Search
Close this search box.

Quick Hits: Boulder

Photo By Cameron Martindell

EAT

This was a very hard list to narrow down since the competition for amazing food in this town is fierce. But since we must, here are two favorites you should try. For breakfast and lunch there’s nothing like The Buff. Started in 1995, The Buff was forced to move in 2013 across Canyon Blvd. behind McGuckin’s. The menu is dripping with incredible Colorado-style comfort food and is a favorite for families, CU students and seniors alike. It’s time for you to “Eat in the Buff.” For lunch or dinner, head to the west end of Pearl Street and pop into The Kitchen Next Door. The kid brother to the more upscale The Kitchen features live music Wednesday evenings. Be sure to include some Garlic Smashers to go with your meal.

SLEEP

You can’t go wrong with a hotel named after blending the words Boulder and Colorado to ensure it is never forgotten by patrons or anyone else who hears about it. The Hotel Boulderado was opened on New Year’s Day 1909 and the rich history that comes with over a century of service truly makes this landmark hotel worth the visit. The rooms are all beautifully decorated and just stepping into the lobby is an inspiring trip back into the golden age of travel and lodging. On the other end of the time spectrum, the newly renovated and under new management Boulder Adventure Lodge is dedicated to folks who want to get out and play. Located just a few miles out of town up Boulder Canyon, the A-Lodge provides easy access to a host of adventurous activities while providing a beautiful and relaxing ambiance both in the rooms and out on the wooded grounds.

PLAY

It’s impossible to describe even a small fraction of all activity options available to locals and visitors in Boulder. With that, here’s a short and dirty list of possibilities. See what catches your fancy. Hike: Chautauqua, Sanitas (Valley, ridge or the new Lions Lair trail), Gregory Canyon, Eldorado Canyon. Bike: Walker Ranch Loop (fast & fun single track), Betasso Preserve (a classic—see page 15), Valmont Bike Park, Boulder Valley Ranch (great for beginners). Cycle: Boulder to Lyons, Flagstaff Mountain (2012 US Pro Cycling Challenge Stage 6 Finish), Boulder bike paths (cruisy). Paddle: Boulder Reservoir, Boulder Creek, Clear Creek. Snowsports: Eldora (lift access), Arapahoe Lakes and Meadow Mountain (backcountry), Brainard Lake (XC/Snowshoe). And the list goes on.

—Cameron Martindell

Share this post:

Discover more in the Rockies:

EXPLORE MORE: