27 Fun Things To Do In Boulder In The Winter
Boulder, Colorado is located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, under the picturesque Flatirons.
The city is home to trendy restaurants, bars, and boutique shops frequented by locals, visitors, and college students alike.
Additionally, outdoor activities here are abundant, even in winter. Boulder is surrounded by 100+ miles of hiking and biking trails, tons of parks, and scenic drives. Plus, to the surprise of many, Boulder doesn’t get that much snow, and what does fall typically melts quickly.
Planning a trip to Boulder and wondering what to do?
As a Denver resident married to a CU Boulder alum, I spend a lot of time here.
These are some of the best things to do in Boulder in the winter.
Top Things To Do In Boulder In The Winter
Visit Chautauqua Park
One of the city’s most popular attractions, no matter the time of year, is Chautauqua Park.
This recreation area is nestled at the base of the iconic Flatirons, and is popular for hiking and scenic views.
In winter the park is either covered in snow or quite muddy. No matter, if you’re up for a winter hike, this is a great spot.
Depending on snow levels you’ll likely need either snowshoes or microspikes for traction. The higher in elevation the trail takes you, the more snow and ice there will be.
Some of the most popular hiking trails in Chautauqua Park are Chautauqua Loop Trail, First and Second Flatirons, Royal Arch Trail, Woods Quarry, and McClintock Trail / Enchanted Mesa Trail.
If you’d rather not hike, you can still take in the beautiful Flatiron views from the parking area.
Go Snowshoeing
Chautauqua Park is home to some of Boulder’s most famous hikes, yes, but there’s lots of additional trails in the Boulder area.
If you’re up for snowshoeing or a winter hike, these trails and recreation areas are also worth considering:
- Marshall Mesa Trail
- Betasso Preserve
- Flatirons Vista Trail
- Eldorado Canyon State Park
- Mount Sanitas
- NCAR-Table Mesa Trail
- Bald Mountain Scenic Area
Boulder Museum Of Contemporary Art
A fun indoor activity in Boulder is The Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art (BMoCA), which is dedicated to showcasing contemporary art in various forms.
They feature rotating exhibits which highlight various mediums including painting, sculpture, photography, video, and performance art. These are from both established and up-and-coming artists from the Boulder area and around the world.
They also offer art classes and programs for kids, teens, and adults.
The museum is centrally located in a historic warehouse building downtown, and a visit will only set you back a few dollars.
Pearl Street Mall
Pearl Street Mall is one of Boulder’s most popular attractions for visitors.
It’s a four-block pedestrian mall, stretching from from 11th to 15th Street, along Pearl Street.
This area is always buzzing with activity, as it’s one of Boulder’s main focal points.
There’s a good variety of shops here, especially if you’re in the market for a unique gift, athletic apparel, or home decor.
If you’re up for shopping check out Bliss, Peppercorn, Boulder Nepal, Liberty Puzzles, Old Tibet, or my favorite, the massive Boulder Book Store… just to name a few!
Alongside these local businesses, you’ll find plenty of mainstream retailers such as Patagonia, Free People, and Urban Outfitters.
You’ll also find street vendors, outdoor cafes, hot chocolate, street performers, and bustling crowds among popular shops and restaurants.
Museum Of Boulder
The Museum of Boulder is worth a visit if you wish to learn about the town’s history. Exhibits cover stories from the Indigenous period to European colonization, all the way to present day.
They also have a number of fun, interactive displays which are especially great for kids.
While you’re here, be sure to check out their outdoor rooftop deck for some great views.
The museum is located just off the Pearl Street Mall, making it very easy to visit.
Go For Brunch
Boulder has an excellent culinary scene, and that extends to their brunch options as well.
While in Boulder, no matter the time of year, brunch is always a good idea.
From savory classics to delicious vegan and vegetarian options, you’ll have no problem finding a good breakfast here.
Check out these popular spots for brunch in Boulder:
- Le French Café
- Walnut Cafe
- Snooze A.M. Eatery
- Salt
- Lucile’s Creole Cafe
- Village Coffee Shop
- The Buff
- Leaf
- Foolish Craig’s Cafe
There’s also numerous casual cafes and coffee shops around town for those who just want a quick bite.
