Places to Visit/Things to Do
There isn’t a better landmark in Boulder than the Flatirons. The Flatirons are 5 flat peaks that rise above the terrain of Colorado. They are perfect for hiking and climbing, featuring trails for all ages and levels of experience. Other than hiking, visitors to the Flatirons must admire the beautiful rocks. Don’t forget your camera, as you’ll want to take a lot of pictures. We advise you to take proper precaution when hiking the slopes, as the terrain may be steep and slippery. The Flatirons are available to the public for free from when the sun rises to when it sets. If you decide to drive to this attraction, you will have to pay a small parking fee of $5 when you park your vehicle at the lot on the west side of Highway 93.
The Eldorado Canyon State Park has everything for nature lovers. Thick forests of pine, canyon walls, and trails – what more can you ask? At the 885-acre park, you can do a multitude of activities such as rock climbing, horseback riding, kayaking, and so much more. We recommend you bring your camera, as the sights are picture-worthy. If you want to go hiking, you will have to pay an $8 vehicle free for access to the winding trails of Eldorado Canyon. The Eldorado Canyon State Park is open daily from dawn to dusk. To visit the park visit center, head a mile west from the entrance of the park.
If you’re looking for a serene place to hike, head over to Boulder Creek Path. While Boulder has many places great for hiking, the Boulder Creek Path stands out mainly due to the fact that there is no automobiles on the path. The 5.5 mile-long trail is laid out next to Boulder Creek. On many days, you can find hikers, bikers, and more on the path. In the creek, you can find kayakers. The Boulder Creek Path is perfect for those who don’t enjoy a rigorous hike, as the trail is pretty easy. The Boulder Creek Path every day all day, even when you feel like taking a midnight stroll. There is no cost for using the path.
Perhaps the most popular park in Boulder, Chautauqua Park is a National Historic Landmark that was first established as a retreat in the late 1800s. Today, this park is the host of a multitude of entertainment options, such as concerts and festivals. Even if there isn’t an event going on, this park is the perfect place to relax, with many peaceful trails and gardens. The park features several amenities such as lodging, dining, and auditoriums. The park is open every day all day. The general entrance cost is free, but certain events may cost money. Lodging and dining are also available, but at a price.
You don’t have to be an art fanatic to appreciate the collections displayed within the Leanin’ Tree Museum of Western Art. Leanin’ features one of the largest Western-themed collections that dates after the 1950s. Throughout the collections, you can find pieces based on cowboys to the landscapes of the West. Leaning Tree Museum also features a sculpture garden, one of the favorite attractions of recent visitors. The Leanin’ Tree Museum of Western Art opens from 8 in the morning and closes at 6 in the evening on the weekdays, from 9 in the morning to 5 in the evening on Saturday, and from 10 in the morning to 5 in the evening on Sundays. Lucky for you, the museum and its sculpture garden are free to guests.
Who knew a place where they discuss the weather was going to be so popular? Well, this is the case for Boulder’s National Center for Atmospheric Research. Here, scientists study the effects of atmospheric occurrences, such as the greenhouse effect and more. At the research center, you can also view some of the most helpful tools for conducting weather-related experiments. If you don’t just like to observe, there are also a variety of interactive exhibits for all to enjoy. On Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, guided tours of the research center are held between 12 and 1 pm. The National Center for Atmospheric Research is open to the public from 8 am to 5 pm on the weekdays, and from 9 am to 4 pm on the weekends. Both admission and guided tours are free.
Best Way to Tour Boulder, CO
- The best way to tour the city of Boulder (as well as many other cities) is by chartered buses and vans. Explore at your own pace within the safety of your private vehicle. Don’t worry about ordering an Uber or Lyft when you have your own exploration vehicle. Through busneeds.com, you can order the buses you need. Busneeds.com is an amazing, affordable chartered vehicle company that caters to your every needs. Whether you need a bus for school trips, marriages, parties, campaigns, or whatever else, busneeds.com can help you. Busneeds.com offers buses, mini buses, school buses, party buses, and more. Most activities and destinations listed above and below are accessible by chartered buses. Visit www.busneeds.com) to book your rental bus today!
Best Places to Eat/Shop
- Pearl Street Mall – Pearl Street Mall might be the most popular shopping mall in Boulder among the tourists. Here, you can find plenty of familiar brands, as well as more local brands. The sidewalks are lined with stores, eateries and cafes, and services.
- ‘29th Street Mall – The 29th Street is one of the most popular shopping malls in Boulder, among both locals and tourists. Here, you can find stores like Nordstrom, Macy’s, and more. You can also find plenty of dining options, a few of them including Noodles & Company, Colorado Pizza Kitchen, and more.
- Boulder County Farmer’s Market –If you’re looking to buy fresh goods and produce, the Boulder County Farmer’s Market is the place you should head to. Here, you can find vendors selling fresh fruits and veggies, cheese, and much more. They also have vendors selling items such as jewelry and pottery.
- Oak at Fourteenth –Who doesn’t enjoy a fancy meal from time to time? If you decide to go that route while in Boulder, head over to Oak at Fourteenth. The American restaurant is rated the #1 fine-dining restaurant in Boulder by tripadvisor (in 2018).
- Mountain Sun Pub and Brewery –Who says bar restaurants can’t have good food? The food at Mountain Sun Pub and Brewery is a popular local joint, featuring even vegetarian and vegan friendly options. They are rated the #1 local cuisine restaurant in Boulder by tripadvisor (in 2018).
Enjoy your Vacay!