The Ultimate Boulder, Colorado Travel Guide: Things to Do, Eat & See
Whether you’re visiting Boulder for the first time, dropping your kid off at CU Boulder, or simply looking for a fun Colorado day trip, Boulder has plenty to keep you busy. From exploring Pearl Street and grabbing a bite at a local favorite to shopping for Boulder-made souvenirs and getting outside with the Flatirons as your backdrop, this guide covers the best things to do, eat and see in Boulder, Colorado.
I’ve spent plenty of time both living near and visiting Boulder, so these are some of my favorite places and experiences to help you plan your own visit.
The Three Things You Can’t Miss in Boulder
If you’re short on time, these are the three Boulder experiences I’d put at the top of your list. They each offer something completely different and give you a good introduction to the food, culture and outdoor lifestyle that make Boulder unique.
- Boulders Tajik Teahouse → a very unique experience located right in downtown Boulder, book in advance especially with school is in session!
- Boulder’s Farmer Market → easily one of the best markets around, all of the vendors are local to Colorado!
- Boulder Reservoir → a perfect way to escape town and enjoy the outdoors
Best Free Things to Do in Boulder
One of my favorite things about Boulder is that you don’t need to spend a fortune to have a great day here. If you’re traveling on a budget, these are a few of my favorite ways to experience the city without spending much — or anything at all.
👉 Wall Art -> Mural Tour
There is a TON of local art displayed throughout Boulder, if you have the time, a tour is great otherwise you can explore on your own.
👉 Music on Pearl Street
On any given day, there is live music on Pearl Street with plenty of benches to sit and relax
👉 Boulders Farmers Market
Yes! I’ve mentioned it again as admission is free and there are always plenty of samples. Boulder technically has two different markets, one in downtown Boulder and another in Longmont.
My Favorite Places to Eat in Boulder
Boulder has no shortage of restaurants, breweries and coffee shops, but these are the places I keep coming back to. Whether you’re looking for a casual breakfast, a local brewery or a more memorable dinner, these are five spots I’d recommend adding to your Boulder itinerary.
- Luckys Cafe → Not only does Lucky’s Cafe serve meals all day, they have a bakery and my favorite grocery store in Colorado! It’s a locally owned/operated store with an awesome deli. *Pro tip, great place to grab sandwiches before an outdoor adventure
- Mountain Sun Brewery → A local favorite with a great little patio out front, heads up that it is cash only.
- Bramble & Hare → A beautiful restaurant that has a farm to table seasonal menu, reservations are strongly encouraged.
- Avanti Boulder → Looking for fun vibes and views? This is the spot!
- Moe’s Bagels → Another great locally owned spot that is known for it’s New York Style Bagels
Where to Find Boulder-Made Souvenirs
Skip the generic souvenir shop and bring home something that actually feels like Boulder. These local brands and Boulder-made products make great gifts — or a fun excuse to do a little shopping while you’re in town.
✅ Purely Elizabeth
✅ Lems
✅ Bobo’s
✅ Liberty Puzzles
✅ Celestial Seasonings
The Best Boulder Outfitters for Outdoor Adventures
Boulder is surrounded by some seriously beautiful outdoor spaces, but not everyone has the time — or the desire — to plan every detail of an adventure. If you’d rather have someone else handle the logistics, these are two local outfitters worth checking out.
Where to Stay in Boulder
Boulder makes a great weekend getaway, but choosing where to stay can make a big difference in how much time you spend exploring versus driving around. Here are my picks if you’re looking for a nicer stay or a more budget-friendly option.
Visiting Other Parts of Colorado?
🥾 Dog-Friendly Guide to Telluride
Final Thoughts
Boulder is one of those places that’s easy to love, whether you’re visiting for the first time or coming back for the tenth. Between the incredible outdoor access, local restaurants, unique shops, and laid-back Colorado atmosphere, there’s something for just about every type of traveler.
You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy Boulder, and some of my favorite experiences are completely free. I hope this guide helps you discover a few new favorites and enjoy Boulder as much as I do!
Now it’s time to plan your own adventure, Cheers!
