2022-12-03 09:49:59
Breathtaking views of the Flatirons and Rocky Mountains, a laid-back vibe and celebrated culinary offerings are just a few reasons that make Boulder one of Colorado’s most beloved cities — nestled between the mountains and reality. Morning Playfully referred to as the People’s Republic of Boulder, it’s characterized by research centers, the University of Colorado, artsy folks, world-class restaurants and hyper-athletic citizens. Start on Pearl Street Mall, the city’s main hub, which is lined with historical buildings housing shops and restaurants. For a quintessential experience, drop into The Tune Up, a place to rent or shop for bikes, get coffee and hear live music. Or hook up with JD’s Joyrides to view Boulder’s vibrant Mural Trail from an e-bike. Saturdays and Wednesdays, April–mid-November, stroll Boulder Farmers Market; their sell-what-you-grow policy lures in area chefs, so you may taste some of those market veggies at dinner. You can also explore the Boulder County Farm Trail, featuring numerous farms and other places where you can pick berries, pet animals, picnic in barns or take classes. Afternoon Discover the hiking trails in National Historic Landmark Chautauqua Park, with options to suit every skill level and up-close views of the Flatirons — the slanting sandstone slabs that are Boulder’s most recognizable landmark. Pro tip: On summer weekends, snag the free shuttle to Chautauqua or Eldorado Canyon State Park from several Boulder locations There’s also the Museum of Boulder, which hosts traveling exhibitions from nationally recognized museums. Or check the schedule for Creative Nations, a new collective for Indigenous artists that hosts artist talks, markets, performances and more at the Dairy Arts Center. Evening Dinner on the town is a must, given that Boulder is known for its divine foodiness. Pearl Street boasts an array of options, including Provençal-inspired Mateo, Ash’Kara’s contemporary Israeli cuisine and Spanish-style tapas at Gemini. Rayback Collective is a food-truck park/beer garden/live-music venue drawing those in the know east of downtown. For more hot places to eat and explore, visit bouldercoloradousa.com. After, taste the local suds at a brewery — there are nearly 20 (not counting cideries, distilleries, wineries and Redstone Meadery — makers of sweet honey wines). Pick up a Boulder Beer Trail brochure at area visitor centers or catch a ride on the Colorado Brewery Bus. Winter Fun While not a traditional ski town, Boulder’s proximity to skiing at nearby Eldora Mountain Resort, plus affordable winter lodging and downtown vibes make it a primo cold-season destination. Downhillers can schuss Eldora’s slopes in the morning and head back to town for a hike or bike ride in the afternoon. Boulder is also becoming a destination for fat biking. Eldora’s Nordic Center offers lessons and trails designed specifically for cross-country skiing, skate skiing and snowshoeing. SIDETRIPS Boulder is close to Rocky Mountain National Park (1 hour), Eldorado Canyon State Park (15 minutes) and Golden Gate Canyon State Park (45 minutes). The teeny town of Nederland (30 minutes) is a stop on the way to the Indian Peaks and James Peak wilderness areas, as well as shopping and dining along the Peak to Peak scenic byway. The Wild Bear Mountain Ecology Center’s nature programs, trails and workshops help you enjoy the area’s spectacular scenery, and Barker Meadow Reservoir picnic spots and trails are also popular ways to get outside.
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