Flatiron formations. Scenic hiking trails. Award winning craft breweries. College town vibes. Biking subculture. Bookstores galore. Music festival! If you’re looking for an eclectic mix of fit nerdy yet trendy lifestyle – Boulder is the place to go!
Boulder is a growing vibrant college town and home to the University of Colorado Boulder. It is a hub for art, music, and theater.
Fun fact: Did you know that Boulder is a famously bike friendly city?
Also Read: 21 Best Things to do in Northern Colorado
Beyond its hip millennial vibe, Boulder offers visitors easy access to stunning natural landscapes, including the Flatirons, Eldorado Canyon, Green Mountain, and Boulder Creek.
Located in Boulder County, it is just 25 miles away from Denver and makes an excellent day trip from the Mile High City.
It is also a great day trip from Fort Collins, CO.
Here is an ultimate guide to the best attractions in Boulder, Colorado.
Best Things to do in Boulder, Colorado
Boulder is located in the foothills of the Rockies.
It has a very youthful vibe and is an excellent destination to visit or even move to!
Add in the breweries and diverse dining scene and Boulder is a popular contender for the best places to visit in Colorado.
Here are the best things to do in this amazing city.
Take a walk in Downtown Boulder
The downtown area of Boulder is a pedestrian-friendly zone full of shops, restaurants, and bars.
There are plenty of scenic views throughout the city, including the Flatirons Formation which towers over the city.
Behind the beautiful nature and modern-day attractions, lies storied history.
Boulder began as a town to support miners during the era of the Pikes Peak Gold Rush.
The Downtown Boulder Historic District is full of historic buildings that were built in the 1900s.
It is architecturally unique and a very charming place to explore on foot.
Some of the most popular buildings here include the Boulderado Hotel, the Arnett-Fullen House, the Boulder County Courthouse, and the Boulder Post Office.
You can also enjoy guided walking tours of Downtown Boulder to explore the popular attractions.
Visit the famous Pearl Street Mall
The Pearl Street Mall is a renowned four-block shopping, dining, and entertainment hub in the heart of Boulder.
This outdoor pedestrian mall is located in the downtown area, stretching from 11th Street to 15th Street along Pearl Street.
Here you will find a unique blend of historic buildings, interesting local businesses, as well as a variety of street performers that give the area its vibrant character.
As you stroll through, you’ll encounter cutesy public art installations, beautiful flower beds, and local boutiques.
A visit to Boulder isn’t complete without enjoying the alfresco dining options, exploring the independent bookstores, or taking part in community events often held at the Pearl Street Mall.
The area is at its liveliest on the weekends.
You can sit back and enjoy performances from talented street musicians and artists while enjoying shopping and dining.
Admire the murals in downtown Boulder
Boulder is home to a vibrant street art scene, with beautiful and colorful murals located in downtown streets.
Visitors can find these works of art on walls, sidewalks, buildings, and alleyways around the city.
One of the most popular murals is located at 9th Street and Pearl Street. It features a wildflower garden that is painted in bright colors, and it’s definitely worth checking out.
Another beautiful mural can be seen at the corner of 13th Street and Spruce Street. This mural showcases various technologies which represent Boulder’s embrace of the digital age.
Boulder has become a destination for street art lovers, with its mix of traditional and modern artwork.
Learn about the past at The Museum of Boulder
The Museum of Boulder is a perfect destination to learn more about the city’s history.
It showcases exhibits that focus on the region’s geological and cultural formation.
The museum offers engaging permanent exhibitions, including an exploration into how Boulder was formed, its Native American heritage, the area’s film industry, and much more.
The museum also hosts a variety of public events and educational programs throughout the year.
Take a stroll around the University campus
The University of Colorado Boulder campus is a great place to explore.
You can take a stroll around the historic buildings, check out the art galleries and admire the stunning views from the foot of the Flatirons.
Some of the popular attractions include Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre, Varsity Bridge, Macky Auditorium, and Folsom Field.
