Most people will tell you to go to Colorado in the winter so you can ski. Don't listen to those people. Of course I love to ski, and Colorado has some of the best skiing in the world. And you should definitely go to Colorado and ski in the winter if that is your thing. BUT, people in the know will clue you in on a (increasingly less) well-kept secret....
Summertime in Colorado is actually the best time to visit. There is just so much to do. Hiking, biking, camping, hoping from brewery to brewery and dining alfresco are just a few of the (many) activities to partake in. Town is (a bit) quieter, the CU students are gone, the wonderful farmers market is in full swing, and the Colorado sun (minus humidity) gives you just the right dose of summer heat. And if that sun gets too hot you can always escape to the nearby Rocky Mountains for some fresh air.
If you are lucky enough to find yourself in town, here are (a few of!) my not-to-be-missed stops.
Hike Mount Sanitas. Trust me, the climb is worth it.
Re-fuel afterwards with a Green Monkey smoothie and a juice at Wonder Press.
Caffeinate at Boxcar Coffee while perusing sister store Cured's well-curated selection of gifts and sampling their gourmet cheeses.
Pick up the Buff sandwich at Dish.
Work up a sweat at BOCO Fit, my favorite workout.
Take in the views with a cocktail on the Flagstaff House patio.
Relax over a glass of wine at The Kitchen Upstairs.
Check out more of my Boulder tips and favorite haunts over in Travel Notes.