Much like many cities and towns in Colorado, the origins of Boulder began with gold. At one time Boulder was full of alpha males and dance hall babes, but those days have long passed. A kinder, gentler community has emerged through the generations offering refuge for the disenchanted and displaced.
Back in the 60s and early 70s, the hippie life style was adopted by many college aged men and women. “Make love, not war” was as common as the peace symbol. There was a laid back easy going attitude that gave one the feeling that everything was going to be alright. Many of us who embraced this lifestyle gradually evolved into a more conservative style of living. Some of us, however, opted out of the traditional, main stream way of life making Boulder the perfect destination. Looking for an area that would be accommodating, a slow migration began to amass in Boulder. There is no better place to live, work and play than Boulder, Colorado.
Back in July, 1898 a crowd of 4,000 gathered at the base of Flatirons in to celebrate the opening of the Colorado Chautauqua, part of a national movement promoting “wholesome, pleasurable study in sylvan surroundings,” according to the brochure, as well as “abundant recreational opportunities.” Sounds about right, ya think? For the most part Boulder still abides by the same formula.
Because Boulder is a university town with a base of 30,000 students, it offers cultural experiences that are in keeping with the intellectual stimulants available at the University of Colorado in Boulder. For example, there’s the annual Colorado Shakespeare Festival and Colorado Music Festival. Boulder is well known for hosting world-famous performers and guest speakers at events throughout the year, and many galleries, museums and theaters offer events throughout the year.
Boulder has 45,000 acres of protected open space and 300-plus days of sunshine. Most of the residents enjoy the outdoors which makes Boulder an exceptionally easygoing place to live. However, the growth of this area wasn’t quick and explosive. It started with a community of laid back entrepreneurs striving for a niche, and it worked. They ended up with a city that excels across the board. Few cities can match the range of Livability Top 10 lists that Boulder has appeared on from Best Farmers Markets, to Most Green Cities, to Most Pet-friendly Cities and Top Foodie Cities. The University of Colorado’s main campus has helped land Boulder on our Top College Towns list. It’s no wonder Boulder holds its place in the top 10 of our Top 100 Best Places to Live.
Boulder should be on your bucket list of places to vacation. It’s a lovely, expansive, beautiful city. The locals are incredibly nice and obliging and the experience is worth the visit. So, make plans to come see us.