Go Skiing
It’s hard to talk about things to do in Colorado without mentioning skiing.
So if you’re visiting Boulder in winter and hoping to ski or snowboard, Eldora Mountain Ski Resort is going to be your closest option, about 40 minutes west of Boulder.
The resort sits just outside Nederland. It’s not the largest or fanciest ski area you’ll find, however, it has very fair pricing as far as Colorado skiing is concerned.
There is public transportation between Boulder and Eldora, check out RTD Ski-n-Ride.
More well-known ski resorts, like Breckenridge, Vail, Keystone, Copper Mountain, Loveland, Winter Park, and Arapahoe Basin are all about 1.5 – 2.5 hours from Boulder. If visiting over the weekend, you’ll need to add time for traffic.
These are among the most popular ski resorts in the state and will come with a higher price tag.
Go Cross-Country Skiing
Downhill is not the only way to ski here, if you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, consider cross-country skiing instead.
Betasso Preserve, Heil Valley Ranch, Caribou Ranch, Eldora Mountain Resort are great spots near Boulder.
If you’re willing to make the drive, Devils Thumb Ranch or Rocky Mountain National Park also have some really beautiful nordic skiing routes.
Boulder Philharmonic
For a professional symphony orchestra in Boulder, you’ll definitely want to check out the Boulder Philharmonic.
Their shows feature a mix of classical music and contemporary works, and they put on some really great special performances.
They host a handful of shows throughout the year, check out their schedule at Boulder Philharmonic.
Lost Gulch Overlook & Scenic Drive Along Flagstaff Road
Flagstaff Road is one of my favorite scenic drives near Boulder.
The road starts just on the edge of town and winds behind the Flatirons, eventually ending at Gross Reservoir.
The short and very steep drive is only about 10 miles, but don’t underestimate the time required, there’s quite a few switchbacks which demand slower speeds.
During your drive, you’ll definitely want to stop at Lost Gulch Overlook.
This is one of my favorite views in Boulder and hardly requires much effort for the reward.
From the small, dirt parking lot there’s an overlook that’s accessible for anyone. There’s also a second overlook about .1 miles from the lot, but it’s on a very rocky and uneven path. You’ll need proper shoes with good traction if you want to check it out.
After taking in the views at Lost Gulch Overlook, head back to Boulder or continue west for a few more miles to Gross Reservoir.
Note: Any vehicle can make the drive. Although, no matter the vehicle, I don’t recommend doing this when it’s snowing/ icy or a storm has recently passed through. Check the Colorado Department of Transportation’s COTrip for winter driving conditions and road closures.
Stop By A Brewery
Colorado is well known for its thriving craft brew scene, thanks a to a huge number of breweries throughout the state, and Boulder is no exception.
Grab a craft beer from the likes of Avery Brewing Company, Pattern Break Brewing, Upslope Brewing Company, Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery, or Wild Provisions Beer Project. There’s over a dozen excellent options in this small city, so you’ll never be too far from a cold beer.
Many breweries have events and entertainment, like live music, in addition to delicious food trucks on-site.
Boulder is no stranger to a good craft beer, so be sure to grab one for yourself during your visit.
Eldorado Canyon State Park
Eldorado Canyon is one of the best state parks near Boulder.
It offers beautiful, scenic views, the opportunity to see wildlife, and great hiking trails.
While snowpack is possible after a big storm, it’s more likely you’ll find relatively clear (albeit, muddy) trails during winter.
The park can get really busy in the warmer months, so winter is a great time of year to visit if you wish to see the park in a different light.
Listen To Some Live Music
While in Boulder, be sure to enjoy some live music.
The Fox Theatre and Boulder Theater see a mix of big names and up-and-coming artists on tour.
Whereas smaller venues like Velvet Elk Lounge, Mountain Sun and Southern Sun Pubs & Breweries, License No. 1 at Hotel Boulderado, and The Laughing Goat host more low-key shows and local bands.
Go Ice Skating
Looking to ice skate in Boulder this winter?
Unfortunately, the city doesn’t have much in terms of public rinks.
However, there are a number of wonderful options nearby.
In my opinion, the best is the outdoor rink in Nederland. NedRINK is one of the largest outdoor ice skating rinks in Colorado, and it’s in a really beautiful mountain setting. The rink is about 30 minutes from Boulder.
There’s also the Longmont Ice Rink and WinterSkate Outdoor Rink in Louisville. Both are also about 20 – 30 minutes from Boulder.
Visit The University of Colorado Campus
The University of Colorado is a focal point in Boulder, with its influence extending throughout the city.
If you enjoy touring college campuses, this one’s a must.
Many campus buildings are built with red sandstone, quarried in the nearby town of Lyons, and there’s great vantage points of the surrounding mountain.
The natural beauty of CU Boulder’s campus is undeniable.
Check out the campus via self guided tour. Some highlights include the University Memorial Center (or UMC for short) which has a bowling alley and the only bar on campus.
The Macky Auditorium is a gothic-style concert hall that just celebrated its 100th anniversary, and also has the added benefit of being the most haunted building on campus.
You can also check out the campus recreation center which has an amazing outdoor pool. It’s shaped like the Buffalo logo you’ll see on the school’s athletic uniforms.
If time permits, also consider checking out one of the museums on campus:
- CU Museum of Natural History
- CU Art Museum
- Heritage Center
- Fiske Planetarium
Fiske Planetarium
The Fiske Planetarium is one of the school’s coolest features for non-students and visitors, and therefore is deserving of its own section on this list.
The planetarium is one of the largest in the United States with a 65 foot diameter dome. They host a number of educational celestial and NASA related events throughout the year.
But what they’re especially known for are their music shows. From concerts to artist-themed laser shows, they host some really fun events.
So if you’ve always wanted to see a show like LiquidSky Billie Eilish, Laser Beatles, Laser Taylor Swift, or LiquidSky Harry Styles, this is the place for you.
Check out upcoming shows at Fiske Planetarium.
Catch A Sporting Event At The University Of Colorado
Also worth mentioning is CU Athletics.
Watching a CU sporting event is one of the best things to do in Boulder during winter.
Men’s and women’s basketball both play at the CU Events Center in the colder months.
And if you’re visiting Boulder in November, you can catch events like Women’s Volleyball, Women’s Soccer, and CU Football, the latter of which plays at historic Folsom Field.
Check out the CU Athletics Schedule at CU Buffs.
Bike Or Take A Stroll Along Boulder Creek Path
Boulder Creek runs right through the heart of town and is a hub for outdoor recreation and community events, following the river for over five miles is the Boulder Creek Path.
The paved path stretches all the way from 55th Street in East Boulder into Boulder Canyon. Along the way it winds through city parks, the CU campus, and downtown.
On a mild winter day, the path is perfect for walking or a bike ride.
Those who enjoy college sports, be sure to also check out the CU Athletics Schedule.
Tea At Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse
During winter in Boulder consider tea at the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse.
The striking teahouse is adorned in colorful, handmade decor from Tajikistan and is located at the foot of the Flatirons, along Boulder Creek.
The establishment stands for global friendship and cultural exchange, as it was gifted to the City of Boulder from its sister city, Dushanbe, Tajikistan.
Tajikistan is a country known for rugged mountains and peaks reaching over 16,000 feet above sea level. It’s located in Central Asia surrounded by Afghanistan, China, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan.
This is a great spot for afternoon tea or dinner during your time in Boulder.
Celestial Seasonings Tea Tour
Another tea activity, and very popular tourist attraction in Boulder, is the Celestial Seasonings Tea Tour.
The tour shows you behind the scenes of the tea-maker’s factory, providing a glimpse at how the teas are blended, packaged, and shipped. Plus, visitors get samples and you get to go in the peppermint room which is… an assault to the senses.
Following the tour, check out their gift shop for all things tea related, in addition to classic Celestial Tea flavors and lots of unique blends which you probably can’t find in your local store.
The tour is only a couple dollars and lasts 45 minutes.
Scenic Drive Along Boulder Canyon Drive & Boulder Falls
Boulder Canyon Drive (CO-119) is another scenic route in Boulder County that’s absolutely worth your time.
The scenic route follows Boulder Creek as it winds through Boulder Canyon, offering beautiful, rugged mountain views.
This portion of Boulder Canyon Drive runs for about 15 miles from Boulder to Nederland.
There are several scenic overlooks along the drive, my favorite stop is Boulder Falls. Just a short, .1 mile walk takes you to the 70 foot falls, nestled in a rocky chasm.
It’s likely the waterfall will be frozen during the winter months, and depending on snow totals, the trail may be icy too, so bring spikes for traction just in case.
Once you’ve eventually made your way to Nederland, consider walking around their small downtown area and grabbing a bite to eat.
Note: Before heading out, check the Colorado Department of Transportation’s COTrip for winter driving conditions and road closures.
National Center For Atmospheric Research: Mesa Lab Visitor Center
The National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) is a research institution dedicated to understanding Earth’s atmosphere, weather, and climate.
They explore topics such as climate change, extreme weather, air quality, and the health of the sun.
Their Mesa Lab Visitor Center here in Boulder is open to the public and is a great place to check out. Visitors will learn more about the NCAR via exhibits and public tours.
Find more information at NCAR: Mesa Lab Visitor Center.
Go For A Bike Tour Or Walking Tour
Joining a tour is a great way to learn about Boulder’s history and experience the city’s many natural attractions, all with the guidance of a local.
Free Boulder Walking Tours is a great option, as well as the self-guided walking tours via Boulder Walks Program.
A pedal-assist e-bike tour is also a popular way to see Boulder on a mild winter day.
You can book a bike tour here: Best of Boulder E-Bike Tour (this is through Pedego Boulder, a locally-owned bike shop).
Go Sledding
Sledding is a perfect winter activity that provides snowy fun for the whole family.
Scott Carpenter Park, Tantra Park, and the Chautauqua Park area are among the most popular spots.
No matter where you go, the kids are sure to love this one after fresh snow has fallen.
If conditions aren’t right, consider heading up to Winter Park for snow tubing instead.
Winter Park Resort, about 1.5 hours away, has lift-served tubing hills. These are groomed and will receive snowmaking services if necessary, which is a great option if there’s not much snow in town.
Visit Rocky Mountain National Park
Just an hour from Boulder is one the nation’s most visited national parks, Rocky Mountain National Park, and winter here is absolute magic.
The park’s stunning mountain landscapes are blanketed in snow, creating a true winter wonderland.
Adventurous visitors can plan to cross-country ski, snowshoe, or even go backcountry skiing. Those looking for more of a mellow experience can simply go for a scenic drive or sledding at popular Hidden Valley.
Best of all, the cold weather and deep snow keeps most visitors away, meaning this is one of the only times to see the park absent of large crowds.
For lots of information regarding what to do in RMNP during the winter season, check out my guide: Top Things To Do In Rocky Mountain National Park In Winter.
Winter Events In Boulder
Boulder is no stranger to fun events and festivals. Luckily, winter sees quite a few good ones.
Below are some of the most loved winter events in Boulder:
- Boulder Jewish Film Festival – November
- Boulder Farmers Market: Winter Market – early December
- Snow Much Fun Light Displays – holiday season
- Chautauqua WinterFest – December
- Boulder International Film Festival – early April.
For a full list of upcoming events, check out Visit Boulder Events.
Day Trips From Boulder
Boulder is in a great location, surrounded by lots of natural beauty. It’s definitely worth exploring the surrounding area if time permits.
Some of the most popular places to visit near Boulder are:
- Lyons – 20 minutes (26 miles)
- Nederland – 25 minutes (16 miles)
- Eldora Ski Resort – 35 minutes (21 miles)
- Golden – 35 minutes (20 miles)
- Golden Gate Canyon State Park – 40 minutes (23 miles)
- Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre – 50 minutes (28 miles)
- Central City/ Blackhawk – 55 minutes (36 miles)
- Chapel On The Rock – 55 minutes (38 miles)
- Estes Park – 55 minutes (38 miles)
- Rocky Mountain National Park – 55 minutes (37 miles)
- Idaho Springs – 1 hour (54 miles)
- Indian Hot Springs – 1 hour (54 miles)
As you can see, there are tons of great things to do in Boulder in the winter. I hope you’ve found this helpful and have the best time!
Any questions? Please leave a comment below or reach out on social media.
Looking for more ideas? Below are additional Boulder and Colorado guides, or head on over to Visit Boulder.
More Information For Your Trip To Boulder:
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