About Boulder

Tucked into a picturesque valley below the iconic Flatirons, Boulder hosts thriving tech and natural foods industries, supports a renowned entrepreneurial community, has some of the region's best restaurants, and is home to many federal research labs and a world-class university.

There are endless ways to enjoy Boulder's 300-plus days of sunshine a year — from the hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails to some of the best rock climbing spots in America. It's also quick and easy to get around by bus or bike.

Boulder has preserved more than 45,000 acres of open space, much of which surrounds the city and helps maintain its geographical boundaries. More than 150 miles of trails abound for nature lovers. The city also boasts more than 60 urban parks.

Boulder is known as a "foodie town." You can grab a bite to eat at any one of the many award winning restaurants after a day at the conference. Boulder is considered to be "the Napa Valley for Craft Brewing." In Boulder alone, there are dozens of the country's finest microbrews.


Attractions

At the heart of downtown Boulder is the Pearl Street Mall, a four-block pedestrian mall with restaurants, bookstores, boutiques and sidewalk cafés. More than 1,000 businesses fill the red-brick, pedestrian-only thoroughfare, with a special only-in-Boulder character — described as “nestled between the mountains and reality.” Venture off the mall and discover more great shops and restaurants in Pearl Street’s charming East End and West End districts.

Unless you've been to Tajikistan, you've probably never seen a teahouse like the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse. Handcrafted by artisans in Boulder's sister city of Dunshanbe, the structure was shipped piece-by-piece from the Tajikistan city and assembled in Boulder. It is an inviting and peaceful place to enjoy one of dozens of types of teas and a bite to eat while taking in the vibrant carvings and paintings that cover every inch of the interior.

Boulder is home to the world-renowned Celestial Seasonings Tea Factory, featuring unique and beloved artwork that appears on the brand's tea boxes. The 30-minute factory tour brings visitors through the heart of the action with a behind-the-scenes look, including the Mint Room. Over 2 million visitors have come to see the manufacturing facility, Tea Shop, and Celestial Café.

Hot air balloon flights operate from May through November, with unforgettable views of Boulder. Drift silently over the Boulder Valley's rolling hills, swaying fields, ponds and stands of trees while you soak up the early-morning sun and fresh air — all with the spectacular Rocky Mountains in the distance.

Originally established in 1898 to bring culture to rural areas, the beautiful Chautauqua Park hosts cultural events, features rock climbing sites, lovely gardens and picnic areas and is the starting point for many hiking trails. The hiking trails take you into the Flatirons and the Bluebell Shelter or the top of Flagstaff Mountain. Hungry after your adventure? Chautauqua Dining Hall is a cozy and restful spot.

If Boulder were to designate a hometown mountain, Mount Sanitas would be it. It can be a busy place on summer weekends when hikers, joggers, canine companions, and photographers converge on the modest 6,843-foot peak. The access is easy, the views are spectacular, and a round-trip hike can be done in just over an hour—or longer if you want to make a loop. Settlers Park, Boulder’s Red Rocks Park, and nearby Pearl Street are all a short distance from Mount Sanitas.

Local Events & Activities

For more information on local events and activities, we recommend the Boulder Convention & Visitors Bureau Website.


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