Boulder travel Guide

Boulder travel guide

National Airports

There are no national airports in Boulder, Colorado. The closest major airport to Boulder is Denver International Airport (DEN), which is located approximately 45 miles southeast of the city. However, Boulder does have its own regional airport, Boulder Municipal Airport (BDU), which primarily serves private and corporate planes.

For travelers visiting Boulder, Denver International Airport is the most convenient airport to fly into. It is a hub for several major airlines and offers flights to destinations across the United States and internationally. From the airport, visitors can take a shuttle or rental car to get to Boulder. There are also several public transportation options available, including the RTD bus and the Flatiron Flyer bus, which runs between Denver and Boulder.

While Boulder Municipal Airport may not be suitable for commercial flights, it is still a popular destination for private and corporate planes. It offers a range of services, including aircraft maintenance and repair, fueling, and storage. Additionally, the airport is home to several aviation-related businesses, including flight schools and aircraft rental companies.

In summary, while there are no national airports in Boulder, Colorado, the city is still easily accessible through Denver International Airport, which is located approximately 45 miles away. Boulder Municipal Airport is primarily used for private and corporate planes and offers a range of services for aviation enthusiasts.

Trains in Boulder

Boulder, Colorado does not have a train station, but visitors can access the city via the Amtrak train station in nearby Denver. The Denver Union Station is a major transportation hub and serves as the main Amtrak station for the Denver metropolitan area.

From Denver Union Station, visitors can take the RTD bus to get to Boulder. The Flatiron Flyer bus, which is part of the RTD bus system, runs between Denver and Boulder with several stops along the way. The trip takes approximately 50 minutes and offers a convenient and affordable option for travelers.

Additionally, there are several scenic train rides available in the Colorado area that offer breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. Visitors can take a day trip on the Georgetown Loop Railroad, which departs from nearby Georgetown, Colorado and takes passengers on a historic narrow-gauge railroad through the mountains. Another popular option is the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, which departs from Canon City, Colorado and takes passengers on a scenic journey through the Royal Gorge.

In summary, while Boulder does not have its own train station, visitors can access the city via the Amtrak station in Denver and take the RTD bus to get to Boulder. Additionally, there are several scenic train rides available in the area that offer breathtaking views of the Colorado Rockies.

Buses in Boulder

Boulder, Colorado has a robust public transportation system that includes several bus routes operated by the Regional Transportation District (RTD). The bus system provides an affordable and convenient way to get around Boulder and the surrounding areas.

The most popular bus route in Boulder is the Hop, which runs along the popular Pearl Street Mall and connects downtown Boulder with the University of Colorado campus. The Hop runs every 7 to 10 minutes during peak hours and every 15 to 20 minutes during off-peak hours, making it easy to get around the city.

In addition to the Hop, there are several other local and regional bus routes available in Boulder. The Jump bus route provides service between Boulder and the neighboring city of Lafayette, while the Dash bus route runs between Boulder and nearby Longmont.

For visitors looking to explore the scenic areas outside of Boulder, there are several bus tours available that offer guided tours of popular destinations such as Rocky Mountain National Park and the Flatirons. These tours provide a convenient way to see the sights without having to worry about driving or parking.

Additionally, the RTD also operates a regional bus system that connects Boulder with other cities and towns in the surrounding area, including Denver and the Denver International Airport.

In summary, Boulder, Colorado has a robust public transportation system that includes several bus routes operated by the RTD. The Hop is the most popular bus route in the city, providing frequent service between downtown Boulder and the University of Colorado campus. Additionally, there are several other local and regional bus routes available in Boulder, as well as guided bus tours to popular destinations outside of the city.

How to get to Boulder

Boulder, Colorado is located approximately 30 miles northwest of Denver and can be easily accessed by several transportation options.

By Car: The most convenient way to get to Boulder is by car. Boulder is located off of Highway 36, which connects directly to Denver. Visitors driving from Denver can reach Boulder in approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

By Bus: The Regional Transportation District (RTD) operates several bus routes that connect Denver with Boulder. The most popular route is the Flatiron Flyer, which runs between downtown Denver and Boulder with several stops along the way. The trip takes approximately 50 minutes and offers a convenient and affordable option for travelers.

By Shuttle: Several shuttle services operate between Denver International Airport and Boulder. These shuttle services provide door-to-door service and are a convenient option for travelers who do not want to rent a car.

By Train: While Boulder does not have its own train station, visitors can access the city via the Amtrak train station in nearby Denver. From Denver Union Station, visitors can take the RTD bus to get to Boulder.

By Air: Visitors can fly into the Denver International Airport, which is located approximately 45 minutes southeast of Boulder. From the airport, visitors can rent a car, take a shuttle, or take the RTD bus to get to Boulder.

In summary, visitors can get to Boulder by car, bus, shuttle, train, or air. The most convenient and popular options include driving or taking the bus, while shuttle services and rental cars are also available.

What is the best time to travel to Boulder

The best time to travel to Boulder, Colorado depends on personal preferences and what you plan to do while you’re there. Boulder experiences four distinct seasons, each offering unique opportunities for outdoor activities and events.

Summer (June-August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Boulder, with warm temperatures and long days making it the perfect time for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. Boulder Creek Fest, an annual summer event featuring live music, food, and art, is a popular attraction during this time.

Fall (September-November): Fall in Boulder is characterized by cooler temperatures and stunning foliage. The changing leaves offer scenic hikes and drives, and the annual Boulder Creek Hometown Festival in September offers a variety of family-friendly activities.

Winter (December-February): Winter in Boulder brings colder temperatures and snow, making it a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. Visitors can take advantage of the nearby ski resorts and winter festivals, such as the Boulder International Film Festival in February.

Spring (March-May): Spring in Boulder is marked by warmer temperatures and the blooming of wildflowers. It is a popular time for hiking and outdoor activities, as well as cultural events such as the annual Boulder Arts Week in April.

Overall, the best time to travel to Boulder depends on what activities and events you plan to enjoy. Summer offers great outdoor activities, while fall provides beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures. Winter is ideal for winter sports enthusiasts, and spring offers beautiful blooms and cultural events.

How to get around Boulder

Boulder, Colorado offers several transportation options for visitors to explore the city and surrounding areas.

By Car: Renting a car is a convenient way to get around Boulder and explore the surrounding areas. Visitors can rent a car from several car rental agencies located in the city.

By Bike: Boulder is a bike-friendly city, and visitors can rent bikes from several bike rental companies located in the city. Biking is a great way to explore Boulder’s scenic trails and parks, and there are several bike paths and lanes throughout the city.

By Bus: The Regional Transportation District (RTD) operates several bus routes throughout Boulder, making it easy for visitors to get around the city. The HOP bus, a free shuttle service, operates in the downtown area and connects visitors to popular destinations such as Pearl Street Mall and the University of Colorado Boulder.

By Taxi or Rideshare: Visitors can use taxi or rideshare services to get around Boulder. Services such as Uber and Lyft operate in the city, providing a convenient and affordable option for travelers.

On Foot: Boulder is a pedestrian-friendly city, and many popular destinations such as Pearl Street Mall are easily accessible by foot. Walking is a great way to explore the city’s unique shops, restaurants, and galleries.

In summary, visitors to Boulder can get around the city by car, bike, bus, taxi, rideshare, or on foot. Biking and walking are great ways to explore the city’s scenic trails and pedestrian-friendly downtown area, while renting a car or using taxi or rideshare services provides a convenient option for those who want to explore the surrounding areas. The free HOP bus is also a great option for visitors who want to travel around the city without a car.

Accommodations in Boulder

Boulder, Colorado, offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, from budget-friendly options to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best accommodation options in Boulder:

St. Julien Hotel and Spa: This luxury hotel is located in the heart of downtown Boulder and offers elegant rooms, a full-service spa, and a rooftop pool.

Boulder Marriott: Located near the University of Colorado Boulder, the Boulder Marriott offers modern rooms and amenities such as a fitness center and an indoor pool.

Bradley Boulder Inn: This bed and breakfast is located in a historic home in downtown Boulder and offers cozy rooms, a complimentary breakfast, and a wine and cheese hour in the evening.

Hotel Boulderado: Built in 1909, this historic hotel features Victorian-inspired rooms and a location in the heart of downtown Boulder.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Boulder: This all-suite hotel is located near the Flatirons and offers spacious rooms, complimentary breakfast, and evening receptions with drinks and snacks.

Millennium Harvest House Boulder: This hotel is situated on 16 acres of landscaped gardens and features amenities such as an outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant.

Boulder Twin Lakes Inn: This budget-friendly hotel is located near the Twin Lakes Open Space and features simple rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a complimentary breakfast.

Basecamp Boulder: This quirky hotel is located in downtown Boulder and features unique rooms inspired by camping and outdoor adventure.

In summary, Boulder offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options. The St. Julien Hotel and Spa and Boulder Marriott are great options for travelers looking for luxurious amenities, while the Bradley Boulder Inn and Hotel Boulderado offer historic charm and elegance. Embassy Suites by Hilton Boulder and Millennium Harvest House Boulder provide spacious rooms and on-site amenities, while Boulder Twin Lakes Inn and Basecamp Boulder are great budget-friendly options.