Boulder, Colorado comes alive during CU Boulder’s Family Weekend, which falls on October 13-16 this year. Between three days of planned events, a football game on Saturday, and touring your student’s new home for the school year, there will be plenty to keep your family busy during the day. Between Family Weekend events, check out these spots to enjoy Boulder’s local flavors, views, and activities.
Eat at These Renowned Boulder Restaurants
The Buff is a popular brunch spot that relocated to Canyon Blvd in 2014. The restaurant was designed and built as an homage to the original location and is known for its award-winning composting and recycling practices. This restaurant has been visited by presidents and college students alike. It does not take reservations, so arrive early!
For a casual lunch or dinner option near campus, stop by The Sink, a 99-year-old pub that features murals on the walls and writing on the ceiling. The restaurant has become a cultural institution, with ties to famous figures such as Robert Redford, Anthony Bourdain, and Barack Obama over the course of its storied history.
Flagstaff House boasts a world-renowned dining experience at 6,000 ft, with award-winning service and breathtaking views from the top of Flagstaff Mountain. The dress code is business casual and reservations are required for dinner service.
For the 21+ crowd, License No. 1 at Hotel Boulderado is a fun stop for soaking up some history. The speakeasy-style cocktail bar can be found in the hotel’s basement, operating under the same liquor license that was issued in 1969. As one of the first legal bars to open in the City of Boulder after liquor was completely outlawed within city limits in 1907, License No. 1 pays homage to that era with an early twentieth century atmosphere.
If you visit or stay at The Colorado Chautauqua, reserve a table at The Chautauqua Dining Hall for a farm-style meal in an 1898 Victorian-style building. You can also stop by The General Store next door for a quick bite before hitting the trails.
Plan an Outdoor Adventure
Mid-October is a great time to catch the aspen trees changing from green to gold and get outdoors while temperatures are still fairly mild. Whether you want to stroll along the Boulder Creek Path, hike the Chautauqua trails, or take a drive up to Nederland to enjoy the fall colors, there are plenty of ways for your family to get outside for a morning or afternoon. Planning an outdoor activity can also be a great opportunity for your CU student to check out the Adventure Resource Center, which offers gear rentals, free resource books, and much more.
These are just a few suggestions to consider while visiting your student for Family weekend. You could also tour Dairy Arts Center, BMoCA, catch a show at the Fiske Planetarium, or simply enjoy an evening on the Pearl Street Mall. Enjoy your visit!