SIX18 TRAVEL

Although it's just shy of 30 miles away from Denver, Boulder is vastly different from its Mile High counterpart. Equal parts college town and tourist hotspot, the small city's trendy, free-spirited vibe, bubbling breweries and breathtaking mountain backdrop effortlessly attract visitors (who often become transplants). A strong focus on physical fitness and environmentally conscious practices has made bicycles one of the choice modes of transportation, and those who live here do so for the city's abundance of urban parks, its thriving arts scene and the friendly, open-minded community.

Tourists and residents alike flock to Pearl Street Mall, a four-block pedestrian mall running through Boulder's Historic Downtown; it's the perfect place to grab a bite, shop at one of the many outdoor retail stores and relax at a cozy cafe or bookshop. And no visit to Boulder is complete without a scenic walk: Choose your adventure among 155 miles of trails and 60 parks in this nature-lover's paradise. Hikers can stretch their legs on a trail to the Flatirons, while more leisurely strollers can get their exercise on the Boulder Creek Path. Come to savor a strong cup of coffee or herbal tea, tour the local breweries and enjoy seemingly endless outdoor recreation activities.