Boulder, Colorado: 6 Things to Know Before You Visit

When you visit Boulder, Colorado, you will be delighted with diverse things to do once you arrive. You can spend a pleasant day in nature, watch a Shakespeare play and even complete in a world class road race. These are just a few of the stellar attractions this hip city has to offer.

1. Boulder has an awesome outdoor pedestrian mall called the Pearl Street Mall.

The Pearl Street Mall located in Downtown Boulder is the perfect for people watching, shopping and dining. Running from 11th Street to 15th Street on Pearl Street, this pedestrian mall features a number of one-of-a-kind shopping boutiques, healthy style dining options and even the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art. While dining in one of the local cafés or bistros you will be entertained by numerous friendly street performers that range from musicians to jugglers to dancers.

2. It’s home to the University of Colorado at Boulder.

Boulder is home the University of Colorado, which is the state’s largest university. When you visit the campus, you have the opportunity to view incredible architecture that ranges from Neo-classical to Greek Revival to 20th Century Moderne. The university hosts a number of concerts and Division I sporting events throughout the year at Mackey Auditorium, the Coors Fieldhouse and Folsom Field.

3. You can watch world class Shakespeare performances.

Located within the grounds of the University of Colorado, the Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre is a perfect place to watch a live artistic performance. The Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre is home to the Colorado Shakespeare Festival. This small intimate theatre is a perfect place to indulge in a picnic and a glass of wine before watching an entertaining Shakespearian play.

4. You can hike the iconic Flatirons and Flagstaff Mountain.

The Flatirons are one of the most photographed natural spots in Colorado. When you want to have a great view of these granite pinnacles then an ideal place to visit is Chautauqua Park. This 80-acre park offers miles of hiking and nature trails which will take you to the Flatirons. Also onsite you will find picnic areas, a playground for the children and you can catch a live performance at the Chautauqua Park Amphitheatre.

5. You can participate in the annual BolderBoulder 10K Road Race.

Boulder is host to one of the most prized running races in the United States. During the BolderBoulder 10k Road Race people will line the streets cheering thousands of runners from around the world who compete in this race. The race attracts walkers, families, every day fitness enthusiasts and professional runners. This is your chance to compete with the professionals in a casual family oriented racing atmosphere.

6. Boulderites love festivals.

There are dozens of exciting festivals in Boulder throughout the year that range from the Boulder Fall Fest to the Boulder International Film Festival to the weekly Boulder Farmers Market. A great festival for families or visitors who just want to have a great time that includes carnival rides, street food, music as well as numerous arts and crafts vendors then the Boulder Creek Festival is a must do item.