Boulder, Colorado is one of those places that I think gets overlooked when people are planning a trip to Colorado. Most people immediately think of Denver, Aspen, or one of the many ski towns, but Boulder has so much to offer on its own.
What I love about Boulder is that it can really be whatever you want it to be. You can spend an entire weekend here, make it a day trip from Denver, or use it as one of several stops while exploring Colorado. Between the beautiful University of Colorado campus, Pearl Street, incredible restaurants, and the mountains practically in your backyard, there's plenty to keep you busy.
Whether you're visiting for a CU football game, planning a weekend away, or just looking for another Colorado town to explore, here's everything I'd recommend doing while you're in Boulder.
Getting to Boulder
If you're flying in, you'll want to fly into Denver International Airport. For being such a massive airport, I've always found it pretty easy to navigate. Just be prepared to do some walking because it really is huge.
The airport sits on the east side of Denver, and from there you're looking at about a 45-minute to one-hour drive to Boulder, depending on traffic.
I would recommend renting a car, especially if you plan on visiting any of the surrounding mountain towns. Once you're in downtown Boulder, a lot of things are within walking distance, but having a car makes it much easier to get around and see everything the area has to offer.
If you're already planning a trip to Denver, Boulder is also an easy addition to your itinerary. You don't necessarily need to spend the night to get a good feel for the town.
Things to Do in Boulder
Walk Around the University of Colorado Campus
Even if you have absolutely no connection to the University of Colorado, I would still recommend taking some time to walk around campus.
I really think this is one of the prettiest college campuses in the country. Everywhere you look, there are mountain views, beautiful buildings, and so much greenery. The architecture is also so unique compared to most college campuses, with the red roofs and sandstone buildings that make CU so recognizable.
There are a few spots I'd make sure to see while you're there.
First is Folsom Field, home of the Colorado Buffaloes. The football program has gotten a lot more attention since Deion Sanders arrived, and the stadium has become a big part of the excitement around Boulder. Even if you aren't going to a game, it's worth walking by. There aren't many college football stadiums with a backdrop quite like this one.
Another stop is the CU Museum of Natural History. It's a great way to spend a little time learning about the area's history, wildlife, and geology.
I'd also make sure to walk by Varsity Lake. It's one of those pretty little spots on campus that you could easily miss if you didn't know it was there.
You don't have to make a whole itinerary out of visiting campus. I honestly think just walking around and taking in the scenery is one of the best things to do in Boulder.
Spend Some Time on Pearl Street
If there's one place you absolutely have to visit in Boulder, it's Pearl Street.
This is really the heart of downtown, and it's where you'll find some of the best shopping, restaurants, and entertainment in the city. I love areas like this where you can park your car, walk around for a few hours, and just see where you end up.
There are so many stores and restaurants to choose from that you really can't go wrong, but I do have a few favorites.
Bartaco is one of my favorite spots for tacos in Colorado. It's casual, the food is great, and it's an easy place to stop for lunch while you're exploring.
Another place I love is Boulder Bookstore. If you like old-fashioned bookstores that feel like something out of a movie, you need to stop here. It's one of those places where you go in planning to spend ten minutes and end up staying for an hour.
You'll also want to walk by Boulder Theater. It's a historic theater right in downtown Boulder that hosts concerts, comedy shows, and other events. Even if you don't have tickets to anything, it's a fun landmark to see.
One thing I especially like about Pearl Street is that there's usually something going on. Between street performers, art shows, seasonal events, and activities around downtown, it never feels boring.
Before your trip, I'd check Downtown Boulder's website or social media to see if there are any events happening while you're in town. You might get lucky and catch something fun.
Visit Chautauqua Park
One of the best things about Boulder is that you don't have to go far to feel like you're in the mountains.
Just south of the University of Colorado campus is Chautauqua Park, and I would absolutely make time for this while you're visiting.
The views here are incredible. You're right at the base of the Flatirons, and there are plenty of trails to choose from depending on how much hiking you want to do.
You can go for a short walk, spend a few hours hiking, or just enjoy the scenery. There are also biking opportunities in the surrounding area if that's more your thing.
The park itself is free to visit, although you may have to pay for parking depending on when you go.
And after you've spent some time outside, there's nothing better than stopping for ice cream or another sweet treat nearby.
I think Chautauqua is one of the places that really shows off what makes Boulder special. You can be shopping on Pearl Street one minute and enjoying some of the prettiest mountain views in Colorado not long after.
Take a Day Trip From Boulder
Something I think people underestimate about Boulder is how close it is to so many other great Colorado destinations.
