COVID-19: What to Expect in Boulder Right Now

Thank you for thinking of Boulder! You may be wondering what the situation is like here in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Well, the Flatirons are still presiding over our little city, there’s an explosion of wildflowers on our trails and Pearl Street’s bricks are looking spiffier than ever. 

Of course, lots of things are very different than usual right now. And, as with all destinations, circumstances can change quickly. We’ll keep you updated as best we can here, and you’re welcome to check back often for the latest.

Last Updated: May 26, 2020

Are Shops Open in Boulder?

Yes, many Boulder’s retailers began reopening beginning May 9, 2020, including many on Pearl Street, in downtown, at Twenty Ninth Street, and across town. Some are only allowing a certain number of shoppers in the store at a time, others are by appointment only and some are doing curbside pickup only. 

Shops are taking great pains to ensure your safety. They are cleaning regularly, wearing face coverings, sanitizing point of sale stations and will remove any tried-on items from the floor for a "rest" period before they can be put back out.

Pearl Street

The spring tulip bloom has come and gone on Pearl, but shops are planting flowers and hanging baskets like they do every year. There aren’t the usual lively street performers and crowds right now, and the vibe is quieter. 

Twenty Ninth Street

The amazing Flatirons view at this outdoor shopping center is as refreshing as ever. Several shops are open for in-person shopping, with precautions of course, and many restaurants are offering curbside pickup.

Are Restaurants Open in Boulder?

As of right now, restaurants are only open for take-out, curbside pickup or delivery in Boulder. There is a huge selection of great eateries that are working hard to provide amazing food, and they are doing so safely. Restaurants are also allowed to serve alcoholic beverages to go, so you can order a bottle of wine or a couple of margaritas to enjoy with your meal. 

Colorado restaurants are allowed to begin reopening at half of their maximum capacity beginning May 27, 2020. More details to come. Bars that do not serve food remain closed. 

Photo courtesy of Oak at Fourteenth

Are Hiking Trails Open in Boulder?

Yes. Boulder’s hiking trails have not been closed due to Coronavirus. In some cases, there are suggestions for one-way travel. These are marked on this awesome interactive trails map, as are lower-trafficked trails, and trails closed due to wildlife habitat protections. Kindly follow these guidelines for hiking in Boulder:

• Maintain more than 6 feet of physical distancing from people not in your household.
• Wear a face covering, as required by Boulder County Public Health order. 
• If you see a full or crowded area and/or cannot find parking, move on to a different trailhead or hiking area.
• Stay on open space trails and walk through mud unless you need to step off the trail to let others pass. If you need to step off the trail, try to avoid vegetation and step on a rock or dirt patch instead.
• View suggested one-way travel areas, trails that are wider than six-feet and areas that see high and low visitation through OSMP's interactive trails map. 

Can I Go Mountain Biking?

Yes, Boulder’s mountain biking trails are open (unless they are closed due to muddy conditions or for wildlife habitat protections). 

Are Hotels Open in Boulder?

Yes, all Boulder hotels are accepting reservations. 

What About Attractions and Tours?

• The Pearl Street Mall is open to those following social distancing guidelines and wearing face coverings. See above for more. 
• The Museum of Boulder and Celestial Seasonings remain closed to visitors for the time being.
• Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse is open for takeout only.
• The Boulder Farmers Market is open on Saturdays by reservation only. 
• Boulder Creek between Eben G. Fine Park and the western boundary of the city is closed.
• The Boulder Creek Path (despite the creek closures noted above) is open to those following social distancing guidelines and wearing face coverings.
• Several tour operators are taking reservations. Peruse our guided experiences listings and call to inquire with the individual tour operator.

Are City Parks Open in Boulder?

Yes. Boulder's beautiful city parks remain open for enjoyment to those following social distancing guidelines and wearing face coverings. Pick up some food to go, bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic with some beautiful foothills and mountain views. Playground equipment remains closed.

What Nearby State and National Parks Are Open?

• Eldorado Canyon State Park is open sunrise to sunset. Picnicking is not allowed, and you must wear a face covering. 
• Rocky Mountain National Park will reopen May 27, 2020. For information on how to visit, go to the RMNP website.

Can I Camp in Boulder?

Even under "normal" circumstances, there is no camping in the city of Boulder. However, there are several nearby options listed on our Camping page. You will need to confirm the open status of these areas.

Are Face Coverings Required in Boulder?

Yes. Boulder County Public Health released an order requiring every person older than 12 years old to wear a face-covering when in public anywhere in Boulder County where social distancing of six feet cannot be maintained. 

Don't Leave the House Without...

• Your face covering. They are required in Boulder County by public health order. 
• A well-charged cell phone, so you can use the ParkMobile app to pay for parking, order food to go, take pictures of maps, and use it as a tool to avoid tactile contact.
• Hand sanitizer.
• Sunscreen.
• A full water bottle.

What Are the Coronavirus Numbers Like in Boulder County?

As of May 26, 2020, there have been 59 deaths attributed to COVID-19. As of that same date, 919 individuals in Boulder County have tested positive or are considered probable (likely positive) for COVID-19. In comparison, Denver County has had 298 deaths and 5,216 positive cases. The state of Colorado has had 1,088 deaths and 24,269 cases.

Have More Questions?

We are the Boulder Convention and Visitors Bureau, the official tourism organization for Boulder, and we are happy to answer your questions. Call 303-442-2911 or email visitor@bouldercvb.com.