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Things to do over fall break

Are you staying in Boulder over fall break? If so, there are many things to do in the Boulder/Denver area, especially with fewer people around. From delicious local restaurants to exciting holiday events, here are some fun staycation ideas to plan your break around! 

Exploring the Boulder area

Good eats
Looking for some good eats? Spring break is the perfect time to try out some of Boulder’s most popular restaurants without a long wait, such as The Buff or The Sink.

Day trip to Ned
One of the most beautiful mountain towns is just around the corner from Boulder! You can easily visit Nederland by bus or enjoy a scenic drive. And while you’re at it, stop in town for some delicious pizza.

Buffs basketball
The CU Buffs women’s basketball team will play against Indiana State on Nov. 26 at the CU Events Center. Sko Buffs! 

Soak up some sun
Colorado has plenty of warm and sunny days, even if there’s snow on the ground! Try to spend some time outside. You can easily bike around Boulder, take a walk along the Boulder Creek Path or go for a fall hike. You can also check out some popular hiking trails at Chautauqua Park. 

Rocky Mountain National Park
Colorado's National Parks are free on Nov. 29, including Rocky Mountain National Park—only an hour from Boulder!

Museums on campus
Check out attractions on campus like the CU Art Museum. Current exhibits on display include Documenting Change: Our Climate, The Rockies and Documenting Change: Our Climate: Past, Preset, Future.

Famous attractions
Among Boulder’s many famous attractions lies the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse. This hand-carved, hand-painted teahouse was created by 40 artisans in several cities of Tajikistan. It was brought to Boulder in pieces and reassembled to make the teahouse. Go check out this beautiful masterpiece! 

Holiday events

Thanksgiving Day 5K
The Boulder Thanksgiving Day 5K fun run on Nov. 28 at Flatiron Park is in support of the Harvest of Hope Pantry. Registration closes at noon on Nov. 27.

Holiday market
Located in Boulder’s Central Park on Saturday, Nov. 23, The Boulder Holiday Market features one-of-a-kind seasonal items, handcrafted goods, gift ideas, specialty foods and more from local crafters and artists.

Ice skating
Get into the holiday spirit by visiting the Downtown Denver Rink at Skyline Park. This ice rink offers free ice skating seven days a week beginning Tuesday, Nov. 26 (skate rentals are $9 for adults).

The Nutcracker Ballet
Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra and Boulder Ballet present The Nutcracker Ballet at CU’s Macky Auditorium from Nov 29 to Dec. 1.

Exploring Denver

Use your CollegePass for free bus transit to Denver. There are many attractions to check out, including:

Some museums and attractions may offer a discount with a student ID, so bring your Buff OneCard and ask!