If you're spending a few days here, I would definitely recommend setting aside some time to visit one of the nearby mountain towns.
Estes Park
About 1 hour from Boulder
If you've read any of my other Colorado articles, you probably already know how much I love Estes Park.
Of all the nearby towns you could visit, this would be my first choice.
The drive from Boulder is easy and really scenic, and once you get there, there's so much to do. Estes Park has the perfect mix of mountain scenery, restaurants, shopping, and outdoor activities.
You can spend the morning exploring Rocky Mountain National Park, grab lunch downtown, and spend the afternoon walking through the shops.
I have a few other articles dedicated entirely to Estes Park, including my favorite restaurants and how I'd spend a weekend there, so definitely check those out if you're thinking about making the trip.
Golden
About 40 minutes from Boulder
Golden is another really cute town that's worth visiting if you have some extra time.
It's located southwest of Boulder and has a charming downtown area with restaurants, shops, breweries, and beautiful views of the foothills.
It's a great place to spend an afternoon, especially if you're looking for something a little closer than some of the mountain towns.
Winter Park
About 2 hours from Boulder
If you don't mind a longer drive, Winter Park is another option.
This is a great destination if you're looking for more of a traditional Colorado mountain-town experience. In the winter, it's obviously a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding, but there's plenty to do during the summer too.
Between hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the resort area, it's worth considering if you have the time.
Of these three, I'd personally choose Estes Park. I think it has the best mix of things to do, great restaurants, and that classic Colorado mountain-town feeling.
Where to Eat in Boulder
Boulder has some really great restaurants, and I think the food scene here is better than people might expect from a college town.
Whether you're looking for a nicer dinner, a good breakfast spot, or somewhere casual to watch a football game, there are plenty of options.
These are the places I'd put at the top of your list.
Japango
If I could only recommend one restaurant in Boulder, it would be Japango.
This is hands down my favorite place to eat in town. It's located in the Pearl Street area, so it's also in a great spot if you're spending the day downtown.
The sushi is some of the freshest I've had, but what I really love is that the menu has so many other great options too.
Some of my favorites are the lobster potstickers, homemade dumplings, and miso black cod. I would definitely recommend ordering a few things for the table so you can try more of the menu.
They've even offered mahjong lessons, which I think is such a fun and unique touch. If that's something you're interested in, check their event schedule before you go.
Whether you're looking for a date-night spot or just want a really good dinner, Japango would be my first recommendation.
The Buff
For breakfast, you have to try The Buff.
This is a popular spot with both locals and CU students, and I completely understand why.
They have all your classic breakfast options like breakfast sandwiches and biscuits and gravy, but they also have some more unique dishes that make it worth going.
Think pumpkin pancakes, chicken and French toast sandwiches, and plenty of other options that you won't find at your average breakfast restaurant.
They also have a good selection of gluten-free options, which is always nice.
This is a great place to start your day before heading out to explore Boulder.
Steakhouse No. 316
If you're looking for a nicer dinner, Steakhouse No. 316 is where I'd go.
Located near Pearl Street, this restaurant has a completely different feel from some of the more casual spots around Boulder.
The inside is beautifully decorated, the service is amazing, and it's the kind of place that feels like a special night out.
One thing I really like here is the cocktail menu. Two drinks I'd recommend trying are the 316 Orchard and Bet It on Black. They're not your typical cocktails, and that's part of what makes this place fun.
If you're visiting Boulder as a couple or celebrating something special, I'd definitely put this restaurant on your list.
Mister Oso
If you're looking for something closer to campus, try Mister Oso.
This is such a fun restaurant, both for the food and the atmosphere. It's colorful, eclectic, and has a lot more personality than your typical Mexican restaurant.
One of the things that makes it stand out is the presentation. They even serve some of their drinks in little bear-shaped cups.
They also have fresh-made empanadas and a menu full of Mexican-inspired dishes that are great for sharing.
This is a good option if you want something casual but still want a fun dinner experience.
Boulder Social
For something more laid-back, especially if there's a game on, I'd recommend Boulder Social.
This is a great place to go for happy hour, to watch sports, or just to grab dinner without making a big night out of it.
They have a really good menu with things like baked Bavarian pretzels, prime rib sliders, and steak and truffle frites.
Personally, chips and queso, a beer, and college football on the TV sounds like a pretty ideal afternoon to me.
If you're visiting during football season, this is definitely a place I'd keep in mind.
Alpine Modern Café
If you just need a quick breakfast, coffee, or something sweet, stop by Alpine Modern Café.
