5. Boulder
Boulder sits less than 27 miles northwest of Denver, and many visitors appreciate its charming, small-town vibe. The Pearl Street Mall is the main attraction here, as the alfresco shopping area is lined with a plethora of boutiques and cafes. You’ll probably see your fair share of street performers as well. Plus, with the University of Colorado Boulder in close proximity, there are plenty of trendy restaurants and nightlife options. Past visitors recommend Lucile’s Creole Cafe for breakfast, Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant for a memorable lunch and Frasca Food and Wine for an upscale Italian dinner. If you’re visiting on a Wednesday or Saturday, be sure to check out the Boulder Farmers Market, as it’s considered by many to be one of the best in the country. Adjacent to the farmers market, you’ll find the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art and Central Park – an expansive green space featuring a picnic area, a playground and access to bicycle routes. Past visitors suggest saving time to walk around the UC Boulder campus, which is home to Fiske Planetarium and the Museum of Natural History. For convenient lodging options near downtown, book a stay at the St Julien Hotel & Spa or Hotel Boulderado.
6. Conquer the Flatirons
If you do find yourself in the Boulder area, hiking the Flatirons is a must. These giant sandstone peaks are intertwined with miles of hiking trails, and there are routes for hikers of all skill levels. The Flatirons are numbered one through five. The First and Second Flatiron Trail (a 2.7-mile loop) is strenuous but offers rewarding views of the city and surrounding area. The Second and Third Flatiron Trail (2.2 miles) is also intermediate to difficult, according to past hikers, but the trail impresses travelers with its natural beauty. Those seeking an easier hike with beautiful views can opt for the McClintock Trail or the Enchanted Mesa Trail. Climbers will revel in the chance to scale the rocks – the First and Third Flatirons offer popular climbing routes. There are also guided climbs in this area if you need some guidance to maneuver these famous rock climbing areas. Most hikes begin at the Chautauqua Trailhead; the trailhead also offers an expansive park area perfect for relaxing and admiring the Flatirons if you’re not in the mood to climb or hike. The Chautauqua Trailhead is just south of the downtown Boulder area, so you can fuel up in the city after.