Take a Soft Trip to Boulder

Ideas for a Relaxing Vacation in Boulder

Go car-free

Nothing will slow you down more (in the best way) than nixing the rental car in favor of walking, biking and public transit. You’ll experience the local environment and community in a close-up and authentic way. Notice the birds, foliage, animals and people you would have otherwise missed. Boulder’s walkable downtown, bike-friendly paths and public transportation make going car-free truly a pleasure.

Bask in the sunset

If you want to be even more present for Mother Nature’s spectacular display, we suggest leaving your phone at the hotel (that’s right — the only photos you'll take will be with your mind's eye!) to simply watch, breathe, be. Read our page on Sunset Watching in Boulder dedicated to the best spots from where you can watch the sky erupt in color from rooftops, overlooks, park benches and more.

Turn your hike into a nature walk

Instead of a lung-busting haul up a local peak, opt for a slower amble through foothill forests. Deeply breathe in the Ponderosa pine scent, listen to chickadees and meadowlarks sing, and feel the warm Colorado sun on your skin. Here are some easier local trails that will let you go slow and take it all in.

Attend a public group meditation

Boulder Shambhala Center offers in-person meditations every weekday morning and evening at their “Karma Dzong” (Dzong is the Tibetan word for “fortress”) in downtown Boulder. Group meditations are free and open to the public. Weekday morning meditations are 7:30-8:30am; weekday evening meditations are 5:30-6:30pm; and Sunday morning meditations are 9am-noon.

Tap into wellness

Boulder draws health-seekers from across the world, and subsequently, wellness activities and events are happening pretty much every day of the week. Whether it’s a sound bath, yoga class, breathwork lesson or tea tasting, there’s always something going on in this arena. Learn more about wellness experiences in Boulder here. And don’t forget about Boulder’s array of relaxing spas.

Get introspective in a class or workshop

Many health- or creative-focused local businesses offer classes and workshops with an inward intention and focus. Try “divinatory collage” or tarot workshops at The New Local; herbalism classes and plant walks at Rebecca's Herbal Apothecary; or a “Discover Your Intuitive Colors” class at Two Hands Paperie. Browse our events calendar for more ideas.

Attend the orchestra

Unplug and soak in the sensory experience of the Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra. As Rainer Eudeikis, Principal Cellist of the San Francisco Symphony and upcoming performer with the Boulder Phil says, “There’s something deeply personal about the cello—it sings with the human voice, and you feel its resonance through your whole body.” Their main concert series is held at Macky Auditorium, a grand historic hall on CU's campus.

In summertime, opt for the classical music festival of the season: the Colorado Music Festival, which is held in the barn-like and acoustically exceptional Chautauqua Auditorium.

Sit by a river

While Eben G. Fine Park is a lively and popular summer spot for river sitting and lounging in the sun, Lefthand Canyon offers respite from crowds. Less than 10 miles from downtown Boulder, you’ll find hiking, picnic areas and quiet river spots to relax along Left Hand Creek. (Just make sure you're on National Forest Land and not trespassing on private property.) On your way back into town, stop by Greenbriar Inn (another hidden gem on the outskirts of Boulder) for an unplugged, peaceful meal or drink.

Relaxing Restaurants, Coffee Shops and Bars

Beleza Coffee Bar

This cozy community coffee shop in North Boulder has no Wi-Fi available, lending to a unique, relaxed vibe. Fewer laptops, more books. Fewer headphones, more friends communing over hot beverages.

Trident Booksellers & Cafe

Buy a new book from the adjacent bookshop and sit with a hot cup of coffee or tea at this truly local spot on Pearl Street. While many students frequent Trident, you’ll also find plenty of locals reading newspapers and books, writing, playing chess and relaxing on the large back patio.

Chautauqua Dining Hall

After a hike or stroll around Chautauqua Park, stop into the Dining Hall, a National Historic Landmark, to take in Flatirons views from the wraparound porch and grab a bite to eat.

Tonic Alchemy Lounge

For a sober-friendly nighttime venue and chill vibes, check out Tonic Alchemy Lounge, where you can sip on alcohol-free elixirs, probiotic beverages and herbal cocktails in their laid-back lounge. 

The Root Kava Bar

The Root is an alcohol-free lounge with board games and live music that serves kava, a plant that has been cultivated for thousands of years in the South Pacific and is said to reduce stress and ease anxiety.

Where to Stay for a Relaxing Boulder Getaway

• A-Lodge Boulder Beautiful, remote-feeling lodge in Four-Mile Canyon that's just two miles from downtown
• Boulder Guest House Historic boutique hotel in a Zen Buddhist practice center
• Bradley Boulder Inn Quaint inn with cozy amenities like jacuzzi tubs, fireplaces and daily wine hour
• Colorado Chautauqua Cottages Historic and beautifully updated cottages at the foot of the Flatirons 
• Basecamp Boulder Rustic downtown lodging with fire pits and outdoors-y design