There are also plenty of recreational activities available, such as kayaking on Norlin Quad, wildlife watching, or biking along scenic trails.
The University also offers free tours to get an in-depth look at the campus and its history.
Dine at the Sink Restaurant & Bar
The Sink is an iconic eatery in Boulder that has been around for more than 100 years.
It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its delicious comfort food, craft beers, live music, and friendly staff.
The restaurant has a unique atmosphere with murals painted on the walls and quirky decorations.
The Sink is famous for its burgers, fries, and other tasty treats.
They also have an extensive selection of local beer to choose from, which pairs perfectly with the comfort food.
Shop fresh produce at the Boulder Farmers Market
Boulder has one of the largest open-air farmers markets in Colorado.
It’s open every Saturday throughout the year from 8am to 2pm, and it is set up along 13th Street between Canyon Boulevard and Arapahoe Avenue.
The market hosts a range of local producers who offer fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs, meats, cheeses, flowers, and handmade crafts.
Visitors can also enjoy live music performances and activities for kids while experiencing the local community.
Enjoy a craft beer at one of Boulder’s Breweries
Boulder is known for its award-winning craft breweries that offer unique brews and memorable experiences.
Avery Brewing Company is a popular local favorite. It has an extensive menu of craft beers, delicious food, and live music.
Open seven days a week, Boulder Beer Co. is another great spot to visit for local beer connoisseurs.
If you’re looking for something unique, head over to West Flanders Brewing Company – a Belgian-style brewery that specializes in wood-aged and wild ales.
And if you’re looking for something more traditional, Sanitas Brewing Co. offers lagers, IPAs, and barrel-aged sours.
Admire the art work at Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art
The Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art is a non-collecting institution that serves as an artistic platform for established and emerging contemporary artists.
You can find interactive installations, sculptures, paintings, photographs, videos, musical performances, and live events.
The museum also organizes educational programs including artist talks and hands-on workshops to share the local art culture.
See the exhibits at the University of Colorado Museum of Natural History
The University of Colorado Museum of Natural History is a great place to explore the history, art and culture of Colorado.
Housed in one of the oldest buildings on campus, this museum offers an array of interactive displays and exhibits that cover topics such as archaeology, paleontology, geology and wildlife.
You can spot fossils from dinosaurs, mammoth teeth, and ancient artifacts which are sure to captivate your imagination.
The museum also hosts regular events that revolve around learning about the natural history of Colorado.
Visit the famed Mesa Laboratory
The NCAR Mesa Laboratory is a world-renowned facility that houses the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR).
It is home to research labs, workspaces, and offices.
Visitors to Boulder should visit the Mesa Laboratory for two reasons: architecture and the cool work!
Mesa Laboratory is an architectural marvel and an iconic landmark of the city.
The three-story building situated atop Table Mesa in South Boulder was designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei in 1967.
The building features a striking modernist design that stands out amidst the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.
It is based on the Anasazi cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park and is a beautiful structure.
Inside, the lab is home to some fascinating equipment and technology that are used for weather forecasting and predictions.
Visitors can explore the exhibits at NCAR’s Science Education Center, which is free to enter.
Kids as well as adults love to explore the interactive exhibits and learn about the latest discoveries in atmospheric science.
Enjoy walking along the Boulder Creek path
For nature lovers, the Boulder Creek Path is the perfect place to explore.
Stretching for more than 10 miles along the banks of Boulder Creek, this urban pathway runs through downtown and continues into the mountains surrounding the city.
You can enjoy breathtaking views of mountain peaks, fields of wildflowers, and meandering streams as you make your way through the path.
Along the way, there are plenty of spots to rest or grab a bite from local restaurants.
The trail is also very popular among cyclists and runners and for its views of Boulder Canyon.
Sip on tea at the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse
The beautiful Boulder teahouse is a gift from Boulder’s sister city of Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan.
The teahouse features intricate designs and a delightful interior that showcases the traditional craftsmanship of Tajik artists.
