Nestled in Boulder Valley, where the towering Rocky Mountains meet the vast expanse of the Great Plains, the bustling university city of Boulder is one of Colorado’s main tourist hubs. Offering easy access to the state’s world famous ski resorts and National Parks and boasting a choice of cultural attractions, a vibrant downtown area and a unique history, the city is popular with families, couples and groups of all ages. The perfect base from which to explore Colorado’s plentiful attractions, Boulder really does have something for everyone.
Areas & Neighbourhoods in Boulder
Downtown – Packed full of bars, restaurants, shops and attractions, Downtown is the hub of city life in Boulder. Location of the pretty pedestrianized Pearl Street Mall and a wealth of historic buildings, Downtown is the place to go if you want to shop, eat or enjoy a few hours of people watching.
North Boulder - One of the hippest parts of the city, North Boulder offers a great mix of green spaces, independent shops and quiet residential streets. The area’s great selection of ethnic restaurants makes it the perfect destination for an evening out, while the range of parks and open spaces make it ideal for a day of fun and relaxation.
University Hill – An historic neighbourhood next to the University of Colorado Campus, University Hill is made up of an eclectic mix of housing, vibrant restaurants, shops and entertainment venues. Close to Downtown, the area is a great choice for anyone who wants to experience student life in Boulder.
Rocky Mountain National Park – One of the most beautiful national parks in the US, the Rocky Mountain National Park is just a stone’s throw from Boulder and offers a huge variety of outdoor activities as well as breathtaking scenery.
Things to See in Boulder
With the Rocky Mountains on one side and the Great Plains on the other, Boulder isn’t short of things to see. One of the city’s most famous sights is the Flatirons. Just outside of Boulder, the Flatirons are a group of five sheer-sided mountains that tower over the local landscape. In Boulder itself, one of the best known attractions is the Pearl Street Mall, a pedestrianized shopping and entertainment area that covers four blocks of Downtown. Other famous sights in the city include the 19th century Colorado Chautauqua, a centre for cultural events, concerts and educational programmes, and the Fox Theatre, an iconic venue that still hosts a range of performing arts events.
Things to Do in Boulder
With its wealth of cultural attractions and vibrant downtown, Boulder makes a great destination for an action packed city break. However, with the Rocky Mountains on its doorstep, most holidaymakers who visit Boulder use the city as a base to explore the area’s stunning natural attractions. Hike to Flagstaff Mountain, explore the twists and turns of Boulder Creek, take a hot air balloon ride over the Rockies or hurtle down the local waterways in a kayak, canoe or river raft. For a more relaxed outdoor experience, head to Boulder’s central park and enjoy nature in the heart of the city.