Best 20 things to do in Boulder, United States

Welcome to Boulder, where the mountains are tall, but the locals are even taller! Follow the footsteps of fearless adventurers and start your day with a hike up the famous Flatirons, because why walk on flat ground when you can stroll on the side of a vertical rock? After surviving that, reward yourself with a visit to the Celestial Seasonings tea factory, where you can enjoy the greatest beverage in the history of hot water. Finally, channel your inner philosopher and join the University of Colorado students for a lively debate on the meaning of "chai" at the historic Pearl Street Mall.

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1. Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art

4.4 (192)

1750 13th St, Boulder, CO 80302, USA

Hidden among the majestic mountains and hi-fi granola shops of Boulder, lies the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art (BMoCA), an avant-garde oasis where gummy bears mingle with masterpieces. As you step inside, be prepared to have your mind tickled, twisted, and sometimes totally confused by the mind-boggling art installations that will make you question if you accidentally wandered into a parallel universe. With its funky mix of cutting-edge exhibitions and mind-expanding workshops, BMoCA is the perfect place to broaden your artistic horizons or simply revel in the sheer absurdity of a banana taped to a wall being hailed as a marvel of modern art.

www.bmoca.org

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2. Boulder Farmers Market

4.7 (759)

13th St, Boulder, CO 80302, USA

Welcome to Boulder Farmers Market, where the hipsters and health-conscious unite in their quest for the freshest produce and artisanal wonders. Get ready to embark on a journey through a rainbow of organic kale, zucchinis that seem to defy gravity, and goats who were probably Instagram influencers in their past lives. This vibrant market is a kaleidoscope of flavors, colors, and people watching, inviting you to embrace your inner "foodie-hipster" and sample local delicacies while pretending to understand kombucha fermentation on a molecular level.

www.bcfm.org

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3. Boulder Creek Path

Boulder Creek Path, Boulder, CO, USA

Welcome to the picturesque Boulder Creek Path in Boulder, where the ducks rule the roost, and even the squirrels practice yoga! This delightful 5.5-mile multi-use path weaves its way through the heart of the city, offering a scenic escape for walkers, joggers, and those who like to pretend they're in a low-budget nature documentary. Soak in the beautiful mountain views, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and be prepared to dodge an occasional cyclist who believes they've entered the Tour de Boulder Canyon.

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4. Eldorado Canyon State Park

4.8 (3700)

9 Kneale Rd, Eldorado Springs, CO 80025, USA

Nestled within the stunning Boulder County, Eldorado Canyon State Park holds the key to unlocking nature's hidden charm - a true rock star among outdoor enthusiasts! This enchanting playground is a rock climber's dream, with its towering sandstone cliffs ready to challenge even Spiderman's grip. But don't worry, mere mortals can still find solace in the park's hiking trails, which offer an incredible opportunity to see wildlife up close. Just remember to keep your snacks hidden, as the local critters have a talent for sniffing out a picnic from a mile away!

cpw.state.co.us

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5. Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art

4.7 (123)

6055 Longbow Dr, Boulder, CO 80301, USA

Nestled amidst the rocky terrain of Boulder, the Leanin' Tree Museum awaits art enthusiasts and cowboy aficionados with open doors and a curious collection of Western art. Prepare yourself for an encounter with bold brushstrokes that bring cowboys, horses, and wild landscapes to life, freeze-framing the Wild West for all to witness. While exploring, keep an eye out for the sassy sculptures and vibrant paintings, harmoniously transforming the silence of the museum into a mischievous symphony of Western charm.

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6. Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse

4.6 (3407)

1770 13th St, Boulder, CO 80302, USA

Nestled in the heart of Boulder lies the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse, a whimsical oasis where East meets West and caffeine meets serenity. Step into this tea utopia and prepare to be amazed by its intricate Persian architecture, a delightful reminder that you're still in Colorado and not lost in a fairytale. Grab a cup of tea or embark on a culinary adventure, all while basking in the charm of this truly unique teahouse that makes every other house jealous.

www.boulderteahouse.com

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7. Celestial Seasonings

4.7 (1131)

4600 Sleepytime Dr, Boulder, CO 80301, USA

Welcome to Celestial Seasonings in Boulder, where the soothing aroma of tea drifts through the air, tempting even the most die-hard coffee aficionados to question their life choices. Step inside this fantastic tea sanctuary, where the walls are adorned with whimsical murals featuring rainbow-colored blends frolicking with mountains and rivers, truly capturing the tea-induced hallucinations one might expect in Boulder. Don't leave without taking a tour, where you can witness the tea leaves in their natural habitat, being transformed from mere plants into deliciously steepable works of art.

