A curated list of 45 places we return to for inspiration, connection, and beauty every day in and around our hometown of Boulder, Colorado.
We’ve compiled the best things to do, eat, and explore in Boulder, Colorado, whether you’re here for the mountain views, the city’s quirky charm, or a weekend of hiking, shopping, and dining.
COFFEE & BREAKFAST
Alpine Modern Café – Cozy spot with incredible coffee, teas, and gluten‑free breakfast options.
The Buff – Iconic local breakfast spot known for big portions and cozy morning energy.
Lucky’s Bakehouse – Charming bakery with fresh pastries ideal for a sweet morning treat. Great gluten free options!
Moe’s Broadway Bagel – Boulder’s go-to for New York–style bagels. Their breakfast sandwiches are PERFECT for fueling up before a hike and easy to take on trails.
Wonder Press – A local favorite for cold-pressed juices, smoothies, and nut milks made in-house. Perfect for a refreshing, nutrient-packed start before exploring the mountains.
SunLife Organics – California-born juice bar with a cult following, serving superfood smoothies, açai bowls, and wellness shots. Great for fueling up with something vibrant and energizing.
OUTDOORS & HIKING
Boulder Creek Path - We love finding a spot along the creek to hang out, read, listen to music, or take a dip. Park at the People’s Crossing and then walk along the path and choose a spot.
Chautauqua Park - Grabbing a blanket and having a picnic on the lawn at Chautauqua never gets old. It’s one of my favorite ways to spend a sunny day in Boulder, with views of the Flatirons right in front of you.
Boulder Falls – Easy, beautiful waterfall stop en route to Nederland—perfect for a quick photo or a moment to take in the mountain air.
Eldorado Canyon State Park – Trails lined with red rocks and gorgeous creekside views, plus world-class rock climbing routes, shaded picnic areas, and hiking trails that range from gentle riverside strolls to challenging canyon climbs.
El Dorado Springs Swimming Pool - A popular local destination since 1905, this historic, spring-fed pool is tucked into the canyon and perfect for a warm day. Soooo refreshing, and it feels like stepping back into a timeless Colorado summer.
Town of Nederland – Drive 20-ish minutes to this quaint mountain town with a beloved crystal shop (we could spend hours in here!!) across from Crosscut Pizzeria & Taphouse, known for wood-fired pies and craft beers, a true gem of this area! Don’t miss the whimsical Carousel of Happiness, a hand-carved, restored carousel featuring 56 unique animal figures. A great half-day excursion for families!
Cheesman Canyon (South Platte River corridor) - About an hour’s drive away, this serene out-and-back trail unfolds alongside a boulder-strewn creek. It’s an easy to moderate walk through varied terrain, ideal for fly-fishing or just slowing down in nature’s rhythm.
Cascade Falls (near Estes Park) – A scenic, easy-to-moderate hike ending at a lovely waterfall. Just outside Estes Park, it’s perfect for a peaceful morning escape with minimal fuss.
Lily Mountain (just south of Estes Park) – Short (under 2 miles each way) but energetically rewarding. This moderate-to-hard incline climb delivers sweeping 360-degree views that look directly into Rocky Mountain National Park. A stunning payoff!
EATS & TREATS
Spruce Confections - true Boulder staple. Known for their famous “Spruce Juice” and a gorgeous case full of pastries, breads, and baked goods that are almost too pretty to eat. Perfect for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon sweet.
Verde – Cozy, Southwestern-inspired eatery famous for its smothered burrito that locals swear by.
Dushanbe Tea House – Stunning, hand-carved teahouse gifted from Boulder’s sister city in Tajikistan. Offers an extensive selection of teas from around the world best enjoyed alongside their equally colorful menu.
Rosetta Hall – Stylish, European-inspired food hall with multiple chef-driven stalls, craft cocktails, and a rooftop patio boasting some of the best views in Boulder. Perfect for when you want options and a lively atmosphere in one stop.
Zoe Ma Ma – Small, casual Chinese eatery serving comforting street-style dishes (including the best chicken soup ever!!).
