Nesting by the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in the northern end of Colorado, Boulder is a beautiful city with rich eco-tourism and lots of fascinating attractions. While in the city, you can check out the iconic mountain with five unique flat peaks known as Flatirons. You can also enjoy a day shopping and trying out excellent eats at the Pearl Street Mall. If you are into hiking and activities that involve lots of physical strength, go check out the Eldorado State Canyon Park. For more in-depth tips and guide of what’s in store for you, here is a list of the best things to do in Boulder.
1. Catch a concert at Boulder Chamber Orchestra
If you are done with the sights and the eats of Boulder, it’s now time to immerse in its sounds. One places to go to do so is the Boulder Chamber Orchestra. Situated in Walnut Street, Boulder Chamber Orchestra is a venue for live music performances from the city’s professional musicians as well as fresh talents. Enjoy a night of music from Beethoven’s, Mozart’s, Stravinski’s and other iconic musician’s famous symphonies. Visit the Boulder Chamber Orchestra and experience the vibrant performance art scene of the city.
Boulder Chamber Orchestra
Address: 4735 Walnut St F, Boulder, CO 80301, USA
Website: Boulder Chamber Orchestra
Price: 180 USD onwards
2. Step into the Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art
Boulder is a city with an immense and vibrant art scene. If you are interested in art and an artist himself, you should not miss checking out the Leanin’ Tree Museum of Western Art and marvel at fascinating Western-inspired masterpieces, artifacts, exhibits, and galleries. Its founder, Ed Trumble, also features here his private collection including fine art greeting cards from the year 1949. Take as many pictures as you can in the Leanin’ Tree Museum of Western Art and try to get tidbits inspirations from them for your own art.
Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art
Address: 6055 Longbow Dr, Boulder, CO 80301, USA
Website: Leanin’ Tree Museum of Western Art
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm; (Closed on Fri & Sat)
Price: Free entry
3. Get amazed at Fiske Planetarium
Fiske Planetarium is a fantastic attraction and conservatory in Boulder specifically dedicated to science and technology. Visit Fiske Planetarium and travel back time to the year when humans had first set foot on the moon and other important milestones in the history of the development of science and technology. Not only that, but there are so many fascinating activities that await you in the Fiske Planetarium. Be sure to come with friends and family so you would have people to share the marvelous experience with, and get to share interesting bits of learning after the tour.
Fiske Planetarium
Address: 2414 Regent Dr, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
Website: Fiske Planetarium
Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 9am - 5pm; Thu: 9am - 10m; Fri: 9am - 12am; Sat: 1am - 12am; Sun: 12pm - 5pm
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4. Dine at the marvelous Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse
Showcasing a majestic interior design with contemporary art and a laid back ambiance, your dining experience in Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse will be both relaxing and memorable at the same time. Not to mention, the food is exceptional, the tea is flavorful, and the staff is always pleased to be of assistance. Come visit alone or with your friends and spend an afternoon of laughter and great dining experience. It guarantees that once you try dining and teaing in the teahouse, you will surely come back for a second time and a third!
Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse
Address: 1770 13th St, Boulder, CO 80302, USA
Website: Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse
Opening hours: 8am - 9pm (daily)
5. Check out the gallery at Museum of Boulder
Boulder has lots of fascinating and interesting museums spread across the city. One of them is the Museum of Boulder which is a fantastic attraction to both kids and adults. It houses thousands of documents with great significance to the history of the city and galleries, exhibits, and more. When you visit Boulder, be sure to check out this museum for an afternoon filled with knowledge, facts, and trivial matters.
Museum of Boulder
Address: 2205 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80302, USA
Website: Museum of Boulder
Opening hours: Mon, Wed, Thu & Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Tue)
Price: 8 USD onwards
6. Shop at Pearl Street Mall
If you are looking for fantastic lodging spots, excellent restaurants, exceptional retail stores, delightful entertainment, Pearl Street Mall is the place for you. It is situated in downtown Boulder where other attractions are also located. It bills itself as the provider of authentic experience in the city that caters both for locals and tourists. Not to mention, the place is adorned by lovely flowers and lush greens that will make you want to relax in it a little more. Come visit Pearl Street Mall and enjoy all of the luxurious things life has to offer.
