We may be biased, but we think that Boulder is one of the best places to visit if you’re planning a trip to the area. With nature on your doorstep, plenty of independent businesses, and a bustling downtown – what’s not to love about this iconic University town?

However, if you’re planning on staying with us for a while, you might want to spread your wings and visit some nearby hotspots. Here are some that we think are worth the visit:

Possible Activities in the Mountain West Region

The area around Boulder is known for its natural beauty – it’s why you see so many people coming here by van, so they can have the freedom to drive around and discover the beauty at their own leisure. Although no matter where you go around the Mountain West, you’ll always find communities that share a love of the great outdoors and spend a lot of time indulging in a lot of physical activities, there are many other shared pastimes.

The Western half of America becoming a very popular location for young professionals and digital nomads to set up camp and, because of this, a lot of tech-savvy entertainment industries are booming in the area. Lots of our residents are now very into cryptocurrency, one of the latest technologies that is sweeping the country – even changing the way that people game online. A lot of people visit the brick-and-mortar casinos in most of our major cities, but may also use the Bitcoin jackpot slots as a form of entertainment when they haven’t got any outdoorsy plans on the agenda.

If you are planning on spending the day inside enjoying online games, make sure to get outside in the evening and enjoy some of our outside music venues. Red Rocks in Denver is a must-see attraction, even if there’s no performance on that night – so make sure not to miss it.

Estes Park

Just a scenic drive from Boulder, Estes Park beckons with its mountainous allure. Serving as the eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The crisp mountain air, echoed by the call of elk, provides the soundtrack for exploration. Hiking trails like the Bear Lake Trail offer a taste of the region’s pristine beauty, winding through alpine meadows and leading to picturesque lakes with towering peaks.

A visit to Estes Park isn’t complete without immersing yourself in the charm of its downtown. Quaint shops, local eateries, and the historic Stanley Hotel, famously known for inspiring Stephen King’s “The Shining” – there’s plenty to do.

Chautauqua Park and Flatirons

While Boulder itself has its own iconic Flatirons, a short drive into Chautauqua Park unveils an even more incredible view. Chautauqua Park is a gateway to enjoy the mesmerizing Flatirons – plus there are lots of family-friendly and advanced trails you can explore during a day trip.

Hiking amidst the Flatirons immerses visitors in a world of geological wonders, where red sandstone formations provide contrast against beautiful blue skies. The Royal Arch Trail, in particular, weaves through pine-studded landscapes, finishing at a natural stone arch that frames breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.

Colorado Springs

A slightly longer drive south of Boulder leads to the enchanting city of Colorado Springs, where two iconic attractions, Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods, await exploration. Pikes Peak, one of the area’s famed summits, offers a panoramic drive on the way up to incredible sweeping views.

Garden of the Gods, a geological marvel, is world-famous for its towering sandstone formations, with snow-capped peaks in the far distance. Walking amidst these colossal red rocks is a humbling experience, with trails catering to both casual strollers and avid hikers.

Fort Collins

A short drive north of Boulder brings travelers to the vibrant city of Fort Collins. Known for its lively Old Town, Fort Collins has a blend of cultural attractions, eclectic shops, and a thriving craft beer scene (somehow even better than the breweries here in Boulder). The Cache la Poudre River, meandering through the heart of the city, is another great attraction for rafting and scenic riverside strolls.

Old Town Square is the center of the city’s historical charm, with its iconic Armstrong Hotel and a plethora of dining options. Fort Collins’ reputation as the “Napa Valley of Beer” is well-earned, with numerous craft breweries crafting unique brews that cater to all palates.

Rocky Mountain National Park

If you’re in Boulder, there’s no way that you can miss out on a visit to Rocky Mountain National Park, just a scenic drive north of Boulder. Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in North America, winds through the park, offering breathtaking views of alpine landscapes, glacial valleys, and an abundance of wildlife.

Numerous trailheads within the park cater to hikers of all levels. Whether it’s the serene shores of Bear Lake or the challenging ascent to the summit of Longs Peak, there’s a lot that can be done on a short or longer stay.

John Mali Director of Media Relations

Director of Media Relations at AboutBoulder.com

john@aboutboulder.com