The lure of Boulder has always been there… the fresh mountain air with it’s crisp scent of pine and field grass, mom and pop stores offering the best sandwiches or cookies or ice cream you’ve ever tasted, craft breweries serving kombucha beer with the taste of lavender (a real thing). It’s been a popular destination for the eternally hippie for decades, but with the legalization of marijuana in Colorado the city has flourished into the Mecca of food innovation and healthy living; and yes those things do go hand in hand *wink*.
I decided to take a break from the bustling city and channel in my inner love child for a weekend in Boulder.
Where I Stayed…
First off was location. As a girl that’s used to walking most places I wanted to be as close to the action as possible as well as still feel like I was on vacation (get a little pampered), so I decided to stay at the St. Julien.
Within walking distance to Pearl Street, as well as most restaurants and stores, it was perfect since I didn’t want to drive. I felt like I wasn’t stuck in my hotel and if we wanted to go out to a bar I could walk back if need be. And as for being pampered, they have 10,000 sq. ft. of spa! LOVE!
Where I Hiked…
There is no shortage of great hiking spots in Boulder with the Flatirons right at your door step; but since I was a beginner, and didn’t want to fall off the mountain, I went for some more moderate trails.
Chautauqua Area
Chautauqua is perfect for beginners; no steep inclines, no big obstacles to weave through, and a beautiful view looking over Boulder. We hiked up the back side of the mountain which was a little bit easier and perfect for furry friends to join in on.
Mount Sanitas
Day two I got a little more adventurous. Mount Sanitas with it’s more winding turns and steep foot holds can be a little more strenuous, but the views looking over Boulder and the rockies are worth the sweat. Be careful on wet days though as the trails can get slick with mud and slips are more prevalent.
Where I Ate…
Stopped here before we went off on our hike; Alpine Modern is a retain store in the heart of Boulder, but what draws people is their cafe. It’s the perfect place to grab a quick bite (that avocado toast though…) or amazing slow drip coffee!
Snooze maybe a chain in the west, but the food doesn’t reflect that. Everything was delicious! And for those who are indecisive about which eggs benedict to get, they have an option to chose two different styles (perfect!). Another favorite, for the those with a sweet tooth, is the OMG! French Toast. Stuffed with mascarpone, topped with
vanilla crème, salted caramel, fresh strawberries and toasted coconut, it really is to die for!
Started by Kimbal Musk, Elon Musk’s brother, this is the sister restaurant to the more well known Kitchen. Both are environmentally-friendly with practices like composting, wind power, eco-friendly packaging and recycling. The food at Next Door is a little more casual with tasty sandwiches, veggie tacos and meatballs. I highly recommend Merlin’s Carolina Pork for a great twist on the typical pilled pork sandwich.
If you’ve been at home wondering ‘what happened to the good old popsicle?’ then you’re not the only one. Le Pops has taken the old pops you used to know and turned them into works of delicious art! They have flavors like Strawberry Rubarb and Raspberry Basil to quench your sophisticated pallet or if you’re yearning for a classic they have Orange Cream to satisfy your nostalgia, but it doesn’t stop there! You can dip any pop into white, milk or dark chocolate and roll it in oreo cookies or almond slivers or whatever toppings they decide to have that day. This is my kind if popsicle!
If you’re looking for a place to hang where you can enjoy the outdoors, play some games, drink some beer and gorge yourself at some food trucks then the Rayback Collective is your scene. There is always something going on for you to enjoy and it’s a perfect place for your pups to make some new puppy friends. I loved the open and friendly atmosphere, any place with bocce and beer is a place for me!
What To Check Out…
Pearl Street
If you don’t take a stroll down Pearl Street you’ve made a terrible mistake. Full of cute little shops that you can’t find anywhere else, it’s the perfect place to just wander around. There are a bunch of great street performers showing their skills and street fairs to sift through, and don’t forget the food market on the weekends! New and upcoming food brands and often discovered here.
The colorful past of Boulder Theater continues today with concerts, ballet, orchestras and film festivals. Take a look at their calendar to see what events are coming up. There is never a dull moment in the lounge as well, so stop by to grab a drink.
I would love to know some of your favorite spots in Boulder, let me know in the comments where I should check out! Follow my instagram for everyday travel experiences.
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