Budget Bliss: 5 Days of Adventure in Boulder

Experience the beauty of Boulder without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Boulder is an incredible destination to visit on a limited budget. There are plenty of free outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking in Chautauqua Park and exploring the Boulder Creek Path. Additionally, the city has a thriving food truck and brewery scene where visitors can enjoy delicious eats and drinks without breaking the bank.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Settling In

Check into Boulder Outlook Hotel, affordable and comfortable
Walk to Pearl Street Mall, a pedestrian-friendly area with shops and street performers
Enjoy a meal at Illegal Pete's, a local favorite for Mexican cuisine
Hike up Mount Sanitas for stunning views of the city
Visit Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art for some modern art inspiration

Day 2

Outdoor Adventure

Grab breakfast at The Buff, a popular spot for traditional American breakfast
Rent a bike from University Bicycles and pedal along Boulder Creek Path
Head to Flatirons Vista Trailhead for a scenic hike in the Rocky Mountains
Take a dip at Boulder Reservoir, a serene lake with sandy beaches
Dine at Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery for a taste of local beer and pub food

Day 3

Exploring History and Culture

Try out breakfast sandwiches at Moe's Broadway Bagel, a local institution
Visit Colorado Chautauqua, a historic community with concerts and events
Take a tour of Celestial Seasonings, a tea factory with free samples
Admire the art at Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art
Stop by Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse for a mid-day snack and authentic tea

Day 4

Relaxation and Indulgence

Treat yourself to breakfast at Snooze, an energetic spot with gourmet pancakes
Stroll through Boulder Farmers Market, open on Saturdays with local produce and crafts
Book a spa appointment at St Julien Hotel & Spa, a luxury retreat in the heart of town
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Piece, Love & Chocolate, a boutique chocolatier
Catch a movie at Boulder's only independent theater, The Dairy Arts Center

Day 5

Saying Goodbye

Breakfast at Lucile's Creole Cafe, a cozy spot with New Orleans-style cuisine
Visit the University of Colorado Boulder campus, with its beautiful architecture and gardens
Say goodbye to Boulder with a hike at Chautauqua Park
Enjoy a farewell lunch at Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery
Head home with memories of the charming city and the majestic mountains

Length of stay

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.