Pearl Street Mall
Address: 1942 Broadway #301, Boulder, CO 80302, USA
Website: Pearl Street Mall
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
7. Try vegan dishes at Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant
If you are one of those people who have pledged to let go of all the meat cravings in life, you should check out the Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant and enjoy mouthwatering vegetarian eats that will make your heart cry happy tears. Not to mention, the interior design of the place is majestic and the seats are comfortable. You will also love the vibes of the place. It will make you pile plates and plates of wonderful eats. Plus, the staff is warm and friendly and is always pleased to be of assistance. They are always happy to offer some new dishes that you might not know but would love.
Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant
Address: 1710 Pearl St, Boulder, CO 80302, USA
Website: Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11:30am - 9pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 9pm
8. Learn some science at NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If you have a big fascination for science and technology, you should definitely visit the NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory in Broadway, Boulder. Its primary goal is to help people understand more about the planetary system and the events that take place on our planet. Originally, NOOA Earth System Research Laboratory was a research facility only but now they allow educational tours for students as well as people who are interested in science and technology.
NOAA Earth System Research Laboratory
Address: 325 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80305, USA
9. Hike through Eldorado Canyon State Park
While in the city of Boulder, why don’t you treat yourself to see the majestic views and natural wonders of the city? Visit the Eldorado Canyon State Park and spend some relaxing time marveling at the beauty of nature. This place is also perfect for hiking and mountain climbing if you are into challenging sports and physical activities. Come visit with your friends or alone and experience an adventure that is one for the books.
Eldorado Canyon State Park
Address: 9 Kneale Rd, Eldorado Springs, CO 80025, USA
Website: Eldorado Canyon State Park
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 8 USD (parking fee only)
10. Check out the exhibits at Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Thinking of a place to bring your family one weekend in Boulder? If so, the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art might pique your interest. It features fascinating works of art, photo galleries, exhibits, and other materials that will feed your imagination and quench your thirsty thought. Not to mention, they hold fantastic events that you might be interested in like a farm-to-table fundraiser dinner, and more.
Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art
Address: 1750 13th St, Boulder, CO 80302, USA
Website: Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 11am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 2 USD onwards
11. Eat contemporary food at OAK at Fourteenth
Showcasing a classy and elegant interior design with a relaxing ambiance and well-curated decors and seating arrangement, Oak at Fourteenth is your go-to if you want some delicious contemporary local and seasonal American food while on a vacation in Boulder. Featuring a majestic bar with a wide assortment of premium drinks, they are ready to serve your favorite drinks whether your mocktail or a cocktail kind of person. Not to mention, it is a charming place ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, and other important celebrations.
OAK at Fourteenth
Address: 1400 Pearl St, Boulder, CO 80302, USA
Website: OAK at Fourteenth
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11:30am - 10pm; Sun: 5:30pm - 10pm
12. Explore the wonderful UCAR Center for Science Education
Are you a science enthusiast or a regular curious Tom? Whatever you consider yourself as you will surely have a wonderful time of learning and marveling at scientific tools at the wonderful UCAR Center for Science Education located in Table Mesa Drive. They feature games and activities for students and workshops and programs for educators. They also have art galleries, weather trail, tours, and more for everyone who wishes to explore the UCAR Center for Science Education.
UCAR Center for Science Education
Address: 1850 Table Mesa Drive, Boulder, Colorado 80305
Website: UCAR Center for Science Education
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 9am - 4pm
Price: Free entry
13. Visit the lovely galleries at The Dairy Arts Center
Indeed, Boulder has a booming and vibrant art scene. One place to go to if you want to immerse in this aspect of Boulder is the Dairy Arts Center. This fascinating venue houses cinemas, music exhibits, dance theatres, and other fantastic entertainment. They also have classes for interested parties and events that you might want to participate in. Visit with your family and friends and enjoy a great time filled with entertainment, music, and more.
