Winter has arrived, along with the new issue of Travel Boulder magazine.
This issue is all about creating new experiences and changing your routine to do something different. You might be amazed at the memories you can create when you step outside your comfort zone.
Our writers have delivered another exceptional issue, kicking it off with our winter bucket list—a suggestion of unique things to do during the winter. Take a backcountry trip to a cozy cabin or yurt. Plan a luxurious getaway to C Lazy U Ranch in Granby, or explore the ethereal ice castles in Eagle and Cripple Creek. On the way home, stop off in Denver and spend the afternoon at the Oakwell Beer Spa, a wellness experience like no other.
We visited with Laura Schaeffer, a local architect who has been helping Boulder residents design their dream homes. Imagine what she can do for your home.
The Museum of Boulder celebrates its 80th anniversary—learn more about the past, the present and the future. The museum has come a long way and is a must-visit stop in Boulder.
Chef Johnny Curiel couldn’t believe it when his Denver restaurant Alma Fonda Fina was awarded a prestigious Michelin star. He’s also bringing his culinary magic to Boulder with Cozobi Fonda Fina on Pearl Street.
Looking for a winter escape? See our recommendations for where to travel this season. Can’t get away? That’s OK, head to one of Colorado’s restaurants that will transport you to another time and place. Or, ride the rails and take a scenic train ride.
The new North Boulder Library aims to be a “third place,” somewhere outside of work and home where people can go to connect with their community. You can also catch a cozy, intimate concert at Velvet Elk Lounge, a new live music venue with delicious food and drinks.
Winter can be a dark, drab session—but with a bouquet of flowers from Arianna Floral Design, you’ll feel happier in no time. Send some to your loved ones and make their day.
Spotting wildlife in the winter is easier than you might think. Follow our guide to the best places to spot moose, elk, waterfowl and other creatures. Then, warm up with a drink at one of Colorado’s many distilleries. They produce exemplary spirits that showcase the state’s one-of-a-kind terroir locally sourced.
We hope you enjoy this issue of Travel Boulder magazine.
Thank you for reading. If you’re looking for even more great stories about Colorado, check out our websites travelboulder.com and traveldenver.com.
— John R. Brice Publisher and Co-Founder of Travel Boulder
PUBLISHER/FOUNDER
JOHN R. BRICE
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER/FOUNDER
JILL NAGEL-BRICE
EDITORIAL
EDITOR-COPY MANAGER
SARAH KUTA
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
SARAH KUTA
LAURA BEAUSIRE
BRITTANY ANAS
ALLYSON REEDY
ABIGAIL BLISS
PATRICIA KAOWTHUMRONG
ART DIRECTOR
DAISY BAUER
ADVERTISING SALES
JOHN R. BRICE
DIGITAL TEAM
DEVELOPER
DREW BARON
On the cover: Photo courtesy of Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
Copyright 2024 by Go Visit Media Co. & Travel Boulder .
All rights reserved. Any reproduction of the material in this magazine or Travel Boulder website is strictly prohibited without publisher’s permission, including original editorial, graphics, design, photography, advertising and sponsored content. Travelboulder.com and Travel Boulder magazine are published by Go Visit Media Co., Boulder CO 80304 | Phone: 720-708-6803
TOP: Courtesy of Grand Canyon Railway; BOTTOM: Courtesy of Casa Bonita
Courtesy of A.J. Mellor
7 Unique Things to Do in Colorado This Winter
By Abigail Bliss
With premier resorts all across the state, skiing is an obvious winter pastime for many Coloradans. But there’s more to winter than lift lines and speedy laps. What about gliding your way to a five-course dinner or embarking on a hut trip between iconic mountain towns?
Other seasonal attractions include magical ice castles, charming sleigh rides and skating on a scenic alpine lake. Add these unique experiences to your Colorado bucket list this winter.
1
Follow Crested Butte Nordic Trails to a Yurt
Serving a Feast
Nordic trails in Crested Butte hum peacefully in the winter, with only the soft swish of skis and the crunch of snowshoes filling the air. But sounds crescendo as guests approach a stove-heated yurt hidden amid the pines. Within its 40-seat dining room, chef Tim Egelhoff prepares a five-course dinner with options like lamb osso buco and winter vegetable casserole. Wine, beer and cocktails made with local Montanya Distillers spirits add to the revelry.
After your feast, make your way back to the trailhead alongside an optional guide, admiring the blanket of stars above this one-mile route. Beginners are welcome, and rental equipment and trail passes are included in this experience. cbnordic.org
2 Plan a Luxurious Getaway to C Lazy U Ranch in Granby
C Lazy U Ranch effortlessly balances luxury with outdoor adventure, earning it prestigious travel awards and countless positive reviews. This all-inclusive guest ranch has welcomed visitors to Granby since 1919 and, even in the winter, activities abound. These include snowmobiling, ice hockey and skating, sledding and tubing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and scenic horseback rides, as well as festive sleigh rides across its 8,500 pristine acres. Exclusive ski packages are also available, providing access to the slopes at nearby Granby Ranch and Winter Park Resort.
Between the excitement, warm up and recover with amenities like its new adults-only spa lounge, which features a fire pit, hot tub and sauna with Continental Divide views. Families will also love this getaway, as private cabins have up to three bedrooms and on-site dining accommodates various preferences. clazyu.com
TOP: Courtesy of Jeremy Swanson
Marvel an Ice Age Discovery in Snowmass Village
Home to a world-class ski resort, fine dining restaurants and slopeside chalets, this Roaring Fork Valley destination is far from a secret. But newcomers to Snowmass may not realize that in 2010, a construction project unearthed a massive collection of mastodon fossils. The bones of other extinct animals also turned up, including giant sloths, mammoths and camels, suggesting that Snowmass was once one of the most remarkable, high-altitude Ice Age ecosystems.
Learn more about these prehistoric finds at the new Ice Age Discovery experience, which launched in 2023. Grab a free Ice Age Passport, then make your way around the village gathering clues and answering questions. Admire the three murals on the Snowmass Mall and in Snowmass Base Village, which were created by artists Jeremy Collins, Bunnie Reiss and Kris Hewitt (aka Studio Kronk). And while skiing the green Dawdler ski run beneath the Village Express lift, look for the three education stations that make up the Discovery Trail. snowmassiceage.com
Explore Ethereal Ice Castles in Eagle and Cripple Creek
Ice castles surprise and delight visitors with their fairytale-like scenes made up of glowing caverns, lofty archways and snug passages—all entirely made from ice. Other features, like slippery slides, provide all-ages entertainment, while sculptures and frosty thrones add to the seemingly endless photo opportunities.
By popular demand, Cripple Creek will re-open its outpost this winter, and a new location is set to open in Eagle come December. Consider experiencing these attractions at night, as colorful lights and starry skies make them even more dazzling. To keep from becoming an icicle yourself, warm up by one of several fire pits with a steaming cup of hot cocoa. icecastles.com
Play Ice Hockey or Broomball on Evergreen Lake
An hour south of Boulder lies Evergreen Lake, the largest Zamboni-groomed outdoor ice rink in the world. It spans 8.5 acres and offers several activities, from public ice skating and introductory classes to pick-up pond hockey. Groups can also reserve a rink to play broomball, a sport that blends hockey and soccer strategies. Broomball equipment, as well as skate rentals, can be collected from the Evergreen Lake House.
Though the forest and mountain views surrounding this attraction are beautiful, it can get chilly in the high country. Bundle up and pack a thermos of hot cocoa, or stop by EverBean Coffee Co. near the north shore for a warm treat. evergreenrecreation.com
Ski from Aspen to Vail on a Hut Trip with Paragon Guides
Despite skiing’s popularity, few Coloradans have embarked on a backcountry hut trip—and the state has one of the most extensive networks in the country. But in fairness, setting off into the wilderness is daunting without prior experience. Interested newcomers may benefit from a planned excursion with Paragon Guides. It operates within the 10th Mountain Division network that connects 38 huts across a 350-mile stretch of glistening snow.
While Paragon Guides mostly caters to private parties, it will allow individuals to sign up for three group trips this coming February and March. The two-night Vail Pass Loop tour is a fantastic introduction, with opportunities to ski above treeline and through gorgeous glades. Meanwhile, those with more experience can embark on the pinnacle of hut trips: A five-night guided journey from Aspen to Vail. paragonguides.com
Read More Online: travelboulder.com/live-like-a-cowboy-during-a-trip-to-a-coloradodude-ranch
ABOVE: Courtesy of Evergreen Park and Recreation District; BELOW: Courtesy of From the Hip Photo
FEATURING
Matthildur • Vilagallo
Rafaello Rossi • AG
Daniella Lehavi Velvet • Porto
Soak and Sip at Oakwell Beer Spa in Denver
Breweries are popular après-ski outposts during the winter months. But for a cozy, elevated take, spend an afternoon at Oakwell Beer Spa. Located in Denver’s Five Points neighborhood, this wellness haven features an infrared sauna, zero-gravity massage chairs and beer bath hydrotherapy. Each private tub contains a blend of hops, barley and herbs, which are said to promote blood flow, reduce inflammation and provide a range of other mind and body benefits.
Enjoy soaking while sipping local craft brews from its rotating tap wall and don’t miss offerings from its new enhancement menu. These include artisan bonbons and charcuterie, extended massage sessions and more. oakwell.com
THIS PAGE: Courtesy of Kelsey Huffer/Poppy and Co.;
TOP
Courtesy of David Lauer; TOP RIGHT and BOTTOM RIGHT: Courtesy of Dane Cronin
The Harmonious Homes of Architect Laura Schaeffer
By Laura Beausire
fter dwelling in Boulder for two decades, architect Laura Schaeffer has a heightened appreciation for what makes the city so special. “Boulder is a truly inspiring place to live and work,” Schaeffer says. “The stunning natural landscape provides endless creative inspiration, and the community’s commitment to sustainability and innovation mirrors my own design values.”
For the last decade, Schaeffer has been helping Boulder residents design their dream homes. Today, she focuses exclusively on residential projects, and she’s gained an especially strong reputation for her work with older homes. “Boulder features a mix of architectural styles, from historic buildings to modern, cutting-edge designs,” she says. “This diversity provides architects with a broad canvas to explore different design philosophies and techniques.” Here, she shares her views on Boulder’s architectural scene.
Why do you concentrate on residential work?
Each project is a unique opportunity to create spaces that reflect the individuality of the clients and provide a high level of detail and personalized attention to each project. I believe my strength lies in my ability to merge an existing
Courtesy of David Lauer;
Courtesy of Dane Cronin
house with a deep understanding of my clients’ personal needs and desires. My approach is highly collaborative, ensuring that each project is a true reflection of the clients’ vision. Builder Joel Smiley is at the center of all collaboration too, which creates a seamless transition from design to the built product.
Do you have a signature style?
While I don’t adhere to a single signature style, my work often features a harmonious blend of historic design with natural materials. I focus on creating spaces that are open, light-filled, and seamlessly connected to their natural surroundings. This approach helps in crafting homes that feel both comfortable and rooted in their particular environment.
Why do you like historic home projects?
Working with historic homes is a particular passion of mine. I enjoy the challenge of preserving the unique character and charm of older properties while integrating modern comforts and efficiencies. My approach involves careful research and respect for the original architecture, combined with thoughtful updates that respect the home’s historical significance while meeting contemporary needs.
Tell us about a couple of your favorites.
Recently, we completed an interior remodel of a 1902 shingle-style house in the Mapleton Hill neighborhood. The particular house sits nicely on the lot and has ‘good bones,’ justifying a modern-day renovation for its current owners who, thankfully, respect the past. The interior restoration was reliant upon a 21st-century aesthetic, the use of quality natural materials and a casual ease of living. Our goal was to create a bright future for
Schaeffer Visits to Get Inspired LOCAL SPOTS
The Dushanbe Teahouse
This stunning spot is not just about the tea, but also the ambiance. The architecture and art create a calming environment that’s great for reflection.
Boulder Book Store
A gem for book lovers, this independent bookstore often hosts events and readings that can spark creative ideas. It’s also a nice place to browse for inspiration.
Mount Sanitas Trail
This trail offers a good workout and incredible views of Boulder and the surrounding area. The climb up to the summit is rewarding and often provides a clear mind for creative thinking.
Eldorado Canyon State Park
Just a short drive from Boulder, Eldorado Canyon offers breathtaking views, dramatic rock formations and a range of trails. It’s perfect for a longer day trip to recharge.
the family that calls this residence home.
The Maxwell House, another recently finished remodel in Mapleton Hill, is literally born again, better than ever. This Boulder historic residence, built in 1904, is a one-anda-half-story wood frame dwelling on a raised stone foundation designed in the Edwardian vernacular. We wanted to bring back the original, arched, second-floor balcony and the decorative roof details which had been filled in by previous owners, and we actually discovered the old framing embedded in the wall during reconstruction. This long-standing residence has been thoroughly refreshed to its aesthetic and functional best—pristine, inviting and loaded with charm, ready for the next hundred years at least.
Is there a “Boulder style” when it comes to architecture?
Boulder architecture often emphasizes a strong connection to nature, with a preference for natural materials and energy-efficient design. There’s a noticeable trend toward integrating the outdoors with indoor living spaces, reflecting the city’s appreciation for both natural beauty and sustainability. This style typically features
large windows, natural stone and open floor plans that harmonize with the surrounding landscape.
Is there something that clients are really asking for lately?
Recently, I’ve noticed a growing interest in creating homes that support multi-generational living and flexible use. Clients are looking for spaces that can adapt over time, such as rooms that can serve multiple functions or flexible layouts that accommodate changing family dynamics.
Are there any architectural gems in Boulder that you recommend to people?
A walking tour of Mapleton Hill in Boulder is a fantastic way to experience the area’s historic charm and architectural variety. Mapleton Hill is one of Boulder’s oldest neighborhoods, and it features a mix of beautifully preserved homes, interesting architectural styles and lovely tree-lined streets.
Read More Online: travelboulder.com/meet-the-architects
Photo courtesy of David Lauer
80 Years of the Museum of Boulder
By Brittany Anas
Iwas recently browsing an exhibit at the Museum of Boulder with executive director Christopher Taylor when my eyes locked on a 20-inch plexiglass cube and a tattered tube wrapped in red, yellow and green tape. The props belonged to Ibashi-i, who recently passed away and was a longtime fixture of Boulder, performing his “Rastafarian yoga” on the Pearl Street Mall with grand finales that included folding his 6-foot body into the containers—a feat of flexibility that you’d have to see to believe.
In that moment, memories came flooding back to me and I could hear I-bashi’s refrain of “Everyone, everyone look at me!” and “Showtime!” as he contorted himself like a pipe cleaner. The show was one of my favorites as a kid: For a few years in a row, my birthday request was to go to Boulder to watch the street performers—the zip code man, the flamethrowers, the jugglers and, of course, Ibashi-I.
This moment of nostalgia, Taylor tells me later, is an example of the exact type of connection the museum has tried to create for visitors over the last eight decades. “It can tie us all together as a region,” he says.
There’s also the wonder that the museum sparks—the thoughts of, “I didn’t know this happened here” that might arise when you view the exhibit featuring Caribou Ranch, a destination recording studio that welcomed Elton John, the Beach Boys, Chicago, Amy Grant and more. “It’s the Abbey Road of the West,” Taylor says.
In a way, the museum can act as an ambassador for newcomers, too.
“New people come here all the time—whether they’re a student or a tech worker—and they want to find out something about the Front Range community they’re moving to,” Taylor says.
The museum officially turned 80 this year and, in honor
Photo courtesy of Benjamin Buren/Alive Studios
of the milestone, here’s a look at the iconic cultural institution’s past, present and future.
THE PAST: THE BOULDER HISTORICAL SOCIETY GETS ITS START
A.A. “Gov” Paddock, former publisher of the Daily Camera, had a penchant for preserving history.
Back in the 1920s and ‘30s, the newspaperman collected stories from community members and gathered items to put on display at the Boulder County courthouse—everything from tea cups to wedding gowns to spurs.
The collection continued to grow and, on Oct. 10, 1944, Paddock along with other community leaders (including Eben G. Fine, aka “Mr. Boulder,” founded the Boulder Historical Society. The organization has grown over the decades, changing names and moving locations several times. Today, it operates as the nonprofit Museum of Boulder.
One fascinating way to time travel at the museum is through an interactive display that imagines what Boulder would look like today had key decisions been made differently.
For instance, in 1877, Boulder elected to be the home of a university rather than a prison. On the screen, the University of Colorado’s earthy red tile roof that defines aerial shots is juxtaposed with the would-be barbed-wire fences and concrete buildings set among the foothills should Boulder have gone the prison route.
Another point in the timeline imagines what Boulder would like with high-rise buildings, which are banned by the city’s 55-foot roof limit.
THE PRESENT: TELLING THE STORIES OF BOULDER
These days, the Museum of Boulder has a permanent home just north of Pearl Street at 2205 Broadway and a collection that now numbers 50,000 items, ranging from Olympic sports gear to a horse-drawn sleigh as well as typewriters, mining equipment, weather balloons and more.
Young visitors can let their imaginations run wild in spaces like the Playzeum and the Google Garage.
The Boulder Experience Gallery gives an overview of Boulder’s history, and tells stories of the people, passions and industries that shape the city. The gallery covers the history of Boulder from the earliest days of Native American inhabitants through to present day. Here, you can see highlights that include everything from Boulder’s outdoors prowess (check out the long skirts and lace-up boots women hiked in during the 1890s) to the city’s pioneering natural foods companies and scientific advances, like the building
of the Kepler telescope by Ball Aerospace.
The museum’s “Proclaiming Colorado’s Black History” exhibit focuses on themes that include how African Americans built community in the state, as well as business and entrepreneurship, the arts, social justice and civil rights, and afrofuturism.
The exhibit tells the stories of individuals like Dr. Justina Ford, Colorado’s first Black female physician who was known as “the baby doctor” because she delivered 7,000 babies. Learn about Barney Ford, an escaped slave who mined gold in Breckenridge, but left the mountains amid racist threats and went on to start successful restaurants and hotels. Led by lead curator Adrian Miller, the “Soul Food Scholar,” the exhibit will be on display until September 2025.
THE FUTURE: UPCOMING EXHIBITS
So, what’s next for the Museum of Boulder?
While the museum held its official 80th anniversary party in October, the celebration will continue throughout the year with free admission on Fridays.
The museum is also looking forward to upcoming exhibits, starting with one on allyship that will debut in March 2025 and honor Clela Rorex, a Boulder County clerk who issued marriage licenses to same-sex couples in 1975, as well as Penfield Tate II, Boulder’s first black mayor, who served on the council from 1972 to 1976 and was a lead advocate for the LGBT community.
Other future exhibits include “Boulder Eats,” which will run from November 2025 to June 2026, exploring the region’s culinary and agricultural history, one in 2027 that explores music traditions and another planned for 20272028 that focuses on counter-culture, activism and hippies.
Read More Online: travelboulder.com/museum-of-boulder-new-executive-director
Photo courtesy of Benjamin Buren/Alive Studios
Chef Johnny Curiel Get to Know
By Sarah Kuta
Chef Johnny Curiel almost couldn’t believe it when he learned that his Denver restaurant Alma Fonda Fina had been awarded a prestigious Michelin star in September. “Is this real?” he recalls thinking. “We had no idea and no expectations.”
But as the shock began to wear off and the news began to sink in, Curiel realized the award was a resounding endorsement of all the hard work he and his team have put in over the last year. “It was the biggest pat on the back that anyone could ever give me,” he says. “It reinforced that we’re doing the right things in the right way.”
And it’s been quite a busy year. Curiel and his wife, Kasie, opened Alma Fonda Fina in Denver’s LoHi neighborhood in December 2023. Roughly six months later, Curiel opened another eatery, Cozobi Fonda Fina, on Pearl Street in Boulder. And he’s not done yet: Up next, he’s opening Mezcaleria Alma, a Mexico City-inspired eatery in the space next door to Alma Fonda Fina. We sat down with Curiel to learn more about his journey and his ambitions—here’s what he had to say.
You grew up in a family of chefs in Guadalajara and Breckenridge. How did that influence your passion for food and cooking?
My upbringing has everything to do with who I am and the career I wanted to pursue from a young age. I grew up in a house full of chefs who love to cook and take care of other people. So, naturally, hospitality was a huge part of what shaped me to be who I am today. I always knew that this is who I am and this is who I’m supposed to be.
What’s your philosophy as a chef and restaurateur?
My sole focus is to share the beauty and greatness of Mexico through food—the food I ate as a kid in the way I grew up eating it. In the world we live in, it’s easy to lose sight of the beauty of other cultures, so I am honored to be able to share my Mexican pride with others through food – the one thing that brings everyone together.
What’s your approach to leadership? And how have you cultivated your leadership style?
My family instilled leadership in me from a young age, so I’d say it comes pretty naturally to me. I’ve been lucky enough to surround myself with other natural leaders like Richard Sandoval and Troy Guard who helped shape me as a leader. I carved out my own lane and leadership style as I moved around in the industry—taking some insight from the people I was surrounded with and learning important lessons—to become who I am today.