celestialseasonings.com

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8. University of Colorado Boulder

4.5 (726)

Boulder, CO 80309, USA

Welcome to the small town of Boulder, home to the University of Colorado Boulder, or as the locals affectionately call it, The UCB! Nestled within the picturesque backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, this campus manages to make even the most apathetic student stop and say, "Wow, I should really go outside more often." The university boasts an impressive blend of academics and outdoor adventures; where else can you simultaneously ace a calculus exam and spot a family of deer browsing for their next meal?

www.colorado.edu

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9. CU Museum of Natural History

4.5 (247)

1030 Broadway Street UCB 218, Boulder, CO 80309, USA

Welcome to the CU Museum of Natural History in Boulder, where prehistoric wonders and quirky oddities collide to create an experience that even Indiana Jones would approve of. Delve into the intriguing exhibits that range from ancient fossils to paintings of peculiar bugs; you might just discover that dinosaurs had a penchant for fine arts. Marvel at the impressive displays that are sure to make you question whether you're in a museum or on the set of a Hollywood blockbuster.

www.colorado.edu

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10. Chautauqua Park

4.8 (4513)

900 Baseline Rd &, 9th St, Boulder, CO 80302, USA

Nestled amidst the majestic mountains of Boulder, Colorado, lies the quirky gem known as Chautauqua Park. This place has it all: breathtaking landscapes, picturesque hiking trails, and more hipsters per square inch than a bearded lumberjack convention. So grab your flannel shirt and artisanal coffee, and get ready to explore the epitome of Boulder's eccentricity. Wander through the park's enchanted meadows, where the grass is greener than a kale smoothie at a vegan brunch. As you take in the scenery, don't be surprised if you stumble upon a group of yoga enthusiasts balancing themselves on one foot while reciting ancient Sanskrit mantras. It's like practicing mindfulness in a Wes Anderson movie. Feeling adventurous? Conquer the Flatirons, those gloriously pointy rock formations that make every rock climber's heart skip a beat. Channel your inner Spider-Man as you cling to the cliffs, but be aware that the Flatirons are as challenging as finding a parking spot in downtown Boulder during a farmer's market. Just think of it as a quirky fitness challenge with a side of vertigo.

bouldercolorado.gov

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11. NCAR - Mesa Lab

4.7 (215)

1850 Table Mesa Dr, Boulder, CO 80305, USA

Welcome to the NCAR - Mesa Lab in Boulder, where science and whimsy come together to create an out-of-this-world experience! Nestled against the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, this architectural marvel is not just a building, but a multisensory adventure. Prepare to be pleasantly perplexed as you enter a place where weather meets wonder, and equations dance with imagination. The Mesa Lab is a real-life science fiction film set where the skies serve as the backdrop. Explore its grandiosity as you wander through maze-like corridors, designed to make you feel like a celestial explorer. From interactive exhibits that let you control the elements to mesmerizing art installations that transform weather patterns into visual fireworks, this haven of meteorological marvels will blow you away... figuratively, of course. Don't miss a chance to stand in awe of the awe-inspiring views of Boulder and nature surrounding the Mesa Lab. Perched on a hill like an eccentric wizard's secret lair, this place is as cunningly designed as it is educational. So pack your curiosity, suspend your disbelief, and get ready for a cosmic journey where science meets quirkiness at every turn at the NCAR - Mesa Lab in Boulder!

scied.ucar.edu

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12. Flatirons

4.8 (161)

Flatirons, Colorado 80302, USA

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Boulder, like gently toasted marshmallows on a cosmic campfire, rest the mighty Flatirons. These rock formations stand tall and proud, like a crew of ancient Vegas showgirls, flaunting their smooth sandstone curves for all to admire. Whether you're seeking a thrilling hike or simply yearning to witness nature flex its sculpting muscles, these iconic Flatirons are the unofficial mascots of the city, reminding residents and visitors alike that Boulder is truly a boulder-ful place to be. Note: The responses generated by OpenAI GPT-3 are based on a mixture of licensed data, data created by human trainers, and publicly available data. They are meant for informational purposes only and do not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. Therefore, I cannot specifically vouch for the accuracy or comprehensiveness of the information provided.

