my favorite things to do in Boulder
I love our annual outings to Boulder, the place where Greg grew up. A beautiful location that embraces the outdoors, and how could it not, with the Rockys as a backdrop.
During our January visits, the open plains are broken up with trees that have been frosted, and they look as if they have paused in time away from the fast lanes of life. The little sprinkles of snow here and there are perfect as they add a charm to the perfectly blue skies (when not cloudy) and the cold, penetrating weather gives you no other option than to grab your warmest, coziest, and coolest look to run around town and visit your favorite places!
For me, there are a few “usual” places that I must visit, and if you are in the area sometime, make sure you try to make it to some of these, they will not dissapoint!
My first stop - Le French Cafe in Boulder. The French duo who opened this cafe make absolute magic with their baguettes, pastries, and their sandwhich au jambon!
After a French breakfast, the Cheese Importers is a must! Located in Longmont, this adorable shop has a crazy amount of items imported from France and Italy, anything ranging from napkins and plates, to pastries, chocolates, bath and body items, and more. Of course, the cheese area has cheeses, cold meats, and butter imported from all throughout Europe, and it’s a must (take a coat! it’s cold behind the glass doors!)
If you are ready for lunch after the Cheese Importers, head straight to Lucile’s Creole Cafe, with locations in Boulder, Longmont and a few others a little bit further away. While browsing through the mouth-watering menu, make sure you put in an order of beignets (4 per order), and enjoy every single bite of this deep-fried French doughnut made from pate a choux, generously dusted with confectioner’s sugar.
Because you have been in an eating tour, it’s time to walk around, and there is no better place than Pearl Street Mall in Boulder, or better yet, the quaint and cute Niwot downtown. While not as much shopping as in Pearl Street Mall, you will enjoy the main street small town atmosphere that Niwot brings.
If you are looking for an upscale yet modest dinner, head over to Spruce at the Hotel Boulderado in downtown Boulder. The historic hotel has been around for 100 years and it’s one of the most famous landmarks in Boulder. You may want to consider staying here, as it’s located only a few steps away from the Pearl Street shopping and not too far from Lucile’s Boulder location.
Last but not least, take a turn to visit CU and maybe you will get a glimpse of Coach Prime coming out of the Colorado Football doors by the main football store.
Boulder on a weekend - this is all you need to have a fantastic time and a great culinary experience!