It’s obvious that you really value your team at Alma Fonda Fina and Cozobi Fonda Fina. How have you cultivated the workplace culture in these two kitchens?
Our biggest thing as a team is respect. We all respect each other and understand the importance of each person’s role. It truly takes a village, and acknowledging that really
helps our kitchen and dining room teams come together and work symbiotically.
We’ve built a culture where everyone listens to each other, takes feedback with grace and talks about their wins and failures transparently. We can all agree on having the same goal and putting our best foot forward to get there. It’s one team, one dish at a time. We all push toward the same goal collectively.
Diners have a lot of choices these days. What do you think is really resonating with them at Alma Fonda Fina and Cozobi Fonda Fina? Why do they keep coming back?
Guests go out to have great food, but the level of service and hospitality is what makes them feel valued. When you come into (the restaurants), you’re treated like family. We make a conscious effort to remember guest notes and memorize faces to welcome people back time and time
again. Excellent hospitality makes someone feel truly a part of the community, and we believe that is what sets us apart.
Opening two restaurants in roughly six months is a major undertaking. What do you do to take care of yourself and your team?
We have an incredibly strong team. We’re grateful to have the best chefs, best cooks, best managers and the best wait staff who are all equally hardworking and dedicated. We always encourage the team to take care of themselves. We listen to our employee’s needs and give them the tools to succeed. We’re proud to be able to say that everyone on our team has gone away at some point in the past six months for a seven- to 10-day vacation, including myself and Kasie.
What do you like to cook on your days off?
Nothing! Although I do cook for my son, Junior. I cook him a killer egg, ham and cheese breakfast sandwich in the mornings. Besides that, our favorite takeout spots are Mile High Thai and Mizu Izakaya.
Why did you decide to open your second restaurant in Boulder? What do you love about this community?
Boulder is really where I started my career in Colorado. My last role in Boulder was at Centro as the executive chef. And while that was a great experience, I was still cooking someone else’s food. The Boulder community had always been so great to me, so I felt like I owed it to them to come back to cook my own food and be 100 percent myself. When the opportunity came up, I thought, why not go back to where it all started? Cozobi Fonda Fina fits really well into Boulder’s dining scene. There are a handful of great restaurants but no one is cooking authentic Mexican in a contemporary way. It felt like the perfect fit at the perfect time.
Read More Online: travelboulder.com/2024-colorado-michelin-restaurants
Winter Getaways
By Sarah Kuta
So many destinations to visit, so little time.
Courtesy of The Brando
THINGS TO DO
GETAWAYS
The world is wide and your bucket list is long—which is why there’s no time like the present to plan a trip. You might be tempted to save up all of your PTO for summer, but winter can be equally as magical, with smaller crowds, more affordable accommodations and experiences ranging from adventurous to cozy. Here’s where to go this winter.
Get a Lesson in Skiing History in Sun Valley, Idaho
Take a trip back in time to the early, glamorous days of skiing— without sacrificing modern creature comforts. Founded in 1936, Sun Valley was the first destination ski resort in America and the birthplace of the chairlift. In the early years—and thanks to a sophisticated advertising campaign—it became a favorite destination of the rich and famous, from Clark Gable and Errol Flynn to Lucille Ball and Marilyn Monroe. Later, several members of the Kennedy family skied at Sun Valley, and Ernest Hemingway loved the region so much he bought a house here.
These days, Sun Valley is still just as chic and luxurious, but with a mellow, laid-back vibe that appeals to skiers and snowboarders from all backgrounds—not just the rich and famous. After hopping on a nonstop flight to nearby Hailey, Idaho, check into Limelight Ketchum, a sister property to the Limelights in Snowmass and Aspen (and the one that’s currently under construction on The Hill in Boulder). Skiing is the main attraction, but there’s plenty to do off the slopes—from soaking in natural hot springs to stargazing to admiring masterpieces at the Sun Valley Museum of Art. limelighthotels.com/ketchum and visitsunvalley.com
Reconnect With What Matters in French Polynesia
After the frenzy of the holidays, you deserve a break—and there’s no better place to recharge (or rekindle your romance) than French Polynesia, the unbelievably beautiful group of islands and atolls in the South Pacific Ocean.
For a swoon-worthy sway, snag
BOTTOM LEFT and TOP RIGHT: Courtesy of Switzerland Tourism
an overwater bungalow at InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa. You’ll wake up to views of bright turquoise waters, then spend the day swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking or just lounging by the pool or on the beach. Each evening, watch the sun retreat behind Mount Otemanu as you sip a Mai Tai under twinkle lights.
MIDDLE: Courtesy of Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa
Afterward, splurge on a few days at The Brando, the eco-friendly, private island resort owned by the estate of late actor Marlon Brando. From your secluded villa tucked among the coconut trees, you’ll be able to walk right down to the beach of the protected lagoon without seeing a soul—except for a few soaring seabirds and maybe a hermit crab or two. Snorkel, swim with whales, go birding, learn about Polynesian culture, kayak, explore archaeological sites or just relax—all while enjoying unparalleled hospitality and fine-dining cuisine.
Aside from being absolutely dreamy, the Brando is a model of sustainability, with features like a sea water air conditioning system that uses water from the cold, dark depths of the ocean to cool down its accommodations. Scientists are also conducting cutting-edge research here, on everything from seabird populations to rat eradication and more. thalasso.intercontinental.com and thebrando.com
Pretend You’re in a Wintry Fairytale in Gstaad, Switzerland
You’ll feel like you’re inside a snowglobe in Gstaad, a fairy tale-esque mountain town in Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland. Here, you can live out all of your Swiss Alps ski vacation dreams, with more than 120
miles of ski runs dotted with picturesque traditional chalets.
Break up all the shredding by renting a “fondue backpack” and snowshoeing to a giant, human-sized fondue pot with views of the mountains to enjoy a cheesy feast. (For even more cheese, book a guided, candlelight tasting tour of Molkerei Gstaad’s subterranean cheese grotto—aka the “cheese cathedral”—where more than 3,000 wheels of cheese are aging to perfection.)
For a truly unique experience, head to Glacier 3000, where you can ski on a glacier, walk across the world’s only suspension bridge that connects two peaks, take a dog sled ride and more.
After a day of adventuring, retreat to your room at the Alpina Gstaad, an absolutely exquisite 5-star hotel nestled above town. Book a massage at the Six Senses Spa, admire the extensive art collection, dine at the Michelin-starred restaurant Sommet by Martin Göschel or just sit on your expansive balcony and take in the mountain views. gstaad.ch
Check Off an Item on Your Bucket List in Antarctica
Waddling penguins. Hulking icebergs. Towering mountains. Graceful whales. Impressive whales. You can see all this and more in Antarctica, an otherworldly, bucket-list destination that’s easiest to reach during the winter (which corresponds with summer in the Southern Hemisphere). Dozens of cruise lines can take you there. But for a mellow, upscale experience, I recommend booking with Viking, which has two brand new ships sailing to the White Continent: Viking Polaris and Viking Octantis.
After an overnight stay in Buenos Aires, Argentina, you’ll hop on a Viking-chartered flight to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Here, you’ll board the ship, get comfortable and set off across the famed Drake Passage. Once you reach the Antarctic Peninsula, you’ll climb aboard a Zodiac boat to reach land, where you can hike around with guides. You can also kayak, take a speedboat ride or board a bright
TOP LEFT: Courtesy of Switzerland Tourism; BOTTOM RIGHT: Courtesy of Viking Cruises
yellow submarine to explore the depths of the Southern Ocean. Back onboard, feast on gourmet meals, look for whales out the window, unwind in the spa, attend science lectures and more. vikingcruises.com
Experience the Majesty of Nature Central Nebraska
Hop in the car and make the 6-hour drive east to central Nebraska—yes, you read that right, Nebraska. But why? In February, March and April, hundreds of thousands of sandhill cranes congregate along the Platte River between Grand Island and North Platte. These tall gray birds use corn kernels left over from the previous year’s harvest to fatten up as they migrate north to their breeding grounds in Alaska, Canada and eastern Siberia. Even if you don’t consider yourself much of a birder, these winged creatures are worth the road trip. Watching thousands of birds take flight at the same time is truly awe-inspiring, and their loud, rattling bugle calls will forever be etched in your memory. But don’t just take my word for it: Jane Goodall, the world-renowned primatologist, makes a point of visiting during the sandhill crane migration whenever she can. visitnebraska. com/sandhill-crane-migration
At the newly opened North Boulder Library, patrons can come to Studio 24, a makerspace, to learn how to sew, knit, tuft a rug, fix a microwave, make an upcycled Halloween costume with a designer or create custom rubber stamps for holiday cards and gift wrap.
The library also hosts storytimes and, next year will open a playground— complete with a sunshine-yellow slide that gives kids a direct route from inside the library to the play area. A community garden is also in the works.
Of course, these amenities are all in addition to the well-stocked bookshelves, plus the meeting rooms and study spaces.
Photos courtesy of Nortrh Boulder Library
“While we prioritized having an inclusive and fresh collection of books, we also realize that libraries are much more than just books, which is why we also relied on the library design to incorporate so many spaces for people to gather, work, study, play and learn,” says Celine Cooper, the branch manager of the NoBo Library.
After decades of planning and construction, the new $16.1 million NoBo Library finally made its debut in June 2024 at 4500 13th Street. Here’s a look inside.
Creating a ‘Third Space’ in North Boulder
The NoBo Library aims to be a “third place”—a term coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg to define the places outside of work and home where people can go to connect with their community.
Plans for the NoBo Library first sprouted up some 30 years ago, and it’s actually the first new library to be built in Boulder in 50 years. The 11,000-square-foot space replaced the NoBo Corner Library, which was a small, 570-squarefoot outpost that was mostly used for dropping off and picking up library books.
In recent years, the role of libraries has shifted, Cooper says: “Now more than ever people are coming to libraries to work remotely, host meetings, take classes and learn something new.”
Before they started to design the new library, planners reached out to the community to hear about their priorities. Some themes that came up in this process included having quiet and calm spaces with views of the Foothills, as well as having an outdoor play area for children so families could come and check out books or enjoy storytime and stay a little longer.
The community’s needs informed the bright, open design of the library, the addition of the Studio 24 makerspace, and the abundant natural light, Cooper says.
“I love the large windows throughout the whole building,” she adds. “They make it feel as though you’re right in the mountains and connected to the community.”
Work Architecture Company (WORKac), based in New York, was the architecture firm behind the NoBo Library project.
Beyond the design, the library’s Collection Services team knocked it out of the park with purchasing a collection that is fresh, fun, inclusive and responsive to the needs of the community, Cooper says. About 11 percent of the library’s collection is in Spanish, and that stretches across all ages and mediums, allowing the library to expand its reach to even more community members.
The library also has strong, reliable WiFi, which was a major bonus to North Boulder residents.
A Musical Walkway and a Makerspace Gets Creativity Flowing
Adding a little bit of whimsy to the library is a musical walkway. The art piece called Nuages was designed by Daily Tous le Jours, a Montreal group whose projects have been described as “infrastructure for the human spirit.” The walkway, which is a fun way to access the library’s upper entrance, features 44 interactive lines and eight speakers. When you step, tip-toe, shuffle, dance or jump on the walkway, it creates a tune or plays a short audio composition. The more people interacting with the piece, the more rich and complex the soundscape becomes.
“It’s really unique, and I’ve seen people of all ages engage with it,” Cooper says.
Also housed at NoBo Library is BoulderReads and Studio 24, which allows the library to host everything from GED and digital literacy classes to screen printing and soldering to storytime and summer reading programs. Open studios at Studio 24 also allow library-goers to learn how to use equipment like sewing machines, design software and dye sublimation printers, which transfer images onto fabric.
Next up for the NoBo Library is a playground and patio featuring a log tangle, a spinner, a sandy play area, picnic tables, shade sails, a garden, an outdoor maker space and more.
The Boulder Public Library District is also planning to open a new library branch in the summer of 2025, bringing its count up to six. The Gunbarrel branch will be located across from the King Soopers shopping center in the former 1st Bank building at 6500 Lookout Road.
7 Colorado restaurants that will transport you to another time and place
By Allyson Reedy
Good food and drink tastes even better in a unique setting. At these restaurants, it’s all about the vibe, because why eat Mexican food in a mediocre setting when you can eat Mexican food next to a 30-foot waterfall and a taco puppet show? From sipping a Mai Tai on the beach to hoisting a stein in Bavaria, these spots will take you to another place and time, no plane ticket or time machine required.
When you want to go: To tea in Tajikistan
Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse
Probably the most transportive spot in town, the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse is, to put it as eloquently as we can, freaking stunning. It all started in the 1980s, on an oh-soBoulder quest for peace and harmony via a sister city. Our latitude twin Dushanbe, Tajikistan, got the nod, and 40 generous Tajik artisans got to work hand-carving and painting the work-of-art teahouse to commemorate the sister city bond.
It was then disassembled, packed up, shipped here and rebuilt before it eventually opened to the public in 1998. You could stare at the carved plaster panels, colorful tiles, dozen cedar columns and centerpiece fountain for hours and still not see everything, so instead of taking up a table
THIS PAGE: Photos courtesy of Joni Schrantz/Bohemian Biergarten
all day, you’ll probably want to make multiple trips here. The 100-plus teas and Michelin-recommended global menu aren’t too shabby, either. 1770 13th St., Boulder, boulderteahouse.com
When you want to go: To a tropical beach
Swaylo’s Tiki Restaurant & Bar
It’s hard to believe that just a few years back, this thatch-roofed, puffer fish light-filled bar was just another Outback Steakhouse. But the steaks have been swapped for spam musubi and the Bloomin’ Onions have been replaced by mango shrimp at Longmont’s first tiki bar. Here, you can sip Mai Tais and Zombies and gaze upon all kinds of quirky nautical decor—including a massive pirate ship bar. Grab a frozen piña colada and pretend you’re on an island somewhere—not 5,000 feet above sea level in the middle of a snowstorm.
