Are you thinking about visiting Boulder, Colorado? Here's what you need to know before planning your trip.
Is Boulder worth visiting?
Boulder is worth visiting for two to three days so that you can explore everything that the city has to offer. Boulder is located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and it is a very progressive, bike-friendly university town. It offers easy access to outdoor sports including rock climbing, kayaking, and hiking. There are many hiking trails in the area and the university keeps the population young and energetic.
Boulder, Colorado
Reasons to Visit Boulder
Hiking
There are many accessible hikes in the area that take you through the mountains, by wildflowers, or up mountain peaks. Popular hikes that are nearby include the Bear Peak Summit Hike, the trails in Eldorado Canyon State Park, and Boulder Falls.
Food
This is an often overlooked foodie town, with great farmer's markets and restaurants to try. There are many casual places to eat as well as vegetarian and vegan friendly options everywhere.
Nightlife
The town has breweries, craft beer, and plenty to do in the evening. Live music is popular and many venues are smaller with a more personal atmosphere. Check out The Bitter Bar or License No. 1 for a local vibe.
Music
During the summer months there are often outdoor concerts. Head to Pearl Street for open air stages or see a concert at Boulder Theater.
Shopping
The downtown area has many local retailers where you can shop for clothing, art, or home goods. You can also pick up outdoor gear, camping equipment, and any other items you may need in town. Make sure you wander down the pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall.
Authenticity
Boulder has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.
Things to Consider Before Visiting Boulder
Museums: Boulder isn't a place that's filled with a huge number of sights and attractions. Most people visit Boulder for the outdoor activities more than the museums and sights. If have the time you can wander around the University of Colorado Boulder campus, visit the Museum of Boulder, or see the Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art.
Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.
The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Boulder might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Boulder here or see if Boulder is expensive here.
Related
What is Boulder most famous for?
Boulder is most famous for its outdoor sports, biker-friendly downtown, vibrant downtown, and many local breweries. People visit this impressive city for its great hiking. It's also known for food, nightlife, music, and shopping. It is often described as biker-friendly, outdoorsy, and nature-filled.
What is the most famous sight in Boulder?
The most popular sight in Boulder is The Flatirons. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Boulder on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for The Flatirons and other attractions here.
How touristy is Boulder? Is it a popular city to visit?
Boulder is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- Best Family Small-Group E-Bike Guided Tour in Boulder, Colorado: $100
- Downtown Boulder Mural Walking Tour: $30
- Boulder Backroads: E-Bike Dirt Road Tour: $250
- Boulder Flatirons Private Photo Adventure: $85
- "Boulder Peaks & Wilderness Tours: Mallory Cave Trail": $65
- Private Boulder Highlights 2 Hour Walking Tour: $94
- Best of Boulder E-Bike Tour: $104
- Rocky Mountain National Park Guided Tours from Grand Lake: $130
How long should I spend in Boulder?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Boulder is two to three days. Since Boulder has activities such as hiking, many visit for up to three days.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Boulder? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Boulder?.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.