24 Hours in Boulder, Colorado – 5 things not to miss!

If you only have 24 hours in Boulder, Colorado, here is my guide that will tantalize you to either stay longer, or, come back for another visit when you have more time.

Boulder is located 30 miles northwest of Denver, situated at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and surrounded by Open Space (a localized term which is essentially similar to national forest land, but was acquired and is manage by the local public sector). The short drive from Denver to Boulder showcases wide-open green pastures and snow-capped peaks, which really stand out against a clear blue sky. Boulder is bountifully beautiful and its outdoor recreation opportunities are boundless.

Here are my recommendations for 24 hours in Boulder:

• The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse -Start your day off being transported to central Asia for a cup of tea and a bite to eat. Boulder’s sister city of Dushanbe, Tajikistan (formerly part of the Soviet Union), built and donated this teahouse, which has become a gathering place for locals to meet over a cup of tea. The entire structure was handmade, including the intricate pillars that support the structure. The teahouse was built in Dushambe, then disassembled and shipped to Boulder where it was resembled across the street from Boulder Park on 13th Street. In additional to being mesmerized by the artistic elements throughout the teahouse, patrons will enjoy over 100 teas and some fantastic traditional dishes for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

• Eldorado Canyon – Some fifty years ago Boulder leaders and residents decided to tax themselves in order to preserve the land that surrounds the city, so that future generations would have unspoiled outdoor space to recreate. Within minutes of town, residents and visitors alike can be immersed within nature at Eldorado Canyon State Park. I met up with the folks from Colorado Wilderness Rides and Guides for some rock climbing, a guided hike, and a riverside picnic catered by local chef Dakota Soifer of Cafe Aion.  It was a fantastic afternoon, and the picnic lunch along the river that runs through the canyon was absolutely superb.

• Avery Brewery – Colorado is ground zero for the craft brew industry and Avery Brewery in Boulder has been leading the way for more than 25 years. Avery Brewery is a great place to sample some local beers after a playful day in the sun. There are 30 really unique beers on tap at all times, from barrel-aged to ancient ales. Beer archeologist Travis Rupp has the pleasure of traveling the world researching old brewing methods and recipes.  Beer aficionados and novices alike will find a brewery tour and tasting at Avery’s a fantastic experience.

• Chautauqua Park – Boulder has 18,000 hectares of open space and at Chautauqua Park you can see some of Boulder’s iconic Flatirons. Great place for a late afternoon hike.

• Downtown Pearl Street – A perfect way to end your 24 hours in Boulder is with a stroll down Boulder’s iconic pedestrian-only Pearl Street. This downtown area of Boulder has a slew of top-notch local restaurants, pubs, shops, galleries, public art and plenty of talented street performers. A fun way to check out several restaurants during your evening is with a tour by the folks at Local Table Tours. One restaurant I would recommend checking out is Via Perla, a Mediterranean restaurant with Italian influences. Via Perla has beautiful stone surfaces framed by old wood timbers with sophisticated furnishings, great lighting and refreshing cuisine that matches the decor.

During my visit to Boulder I stayed the night at the newly opened Embassy Suites, which I have to say, will likely be a model for future hotel design standards. The property is fantastic! The lobby is wide open and inviting with lots of places to sit and converse. Original artwork adorns the walls. The lounge offers a welcome cocktail and some outstanding items to nosh on, from roasted vegetables with hummus, fresh fruit, nuts, and more. Each room is a spacious suite, as the hotel name would imply, and looks like something straight out of a Crate and Barrel catalogue. Other amenities include: Floor to ceiling windows, two large flat-screen TVs, wet bar, spa-like bathroom and plenty of closet space.

While I only had 24 hours in Boulder, I had an incredible time!  24 hours in Boulder only begins to scratch the surface of this amazing community, but if that’s all you have, I hope this brief guide will give you some things to consider. If you’ve ever been to Boulder, Colorado, please leave a comment below and share some of your favorite activities. Click the following link if you’d like more information on visiting Boulder, Colorado.