1315 Dry Creek Dr., Longmont, swaylostiki.com
When
you want to go: Back in time
The Sink
To experience Boulder, like to really, truly experience Boulder, you have to go to The Sink. The cartoon-, art-, graffiti- and scribble-covered walls and ceilings should probably be deemed a historic landmark, and not just because the divey pizza and beer joint is where Robert Redford worked as a janitor in the 1950s. (But he really did!) Some of the wall murals, including the iconic Sink Angel and Sink Devil, were painted by beatnik artists, and there’s no better place than inside these hallowed walls to transport you back to Boulder as it used to be. Enjoy more than 100 years of history in a single meal (or two).
1165 13th St., Boulder, thesink.com
When you want to go: To Mexico, but with puppets and South Park characters
Casa Bonita
Stepping into the 50-year-old pink palace isn’t just like visiting another place, it’s like entering an entirely different dimension. One where teenagers dive off 30-foot waterfalls, taco puppets hold court, South Park’s Cartman always mans a table and a guy named Black Bart has a mysterious cave. If this sounds kind of strange, well, it is, but it’s also downright magical. Plan on spending a few
TOP and BOTTOM:
Courtesy of Casa Bonita; MIDDLE:
Courtesy of The Sink
hours exploring the 52,000-square-foot wonderland, maybe not raving about the food and raising your table flag for sopaipillas at least twice.
6715 W. Colfax Ave., Lakewood, casabonitadenver.com
When you want to go: To a European pub, preferably during Oktoberfest
Bohemian Biergarten
Sometimes you just need to hoist a stein full of Hefeweizen in a rustic old tavern where lederhosen and dirndls are perfectly acceptable attire. Noticing Boulder’s lack of European-style pubs, a Czech Republic native got to work filling the jägerschnitzel-sized hole in Boulder’s eating and drinking scene. The result is Bohemian Biergarten, an early 20th-century inspired European gastropub, complete with tables and chairs carved from 150-year-old reclaimed lumber, vintage light fixtures and authentic German glassware. Prost!
2017 13th St., Boulder, bohemianbiergarten.com
When you want to go: To the Japanese countryside Domo
When the weather’s nice and spring has sprung, Domo’s tranquil, cherry tree-filled garden might be the best table in town. But
THIS PAGE:
Photos courtesy of Joni
Schrantz/Bohemian Biergarten
even in the deadest of winter, Domo’s Japanese farmhouse-style interior makes nearby Colfax Avenue feel a million miles away. Loaded with a museum’s worth of Japanese fans, dishes, tools and other artifacts, and anchored by an old cotton tree from the property, it’s impossible not to feel at peace in this very special setting. The traditional Japanese fare of curry, dipping udon noodles and katsu don is just as delectable as the atmosphere. 1365 Osage St., Denver, facebook.com/domorestaurantdenver
When you want to go: Back to mid-century Rome
Stella’s Cucina
Stella’s nondescript gray door and ho-hum entry probably won’t have you expecting much out of the Italian bistro. But once you walk through the hallway that leads to the dining room, your jaw will be on the floor. The super-chic, art deco-inspired room is unlike any place in town, with style on par with the most cosmopolitan cities. There’s a lot of curves, white and sheen, but there’s also a whole lot of good food and drink—Stella’s Cucina comes with the Michelin Guide’s recommendation, too. 1123 Walnut St., Boulder, stellascucina.com
Read More Online: travelboulder.com/adventure-dining-in-colorado
THIS PAGE:
Photos courtesy of Stella's Cucina
Photo courtesy of Joni Schrantz/Bohemian Biergarten
Winter Wonderland
On the Rails
By Sarah Kuta
When snowflakes start to fly, Colorado’s already stunning landscapes somehow become even more beautiful. One of the best ways to take in the winter views? While gazing out the window of a train, gliding across the tracks like a skier schussing across the snow.
Imagine this: As the chilly scenery passes by outside, you’re tucked inside a warm, cozy railcar—likely, with a hot cocoa or an adult beverage in hand. If this sounds like an idyllic way to spend the day, book a seat on one of these Colorado winter trains.
Winter Park Express
Ski traffic can be downright brutal. So, why not ditch your car and try taking a relaxing train journey instead?
On the next powder day, treat yourself to a ride on the Winter Park Express, aka the “ski train.” Offered by Amtrak and Winter Park Resort, this scenic journey takes away all of the stress of driving to the slopes. After you stow your skis and boots, all that’s left to do is kick back and take in the views. Rather than gripping your steering wheel
Photo courtesy of Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
and swearing at traffic, you can play cards, snack, read a book, take a nap or just look out the window at the snowdusted Rockies.
The two-hour journey starts at Denver Union Station, which recently underwent an $11 million makeover. (Make life easy on yourself and book a room at the newly renovated Crawford hotel for the night before your departure.)
After the train chugs out of Denver, it climbs west into the mountains, cutting through the Continental Divide via the 6.2-mile-long Moffat Tunnel. Once the train pulls into the station near Winter Park, it’s just a short walk to the slopes. You can ride there and back the same day, or extend your trip and spend even more time exploring Winter Park’s 3,081 acres of terrain.
The Winter Park Express runs from January to March. winterparkresort.com
Cascade Canyon Winter Train
Travel back in time to 1882, the year the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad first started rolling down the tracks through the San Juan Mountains, with a ride on the Cascade Canyon Winter Train. Maybe you’ve taken the train between Durango and Silverton before during the summer, but it’s a completely different—and equally as magical—experience in the winter.
Inside your plush train car, you’ll stay nice and cozy as the chilly world passes by outside—sort of like a reverse snowglobe. After departing the Durango Depot, the train follows the Animas River into the mountains, providing incredible views of the San Juan National Forest. At the halfway point, you’ll stop for an hour-long layover to snap photos of the snow-dusted evergreens, take a walk in the fresh air or enjoy a fireside boxed lunch.
At the end of the 5.25-hour roundtrip journey, scope out the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Museum, which offers 12,000 square feet of artifacts, equipment and gear connected to the history of railroading.
The Cascade Canyon Winter Train is offered from November through May. During the holidays, you can also book The Polar Express Train ride. durangotrain.com
The
Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway
The seasons vary wildly at 14,115 feet above sea level, the elevation at the Pikes Peak summit. And, since the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway operates yearround, you have a chance to experience them all—from colorful wildflowers in the spring to golden-yellow aspens in the fall.
Winter is a particularly stunning time to ride the newly refreshed railway, which dates back to 1891. Because snowfall helps decrease the amount of dust and the humidity tends to be low, the air is super clear, meaning you’ll be able to see for miles. As the train makes its way along the nine-mile route,
TOP LEFT: Courtesy of Grand Canyon Railway; TOP RIGHT: Courtesy of The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway; BOTTOM RIGHT: Courtesy of Winter Park Resort
you’ll be riding the highest cog railroad in the world.
When you reach the top, head inside the brand new summit visitor center to snag one of the famous Pikes Peak donuts and check out the exhibits. The entire round trip journey takes about 3.5 hours from start to finish. cograilway.com
Royal Gorge Route Railroad
Carved by the Arkansas River over millions of years, the Royal Gorge is a jaw-dropping geological feature right in our own backyard. The 1,200-foot-deep canyon is impressive to see from above, while standing on the Royal Gorge Bridge, but it’s also a sight to behold from below, while riding the rails on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad.
