Boulder Pictures

These striking rock formations act as the symbol of the city. Stephen Collector Boulder Convention and Visitors Bureau

Cascading canyon walls, lush pine forests, winding trails ... Eldorado Canyon State Park has much to offer in the way of natural beauty.  welcomia Getty Images

The bustling Pearl Street Mall is filled with top brands like Urban Outfitters and Patagonia, plus local quirky boutiques and art galleries. Denise Chambers Boulder Convention & Visitors Bureau

Previous visitors say that no trip to Boulder would be complete without spending time admiring the Flatirons. Ed Freeman Getty Images

Perched on the southwest edge of Boulder, Chautauqua Park offers some of the city's most photo-worthy vistas.  John Kieffer Getty Images

Boulder is surrounded by more than 31,000 acres of parks and nature reserves, making it an ideal getaway for outdoorsy types. Jon Hurd Flickr

Biking is the preferred mode of transportation in this active city. Dave Southerland City of Boulder

This popular path follows Boulder Creek through downtown. Sandra Leidholdt Getty Images

These fountains in the Pearl Street Mall are a big hit with the kids. Remember to bring along some dry clothes! Gordon Stach Boulder Convention and Visitors Bureau

This museum houses one of America's largest private collections of late 20th-century Western art. Denise Chambers Boulder Convention and Visitors Bureau

Tubing down Boulder Creek is just one of the many ways to beat the Boulder heat. Steven Collector Boulder Convention & Visitors Bureau

If you're in Boulder during football season, head to the University of Colorado's Folsom Field to watch the Buffaloes take on Pac-12 rivals. Courtesy the University of Colorado Athletics

Boulder's snowy winters and proximity to the Rocky Mountains make it a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. Stephen Collector Boulder Convention and Visitors Bureau

Bands on the Bricks is just one of the many festivals held in downtown Boulder. Courtesy Downtown Boulder

Turn your hike into a picnic by stopping by the Boulder Farmers Market (located in Central Park at the intersection of 13th Street and Canyon Boulevard). Chris Parker Boulder CVB

Rising out of Boulder Mountain Park, Flagstaff Mountain sits about 5 miles southwest of the city.  James Hayes Getty Images

Avery Brewing Co. is just one of many Boulder breweries that offer free guided tours. Denise Chambers Boulder Convention and Visitors Bureau

The annual Colorado Shakespeare Festival is presented by the University of Colorado Boulder. It's one of the nation's few repertory groups to complete the entire Shakespeare canon. Casey Cass University of Colorado

Entertaining locals and visitors alike since 1906, this historic venue hosts everything from rock concerts to opera performances. woodleywonderworks Flickr

The Celestial Seasonings Tea Factory in northeast Boulder is the largest producer of herbal tea in North America. It produces everything from green tea to chai. Courtesy Celestial Seasonings