Things to Do in Boulder (2025)
The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse
Traditional teahouse · Central Boulder
A hand-carved gift from Boulder's sister city, this teahouse serves global dishes and serious tea service in a jaw-dropping setting. Recognized by the MICHELIN Guide and beloved by locals for afternoon tea and patio blooms.
Frasca Food and Wine
Fine dining restaurant · Whittier
Boulder’s fine-dining standard-bearer marries Friuli traditions with Colorado ingredients. MICHELIN-starred and James Beard–decorated, it’s the “hit” that still feels personal thanks to gracious service and a deep, thoughtful wine program.
Bramble & Hare
New American restaurant · Pearl Street Mall
Eric and Jill Skokan’s farmhouse bistro channels their nearby organic farm into nightly menus. Awarded a MICHELIN Green Star for sustainability, it’s intimate, seasonal, and unmistakably Boulder.
Boulder Bookstore
Book store · Pearl Street Mall
A three-level indie anchor on Pearl Street with 100,000+ titles and near-daily author events. Named Publishers Weekly Bookstore of the Year, it’s a cultural hub where staff picks actually mean something.
Trident Booksellers and Cafe
Coffee shop · Central Boulder
Employee-owned since 1980, Trident pairs specialty coffee and tea with new and used books, late hours, and a lively small-stage culture. A local hangout that still feels handmade.
Dedalus Wine
Temporarily Closed
Will and Coral Frischkorn’s intimate market celebrates artisan cheese, charcuterie, and thoughtful wines. Featured by Eater Denver and praised by local critics, it’s perfect for picnic provisions or a stellar sandwich.
Rayback Collective
Bar · Edgewood
Boulder’s backyard: rotating food trucks, tap list, trivia, comedy, and live music in a converted warehouse yard. Celebrated by 5280 and a reliable read on what locals are up to any given night.
eTown Hall
Live music venue · Downtown
A beautifully restored performance space where the long-running eTown radio show tapes alongside concerts and talks. Check the calendar for 2025 programming and intimate live recordings.
Boulder Theater
Live music venue · Downtown
A 1906-era art deco landmark hosting touring bands, local showcases, film nights, and community events. The busy 2025 schedule confirms it remains downtown’s marquee stage.
Groundworks Art Lab - Hill
Art school · Lincoln Place
Formerly Studio Arts Boulder, this community ceramics studio offers hands-on classes and date nights in a beloved historic firehouse. A true maker experience that locals swear by.
Vapor Distillery, Home of Boulder Spirits
Distillery · East Foothills
An independent distillery known for single malt whiskey and bourbon. Visit the speakeasy-style tasting room or book a tour to learn how Boulder’s altitude shapes flavor.
The Sink
American restaurant · Boulder
A century-old Hill staple with graffiti art, stories for days, and classic burgers and pizza. Featured on national TV and still run with local spirit, it’s a fun history lesson you can eat.