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Your Friend’s Visiting Boulder—Here’s What to Tell Them!
From must-do hikes to the best hidden gems, here’s what locals actually recommend when someone asks, “What should I do in Boulder?” 🚶♂️🍻🎭
What's Happenin' Team
March 12, 2025
Hey Boulder! 🌞
Your out-of-town friend just texted: “Hey, I’m coming to Boulder! What should I do?” And now it’s up to you to prove why this place is one of the coolest towns in the country. No pressure.
Luckily, we’ve got you covered with the ultimate Boulder recs—whether your friend is an outdoor adventurer, a foodie, or just looking to soak in the vibes.
— The What’s Happenin’ Boulder Team 😉
🥾 Outdoor Adventures
• Chautauqua Park – A classic. Hike the Royal Arch Trail for an epic view or take a leisurely stroll around the meadow.
• Flagstaff Summit & Amphitheater – Drive up for incredible panoramic views, or if you’re feeling adventurous, hike to the top.
• Lost Gulch Overlook – One of Boulder’s best scenic spots for sunrise or sunset.
• Anne U. White Trail – A great option if you’re looking for a beautiful hike without a steep incline.
• Betasso Preserve – Another solid choice for a scenic, moderate hike.
• Boulder Creek Path – Rent a bike or take a walk along this picturesque trail.
🚙 Want to venture out? Take a day trip to Estes Park or Nederland—both offer stunning mountain views and small-town charm. Check out more Boulder day trips here!
🍽️ Where to Eat & Drink
• Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse – A must-visit for its unique architecture and global tea selection.
• Avanti or Rosetta Hall – Rooftop drinks and bites with a great atmosphere.
• Mountain Sun Pub – The Cheddar Junk Burger is legendary.
• Boychik at Avanti – Grab the chicken hummus bowl for a flavorful meal.
• Cozobi – Go for the first three tacos, the beans appetizer, and a Negro Modelo on tap.
• Chez Thuy – A staple for delicious Vietnamese food.
• Jax Fish House – If you’re craving seafood, this is the spot.
• The Dark Horse – A funky dive bar with one of the best burgers in town.
🍕 Looking for a quick bite? Try Cosmo’s Pizza (don’t forget the spicy ranch!) or Pizza Colore on Pearl Street.
🍴 Want more food recs? Here’s our guide to the best restaurants in Boulder.
🛍️ Where to Shop & Explore• Pearl Street Mall – Stroll through this pedestrian street filled with local shops, street performers, and fun finds. • Boulder Bookstore – A dreamy spot for book lovers. • Into The Wind – A quirky kite and toy shop that’s fun for all ages. • The Ritz – A funky costume shop perfect for browsing. • The New Local – A female-founded nonprofit art gallery showcasing local makers. | 🎭 Entertainment & Nightlife • Boulder Theater – Always a good spot for live music and events. • Sundown Saloon – Dive bar vibes, pool tables, and PBR. • Comic Cents Comedy Club – For those who love a good laugh. • Tonic – Boulder’s very own oxygen bar (because, why not?). • Velvet Elk Lounge – Intimate setting with a killer lineup of local and touring bands. • Roots Music Project – A community-driven music space featuring up-and-coming artists and jam sessions. |
🎟️ Bonus Event: If they’re visiting this week, take them to Boulder International Film Festival or Matilda the Musical at Boulder High!
So next time your friend texts you that “What should I do in Boulder?” message, send them this list and tell them you got this.
Got a go-to rec that never fails? Hit reply and share your favorites! 🌄🍻
🏔️ Boulder Trivia Time!
Which famous beat poet taught at Naropa University in Boulder? |
Guess and we’ll reveal the answer at the bottom of this issue! ⛰️✨
🎶 What’s Happenin’ Boulder Buzz 🎭
Looking for something fun to do? Whether it’s live music, trivia, or a laid-back DJ set, here’s what’s happening in Boulder early this week!
Wednesday, March 12 💰 Free Events 🎶 Bluegrass Pick – Join an open bluegrass jam session led by members of The Sweet Lillies. First beer is free for pickers! @ Beyond the Mountain Brewing, 5-7 p.m. 🧠 Brain Food Trivia – Put your knowledge to the test at this weekly trivia night. @ Twisted Pine Brewing Co., 7-9 p.m. 💵 Ticketed Events 🎭 Matilda the Musical – Boulder High School presents the beloved story of a brilliant young girl with a rebellious streak. @ Boulder High School, 7 p.m. ($15 adults, $10 students) 🎙️ Live eTown Radio Taping: Goodnight, Texas & Jerron Paxton & Dennis Lichtman – A special live recording featuring folk and blues. @ eTown Hall, 7-9:30 p.m. ($33-$48) 🎻 Takács Quartet – The Grammy-winning ensemble returns for an intimate chamber music performance. @ CU, 7:30 p.m. (Starting at $20) | 💰 Free Events 🎷 RMP’s Monthly Jazz, Soul & Groove Jam – Join in or just enjoy the smooth sounds of a community jam session. @ Roots Music Project, 7:30-9 p.m. 💵 Ticketed Events 🎨 Muse Makers Creative Class: Potato Print Tea Towels – Get creative with this hands-on workshop. @ Museum of Boulder, 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m. ($15, free for members) 🎸 Neighbor – A high-energy night of rock and storytelling. @ Fox Theatre, 8 p.m. ($20) 🎶 Six Foot Blonde – Boulder-based rock/pop band bringing the energy. @ Velvet Elk Lounge, 8-11 p.m. ($18) 🎤 Yacht Rock Revue – Soft rock nostalgia at its finest. @ Boulder Theater, 8-11:59 p.m. ($45-$50) |
🌤️ Boulder Weather Outlook
Wednesday, March 12 – Sunny ☀️ | High: 66°F | Low: 37°F | 🌬 W 11 mph
A perfect spring day with clear skies and mild temps—ideal for a hike or patio happy hour!
Thursday, March 13 – Mostly Sunny ⛅ | High: 66°F | Low: 38°F | 🌬 NE 7 mph
More sunshine coming your way. Another great day to get outside!
Friday, March 14 – AM Showers & Wind 🌧️💨 | High: 50°F | Low: 28°F | 🌬 WNW 20 mph
A little rain in the morning, followed by gusty winds. Bring a jacket!
Saturday, March 15 – Mostly Cloudy ☁️ | High: 47°F | Low: 30°F | 🌬 NW 12 mph
Cooler temps stick around, but at least it’s dry. Good day for museum hopping or cozy café vibes.
📅 Weekend Tip: Friday’s wind might be a little wild, so Saturday’s your best bet for outdoor plans. Want to escape the chill? Check out Boulder’s best indoor spots for cozy fun! ☕🏔️
🎭 Boulder Trivia: The Answer + A Fun Fact!
 | If you guessed Allen Ginsberg, you got it! ✅ The Beat poet co-founded the Jack Kerouac School of Disembodied Poetics at Naropa University in 1974, shaping Boulder’s literary scene. Fun Fact: Ginsberg didn’t just teach—he brought fellow Beat legends like William S. Burroughs and Gregory Corso to Naropa. Today, the school remains a hub for experimental and contemplative writing, keeping the Beat spirit alive. ✨📖 That’s it for now, Boulder! Have an amazing week, and as Ginsberg might say—“Follow your inner moonlight, don’t hide the madness.” 🌙✨ Hope you have an adventurous week ahead, Boulder! ⛰️✨ — The What’s Happenin’ Boulder Team 🏔️🐝 |
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