Things to do around Boulder, Colorado
Welcome to Boulder! Whether you’re here during only ASSW 2025 or extending your stay to explore, this city and the surrounding region offer a blend of outdoor opportunities, cultural attractions, and fantastic food. The Visit Boulder website is the most comprehensive source of local information. Below are some specific recommendations to make the most of your visit.
An important note about elevation: Boulder sits at 5,400 feet and there is a lot to visit at even higher elevations. It is important to stay hydrated and ease into physical activities. For those coming from lower elevations, it is common to experience headaches and dehydration. It can take several days to adjust to these higher elevations. Please take care of yourself!
Getting Around
Boulder has a reliable bus system (RTD), bike rentals (BCycle), and plenty of walkable areas. If you need a ride, Lyft and Uber are also available.
Food and Drink
Boulder has been recognized as a top foodie city in the U.S.. Countless restaurants, coffee shops, and breweries (20 breweries in total!) are available across the city. The Visit Boulder website hosts a complete listing. A few of specific fun recommendations from the Local Organizing Committee include:
- Dushanbe Teahouse – A beautiful Central Asian-style teahouse offering a global menu.
- Rosetta Hall – A unique, community dining experience that brings together cuisines from around the world. The Hall hosts food stalls focusing on different regions of the world, a rooftop patio, and regular live music.
- Rayback Collective – An indoor-outdoor venue with open seating, coffee shop, bar of local beers, food truck park, live music, and a great atmosphere.
Outdoor Activities
Chautauqua Park – A must-visit for hiking enthusiasts. Trails range from easy walks to challenging climbs, all with stunning views of the Flatirons.
Pearl Street Mall – A lively pedestrian street with shops, restaurants, and street performers. Perfect for an afternoon stroll.
Boulder Creek Path – A scenic walking and biking trail that runs through town, great for a relaxed outdoor experience.
Other Trails around Boulder – Endless hiking trails offer nearby opportunities to explore the meadows, hills, and peaks near Boulder.
Museums & Cultural Attractions
University of Colorado Museum of Natural History – Explore exhibits on paleontology, anthropology, and local ecology. This museum is next door to the University Memorial Center which is the venue for ASSW 2025.
Fiske Planetarium – One of the most advanced planetariums in the country, offering public shows and talks.
National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) – Learn about climate and weather science, plus enjoy beautiful trails right behind the center.
Other Museums in Boulder – Learn about various other local museums and points of interests.
Skiing near Boulder, Colorado
If you’re looking to hit the slopes while in Boulder for the conference, you’re in luck! Several world-class ski resorts and local favorites are within a short drive. Whether you’re into downhill skiing, snowboarding, or cross-country trails, here are the best options:
Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding:
- Eldora Mountain Resort (40 min from Boulder) – Eldora is the closest ski resort to Boulder, offering a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced terrain. Eldora is easy access via the RTD Ski-N-Ride bus from downtown Boulder!
- Winter Park Resort (1 hr 45 min from Boulder) – One of Colorado’s premier ski destinations, Winter Park boasts over 3,000 acres of terrain, from groomers to expert-level bowls.
- Loveland Ski Area (1 hr 15 min from Boulder) – Loveland offers high-altitude skiing with great snow and minimal crowds. It’s an affordable and less commercialized alternative to bigger resorts.
- Arapahoe Basin (“A-Basin”) (1 hr 30 min from Boulder) – Known for its long season and steep terrain, A-Basin is a great option for advanced skiers looking for a challenge.
- And many others, including Copper Mountain, Keystone, Breckenridge, Steamboat, Vail Mountain, Beaver Creek, Aspen Snowmass, and others
Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoing:
- Eldora Nordic Center (40 min from Boulder) – Over 40 km of groomed trails for classic and skate skiing, with stunning views of the Indian Peaks. Rentals are available. Eldora is easy access via the RTD Ski-N-Ride bus from downtown Boulder.
- Brainard Lake Recreation Area (45 min from Boulder) – A backcountry location for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing. Trails wind through beautiful alpine scenery, but note that access requires a reservation and skiing is ungroomed.
- Nederland & West Magnolia Trails (30 min from Boulder) – This area near the town of Nederland (a the top of Boulder Canyon) offers excellent backcountry skiing and snowshoeing options.
Renting Ski Equipment: While the ski resorts all rent alpine ski equipment, alpine, Nordic and snowshoes can also be rented locally in Boulder at the following locations: