The Lay of the Land
The area next to the University of Colorado is called “The Hill." Here you’ll find quick-bite eateries, coffee shops, yoga studios and services catering to students. To the north and downhill is downtown, featuring Pearl Street, Boulder's lively pedestrian shopping and dining district.
The city is surrounded by 45,000 acres of open space, with forest and foothills always minutes from your hotel door.
Things to See and Do
See the Famous Flatirons
Those slanting ochre sandstone formations you see all over CU’s marketing materials are Boulder’s pride and joy. An up-close look at the Flatirons for yourself is a must. Head to Chautauqua Trailhead, where you can take some pictures and go for a hike on an extensive trail network if you like.
Stroll Pearl Street
If the Flatirons are Boulder’s pride and joy, Pearl Street is its heart and soul. With four brick-paved blocks closed to traffic, this open-air promenade has the energy of a European plaza, lined with dining and shopping, great for people-watching and catching street performances.
Go for a Hike or Nature Walk
Put your feet to a trail for some nature therapy and adventure. Two gentle but spectacularly scenic trails are available at Wonderland Lake or Bobolink Trailhead. If you would like more of a workout, head to Realization Point (be prepared for a short but steep and winding drive up Flagstaff Road) and try Range View or Boy Scout trails.
Museum of Boulder
The Museum of Boulder tells Boulder’s story with the most fascinating multimedia exhibits. The museum has spacious galleries, a maker's workshop and a rooftop that's perfect for photo ops in front of the Flatirons.
Taste Tea at the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse
How a hand-carved, hand-painted and hand-assembled Persian teahouse ended up in Boulder is quite the story. You can visit Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse and enjoy a cup of tea — one of dozens of varieties they serve, sourced with care from around the globe.
Try an Electric Bike Tour
If you’ve never tried an e-bike, you’re in for a treat. You'll feel like a superhero zooming up hills with the greatest of ease. Several tours are available to take you through historic downtown and up to the foot of the Flatirons. Find more tours and e-bike rental info.
Where to Shop
- Pearl Street and Twenty Ninth Street are Boulder's main shopping districts.
- The Boulder Book Store and Trident Booksellers and Café will keep you browsing the shelves for hours.
- For outdoor gear, the sky’s the limit. There’s an outdoor store on nearly every corner. Some local faves: Neptune Mountaineering, Prana and Black Diamond. Here’s a guide.
- Barbara & Co, Cedar & Hyde Mercantile, Island Farm and Evereve are some of the top fashion shops, with tons more to choose from.
On a Mission
Boulder’s striking natural setting fuels our community’s passion for the outdoors and our desire to help protect Mother Nature. Join us in our mission to keep Boulder an inclusive and sustainable source of health and rejuvenation for locals and visitors alike, now and in the years to come, by educating yourself on ethical conservation practices.
On a Mission
Boulder’s striking natural setting fuels our community’s passion for the outdoors and our desire to help protect Mother Nature. Join us in our mission to keep Boulder an inclusive and sustainable source of health and rejuvenation for locals and visitors alike, now and in the years to come, by educating yourself on ethical conservation practices.
More Ideas for You
Boulder's Breweries
Here's every brewery in Boulder.
Find Hikes With Great Views
Refresh in the great outdoors
Award-Winning Boulder Eateries
These top restaurants have earned major accolades.