One of Boulder's most treasured landmarks, this outdoor pedestrian mall boasts an array of boutiques and shops peddling an assortment of goods, from music to kites to trendy clothing. Located in the heart of the city, the tree lined, brick walkway also features a regular host of street performers and unusual Boulder characters. After shopping for the perfect present or browsing one of the art galleries, spend the afternoon on one of the many cafe patios. Sip your favorite beverage, soak in the sunshine and take in the street activity. A play area for children features an assortment of boulders to climb on.

Established in 1960 to examine and explore world weather patterns and climate, NCAR (pronounced en-car) is a center that works under the auspices of the National Science Foundation. The center is housed inside a landmark building and its filled with busy doctors and scientists looking over patterns and algorithms. It also doubles as an educational center packed with interactive displays that will amaze adults and kids alike. The scenic nature trails surrounding the complex contain learning stations that explain weather patterns and there are also brochures as well that allow you to guide yourself.

Nestled in Boulder County, Eldorado Canyon State Park is an entrancing state park is a natural wonder par excellence. A paradise for climbers, mountain bikers, hikers and naturalists alike, this park is encircled by a tapestry of imposing mountain ranges and is a rock climbing and bouldering heaven. The canyon's innermost fabric once sheltered the Native Americans, today stands as a stirring canvas of aged, natural wonders. Many visitors make the trip from Boulder just to rejuvenate their bones within the forested hills and clear mountain streams. Others come just to watch the climbers or to sprawl out and enjoy a picnic, especially during long, bright summers. The park is interspersed with crisscrossing hiking trails, while its summit affords astounding views of its scenic surrounds. Further augmented by stark cliffs, seemingly-gilded rock walls, and agile waters of the South Boulder Creek, the park plays host to other activities like fishing, skiing and snowshoeing.

Located in the heart of downtown, across from the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art, is a center for Boulder life. Students lounge about on the lawn, old folks clutter the park benches, hippies contemplate life beneath the cottonwoods, and kids marvel at the park's authentic steam engine. The verdant square, filled with small waterfalls, is home to numerous festivals, along with the Farmers Market. A colorful gazebo hosts concerts in the summertime. The Boulder Creek Path runs through the center of the park.

This posh venue has graced Downtown, Boulder since 1906. Originally opened as an opera house, the historic building underwent a massive renovation in the 1980s. Located just off the Pearl Street Mall, the complex hosts nightly concerts, film screenings and other community events. While it remains a popular venue for local entertainers, the theater's cabaret-style seating, preserved art deco ornamentation and state-of-the art sound and lighting system attract national and international artists also.

More than 25,000 visitors a year show up to gander at the stars and peek at other planets in this popular planetarium on the University of Colorado campus. The heavens are on display beneath the funky dome most Friday nights during the spring semester, January to May, and are open to the public. Twice a month the planetarium goes psychedelic, performing fancy laser shows to a variety of music, including U2 and Led Zeppelin.

A visit to Boulder is not complete without a stroll or bike ride through the historic main campus of the University of Colorado. Established in 1876, the year Colorado became a state and Denver became a capital, the university reflects visions of the past while keeping with the growing technological age. The Red Rural Italian Renaissance architecture, implemented on buildings erected after 1912, lush landscaping and gorgeous views of the Flatirons make this one of the most attractive campuses in the nation. Guided tours are available.

This picturesque park, nestled at the base of the Flatirons, is one of three remaining areas from the historic Chautauqua Movement. The progressive movement, born in Chautauqua, New York, created a multitude of peaceful gathering places across the nation for educational and cultural programs. The original structures, built from 1898 to 1918, remain intact today and include such historic gems as the Dining Hall, and Academic Center. Still a prominent center for Boulder culture, the association hosts numerous activities year round, including the popular Summer Concert Series. There are hiking trails which lead up into the Flatirons and during the winter this is a popular sledding spot.

Featuring a tasting room with excellent beers on tap, the Avery Brewing Company has been producing brews since its inception in 1993. Visit this place to sample some specials straight from the brewery in addition to a dining menu which includes gourmet pizzas, sandwiches, burgers, fries, salads and wings. Try out some of their seasonal beers which have garnered acclaim in brew festivals and competitions. Tours around the Avery Brewing Company will give you deeper insight into the manufacturing process for their popular suds.

The Flatirons are a unique geological feature that are by far the most famous attraction in Boulder. Accessible through Chautauqua park and visible anywhere in the city, the Flatirons are a completely natural formation that occurred when a glacier pushed the mountains onto their sides, leaving the flattened undersides and layers of sediment visible in a way they usually aren't. The Flatirons take their name from their shape, which resembles three irons set down on the ground. A popular hiking spot, rappelling destination and visual treat in one, the Flatirons must be seen to be believed. Hidden under the cover of white snow or blazing red in the summer heat, Flatirons and its meadows filled with vibrant wildflowers, are a picturesque getaway and ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.