We recently had some friends in town and wanted to do something outside of the brewery and distillery scene. It was a little too cold to hike or bike, so we had to get creative with some different activities. We had such a fun day and hope that if you give these spots a try, you will too! Here is our itinerary: 

Stop #1: Woodgrain Bagels

Why not start the day with some delicious breakfast? This charming little cafe serves much more than bagels!  You can expect delicious coffees and creative breakfast entrees all served from the friendliest staff. We’ve previously posted about their campfire mocha with a toasted marshmallow and graham cracker rim and it is a must! 

Stop #2: Celestial Seasonings Tea

This is a local tea factory where you can take a tour with the infamous “Mint Room." Even if you decide not to do the tour, you can go to their tasting room, where you can sample all of their teas (they have cold and hot options) free of charge. Then, head over to their gift shop with teas, coffee mugs, and all kinds of unique trinkets perfect for Christmas gifts! All in all a cute little setting to sit and enjoy tea. They also have a cafe but it has unusual hours so check before you go!

Stop #3: Lost Gulch Overlook

One of our favorite things to do with visitors is head up Flagstaff (take Baseline up the mountain) to Lost Gulch Overlook.  It only takes about 15 minutes to get there from town and it has amazing views of the western range. The sunset is beautiful to watch from this spot, but really any time of day is breathtaking. Make sure you bring a jacket - it can get a little chilly at elevation! 

Stop #4: Shops on Pearl Street

No day would be complete without a walk on Pearl Street, the mecca of unique gift shops and fabulous restaurants. Just window shopping and enjoying the street entertainment is fun in itself, but we highly recommend a stop in Peppercorn. It is a local shop with almost anything you can dream up. We also love the ArtMart!  While the outside of the shop leaves little to be desired, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the unique gift options.  They have tons of art and jewelry from local Boulder vendors!  Fair warning, you can easily spend an hour in either of these shops.

Stop #5: St. Julien Hotel

While you’re in the area, stop on in to the fancy St. Julien hotel. They have a bar in their lobby where you can sit and enjoy a cocktail or an appetizer by a cozy fireplace. If it’s a nicer day, they have a patio with amazing mountain views. 

Stop #6: Board and Brush

For the evening, plan on a wood shop class at Board and Brush. It’s such a fun twist on the DIY paint and sip classes, but you actually build, stain, and paint your own custom wood sign. And did we mention it’s BYOB and snacks? We brought some wine and cheese for our class, which lasted about 2-3 hours. You have to sign up beforehand and it is $65/person. Definitely worth the price! Check out our previous blog post for a more detailed run-down of the process.

There are SO many amazing things to do in Boulder, this is all we could fit into one day.  Needless to say, it was a fun one!  Do you have ideas for things to do with family/friends in town?  Comment below with your suggestions and we'll be sure to check them out!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS,

Celia & Morgan