
Things to Do in Boulder
See the Flatirons glow in the sunshine or dusted in snow like a powdered-sugar donut, shop on hip and historic Pearl Street, grab your boots and hit a hiking trail, or try raved-about cuisine from one of the city's chef-led eateries. Bike, ski or swim by morning, visit a muscle-melting spa by afternoon, then enjoy a concert and cocktails by night. With the great outdoors always steps away — yet urban adventure right out your hotel door, too — you'll find an endless variety of things to do in Boulder, Colorado, at the foot of the Rocky Mountains.
Outdoor Activities in Boulder
With 300 miles of hiking and biking trails and 46,000 acres of unspoiled open space in Boulder, outdoor recreation tops the list of things to do in Boulder. Kayak, rock climb, cycle, paddleboard, ski or ride a mountain bike for the first time — all within minutes of Boulder's bustling city center. Whether you're a beginner or an elite athlete coming here to train with the best, this outdoor adventure scene is accessible for all.
Top Attractions in Boulder
Be sure to include these must-see and must-do activities in your next Boulder visit. Choose from people-watching and boutique-hopping on Pearl Street, catching an up-close glimpse of the beloved Flatirons, touring the largest tea manufacturer in North America, strolling along the University of Colorado's idyllic campus and several more top options.
Shopping in Boulder
The sun is shining, you meet friendly folks and you score just the perfect feel-good treasure — this is shopping in Boulder! You’ll discover great shops all over town, but our two main shopping districts are Pearl Street, where historic buildings are filled with local boutiques, and shops line just about every inch of this pedestrian mall’s brick walkways, and Twenty Ninth Street, an outdoor mall with amazing views.
Food & Drink
Boulder's culinary scene is packed with award-winning restaurants, more than 50 independent coffee shops, daily happy hours, breweries and more. Named a top foodie city in America — with international chefs in its kitchens and bountiful farmland at its doorstep — there’s always something fresh to try.
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First-time visitor? Back for more? We'll point you to Boulder's greatest hits and most hidden gems in this section. Click the icons below to see ideas on things to do just for you.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Boulder
Things to Do in Boulder
What are the best hikes with views in Boulder?
- Wonderland Lake Loop Trail
- Flatirons Vista
- Chapman Drive and Tenderfoot Trail
- Rattlesnake Gulch
- Mount Sanitas
What are the best things to do in Boulder with kids?
- Play on Pearl Street
- Learn at Museum of Boulder
- Discover Fiske Planetarium
- Hike at Chautauqua Trailhead
- Cruise Valmont Bike Park
What are the best mountain biking trails in Boulder?
- Betasso Preserve
- Walker Ranch/Meyers Ranch
- Hall Ranch
- Marshall Mesa /Flatirons Vista
- Dowdy Draw
- Valmont Bike Park
What are the top free things to do in Boulder?
- Brewery, Winery or Distillery Tours
- University of Colorado's Museums
- Hiking at Chautauqua
- Strolling Pearl Street
- Boulder Farmers Market
- First Friday Art Walk