10 best things to do in boulder, colorado
1. Enjoy the stunning mountains and trails of Chautauqua Park
Chautauqua park is a great place for a family day out, providing a perfect opportunity for your children to embrace nature.
The park offers stunning views of boulder with its iconic Flatirons standing tall in the background. if you have a group event planned with 50 people and over you can request a permit, however permits do not guarantee you a spot on the lawn.
Chautauqua is home to many species of wildlife including Deer, Elk, Foxes and even mountain lions so be careful.
2. Visit the Celestial Seasonings Tea Factory for a delicious tour and some unique souvenirs.
Providing over 1.5 Billion cups of tea per year, you can see why Celestial Seasonings is one of North Americas biggest tea manufacturers. The factory is located northeast Boulder.
The factory offers free 45 minute long tours that run every hour, each tour begins with a short video followed by a 30 minute walk throughout the factory.
Each visitor gets to see all the behind the scenes goodies from making the tea all the way to packing. Inside you can find the Celestrial Cafe & shop so don’t worry about getting peckish.
3. Enjoy the many craft breweries and delicious restaurants in the heart of Downtown Boulder.
Boulder is home to many great craft breweries, firstly i would suggest visiting the Twisted Pine Brewery Co. A local favourite and award winning brewery. A warm and welcoming environment offering over 30 taps so you will definitely be spoilt for choice. Next you should try Kettle & Spoke Brewery, This is a brilliant hole in the wall brewery with a great selection of beers and you won’t have to break the bank to buy one.
4. Get a taste of the local culture with the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art and the Boulder Theater.
Boulder Contemporary Art Museum has a wide ranging mix of contemporary art from regional, national and international artists. You can enjoy dance, poetry and other performances. It even includes an outdoor summer cinema series. The museum is small but you can gain free admission on a Saturday.
Next you might want to try the Boulder Theatre, Open since 1906 and originally a opera house it is now a versatile performance centre offering a variety of functions like meetings, conferences and concerts.
5. Take a stroll along the Boulder Creek Path for some stunning views.
Enjoy a stroll down this 7.5 mile long path for hikers, dog walkers, bikers and skaters alike. The path leads you from boulder right in to the mountains, winding around boulder creek a large park and playground. Just a short walk from Boulder Creek is Pearl Street Mall, If your hungry or fancy a spot of shopping there are plenty of restaurants and shops to enjoy.
6. Go for a swim or have a picnic at the Boulder Reservoir.
Boulder reservoir offers an abundance of activities for all types of visitors. During the summer months they have a hire place were you can hire boats, kayaks, paddle boards and more.
If you are looking for a more relaxing experience, you can have a swim or picnic on the sandy shore. It is a great spot for beach volleyball and other games too.
If running is your avocation, There is a trail around 5.5 miles long on packed gravel roads. If your just interested in running, you can park outside for free however you may struggle to get a spot.
7. Spend an afternoon at the University of Colorado’s beautiful campus.
As far as college campuses go, the University of Colorado is up there with the best. The grounds are well-kept and are surrounded with beautiful trees. Offering impressive views, greens, stunning buildings and even a football stadium. I loved spending time here, it is a amazing place.
8. Visit the Flagstaff Mountain Summit and take in the incredible views of the Rocky Mountains.
You can drive to the top of flagstaff mountain through the lovely scenic winding rounds. There is parking for $5 but it can get a bit manic. Once you are settled, take in the beautiful views of boulder and the surrounding mountains.
Have a wander around or try and see a show at the amphitheatre. It is beautiful here day and night, but be mindful in the colder months it will be snowy.
9. Shop local at the Boulder County Farmers Market
Honestly, the Boulders Farmers Market is one of the best farmers markets you will visit in the united states. You can park for free behind the teahouse.
I would recommend visiting on a Saturday as you will get to experience a lot wider range of produce. A highlight for me would be the breakfast paella at the paella stand, a excellent twist on the popular Spanish dish.
Beware there is large crowds and you might have to wait a while in line for your food. However it is definitely worth a visit, Even if you are only in town for a few days.
10. Try a fancy cocktail or two at the historic License No. 1
Step back in time at License No.1, this elegant 20th century style cocktail bar offers hand crafted beverages, delicious small plates and a brilliant lively atmosphere.
With many enticing cocktails on offer and happy hour from 5-7 with $3 beer on tap. You won’t regret stopping for an hour or two.
You can drive to the top of flagstaff mountain through the lovely scenic winding rounds. There is parking for $5 but it can get a bit manic. Once you are settled, take in the beautiful views of boulder and the surrounding mountains.
Have a wander around or try and see a show at the amphitheatre. It is beautiful here day and night, but be mindful in the colder months it will be snowy.