The train meanders alongside the river, with the towering canyon walls rising up on either side. For the best views, book a seat in one of the Vista Dome cars, which have large, curved windows and direct access to open-air cars. As you sit in a comfy
TOP LEFT and TOP RIGHT: Courtesy of Grand Canyon Railways; BOTTOM LEFT: Courtesy of The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway;
booth, you can order breakfast or lunch dishes like biscuits and gravy or a basil chicken panini.
During the holidays, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad also offers a Santa Express Train—which is the perfect festive excuse for getting the whole family together. royalgorgeroute.com
Grand Canyon Railway
Measuring 18 miles wide and 277 miles long, the Grand Canyon is a truly impressive geological wonder. Winter can be a particularly good time to visit, since it means smaller crowds, milder temps and more affordable accommodations.
Sure, you could just drive to the South Rim—but taking the train is a more unique way to admire the dazzling reddish-orange landscape while also learning about the
Grand Canyon’s history. This historic railway, which dates back to 1901, features talented musicians and actors who bring the Old West to life with songs, legends and scenes. The train departs from Williams, Arizona, then heads north to the South Rim of Grand Canyon. After a little more than two hours, you’ll disembark around lunch time at the Grand Canyon Depot, which was built in 1910 and is one of the oldest wooden train depots still standing in America. You’ll have more than three hours to explore the historically preserved buildings of the Grand Canyon Village, then it’s back on the train for the return journey. Extend your trip by booking into the recently renovated Grand Canyon Railway Hotel. thetrain.com
Read More Online: travelboulder.com/colorado-railroad-history
Get Up Close and Personal with Musicians At Velvet Elk Lounge
By Sarah Kuta
I’m savoring the last few bites of my harissa veggie bowl when I hear the fiFIrst notes of “Beck and Call,” a soothing song by the Boulderbased acoustic quartet Sturtz.
Eager to catch every minute of the band’s performance, I finish my food, grab another cocktail from the bar and head to the intimate concert venue at the very back of the long narrow space on 13th Street in Boulder. The lights are dim as the musicians harmonize. Members of the audience sway gently to the beat, standing just a few feet away from the band.
This intimate, up-close-and-personal experience took place at Velvet Elk Lounge, a cozy live music venue that opened in downtown Boulder in 2022. The lounge is a passion project for Dave and Dana Query, the husband-and-wife duo behind Big Red F Restaurant Group, which owns Front Range favorites like Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar, The Post Chicken & Beer, West End Tavern and Centro Mexican Kitchen.
“Velvet Elk was long needed in Boulder,” says Dave
LEFT: Courtesy of Big Heart Film; All photos
courtesy of
Velvet Elk Lounge
Query. “We are joining a group of small and growing music venues around town. Just like every town needs a vibrant, successful and flourishing restaurant scene, so too we need an interesting and dynamic music scene.”
Live music has long been popular in Boulder. Over the years, the city has had several small venues—The Blue Note, Tulagi, J.J. McCabe’s and Peggy’s Hi-Lo, to name a few.
But these days, small venues are harder to find.
“eTown Hall is the greatest small venue that there is, with the best sound and scene anywhere, but they are limited as to what they can do with food and drinks in the space they are in,” says Dave Query. “Velvet Elk was an attempt to open a small space that served great cocktails, had fun food and offered a great room with great sound for bands that can’t fill the 900-plus seats at the Boulder Theater or 650-plus at The Fox Theatre. Dana and I spend a lot of time in New Orleans and these types of joints are on every corner. Live music needs places to flourish, so this was our effort at watering the pot to grow beautiful music flowers.”
Velvet Elk Lounge (2037 13th St.) is located right next door to the Boulder location of The Post Chicken & Beer. The space initially became available in the summer of 2020, and the Querys briefly considered taking it over. But “COVID was doing its dance on everyone’s head so we passed,” says Dave Query.
But when it became available again in early 2022, they grabbed it. The team set to work transforming the long, thin, shotgun-style space into an effortlessly chic and cozy venue.
“It has been described as a set from ‘Mad Men,” says Dave Query. “It has cool, Los Angeles 1950s vibes. Booths, with lots of wood paneling. Great lighting and a huge bar.”
The food menu is small but mighty, with bold flavors and textures that are perfect for a night out on the town. The Devils on Horseback, for example, consists of Medjool dates stuffed with blue cheese and wrapped in honey-cured bacon. For something even heartier, go with the Pesto Grilled Cheese, featuring melted cheddar cheese, whipped goat cheese, pepper relish and herb pesto aioli on griddled toast, with a side of house fries.
There’s also a classic burger, plus several veggie options, including Burrata and Marinated peppers (with blistered cherry tomatoes, parsley and garlic oil, red onion and toast) and El Corn Fondue with warm garlic butter pretzel bites.
“We try to offer food that people want to eat when they are drinking, dancing and having fun,” says Dave Query. “And, of course, weed is legal in Colorado, so often, our guests are hungry—like, really hungry—so writing menus is fun.”
Many of the food options are meant to be shared, and they all pair
well with the drinks on offer—including wine, beer, spirits, non-alcoholic drinks and cocktails. A few standouts: the Lavender’s baby, made with lavender gin, Lillet Blanc, lemon, ginger and blueberry, as well as the Oaxacan Sting, which features mezcal, honey, lemon, a habanero shrub and chocolate bitters.
After eating and drinking in the front half of the space, guests head to the back half for laid-back performances on a small stage that’s low to the ground. Many shows are free, while tickets for paid concerts are typically around $20 a person.
“It’s a really cool little room,” says Dave Query. “Our capacity allows for intimate experiences with the bands. We spent some time finding a great sound system, and have whip-smart engineers, so the bands love playing Velvet Elk.”
Another reason musicians adore the venue? The staff treat them like total VIPs.
“They almost universally respond that that is the best part of
playing here, because they feel like a guest at a party,” says Dave Query. “The team takes great care of them, from load-in to load-out, and they get to nosh on killer fried chicken and drink delicious cocktails, so they’re happy. Happy music-makers are the best thing ever.”
Velvet Elk Lounge books a mix of local and national artists representing a wide swath of genres, from bluegrass and funk to folk and indie rock, hip-hop and more. You might catch a Prince tribute band one evening, then a mellow Americana group the next.
“It’s a fun process regarding how the bands come to us,” says Dave Query. “Colorado has a vibrant music scene, especially in the summer, and a lot of the bands reach out to us, making it all so easy. And having our world-class talent agent Roger Menell doing our booking makes us look really good.”
The space is also available for private events—like birthdays, business dinners and weddings—with enough room to accommodate between 70 and 170 guests.
Above all else, Velvet Elk Lounge is an exclusively adults-only space. The vibe is mellow and mature (without being stuffy, of course), and Velvet Elk Lounge is open late. And that’s a welcome addition to the downtown Boulder hospitality and entertainment scene.
“We aren’t a college bar,” says Dave Query. “The pace and the tone of what we are doing is for adults. And that is the most common comment we’ve gotten over the last two years since opening—how enjoyable the guest experience has been, how great it is to have a place like this in downtown Boulder. Great towns have great music venues. I hope the trend continues.”
