If you are looking for things to do — or if you have family or friends visiting — here are a few ways to get outside and enjoy some fresh air. Boulder is fortunate to enjoy a stunning natural location, 45,000 acres of open space and lots of recreation opportunities.
Don't hesitate to call us (Boulder's official tourism office) if you need further information, have questions about the status of things in Boulder or need assistance: 303-442-2911.
| See What's Open in Boulder |
There is great clarity in a mountain drive and plenty to see along these scenic drives. Get your picnic provisions in Boulder before heading out.
Peace and optimism are available on 150 miles of trails right in the city of Boulder. Go for a hike on dozens of trails including these easy nature outings. Make sure to choose one that is not crowded, even if that involves additional driving or a change of plans.
Just 20 minutes from Boulder, Eldorado Canyon State Park is open sunrise to sunset (entry fees apply). Rocky Mountain National Park is about an hour away and is partially open. For information on how to visit, go to the RMNP website. Face coverings are required for both.
| Find a Hiking Trail |
Important reminders:
Go mountain biking on six major trail systems. The same important reminders above apply. In winter, try a fat bike.
Read our bird-watching guide for where to go and what to look for. The same important reminders above apply.
Go on a self-guided photo tour of Boulder.
Walk or drive around Colorado Chautauqua Historic District to see 15 bear cub sculptures, each decorated by a different artist and adorned in lights. Don't miss the new 8-foot bear installation near the Chautauqua Auditorium, too. There's even a cyber scavenger hunt you can complete at Chautauqua Park to discover the bear cubs and fascinating bits of Chautauqua history.
Boulder has a great disc golf course with beautiful Flatirons views that could be the scene of a fun, new family activity. All you need is a frisbee and yourselves. The course is located off Valmont Road, across the street from the amazing Valmont Bike Park (another great option that even has a toddler course).
The Museum of Boulder is open for visitors. Advance tickets are available but not required.
The Shelby American Collection car museum is open on Saturdays, 10am-4pm.
Bring a blanket, get something to go from Boulder's amazing restaurants and head to Boulder's parks, which have remained open. Playgrounds are open now, too. Here's more picnicking info.
Most shops are open for business, with limited capacities. They are cleaning rigorously and 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. Shops are only allowing a certain number of shoppers in the store at a time. A few are open are by appointment only or are doing curbside pickup only. Learn more about safe shopping here. To go inside, you will need a face covering by order of Boulder County Public Health and the State of Colorado.
| Shopping Safely |
Restaurants are open for indoor dining at limited capacities. Many have heaters on their patios and also provide to-go or delivery. The city has closed some streets to through traffic so that restaurants can open additional seating right on the street. You'll need to wear a face covering to any restaurant and can remove it for eating or drinking outside.
| Dining Safely in Boulder |
Being a town of nerds, Boulder has tons of educational sites to explore, with worksheets and resources to support your lesson plan. We've compiled several ideas that are great for families or anyone who enjoys getting out and exploring.
| Plan a Field Trip |
If you have questions about things to do in Boulder, please feel free to get in touch with us.
