Day 1: Great Outdoors & Local Flavor
Morning
Start your day with a quick, casual breakfast before heading out to commune with nature. Stop by the cozy Ozo Coffee Company on Pearl Street, Boulder’s pedestrian shopping district, for a cup of freshly roasted organic coffee, or pull up a chair in the airy, contemporary space at Alpine Modern Café, where wholesome choices like avocado tartine and quinoa porridge provide the perfect fuel for an active day.
Just a few minutes away, you’ll find Chautauqua Park, a peaceful green leading to the dramatic rock formations of the Flatirons, slanting slabs of sandstone named by early pioneer women for their resemblance to the flat metal irons they used to press their clothing. Hike one of the trails that leave from Chautauqua Trailhead, such as Woods Quarry (easy), Second-Third Flatiron Trail (moderate) or Royal Arch (difficult).
Mid-Day
After an active morning, kick back with a healthy, hearty lunch. Fill up on creative vegan and vegetarian entrees at Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant, or grab a gourmet sandwich piled high with locally sourced, organic ingredients at Naked Lunch or Organic Sandwich Company.
Afternoon
After lunch, walk a few blocks north of downtown to the Museum of Boulder, where you can hear locals’ insights about how Boulder came to be … Boulder. Plus, check out big-name exhibits like Da Vinci Machines and Sportology. Or opt to drive north to the Boulder Reservoir to enjoy stand-up paddle boarding, sunbathing or walking the perimeter path with a view of the Flatirons. Also in the neighborhood is Avery Brewing Co., where you can sample an impressive lineup of craft beers and take a free, self-guided tour of the brewery.
Evening
For a casual dinner, revive with a cold beer and fall-off-the-bone barbecue at West End Tavern, or order flavorful Mexican specialties and salty margs on the rooftop patio at Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant.
Day 2: Indulgences & Performing Arts
After a day of casual dining and outdoor fun, treat yourself with a few of Boulder’s cultural delights.
Morning
Take your pick from relaxing ways to start your day. Unwind in the tranquil steam rooms and saunas at the Spa at St. Julien before a therapeutic massage or sumptuous body treatment. Feel invigorated with a yoga class at one of the many studios in Boulder, such as Yoga Pod (which boasts om-inspiring views in a beautiful space) or CorePower (with invigorating options like Hot Power Fusion and CoreCardio Circuit). Or to take your day to new heights with a sunrise hot-air balloon ride overlooking the Rocky Mountains, Colorado’s Front Range and the Boulder Valley.
Mid-Day
Linger over a cup of tea and unique global cuisine at the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse, a cultural escape featuring hand-carved wooden accents and colorful paintings. Another great option is Chautauqua Dining Hall, where wholesome Colorado bistro fare and locally brewed craft beers are served in a historic setting at the foot of the Flatirons.
Afternoon
Let brunch settle by strolling around the shops of downtown’s Pearl Street, a brick-paved, pedestrian stretch of quaint boutiques and specialty shops. Savor outrageously decadent sweets at Piece, Love & Chocolate, stock up on everyday and exotic spices at Savory Spice Shop, browse natural body products at Rebecca’s Herbal Apothecary & Supply, find your next great read at Boulder Book Store or pick out the perfect outfit at Weekends. Another great option for shop-till-you-drop types is Twenty Ninth Street, an open-air retail district offering well-known brand names such as Anthropologie, Apple, The North Face, Lululemon and J Jill. Be sure to stop in the West Elm store, featuring products from local makers.
Ready to take a break from shopping? Head to North Boulder's warehouse district for a little wine tasting at Libations Row, featuring a local winery, a cidery and a brewery all in one place.
Evening
For dinner, take your pick of celebrated chefs and elegant restaurants in Boulder’s fine dining scene. Indulge in exquisite Northern Italian fare and expertly paired wines with the tasting menu at MICHELIN One-Star restaurant Frasca Food and Wine, or revel in fresh sushi and seasonal Japanese dishes at Izakaya Amu. Or take in incredible mountain views at the historic Flagstaff House Restaurant, a longtime special occasion restaurant poised on a perch above the city.
Finally, immerse yourself in Boulder’s arts and culture scene by enjoying an evening of classical music by the Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra or Boulder Symphony. For dance, theater, art cinema and more, check the events schedule at The Dairy Arts Center.
Want more? Find more ideas in these suggested itineraries.