Dairy Arts Center
Address: 2590 Walnut St, Boulder, CO 80302, USA
Website: Dairy Arts Center
14. Buy fresh produce at Boulder Farmers Market
Just like any other city, Boulder also has a paradise for fresh and organic fruits and vegetables. Visit the Boulders Farmers Market on a Wednesday or Saturday and purchase delightful products, make friends, and share tips with the producers and even the people who came to purchase just like you. You might also be interested in attending an Artisan Show of the Year event. Just check their website perpetually and wait for the announcement of the date and venue.
Boulder Farmers Market
Address: 13th St, Boulder, CO 80302, USA
Website: Boulder Farmers Market
Opening hours: Wed: 4pm - 8pm; Sat: 8am - 2pm (closed on Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri & Sun)
15. Taste the best coffee at Ozo Coffee
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Are you a coffee lover or a regular caffeine-driven individual? If you love a great cup of coffee just like most people, you should definitely visit Ozo Coffee in South Flatiron Ct. Featuring a relaxing and laidback ambiance, the cafe bills itself as the provider of the best coffee in the city. You might also like to pair your coffee with some freshly baked croissants. To top it all off, they provide delivery services straight to your doorstep as well. You might also like to bag some flavorful products that you can eat at a later time.
Ozo Coffee
Address: 1898 S Flatiron Ct #110, Boulder, CO 80301, USA
Website: Ozo Coffee
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
16. Savor oysters at Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar
Are you a seafood lover? Or is it just the time of the month that you crave for some fresh fish dishes, oyster, prawns, and other mouthwatering seafood? Worry no more cos Boulder has a branch of Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar in Pearl Street that is ready to serve you the best and freshest delectable dishes. Plus, they have a delivery service for customers who can’t come to the store and want their food delivered at their doorsteps.
Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar
Address: 928 Pearl St, Boulder, CO 80302, USA
Website: Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 4pm - 10pm; Fri - Sat; 4pm - 11pm; Sun: 4pm - 9pm
17. Try sandwiches at Snarf's Sandwiches
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Whether you are looking for a fantastic place to have brunch or afternoon snacks with your best friends, Snarf’s Sandwiches is ready to serve you any day of the week. They feature a casual restaurant with delightful service and fantastic dining experience. While ar Snarfs Sandwiches, be sure to try some of their best-sellers such as the Prime Rib & Provolone, classic Ham & Cheese, Eggplant Parmesan, Smoked Brisket with barbecue and swiss, and more.
Snarf's Sandwiches
Address: 5340 Arapahoe Ave J, Boulder, CO 80303, USA
Website: Snarf’s Sandwiches
Opening hours: Mon - Wed, Fri & Sat: 11am - 8pm; Thu: 11am - 3:30pm; Sun: 11am - 7pm
18. Bike around the city with Awe-Struck Outdoors
What better way there is to stroll Boulder and enjoy its sights than to rent a bike while enjoying the experience? If you like the idea, Awe-Struck Outdoors offers quality bikes that you can rent at a good price. You can choose from beginner bikes, intermediate, to expert bikes. They also have expert guides and organized itineraries that you might be interested in. Enjoy scenic routes and nature trails to your heart’s content with Awe-Struck Outdoors.
Awe-Struck Outdoors
Address: Boulder, Colorado
Website: Awe-Struck Outdoors
19. Sample beers at Avery Brewing Company
Whether you are a hardcore big lover of beer or just an interested regular Tom, you should check out Avery Brewing Company when you visit Boulder, Colorado. They feature a fantastic, laid back, and rugged restaurant and taproom with premium beers that you can chug all you want. While in the Avery Brewing Company, you might want to try some of their best-sellers such as grapefruit shandy, cucumber hibiscus sour, double-digit hazy IPA, White Rascal, and more.
