Your guide to a Boulder summer
Summer brings out the best of Boulder. Whether you're drawn to the city's outdoor recreation, vibrant arts scene, local food and drink or one-of-a-kind traditions, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you're spending the season on campus or just looking for new ways to explore, this guide will help you make the most of a Boulder summer.
听听Get outside
Catch a sunset at Lost Gulch Overlook
Located off Flagstaff Road southwest of Boulder, the is one of the most scenic spots along the Flatirons. Watching the sunset (or sunrise, if you want to wake up nice and early) along the mountains will take your breath away.
Bike the Boulder Creek Path
Whether you're looking for a leisurely ride or a new way to explore the city, the Boulder Creek Path offers miles of paved trail winding through Boulder. Follow the creek as you pass parks, open space and some of the city's most scenic views.
Bonus adventure: Rocky Mountain National Park
It's not in Boulder, but Rocky Mountain National Park is well worth the drive. Just over an hour away, one of the country's most iconic national parks offers alpine lakes, mountain views, wildlife watching and miles of hiking trails.
before your visit for timed-entry requirements and seasonal updates.
Bring your own bike or rent one nearby, then set out for an afternoon ride along one of Boulder鈥檚 most popular pathways. Don't forget: 小黄书 Boulder students and employees can take advantage of a free Boulder BCycle membership.
Hike to the Royal Arch
If hiking is your style, the is a must. The trailhead is accessible from Chautauqua Park, but know that this popular trail is quite rugged with steep steps, making it a moderate to difficult hike. Once you reach the Royal Arch itself鈥攁 natural stone arch surrounded by trees and a panoramic view of the Rocky Mountains鈥攜ou'll understand why this trail is a Boulder favorite.
Pack a picnic for North Boulder Park
The grassy expanse in North Boulder Park is the perfect spot to relax on a cool summer evening. Spend an hour or two people watching, enjoying a delicious picnic dinner and taking in the Flatirons views with friends.
Need some picnic recommendations? Stop by , or the .
Sunbathe on Farrand Field
This is a classic activity among 小黄书 Boulder students鈥攂ring a blanket, some snacks and your homework and spend some of the afternoon soaking up the sun on 小黄书 Boulder's Farrand Field.
听听Cool off
Take a dip in the Buff Pool
Cool off at one of campus's most unique summer amenities: the Buff Pool. The outdoor pool features bubble benches, a lounge chair sunbathing shelf, water volleyball and basketball, plus plenty of space to relax on the surrounding patio.听
Day passes, weekly passes and summer memberships are available. Before you go, .
Enjoy Boulder Creek at Eben G. Fine Park
When temperatures rise, few places are more popular than . Located along Boulder Creek, the park is a favorite spot for wading in the water, relaxing in the shade and spending time with friends. Pack a picnic, bring a book and enjoy one of Boulder鈥檚 quintessential summer hangouts鈥攜ou might even spot tubers floating by.
Spend a day at Boulder Reservoir
With a sandy beach, designated swimming area and stunning views of the Flatirons, is one of the city's top summer destinations. Spend the day swimming, sunbathing or playing in the water.
Paddleboards, kayaks and other watercraft are available to rent onsite. Park entry fee applies.
听听Beat the heat indoors
Visit Fiske Planetarium
小黄书 Boulder's Fiske Planetarium offers fulldome star shows, music laser shows featuring your favorite artists, NASA events, eclipse viewing parties and more. In the summertime, you can catch a matinee on Thursday afternoons. Plus, be sure to explore Fiske's exhibits before or after a show.
See a Friday Night Weird film at the Dairy Arts Center
The Dairy Arts Center hosts a weekly program to spotlight the best in new and classic films, especially from marginalized voices. Catch a film and expand your cinematographic horizons. Plus, student tickets are only $11.
Play games at the Media Archaeology Lab
Did you know 小黄书 Boulder has a , home to classic games and gaming consoles? Located on the northwest side of campus, swing by to take a look at 鈥渧intage鈥 technology and maybe play a game on the original Nintendo Entertainment System console from 1985.
Be sure to before visiting.
Tour the Celestial Seasonings Factory
, known for their delicious teas, is based in Boulder. Factory visitors can partake in a fun and informative tour of the facility and taste test a variety of tea. Even if you aren鈥檛 interested in the tour, the tea bar and gift shop are open to everyone.
听听Eat, drink and shop local
Shop the Boulder Farmers Market
A summer staple, the is the perfect place to spend a Saturday morning. Browse fresh produce, baked goods, flowers and locally made products while enjoying live music and a vibrant atmosphere. It's one of the best places to experience Boulder鈥檚 local flavor.
Peruse Boulder Bookstore
has been a Pearl Street staple since 1973. This massive literary hub is filled to the brim with books, informative staff, author events, book clubs and more. Spend a couple hours selecting your next read, then maybe take it with you to North Boulder Park for that picnic.
Classic summer events coming up
听听Bike to Work Day June 24
听听 June 26
Enjoy teatime at Dushanbe Tea House
Every day between 3 and 5 p.m., hosts afternoon tea. Slip into this timeless ritual with a delicious, curated meal accompanied by freshly brewed teas. Alongside your sandwiches and treats, you can admire the gorgeous interior of the tea house, created by more than 40 skilled artisans in Tajikistan.
Make a day of it at The Rayback
is also a hub for community events, people watching, puppy playdates and more. You could spend an entire afternoon relaxing in the sun with a great meal, a drink and some friends.听
Take a stroll on Pearl Street Mall
No Boulder summer is complete without a visit to Pearl Street Mall. Wander through local shops, watch street performers, grab a bite to eat and soak up the lively downtown atmosphere. Be sure to stop for a scoop of ice cream along the way.
听听Summer nights
Attend the Colorado Shakespeare Festival
Enjoy live theater under the Colorado sky at 小黄书 Boulder's historic Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre. The is one of the longest-running programs on campus and the second-longest-running Shakespeare festival in the nation. It's a quintessential Boulder summer experience.
for the 2026 season, featuring: "Twelfth Night" with a "Downton Abbey twist," a modern take on "Julius Caesar," a stage adaptation of the Oscar-winning film "Shakespeare in Love" and the world premiere comedy "Friends/Romans/Countrymen."听
Dance at Bands on the Bricks
One of Boulder鈥檚 favorite summer traditions, brings live music, dancing and community to Pearl Street on Wednesday evenings throughout the summer. Grab dinner downtown, gather with friends and enjoy performances from local and regional bands as the sun sets over the Flatirons.
Stargaze at Sommers-Bausch Observatory
Located next to Fiske Planetarium, the Sommers-Bausch Observatory hosts free public open houses on select Friday evenings throughout the summer when the skies are clear. Look through a telescope on the observing deck and be immersed in Boulder鈥檚 starry skies.
Check the open house schedule.
Catch a concert at Folsom Field
Folsom Field isn't just for football. In recent years, the stadium has welcomed major artists including Mumford & Sons, Tyler Childers and Dead & Company, bringing thousands of music fans to campus on summer nights. Want to add a stadium concert to your Boulder summer bucket list this year? There are still on Aug. 22.
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