage Berkshire and Mangalitsa pigs, and several honey bee hives, this fully sustainable farm offers a range of educational tours where visitors can experience the day-to-day happenings of an actual working farm. Cure Organic Farm tours include local food production and distribution, composting and its role in food production, animals on the farm, farm operations, and Certified Organic Agriculture. Farm tours are available from April through May and September through October, and last 1-2 hours.
Address: 7416 Valmont Road, Boulder, Colorado 80301, Phone: 303-666-6397
Where to Eat in Boulder, CO
- Recommended for Families: The Sink – Funky campus-area pizzeria and burger joint with graffiti-covered walls and local legend status.
- For Upscale Dining: Frasca Food and Wine – James Beard Award-winning restaurant inspired by Northern Italian cuisine.
- For a Casual Bite: Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery – Beloved local hangout for craft beer, burritos, and vegetarian-friendly fare.
If You Are Interested in Local Events:
- For Outdoor Sports Fans: BOLDERBoulder 10K (Memorial Day) – One of the largest and most fun road races in the country.
- For Music Lovers: Boulder Creek Festival (May) – A lively multi-day event with food, music, vendors, and creekside fun.
- For Art Enthusiasts: Open Studios Tour (October) – Meet local artists and explore creative spaces across the city.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30–60 Minutes of Boulder, Colorado:
- For Nature Escapes: Eldorado Canyon State Park (30 min) – A hidden gem for hiking, rock climbing, and picnicking in dramatic canyons.
- For Scenic Drives: Peak to Peak Scenic Byway (40–60 min) – Wind through forests and mountains with postcard-worthy stops along the way.
- For History Lovers: Golden, CO (30–40 min) – Tour Coors Brewery, visit museums, and enjoy Old West charm.
- For Wildlife: Rocky Mountain National Park (60–70 min) – Day hike in alpine meadows and keep an eye out for elk and bighorn sheep.
- For Family Fun: Butterfly Pavilion in Westminster (30–35 min) – A hands-on nature museum featuring live butterflies, spiders, and insects.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What is Boulder known for?
- Boulder is a high-altitude town with a lively downtown, a diverse selection of outdoor sports, hiking trails, hotels, restaurants, and activities.
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What should visitors do when starting their trip to Boulder?
- Start your trip by strolling down Pearl Street, followed by a visit to one of the city's museums and attractions, many of which offer free admission.
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When is the best time to visit Boulder?
- The best time to visit Boulder is during the shoulder seasons in the spring (April-May) and in the fall (September-October) with temperatures in the 60s and 70s.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers.
St Julien Hotel & Spa – A luxury stay with mountain views and a full-service spa.
Hike at Chautauqua Park – Enjoy breathtaking views of the Flatirons.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and ideal for outdoor adventures.
The Boulderado Hotel – A historic hotel in the heart of downtown.
Explore Pearl Street Mall – Stroll through shops, street performers, and great dining spots.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, golden aspen trees, and fewer crowds.
Basecamp Boulder – A boutique hotel with an adventure-inspired atmosphere.
Drive the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway – Experience stunning fall foliage.
Winter (December-February) – Cold, snowy, and great for winter sports.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Boulder – A comfortable stay with easy access to ski resorts.
Go skiing or snowshoeing at Eldora Mountain – A short drive from Boulder with excellent slopes.
Map:
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