They have some of the best coffee and pastries in Boulder, and I love the atmosphere.
It's a great place to stop before heading out for the day, especially if you don't want to sit down for a full breakfast.
Sometimes a good coffee and pastry is all you need, and this is one of the places I'd recommend getting it.
Where to Stay in Boulder
When it comes to hotels, I would try to stay somewhere near Pearl Street or the University of Colorado campus.
Both areas are convenient, and you'll be close to most of the places I've mentioned throughout this guide.
If you're visiting for a relaxing weekend or want to spend most of your time downtown, I'd lean toward Pearl Street.
If you're visiting CU, attending a football game, or just want to be close to campus, there are some great options there too.
St Julien Hotel & Spa
For a more luxurious stay, St Julien Hotel & Spa would be one of my top choices.
It's located just off Pearl Street, which means you're within walking distance of so many restaurants, shops, and things to do.
What I like about this hotel is that you get the convenience of staying downtown without giving up the feeling of being at a nicer resort.
The hotel has great dining options, a full-service spa, beautiful rooms, and the kind of service you'd expect from a luxury property.
I think this would be a perfect option for a couples' weekend or anyone wanting a more relaxing trip.
You could spend the morning walking around Boulder, come back for a spa treatment, and head out to dinner without ever needing to get in your car.
Hotel Boulderado
If you want to stay somewhere that feels completely unique to Boulder, I'd choose Hotel Boulderado.
This is such a cool property, and it's also within walking distance of Pearl Street.
The hotel is historic, and they've done a great job preserving the details that make it special. It almost feels like stepping back in time when you walk inside.
One of my favorite details is that the original elevator is still in service.
I love hotels that have some history and personality to them, and Hotel Boulderado definitely checks both boxes.
The attention to detail throughout the property is what really makes it stand out. Every room has its own character, and the whole hotel has a charm that you just don't get from a newer, more generic property.
If you enjoy historic hotels, I think you'd really love this one.
Moxy Boulder University
If you're coming to Boulder to visit CU, Moxy Boulder University is one of the most convenient places you could stay.
It's practically right next to campus, so you're in a great location for university visits, football weekends, or spending time around the college.
This hotel has a much younger, more modern feel than the other two I've mentioned.
You'll find contemporary rooms, floor-to-ceiling windows, a lively hotel bar, and even a rooftop whirlpool.
I think this is a great choice if you want somewhere fun and social to stay, especially if you're spending most of your time around campus.
Limelight Boulder
Another great option near campus is Limelight Boulder.
This is one of the newer hotels in the area, and it's a really nice addition to Boulder's hotel options.
The property has a modern, upscale feel with some fun details throughout. Depending on your room type, you'll find features like Smeg appliances, along with amenities such as hotel transportation services and a heated pool.
I think this is a great middle ground for someone who wants to stay close to CU but still wants a more elevated hotel experience.
It's especially convenient if you're visiting for a university event but don't necessarily want the younger, more social atmosphere of the Moxy.
How I'd Spend One Day in Boulder
If you only have one day in Boulder, here's how I'd plan it.
I'd start the morning with breakfast at The Buff. From there, I'd head over to the University of Colorado campus and spend some time walking around. Make sure to see Folsom Field and Varsity Lake while you're there.
After exploring campus, I'd make my way over to Chautauqua Park. Even if you don't have time for a long hike, it's worth stopping just to see the Flatirons up close.
For the afternoon, I'd head to Pearl Street. This is where I'd spend most of my time shopping, walking around, and stopping into places like Boulder Bookstore. If you get hungry, Bartaco is a great lunch option.
I'd finish the day with dinner at Japango. It's my favorite restaurant in Boulder, and I can't think of a better way to end a day here.
If you're staying overnight, you can always grab a drink somewhere downtown afterward.
Final Thoughts on Boulder
I think Boulder is one of those Colorado destinations that deserves more attention.
It has so much going for it, and I love that you can have a completely different experience depending on what you're looking for. You can spend your days hiking, shopping, exploring campus, trying new restaurants, or heading out to nearby mountain towns.
It's also a really easy place to add to a larger Colorado trip, especially if you're already planning to spend time in Denver.
If I were planning a trip, I'd try to give Boulder at least a full day, but I think you could easily spend an entire weekend here without getting bored.
And if you have extra time, definitely make the drive to Estes Park. It's one of my favorite places in Colorado, and I think the two destinations pair really well together.
For more Colorado travel ideas, be sure to check out my guides to Denver and Estes Park, where I share more of my favorite restaurants, hotels, and things to do.