Lolita’s Deli – Locally-loved neighborhood market and deli known for sandwiches made to order, plus an eclectic mix of snacks and essentials. Open late for post-bar cravings.
DATE NIGHT
Cozobi Fonda Fina – Modern Mexican dining with beautifully plated dishes and bold flavors that balance tradition with creativity. Book ahead to secure a table.
AOI Sushi & Izakaya - We love sitting at the bar here. The chefs keep the energy lively and the fish is as fresh as it gets. Their flavor combinations are clean and creative, making it one of Boulder’s most satisfying sushi experiences.
Acreage – Elevated cider house and restaurant by Stem Ciders that offers mountain-meets-farm views, wood-fired dishes, and seasonal plates that taste like Colorado on a plate.
Bacco – Cozy Italian restaurant tucked away from Pearl Street’s bustle, perfect for lingering over handmade pasta, a bottle of wine, and conversation.
Stella’s – Warm and bustling, with a dinner-only menu that blends delicious flavors with a welcoming, neighborhood feel. Ideal for a night that feels special without being stuffy.
Steakhouse No. 316 – An upscale, classic steakhouse with a romantic, old-world feel. Dark wood, velvet accents, and candlelit tables set the scene for an indulgent night out!
Tasuki Sushi – Hidden, authentic mom-and-pop sushi shop with fresh, creative rolls and an intimate, no-frills atmosphere that lets the food shine.
SHOPPING
Common Threads – A beautifully curated consignment boutique where designer fashion meets sustainability and you can experience the thrill of a one-of-a-kind find.
Classic Facets - A gem lover’s dream. This antique and estate jewelry shop is filled with history and sparkle — the kind of place where every piece feels like it carries its own story waiting to be passed on.
Few of a Kind – We love stopping by this charming vintage‑meets‑lifestyle shop of small-batch goods, housed in a century‑old blacksmith building.
Jones + Co - A beautifully curated boutique with an eye for timeless and effortless fashion. Their racks are filled with pieces that feel current yet classic!
Heady Bauer - A go-to for vintage lovers. Heady Bauer curates unique pieces with personality: bold prints, retro staples, and hidden gems.
Little Horse Vintage - A treasure trove of hand-picked vintage finds! The kind of place where you’ll always discover something special.
The Refinery - Visit Paula for the most incredible curated consignment and vintage furniture and decor items. This is an interior design lover's dream. Carol ("RO") often showcases special pieces from her antique collection here.
WELLNESS & SELF-CARE
The Dragontree – Beautiful spa sanctuary offering treatments, a 1.5‑hour spa lounge, and serene energy.
Sweep Salons – Chic, modern salon known for precision cuts and balayage color.
Stiletto Nails – Trend-forward nail studio with flawless attention to detail. Ask for Ricky, Nini, or Angie for the BEST designs!
Shoshoni Yoga Retreat – A spiritual retreat center offering sacred space for meditation and yoga. This is great for immersive, mindful renewal outside daily routine.
COCKTAILS & BARS
Avanti – One of our all-time favorite spots with sweeping Flatirons views, a lively atmosphere, and cocktails that pair perfectly with a sunset.
World Famous Dark Horse - You HAVE to experience the eclectic chaos of the Dark Horse at least once. A Boulder institution for late-night bites and beers.
Postino – Relaxed wine café with tactile charm, curated shares (bruschetta boards, anyone?), and a great wine list.
The Bitter Bar – Laid-back local favorite serving cocktails made with passion (and a great happy hour to match!).
License No. 1 - Hidden under the Hotel Boulderado, License No. 1 mixes old-world charm with an intimate, moody atmosphere. Classic cocktails and live music make it a cozy spot for date night or a nightcap.
Jungle Rum Bar – Fun and flamboyant, where drinks come in parrots, turtles, or flaming cups.
Do you have recommendations we should have on this list? Tell us in the comments!
Photo of Cozobi Fonda Fina by Shawn Campbell.