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13. Pearl Street Mall

4.6 (9357)

1303 Pearl St, Boulder, CO 80302, USA

Welcome to the quirky and lively Pearl Street Mall, where the only thing predictable is the unpredictable! Prepare to be dazzled by this pedestrian haven, bustling with street performers, eccentric vendors, and an abundance of people-watching opportunities. As you saunter along this vibrant stretch, keep an eye out for the mighty unicyclist juggling flaming bagels; or perhaps grab a coveted seat on the "sidewalk theater" to marvel at daring acrobats maneuvering through the obstacle course of oblivious shoppers. It's a wacky wonderland where unexpected encounters are par for the course, making Pearl Street Mall the perfect destination for those seeking unforgettable adventures and a hearty dose of laughter.

www.boulderdowntown.com

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14. Flagstaff Mountain

4.8 (120)

Flagstaff Mountain, Colorado 80302, USA

Nestled in Boulder's backyard, Flagstaff Mountain eagerly awaits thrill-seeking adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Prepare to channel your inner mountain goat as you ascend this glorious playground, with views that make selfie-loving friends green with envy. Known for its pesky uphill-slope shenanigans, this mountain will ensure you get a workout worthy of an Olympic athlete, all while soaking in breathtaking vistas that will make you question if your eyes are playing a prank on you.

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15. Boulder Reservoir

3.8 (186)

5565 51st St, Boulder, CO 80301, USA

Welcome to Boulder Reservoir, where nature meets recreation in a delightful collision of splashes and sunscreen mishaps! This vibrant oasis offers visitors a refreshing respite from city life, complete with breathtaking views of glistening waters that'll make you wonder if mermaids really do exist (spoiler alert: they don't). Take a dip in these inviting waters, perfect for cannonballs that make children squeal with glee and adults question their flexibility.

bouldercolorado.gov

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16. Colorado Chautauqua

Chautauqua, Boulder, CO, USA

Nestled amidst the stunning Rocky Mountains, the Colorado Chautauqua in Boulder is a delightful retreat that will make you question your decision to ever return home. As you saunter through its picturesque grounds, prepare to be mesmerized by the sheer magnificence of nature - or perhaps just the oddly enthusiastic squirrels. Amuse yourself by attending one of the many captivating cultural events, all while feeling smug about being in a place that's both wholesome and hipster-friendly.

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17. Boulder Public Library

4.6 (264)

1001 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder, CO 80302, USA

Welcome to Boulder Public Library, where quirky charm meets literary greatness. Nestled in the heart of Boulder, this book oasis is more than just a place to silently judge people's reading choices. With its scenic mountain views and ample seating, it's the perfect spot to pretend you're deep into a Hemingway novel while actually just browsing the internet for funny cat videos. Don't worry, we won't judge.

boulderlibrary.org

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18. National Center for Atmospheric Research

4.7 (215)

1850 Table Mesa Dr, Boulder, CO 80305, USA

Welcome to the National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder, where you'll find yourself floating on cloud nine – figuratively speaking, of course! Take a whimsical journey through this scientific wonderland amidst the enchanting backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Discover a labyrinth of cutting-edge labs, where atmospheric wizards work their magic to unlock Mother Nature's biggest secrets. Pack your enthusiasm and sense of wonder, as this is one adventure you won't want to be breezy about!

scied.ucar.edu

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19. Fox Theatre

4.5 (951)

1135 13th St, Boulder, CO 80302, USA

Tucked away in Boulder, the Fox Theatre is a magical wonderland for music enthusiasts and lovers of vintage decor. Stepping inside feels like entering a time warp where paisley patterns and lava lamps reign supreme. Groovy vibes are guaranteed as you indulge in a night of live performances, mesmerized by the kaleidoscope of perfectly coiffed hairstyles and bell-bottomed jeans.

www.z2ent.com

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20. Boulder's Dinner Theatre

4.7 (1117)

5501 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder, CO 80303, USA

Welcome to Boulder's Dinner Theatre, where you can feast your eyes and your taste buds! This quirky venue combines the delights of a live theater performance with a hearty meal, leaving you entertained and well-fed. With actors who can not only steal the show but also cook up a storm, get ready to enjoy a night of theater, dining, and a side dish of laughter.

bdtfinalseason.com

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Boulder by plane is to fly into Denver International Airport and then take a shuttle, taxi, or rental car to Boulder. Denver International Airport (DEN) is the closest airport to Boulder, located approximately 45 minutes away by car.

Car

One of the best ways to get to Boulder by car is to take the I-25 North from Denver. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take US-36W from Denver to Boulder which will take approximately 45 minutes.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no train station in Boulder so it is not possible to get there by train.

Boat

There are no boat options for travel to Boulder as it is located inland and not connected by any major waterways.

Bus

One of the best ways to get to Boulder by bus is to use the Greyhound bus service. The Greyhound Station is located in downtown Denver, approximately 30 miles southeast of Boulder. From there, you can take a regional bus or shuttle to get to Boulder.

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