Avery Brewing Company
Address: 4910 Nautilus Ct N, Boulder, CO 80301, USA
Website: Avery Brewing Company
Opening hours: Mon: 3pm - 10pm; Sun, Tue, Wed: 11:30am - 10pm; Thu: 12pm - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 10pm
20. Enjoy the mesmerizing views of The Flatirons
One of the most majestic natural wonders in Boulder is the Flatirons. It features a breathtaking rock formations nesting in the Western United States. The nickname “flatiron’ refers to the five large formations that extend from south to north of Green Mountain. It is surrounded by gorgeous lush greeneries with exotic Flora. If you want a perfect view of the Flatirons, head over to Chautauqua Park and set up a mini picnic with your family or friends.
The Flatirons
Address: Colorado 80302, USA
21. Tee off at the spectacular Flatirons Golf Course
Whether you are in the beautiful city of Boulder for business or pleasure, it won’t cause you any harm to take a break and play a few rounds of challenging golf. If you like the idea, you should visit the Flatirons Golf Course in Broadway. It features a majestic, perfectly landscaped 18-hole golf course, instruction programs, facilities for practice, pro shops, and more. It is a great place to unwind and relax for a while, far from the busy city. Flatirons Golf Course even hold events and friendly tournaments that you might be interested in taking part in. Visit for the experience of a great time.
Flatirons Golf Course
Address: 1777 Broadway, Boulder CO 80302
Website: Flatirons Golf Course
Opening hours: 5am - 9pm (daily)
Price: 90 USD onwards
22. Jog around Boulder Creek Path
The Boulder Creek Path is found along the west end of the Boulder Canyon towards the east end of the Stazio Ballfield. It features a serene park where kids and adults alike spend some quality time setting up a mini-picnic or just playing and strolling around. It has lots of lush greens that add to the charm and calmness of the place. If you are into jogging and biking, you can choose this place as your trail as it is safe and pretty.
Boulder Creek Path
Address: Boulder, CO 80302, USA
Website: Boulder Creek Path
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
23. Stroll across Long's Gardens
Featuring vast lands of majestic lush greeneries and breathtaking gardens of gorgeous flora, Long’s Garden is a breathtaking attraction in Broadway, Boulder that you should see when you visit the city. This farm is being preserved by the third generation of the Longs and is surely perfectly maintained. If you want, you can bring here your romantic partner, and together you can plant some lovely bearded Iris, lilies, and other blooms.
Long's Gardens
Address: 3240 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80304, USA
Website: Long’s Gardens
Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 8am - 12pm (closed from Thu - Sun)
Price: Free entry
24. Swing by the University of Colorado Museum of Natural History
If you have some spare time while in Boulder, be sure to check out the University of Colorado Museum of Natural History. You can come alone or bring your family for an afternoon filled with fascinating artifacts and delightful exhibits. This museum showcases five different galleries that tell about natural and human history. They also have programs that the kids will surely enjoy. You can also meet artists that can give you tips for your art and craft.
University of Colorado Museum of Natural History
Address: Broadway, Boulder, CO 80302, USA
Website: University of Colorado Museum of Natural History
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
Price: Free entry
25. Enjoy live shows at Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre
Nesting in the University of Colorado, Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre is a fascinating venue for entertainment that showcases fantastic live performances like the Grammy award-winning trilogy ’ The Marriage of Figaro" which is an original masterpiece of Mozart, As You Like It by Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet, Twelfth Night, and other quality performances. Check their schedule perpetually to see which show or events might interest you. Come with your friends or family and enjoy an experience you will never forget.
Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre
Address: 277 University Ave, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
Website: Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre
Price: 18 USD onwards
26. Hike through Mount Sanitas Trailhead
If you have an interest in physical activities and challenging sports, you might want to check out Mount Sanitas Trailhead and try hiking with your friends or family. It is located in Sunshine Canyon Drive, featuring majestic and scenic views and wide-open space. If you are not into hiking, there is also a designated picnic area in Mount Sanitas Trailhead where there are public restrooms and parking space for visitors traveling by their vehicles. You can also see people walking their dogs and runners blowing off some steam.
Mount Sanitas Trailhead
Address: Sunshine Canyon Dr, Boulder, CO 80304, USA
Website: Mount Sanitas Trailhead
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
27. Enjoy live music at The Fox Theatre
If you are done with the sights and the eats of Boulder, Colorado, you might want to immerse in its sounds. One way to do so is by checking out the Fox Theatre and catch amazing performances from the city’s professional acts as well as fresh talents. They showcase various high-energy events that both millennials and millennials-at-heart will surely love. The Fox Theatre prides itself as one of the best party spots in the city, being voted fourth best music venue in the US by the Rolling Stone Magazine.
The Fox Theatre
Address: 1135 13th St, Boulder, CO 80302, USA
Website: The Fox Theatre
Opening hours: 6pm onwards (daily)
Price: 12 USD onwards
28. Walk through the scenic Red Rocks Trail
Open to public an hour before sunrise and closes an hour after sunset, Red Rocks Trail is one of the most gorgeous natural Parks in Boulder. This park is ideal for hiking and biking as it is safe and has excellent routes. Not to mention, you can also enjoy horseback riding in Red Rocks Trail. If you are not into this kind of activities that involves physical power, you might like to set up a mini picnic or take pictures at the majestic nature there is in this area.
Red Rocks Trail
Address: Boulder, Colorado
Website: Red Rocks Trail
Price: 7 USD
29. Dine organic at Shine Restaurant & Potion Bar
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Surely, Boulder is a fascinating city with lots of tourist attractions and scenic landscapes. If you are done with all the touristy stuff or you just need a quick break to regain energy, you might want to check out Shine Restaurant & Potion Bar for an elevated dining experience. Featuring a hip restaurant with a relaxing ambiance, Shine Restaurant & Potion Bar not only offer mouthwatering organic dishes, premium drinks, but also, a wonderful dining experience as a whole. While in the restaurant, you might want to try some of its bestsellers such as Pan-Seared Chicken & Bacon Sandwich, Cappello’s Grain Free Fettuccine, Locally Grown Veggie Burger, and a lot more.
Shine Restaurant & Potion Bar
Address: 2480 Canyon Blvd m1, Boulder, CO 80302, USA
Website: Shine Restaurant & Potion Bar
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 9pm; Fri: 11am - 10pm; Sat: 10am - 10pm; Sun: 10am - 9pm
30. Admire the beautiful Cure Organic Farm
Cure Organic Farm has been long-standing since 2005. This garden is home to 100 different organic vegetables, flowers, and herbs. Most of their products are supplied to different restaurants, markets, and stores. They also raise pigs, hens, and several honey beehives. If you are interested in some fresh organic products, drop by Cure Organic Farm six miles east of Boulder. Not just that, this place is also a fantastic place to make friends with locals, share cooking recipes, and even asked for some tips on getting around the city.
Cure Organic Farm
Address: 7416 Valmont Rd, Boulder, CO 80301, USA
Website: Cure Organic Farm
Opening hours: Wed - Fri: 11am - 6pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
Price: 5 USD
Beautiful Boulder
Boulder is a majestic city with lots of natural wonders, majestic sights, and fascinating attractions. If you are a nature lover, this place is a paradise for you. There are so much to do in this city for tourists from hiking breathtaking mountains to trying out eats and shopping to your hearts’ content. With so many activities in store, this is the perfect place to bring your family and friends. So, if you are planning to visit the city any time soon, remember this list of things to do in Boulder when organizing your itinerary. May you have a wonderful vacation ahead.
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