It offers many delicious dishes made with local ingredients, as well as an extensive selection of teas from around the world.
You can also enjoy live music performances or take part in art classes offered at the teahouse.
Whether you want to relax in the patio with a cup of tea or explore its delightful interiors, The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse is a must-visit destination in Boulder.
Catch a show at the Boulder Theater
The historic Boulder Theater is a music venue that hosts live concerts and performances from some of the biggest names in entertainment.
Located on 14th Street, this theater has been a staple of the town since 1906.
It’s known as one of the best venues in Colorado for its acoustic excellence and lovely atmosphere.
Visitors can also enjoy local food and drinks from the bar as they take in the show.
Learn about outer space at Fiske Planetarium
Fiske Planetarium is located on the University of Colorado’s campus.
This 70-foot domed facility has been a mainstay of Boulder’s science education scene since 1975 and features many interactive shows, live star talks, lectures and events that explore the mysteries of outer space.
From the Big Bang to the birth of galaxies, visitors can explore some of the most fascinating aspects of space through spectacular visuals and sound.
Fiske Planetarium also offers a unique educational experience for kids with its kid-friendly shows and interactive activities.
Visit Boulder Public Library
The Boulder Public Library offers more than just books and references.
This cultural hub is home to a variety of exhibits, events and performances that will captivate visitors of all ages.
You can find art displays, book readings, music performances and film screenings held by local artists and organizations.
The library also boasts an impressive collection of books in multiple languages for those looking to explore more than just English literature.
Enjoy hiking in Chautauqua Park
Chautauqua Park, located at the base of the Flatirons in Boulder, is one of the city’s landmarks and a gateway to Colorado’s natural beauty.
The park is a designated National Historic Landmark.
Chautauqua Park is famed for its views of majestic Flatirons, large rock formations that form Boulder’s backdrop.
In fact, it is the best place in Boulder to see the famous flatiron formations!
These towering rocks are among the most photographed landscapes in Colorado and provide a challenging and rewarding hiking experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
The park offers plenty to do for visitors of all ages.
It boasts over 40 miles of trails suitable for hiking, trail running, rock climbing, and bird watching, with routes ranging from easy walks to strenuous climbs.
The park’s main trail, the Chautauqua Trail, leads straight into the heart of the Flatirons, offering unparalleled views of Boulder.
The trails are surrounded by spectacular views of majestic mountain peaks and surrounding landscape.
Visitors can also enjoy the Chautauqua Auditorium, a historic venue that hosts concerts, movies, and lectures throughout the summer.
Not to miss is the park’s Dining Hall, offering a delightful menu in a setting that recalls the elegance of the past.
Visit the Celestial Seasonings Tea Factory
If you love tea, a visit to the Celestial Seasonings Tea Factory is a must.
This Boulder-based company has been producing teas for over 50 years.
The factory offers guided tours that will take you behind the scenes of their production process and provide insight into the history of tea.
At the end of the tour, visitors can sample some of their favorite teas and pick up souvenirs from their gift shop.
Take a stroll through Central Park
Central Park is one of Boulder’s most popular parks for its tranquil setting and beautiful views.
It offers plenty of space for walking, biking and rollerblading as well as playing sports or relaxing in the grass.
You can also take a stroll through the park’s rose garden and admire its vibrant blooms.
Central Park is also home to a playground designed specifically for young children, offering an array of slides, swings, and seesaws.
Enjoy mountain biking in Valmont Bike Park
Valmont Bike Park is a paradise for biking enthusiasts.
The park is spread across a sprawling 42-acre area and is specially designed to provide a thrilling and memorable experience for riders.
The park features a variety of terrains, including large and small dirt jumps, slopestyle obstacles, dual slalom race courses, and cyclocross tracks.
It is also equipped with amenities such as a picnic pavilion, restrooms, and parking.
This public park is free to enter and is open from dawn to dusk, offering ample time for exhilarating rides and picture-perfect views of the Boulder landscape.
