Boulder, Colorado is home to beautiful scenery, top-rated schools, and fantastic weather. It’s also full of great entertainment opportunities that are easy on your wallet. If you’re one of this year’s many returning students you likely already understand the value of finding cheap ways to enjoy the day. If you’re new to one of Boulder’s great schools, you’re in for a treat as there are plenty of things to do for free in Boulder!
Anyone who’s had the opportunity to visit Boulder can easily recognize the appeal. The friendly neighborhoods are filled with welcoming people, fun things to do, and limitless outdoor activities. Downtown Boulder and Pearl Street offer a bustling community with a small-town feel, and the entire area is a paradise for lovers of the great outdoors.
Shopping, fine dining, and friendly conversation are easy to find throughout Boulder, Colorado. If it’s an adventure you seek, take to the trails and parks for hiking, biking, rock climbing, skiing, sledding, and more.
Our Recommendations for 7 Things To Do for Free in Boulder
Okay, school is important, but all work and no play makes life pretty boring. Besides, what’s the point of spending time in one of the best cities in the country if you don’t take the time to enjoy it? College life can be expensive. Luckily, Boulder is packed with fun things to do that won’t cost you a dime. Here are 7 free entertainment opportunities that shouldn’t be missed in Boulder, Colorado.
1. Boulder Falls
There’s no better place to start than Boulder Falls if you’re looking for a great way to acquaint yourself with the Boulder’s breathtaking views. Don’t worry if you’re not up to the hiking standards of most Colorado natives. Sightseers of all ages and fitness levels can easily make the short trek to Boulder Falls. Don’t forget your camera to capture the magic of the 70-foot rushing waterfall. Carry a picnic lunch to complete an enjoyable (romantic?) afternoon spent in the natural beauty of Boulder.
Note: Boulder Falls is closed for repairs and scheduled to reopen September 6, 2019.
2. Pearl Street Mall
A visit to the Pearl Street Mall is about more than shopping. If you’re low on funds, a stroll down Pearl Street offers so much entertainment you’ll almost forget the temptation to spend those few dollars you’ve been saving. If window shopping is too tempting for you to bear, enjoy the scenery and fellowship of downtown Boulder. Besides the mall, Pearl Street offers seasonal art shows, beautiful gardens blooming during warmer months, and many entertaining street performers. An afternoon spent on Pearl Street is an afternoon spent with friends.
3. Boulder Farmers Market
While there are plenty of ways to spend money at the farmer’s market, it’s easy to find a great time for free. Boulder’s Farmers Market isn’t your common roadside fruit stand. Named the number one farmer’s market in the nation by USA Today, the market in Boulder offers picturesque views of flower arrangements and ripe fruit, free snack samples from various vendors, and live music to brighten the mood. For a couple of dollars, the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art is worth a visit while you enjoy the market. The museum remains open during market hours and students are admitted for a $2 fee.
The Boulder Farmers Market takes place on Wednesdays from 4:00 pm – 8 pm from May to October, and Saturdays at 8:00 am -2:00 pm from April to November.
4. Celestial Seasonings Tour
If you feel like spending some time indoors, try the free 45-minute Celestial Seasonings tea tour. Walk the factory floor to learn about everything from the origin of tea leaves and herbs to specialized blending processes. Visit the famed Mint Room and art gallery of unique tea box art. Go home with the gift of free samples of every flavor of tea Celestial Seasonings has to offer.
Free tours are available Monday – Saturday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, and Sunday 11:00 am – 3:00 pm.
5. Chautauqua Park
Simply taking in the views is reason enough to visit Chautauqua Park. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, or a lazy day spent in the sun, the park isn’t something to be missed. Early risers can watch the sunrise, take a stroll over the vast meadow-like grounds, go for a jog, or perhaps stay for a picnic in the grass. The fun continues in the winter with snowshoeing and sledding. If you’re seeking exercise, head to the network of hiking trails leading to the ever-popular Flatirons.
Chautauqua Park requires no admission fees and is open to the public from 5:00 am to 11:00 pm.
6. National Center for Atmospheric Research
You don’t have to be a science major to find this facility interesting. The National Center for Atmospheric Research stands proudly on a mesa bluff surrounded by hiking trails. The facility is dedicated to weather research and includes a library, cafeteria, art galleries, and interactive exhibits. The accompanying trails are open to visitors, one of which is dedicated to teaching weather patterns along the hike. Guided tours are available three days a week. However, visitors are welcome to visit the exhibits any time during business hours without a guide.
The National Center for Atmospheric Research is open weekdays from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, and on weekends and holidays from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Guided tours are available Monday, Wednesday, and Friday between 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm.
7. Lights of December Parade
As the holidays grow near, local businesses, schools, and churches start the season right with Boulder’s annual Lights of December Parade. Visitors will enjoy fully decorated floats, marching bands, lit fire engines, carolers, and of course, jolly old St, Nick will make an appearance.
The Lights of December Parade is scheduled to be held December 7, 2019, from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
Student Housing though Property Management Company
College is an exciting time for students, but it can be intimidating being on your own. While some students live in the dorms, other housing situations are often a better solution. Boulder Property Management Company has been in business for 25 years, and we have a unique understanding of the needs of the many students located in the area. Our rental process is designed to offer students a trusted partner while branching out into the world.
Contact us for information about off-campus student housing and safe student apartments available in the Boulder area. Our friendly team is ready to answer any questions you have and help you navigate the process of finding the perfect location to suit your individual needs.