Whether you’re planning a night on the town with friends or searching for that perfect spot to take your significant other, Boulder has a fantastic and fun activity for you! There are so many exciting things to try in Boulder from outdoor adventures to fine dining experiences; read on for some suggestions that would make for a perfect first date or meet up with good friends.
1. Stroll along Pearl Street
Lined with historic buildings and trendy shops, Boulder’s iconic Pearl Street makes for a fun visit during the day or night. Walk along the brick-lined streets, paying visits to art galleries, browsing local businesses, and of course, trying the delicious food — it’s no wonder that Food & Wine magazine named Pearl Street as one of the Ten Best Foodie Streets in America!
2. Enjoy some sweet treats at Piece, Love, and Chocolate
Boulder’s “specialty chocolate headquarters” is the perfect spot to take a date who loves everything sweet! Kick back and relax in the shop’s cafe, enjoying a cup of coffee or chocolate chai — you can even try some signature hot sipping chocolates.
3. Sightsee from Panorama Point
Enjoy incredible views of the Boulder Valley from this spot at the top of the winding Flagstaff Road! During the daylight hours, you can take in the sights of the University of Colorado’s red-tiled rooftops, bustling Pearl Street, the sparkling Boulder Reservoir, and acres of farmland off in the distance. Bring a picnic and soak up the sunshine, or stop by after nightfall to admire the glittering lights below.
4. Practice your skills in a cooking class
If you’re looking for a unique date idea where both participants can get creative, try a cooking class at Food Lab, located along Pearl Street. While Food Lab offers frequent team-building events for coworkers and family-friendly activities for kids, they’re best known for their fun cooking classes. Choose from options like Flavors of Vietnam, Spanish Tapas, Evening in Argentina, and Date Night in Paris. You can even opt for a Fresh Pasta Workshop, learning to make your own pasta — paired with a sauce and salad, of course. If you have a blast and want to recreate the experience at home, Food Lab also offers at-home cooking kits!
5. Have an escape room adventure
The ever-popular escape room can make for a fun and exciting first-date adventure, or a great way to bring your group of friends together. Enigma Escape Rooms is conveniently located on Pearl Street, so you can grab a bite to eat after your successful escape. Participate in a thrilling, interactive problem-solving activity, racing against the clock to find clues in rooms like Pirate Crates, the Missing Scientist, and the Boulder-themed Melton Tablets.
6. Dine at a romantic restaurant
Both locals and out-of-towners know that Boulder is a major foodie town, with fabulous restaurants for any palate. If you’re heading to a night out with your date, you’ve got plenty of wonderful and romantic eateries to choose from. Try the Spanish cuisine at Dagabi Tapas Bar, some fresh and locally sourced fare at Jill’s Restaurant and Bistro, or the tasty ramen at Supermoon. For a truly upscale dining experience, head to Flagstaff House, where you’ll be greeted by sweeping views from an elevation of 6,000 feet. The panoramic mountain visage from the outdoor patio is so breathtaking that you’ll hardly be able to concentrate on your food — but with a four-course menu featuring top-notch gourmet delicacies like Alaskan halibut, filet mignon, and Maine lobster, you’ll be in for quite a treat.