Biking through Valmont Bike Park is the ultimate adrenaline rush!
Attend the Colorado Shakespeare Festival
The Colorado Shakespeare Festival is a yearly event held on the University of Colorado campus.
This festival features three plays by William Shakespeare, performed in repertory with an original musical adaptation of one of his works.
The performances are usually held outdoors in Mary Rippon Theatre, a spectacular venue that takes visitors back to the Elizabethan era while they take in the theatrical splendor of Shakespeare’s plays.
The festival also offers a variety of educational initiatives, including workshops and master classes that explore the playwright’s works and themes.
This event is a great opportunity to experience the spirit of Shakespeare in an inviting atmosphere!
Take a road trip to see Boulder Falls
Boulder Falls is a stunning waterfall located near the town of Boulder, CO.
This hidden gem boasts cascading waterfalls that plunge into small pools surrounded by lush vegetation, providing an ideal spot for a peaceful picnic or relaxation in nature.
The falls are easily accessible via car on SR 119 and can be reached in less than an hour from Boulder’s downtown area.
The drive is 11 miles long, scenic, and offers plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.
Once you arrive, you can take in breathtaking views of Boulder Falls – there is no trail but a small parking area and an easy walk to see the falls.
Also Read: 22 Best Day Trips from Boulder, Colorado
Drive up to the top of Flagstaff Mountain
Flagstaff Mountain is one of Boulder’s most iconic landmarks and a popular spot for visitors.
At the summit, you can admire stunning views of the city and its surrounding mountains.
The Flagstaff Summit Nature Center is also located at the summit.
This center offers educational programs and exhibits that provide insight into the ecology of Flagstaff Mountain, as well as recreational opportunities such as guided hikes, birdwatching walks, and snowshoeing in the winter.
It is a great spot for nature lovers!
The drive to the top of Flagstaff Mountain is quite scenic, offering gorgeous views along the journey.
Once you reach the summit, you can enjoy a picnic or take in some of Boulder’s most breathtaking sunsets!
It is a part of Boulder Mountain Park and Open Space and maintained very well.
See the beautiful scenery of Eldorado Canyon State Park
Eldorado Canyon State Park is a great place to explore Colorado’s natural beauty.
The park features stunning rock formations, sprawling meadows and lush forests.
You can go for a hike or take part in activities such as fishing, biking, climbing and camping.
At the end of a long day outdoors, you can head to the restaurant for a hearty meal with views of the canyon’s breathtaking scenery.
Spend the day outside at Boulder Reservoir
Boulder Reservoir is a 300-acre lake surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests.
You can enjoy activities such as swimming, fishing, boating or just having a picnic on the beach.
The park also has an extensive network of trails that wind through the surrounding hills for those looking for some adventure.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking in the lake.
Also Read: 15 Best Beaches in Colorado
Hike the Doudy Draw Trail
The Doudy Draw Trail is a 4.5-mile loop in Boulder’s South Mesa area.
This trail offers spectacular views of the Flatirons, South Boulder Creek, and the surrounding landscape.
It also features a variety of terrain, from easy forested paths to technical climbs up rock outcroppings.
It is an easy trail and surrounded by lots of wildflowers in summer.
Enjoy the pools at Eldorado Springs Resort
Eldorado Springs Resort is a favorite destination for both locals and visitors.
It offers a variety of activities, such as swimming in the pools, paddle boarding, kayaking, and exploring the canyon’s natural beauty.
The resort also features private cabins that provide a great spot to relax after a long day of outdoor adventures.
For a unique experience, you can even take a night swim in the main pool!
The resort is located just southwest of Boulder and is accessible via Highway 93.
Stunning scenery. Lively cultural scene. Live music. Farm to market restaurants and innovative cuisine. Startup culture. Tea tastings. Views of Rocky mountains. Hiking and biking trails!
There is no shortage of reasons to visit Boulder, CO!
What are your favorite things to do in Boulder, Colorado? Let us know below.