There’s something magical and special about Boulder in the fall. The crisp mountain air, the golden aspen leaves, and the Flatirons glowing at sunset all make fall the best time to visit. For me, Boulder is more than just a travel destination – it’s home. I spent four unforgettable years here as a student at the University of Colorado, and every time I go back, I feel a rush of nostalgia for the hikes, coffee shops, game days, and weekends wandering Pearl Street.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a CU parent in town for the weekend, I’ve put together the ultimate two-day fall itinerary. These are the places and moments that capture the heart of Boulder and made my college years so special.

SATURDAY

MORNING: Hike starting at Chautauqua Park

No trip to Boulder is complete without a hike at Chautauqua Park. The Flatirons — Boulder’s iconic rock formations — rise dramatically over the city, and the trails here are among the most accessible and scenic in the area. Numerous distances and challenge levels cater to everyone, allowing anyone to join along on the hike. I recommend using the app All Trails to find the perfect trail for you!

As an ROTC cadet at the University of Colorado, I can’t count how many mornings we ran here and did hill sprints at the base of the trailheads. Despite the challenges that came with that, I have so many amazing memories here at Chautauqua. Many other times, I’d often come here with friends for pictures, hikes, and just to hang out. In the fall, the trails come alive with the rustle of golden leaves and cooler temps that make hiking a joy.

Tips:

• Start early to beat the crowds and snag good parking
• For a shorter but steep challenge, try the First and Second Flatiron Trail
• If you’re looking for something more leisurely, the Bluebell Mesa Trail is perfect for soaking in the views without too much incline

Pro Tip: Grab a pumpkin spice latte from Alpine Modern Cafe before heading out – nothing says fall in Boulder like coffee + a mountain trail.

AFTERNOON: Brunch at Lucile’s Creole Cafe

After your hike, you’ve definitely earned a hearty brunch. My absolute favorite spot is Lucile’s Creole Cafe – a quirky, colorful house turned restaurant that serves Southern comfort food with a New Orleans twist.

As a student, Lucile’s was our “treat yourself” spot. I remember my bestie Sara showing me this adorable location for the very first time, freshman year. Between the buttery biscuits and gravy, fresh-squeezed orange juice, and their legendary beignets, it’s impossible to leave hungry. If you’re visiting on a weekend, expect a wait – but trust me, it’s worth it.

What to order:

• Start with a basket of beignets (they’re a MUST – very much deserved after a hike)
• Pain Perdu – New Orleans style french toast; served with fresh fruit, one egg, hot Louisiana sausage, and buttery praline syrup
• Pair it with their spiced chai or a mimosa if you’re feeling festive

EVENING: Explore Pearl Street & Dinner at Avanti F & B

No Boulder itinerary is complete without an evening on Pearl Street Mall. Lined with shops, street performers, and cozy cafes, Pearl Street is the heartbeat of downtown Boulder. As a student, Pearl Street was where we went to celebrate birthdays, people-watch on sunny afternoons, or grab dinner before a night out. The energy here is contagious – there’s always music, laughter, and the sound of kids chasing bubbles from the street performers.

For dinner, I recommend heading to Avanti F&B, a modern food hall with rooftop views of the Flatirons. The beauty of Avanti is that everyone in your group can order something different – tacos, pizza, sushi, you name it – and then gather upstairs for the sunset with a drink in hand.

Then end your night with a stroll under the twinkling lights of Pearl Street!

SUNDAY

MORNING: Hike Along the Boulder Creek Trail

After a lively Saturday, ease into your Sunday with a walk ir bike ride along the Boulder Creek Trail. This paved path runs right through the city, following the sound of rushing water and weaving through cottonwood trees.

As a student, the Creek Path was our escape from the campus. Whether it was jogging, walking to clear my mind before a test or hammocking along the banks in the fall sunshine, this trail was a constant in my years here.

Tips:

• Bring a blanket and grab coffee to-go for a peaceful morning by the water
• If you’re visiting in late September or October, the fall foliage along the creek is absolutely breathtaking

AFTERNOON: Lunch at The Sink

After your morning walk, head up to The Hill – the student neighborhood just west of campus – and grab lunch at The Sink.

This quirky, graffiti-covered pizza joint has been serving CU students, alumni, and even celebrities for decades. The walls are plastered with signatures and doodles, including one from former President Obama.

What to order:

• The famous Sink Burger (messy but SO worth it)
• A specialty pizza if you’re with a group
• Don’t skip the fries – they’re legenday

For me the Sink was a rite of passage. It’s where we fueled up before football games and celebrated after finals. It’s not fancy, but it’s authentically Boulder.

EVENING: Stroll Around the University of Colorado – Boulder

End your weekend by exploring the CU Boulder Campus, one of the most beautiful in the country. With its signature red-tiled roofs and sandstone buildings framed by the Flatirons, walking around campus in the fall feels like stepping into a postcard.

Make sure to stop by Ferrand Field and get the iconic shot of the sign & the Flatirons. Here you’ll find students hanging out, studying, playing games and so much more. It’s a field that allows friends to be outside and hangout on the most beautiful campus in the world.

If you’re lucky enough to be in town on a football weekend, catch a game at Folsom Field – the atmosphere is electric, with Ralphie the buffalo charging across the field, yes a REAL buffalo, and a sea of black and gold cheering the Buffs on.

Even if it’s not game day, a sunset walk across campus is the perfect way to wrap up your Boulder adventure. Head to the North Quad, soak in the views, and let yourself feel that mix of nostalgia and awe that Boulder inspires in everyone who visits.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Boulder is more than just a college town – it’s a place where the mountains meet the city, where adventure is always just around the corner, and where fall feels absolutely magical.

As an alumni, this itinerary is my love letter to the city that shaped some of my best memories. From hiking the Flatirons to brunching at Lucile’s, cheering at Folson Field, and wandering Pearl Street under the sunset glow, every stop holds a piece of my heart.

If you’re planning a weekend in Boulder this fall, I hope this guide helps you experience the magic the way I did – with a full stomach, tired legs from the trails, and a heart overflowing with gratitude for this little mountain town.

So pack your hiking boots, bring your appetite, and get ready for an unforgettable weekend in Boulder. Who knows? You might just fall in love with it too

With love,

Wander with Miranda ♡