Students everywhere are counting down the days until summer begins, and that is especially true for those who are graduating this year. While schools and graduates are busy planning ceremonies, friends and families are starting to think about their own roles in the graduation ceremony. Boulder, Colorado is home to several schools that are celebrating graduation season, as well as a plethora of hosting and entertaining options for all of the out-of-town guests who will soon flock to the area. Whether you are hosting or visiting, these resources will help you make the most of graduation season in Boulder.
Top Hotels in Boulder
900 Walnut Street, Boulder, CO 80302
St. Julien offers more than 200 rooms and views of the Flatirons in the heart of downtown Boulder.
2115 13th Street, Boulder, CO 80302
Hotel Boulderado is an historic hotel that originally opened in 1909. The hotel boasts atmospheric dining experiences and a speakeasy-style cocktail lounge in the basement. Historic tours of the building are available upon request.
2040 16th Street, Boulder, CO 80302
This quiet inn boasts 12 private rooms and free on-site parking, just a short distance from Pearl Street and the CU campus.
Fine Dining Experiences
Oak at Fourteenth: Downtown Experience, Fine Wine & Cocktails
Monday-Thursday: 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Friday & Saturday: 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm
1400 Pearl St, Boulder, CO 80302
Bramble & Hare: Farm to Table, Vegetarian-Friendly
Monday-Saturday: 5:15 pm to 10:00 pm
1970 13th Street, Boulder, CO 80302
Or visit their seasonal sister restaurant, Black Cat. Reservations open in May.
Flagstaff House: Fine Dining, Panoramic Views
Tuesday-Sunday: 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
1138 Flagstaff Rd, Boulder, CO 80302
Reservations are required and a business casual dress code is requested.
Frasca Food & Wine: Award-Winning Italian Cuisine, Warm Atmosphere
Tuesday-Thursday: 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Friday & Saturday: 5:00 pm to 9:30 pm
1738 Pearl Street, Boulder, CO 80302
Reserve a table for Frasca’s featured 4-course menu, offered during CU Boulder’s graduation weekend.
Corrida: Spanish-inspired Steakhouse, Mountain Views
See website for hours and availability
1023 Walnut Street #400, Boulder, CO 80302
Local Activities
Visit Historic Chautauqua
The Colorado Chautauqua is a National Historic Landmark and has a little bit of something for everyone. Visit Chautauqua for the historic atmosphere, scenic hiking trails, and General Store.
Rent a BCycle
Hop on a BCycle and cruise around town like a local. The rentable bicycles are located at several stations throughout Boulder, which can be found through the BCycle app. The pedal assisted battery on the new electric bikes makes navigating Folsom Street’s hills and the Boulder Creek bike path effortless.
Go Fly Fishing
Boulder is known for excellent fly fishing and can be a great way to spend a morning in the great outdoors. Rocky Mountain Anglers offers equipment and guided fishing trips for individuals and groups of all experience levels.
Learn to Rock Climb
Boulder is home to world-class climbers and climbing facilities like Movement. Beginners are encouraged to take a tour of the gym, which includes a free intro to climbing class, or book a one-hour climbing session with one of Movement’s experienced instructors.
Graduating is a special event for the whole family and these suggestions are just a few ways to make it a memorable experience. Whether you are hosting or visiting, now is the time to plan your celebration activities for this graduation season.