Boulder brings together scholars, aesthetes, athletes, foodies, nature-lovers, students, artists, travelers, and families in a beautiful college town at the base of the Flatiron mountains.
Known affectionately as “the People’s Republic of Boulder,” the city boasts a vibrant community centered around the Pearl Street Walking Mall–the hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment–and CU-Boulder’s breathtaking campus.
Aerial photo of CU-Boulder set against the Flatirons
Summer is perhaps the best season for experiencing Boulder’s energy and atmosphere, as people regularly ditch their cars and walk or bike here, there, and everywhere on the scenic Boulder Creek Path and official bike paths. Popular destinations include Pearl Street, the Farmers’ Market (“the largest and friendliest farmer’s market in Colorado”), the 29th Street Mall, the CU-Boulder campus and student district called “the Hill,” and Chautauqua Park. In fact, if you hit the trails during the conference, you’ll be able to spot wildflowers that you can identify with this local wildflower guide.
The farmer's market during a quiet hour. Photo by Josh Berman.
Foodies love Boulder. For cooks, Boulder boasts not just one or two, but three Whole Foods stores as well as alternative organic markets such as Alfalfa’s and Vitamin Cottage, and a thriving farmers’ market. Unique cuisine and “very Boulder” dining experiences on or near Pearl Street can be found at The Kitchen, Bacaro, Centro, the Dushanbe Tea House, Sherpas, Brasserie Ten Ten, Sushi Zanmei, and The Mediterranean (“The Med”), to name a few favorites. If you are gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, organic-only, or just a picky eater, you will never go hungry in this town.
Many Boulderites are also outdoor enthusiasts. Proximity to the mountains means that residents can take a morning trail walk before work, and a large number of people commute by bike. Anyone can navigate the city on Boulder’s vast and well-maintained system of bike and walking paths, which are usually bustling with joggers and bikers. Recreational mountain bikers, runners, and rock climbers can also rub elbows with the pros in their sports, as Boulder is a high-altitude training ground and playground for the elite. Athletic equipment stores are abundant in town, and bike shops probably outnumber the gas stations.
Here’s a PDF map of the Boulder bike a pedestrian paths: Boulder_Bike_Path_Map
You can rent a bike from these nearby bike stations and bike shops:
Boulder B-cycle (sidewalk stations located throughout town)
University Bicycles (839 Pearl Street, 303-444-4196)
Full Cycle (1211 13th St. on “The Hill,” 303-440-7771; 1795 Pearl St., 303-440-1002)
Bikers rule in Boulder, especially in the summer. Photo of a Cruiser group ride by Zane Selvans.