Staying in Boulder for winter break? Here are 5 things to do

Looking for things to do over winter break? Here are some activities to enjoy in and around Boulder.
Spend time outside
Colorado winters often have plenty of sunny and warmer days to enjoy the great outdoors. You can explore the city by taking a walk or bike ride on the Boulder Creek Path, or try one of these five winter hikes to do in the Boulder area.
Treat yourself
Take advantage of visiting restaurants, shops and attractions with less people around over winter break:
- Check out Boulder’s Bites on a Budget list or make reservations at a foodie favorite.
- Head to Boulder’s downtown district for a variety of local coffee shops.
- Visit a local museum, like the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art, or one of the many museums in Denver.
Volunteer
A great way to get more involved in Boulder is to volunteer. There are many benefits to volunteering, in addition to giving back to your community. Volunteering allows you to meet new people, support a cause you care about and develop professional skills. Learn more about opportunities through the Volunteer Resource Center.
Cheer on the CU Buffs
Both CU Buffs men’s and women’s basketball teams have home games at the CU Events Center over winter break.
Students with a CU Sports Pass can log in and claim tickets for men’s basketball games before each home game. Admission to women’s basketball games is free with your Buff OneCard.
Get a start on your spring checklist
After reflecting on your fall semester, you may have some new goals for spring. Whether you’re looking to join something new or land a summer job or internship, here are some upcoming dates and resources to help you prepare.
- Apply for the Sko Serve Spring Break Program: Sko Serve sends teams of college students to engage in meaningful service during their breaks from school. The non-priority application opens Jan. 1.
- Join Kickoff Week at The Rec: Enjoy free events and activities at the Main Student Recreation Center during Spring Kickoff Jan. 13-20.
- Check out the On-Campus Student Job Fair: Looking for a part-time job? Meet with campus departments who are hiring student employees at this fair on Jan. 16.
- Attend the Involvement Fair on Jan. 22: Meet with hundreds of student organizations and learn about how to get involved on campus!
- Visit the Spring Volunteer Fair on Feb. 5: Connect with local organizations that have volunteer opportunities and learn about getting involved in your community.
- Prepare for spring career and internship fairs: Career Services has online tools to support you with your job or internship search, from finding opportunities to getting resume, cover letter and interview help.
Find things to do on campus
The Main Student Rec Center, Williams Village Rec Center and The Connection will open for limited hours on some days over winter break.
The Alienware Buffalo Esports and Gaming Lounge will also be open with the following adjusted winter break hours:
- Dec. 16 and 17: 1-9 p.m.
- Dec. 18 and 19: 1-5 p.m.
- Dec. 20 through Jan. 5: Closed
- Jan. 6-11: 1-8 p.m.
- Jan. 12: Closed
Learn more about getting involved
- Follow @CUBoulderLife on Instagram, Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
- Download the CU Boulder Life app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
- Check out upcoming student events.