10 Things to Do in Boulder in 24 Hours

Your ultimate travel guide to Boulder, Colorado including 10 things to do in 24 hours!

Boulder holds a special place in my heart as my father went to CU Boulder as well as my Uncle David. As a result, I have fond memories of visiting this charming mountain village throughout my childhood either for college reunions, graduations or other family functions.

While certain aspects of Boulder have remained the same (like the picturesque Pearl Street pedestrian mall), so much has changed and I’m happy to report: for the better! Boulder is the perfect blend of a modern, foodie haven that still has a casual, artsy vibe. Think: Ann Arbor meets Denver.

To kick off my guide of 10 things to do in Boulder in 24 hours, I urger you to start your day with a healthy and satisfying breakfast at Alpine Modern Cafe.

Pro Tip: Order one of their savory breakfast bowls topped with a 6 minute egg.

Alpine Modern Cafe Breakfast Boulder Liz

See how happy I am? You can’t fake this type of happiness early in the morning, folks.

Once you’ve fueled up at Alpine Modern, head to the nearby Chautauqua Park for a hike to burn off breakfast. There are various options that all lead from the Enchanted Mesa Trailhead so pick your poison depending on your fitness level and amount of time you have to hike.

Since we only had 24 hours to explore Boulder, we did the short Chautauqua trail hike but next time I visit Boulder I’m hiking to Royal Arch!

After your hike, recharge with a frothy latte or cup of joe at Boxcar Coffee Roasters located right along the Pearl Street pedestrian mall. I enjoyed an Americano made with creamy espresso and hot water. My favorite 10 calorie pick-me-up.

For lunch, you won’t want to miss OAK at Fourteenth. My Aunt Tamar, a fellow foodie, lives locally in Boulder and dines here frequently. After taking one bite of the ramen I immediately understood why.

With a little something for everyone on the menu, the burgers, kale salad and meatballs were all a huge hit with our crew.

Speaking of crew, I was so happy to meet up with family during my visit! Isn’t my new baby cousin Natalie just adorable? I’m a sucker for red head babies.

Which leads me to my 5th tip for things to do in Boulder in 24 hours: explore the Pearl Street mall!

Lined with shops, galleries, eateries and more, you really can’t visit Boulder without checking out this four-block pedestrian mall.

Recommendation number six: check out Boulder’s very own food truck park: Rayback Collective. Grab a kombucha on draft, a cold beer or a quick snack from one of the food trucks.

Pro Tip: Order the Peruvian chicken sandwich if you see the Lomito Groumet food truck parked!

While I’m not normally one for sweet treats, even I couldn’t pass up on a bite of a gourmet popsicle from Le Pops. This trendy shop is located on the Pearl Street mall and has rotating menu so be sure to check it out.

If sweets aren’t your thing (believe me, I get it!), head over to Cured and feast on their huge selection of gourmet cheeses, homemade breads and specialty charcuterie. If you’re planning a hike during your visit, this is a great spot to grab a picnic to go.

My 9th recommendation for what to do in Boulder in 24 hours is to enjoy happy hour at River and Woods located in what was once a historic home on the east end of Pearl Street. Featuring craft made cocktails and a menu of locally sourced ingredients, this little gem was a highlight of my time in Boulder.

Last but not least, a trip to Boulder isn’t complete without having dinner at Blackbelly, the brainchild of award-winning Chef Hosea Rosenberg, winner of Bravo TV’s Top Chef, Season 5, in 2009. Blackbelly’s mission is that food will always start with seasonal, local Colorado- grown ingredients, and pasture raised, sustainable animals. Can’t beat that, right?