Read More Online: travelboulder.com/the-stories-behind-iconic-bouldercounty-music-venues
Delivering Happiness to Boulder Doorsteps
The Art of Floral Design
By Abigail Bliss
Some of the best things in life happen serendipitously. This rings true for Arianna Patrick, founder of Arianna Floral Design. Not long ago, she was a happy stay-at-home mom with three young children. When they started school, a close friend offered a creative opportunity at the perfect time and, with enthusiasm, Patrick agreed.
For several years, she worked alongside Becky Anderson, founder of Bluebird Floral. Though Patrick had little experience with floral design, her art degree from Western Colorado University served her well. She quickly picked up on this delicate artform—so much so that when Anderson relocated to Minneapolis, Patrick took over the company’s Boulder operations.
Roughly two years ago, she bought out that side of the business and rebranded it as Arianna Floral Design. She specializes in weddings, graduation leis and just-because flower arrangements and bouquets of various shapes and sizes, which can be delivered within just hours of ordering.
“I have a studio in our backyard with an 8-by-12-foot walk-in cooler that we built on the back of the space,” she says, adding that it extends the life of the flowers dramatically.
Wholesalers SmokeBush Farm in Boulder and Little Hollow Flowers in Berthoud deliver freshly cut blooms directly to her studio. Arianna Floral Design also works with Stevens and Son in Arvada, which carries flowers that don’t necessarily grow in Colorado. But Patrick aims to source locally as much as possible and, in doing so,
she’s been welcomed into the area’s floral community with open arms.
“I run into other florists at the flower market all the time and we talk shop,” she says. “‘How did this go for you?’ What technique do you use for this?’ There used to be so
much competition and people wouldn’t share how they do things and that’s all changing, which is great.”
In addition to the local camaraderie, Patrick finds inspiration online—namely, that of florists located abroad. Their applications of texture, form and color demonstrate a wide range of styles and, like any trade, techniques continue to evolve.
Yet, certain elements remain constant. For example,
Photos courtesy of Arianna Floral Design
Patrick emphasizes color theory in her designs, which involves building a palette around one focal hue.
“If I go with orange dahlias and orange roses, [what] would be pleasing to the eye is on either side of orange on the color wheel,” she says.
These are what’s known as “analogous colors” and, in this example, might be shades of red or yellow. Meanwhile, blue is a complementary color to orange and lies on the opposite side of the color wheel. Patrick also implements the concept of implied lines, placing flowers in certain directions to give an arrangement a sense of movement.
She demonstrates these ideas during public and private classes, which include hands-on arranging at clients’ desired venues. Patrick doesn’t shy away from special requests—in fact, she encourages them and looks to grow her concierge flower services in the near future.
At the moment, Patrick has several recurring customers whose needs she’ll accommodate at the drop of a hat. Pick up balloons and a restaurant gift card on the way to the delivery location? Done. Stage flowers throughout a client’s honeymoon suite? No problem.
Given that these types of requests are one-off and very personalized, Arianna Floral Design doesn’t yet promote
this offer on its website. But soon, Patrick hopes to formalize this service and expand it to include automated orders. This will allow clients to create traditions around Mother’s Day, a significant other’s birthday or any other occasion—which doesn’t always have to be special.
“It’s a great, classic gesture,” says Patrick. “Even if you get [flowers] on the regular, it doesn’t dull them down. There’s a lot of joy to be found in nature and it’s a way to bring it inside.”
Though she’s less often on the receiving end, delivering flowers is one of Patrick’s favorite aspects of the job. She, her husband or one of her freelance florists nearly always manage deliveries in an effort to build relationships and ensure the highest level of hospitality. After all, flowers arrive during cheerful events as well as difficult moments in people’s lives.
But, no matter the occasion, Patrick says: “Nobody’s upset when you knock on their door and you’re standing there with a gorgeous arrangement.”
Read More Online: travelboulder.com/5-of-boulder-countys-best-plant-and-garden-shops
Did you know that of downtown Boulder’s 140+ retailers 75% are locally owned and operated? There’s the Boulder you think you know, and the one waiting to be discovered. Come experience all the local shopping, dining and fun that makes downtown Boulder So Boulder.
Wild ONES
Where to Spot Wildlife in the Winter in Colorado
By Patricia Kaowthumrong
Spying on a moose as he tromps through the snow is one of the greatest joys of living in Colorado. This towering mammal is just one of the many majestic creatures you can spot in winter—which is one of the best seasons to see wildlife in the Centennial State and beyond. In fact, many large animals, such as elk and mountain lions, are more active in the cold-weather months. Meanwhile, you can also see many birds, including snow geese and bald eagles, across the West in the winter. Here are seven places to encounter wildlife this season.
If You Want to See: Raptors
Go to: Barr Lake State Park
More than 370 species of birds have been seen at this 2,715acre oasis in Adams County, where you can spot winged beauties from the boardwalk, gazebos and benches. Hike the 12 miles of trails to catch bald eagles soaring across the skies and perched in the towering cottonwoods. In early February, the park also hosts an annual Bald Eagle Festival, when you can help build a life-size eagle’s nest, watch raptor presentations and join a guided group hike.
If You Want to See: Moose
Go to: State Forest State Park
More than 600 moose live in the area in and around State Forest State Park year-round, earning the city of Walden its “Moose Viewing Capital of Colorado” nickname. Rent snowshoes from the aptly named Moose Visitor Center and hop on the nearly 1-mile Lake Agnes or 6.5-mile Gould Loop trails for opportunities to spy on the massive mammals. Fun
Photo courtesy of Wild Animal Sanctuary
facts: The moose’s sturdy hooves act like snowshoes to help them walk in the snow, and their antlers can stretch nearly 6 feet wide.
If You Want to See: Snow geese
Go to: Lamar, Kiowa and Hasty
Every February, up to 100,000 migrating snow geese congregate on Colorado’s high plains to rest and feed on their way from wintering grounds in Mexico, Texas and New Mexico to the Canadian tundra. One of the best ways to see large numbers of the birds is to attend February’s High Plains Snow Goose Festival in Lamar, which celebrates birding through tours, presentations and other activities. But even if you can’t attend the festival, you can catch big flocks hanging out at Queens State Wildlife Area in Kiowa and John Martin Reservoir State Park in Hasty throughout the winter.
If You Want to See: Raptors, waterfowl and elk
Go to: Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge
When temperatures drop, the 14,804-acre Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge in south-central Colorado comes alive with the sounds of birds. From mid-February through early April, more than 20,000 sandhill cranes migrate through the San Luis Valley, including grain fields in the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge. Also keep your eyes peeled for eagles, hawks and owls, as well as resident deer and elk, which roam the area year-round.
TOP LEFT and BOTTOM RIGHT: Courtesy of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; TOP RIGHT: Courtesy of Wild Animal Sanctuary
If You Want to See: Large carnivores
Go to: The Wild Animal Sanctuary
Hundreds of lions, tigers, bears, wolves and other mammals live in the Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg, which has specialized in rescuing, rehabilitating and caring for large predators from around the world since 1980. Explore the unique habitat via the Mile into the Wild walkway, an elevated deck touted as the longest in the world. It stretches more than 1.5 miles over the grounds, enabling visitors to respectfully view the free-roaming animals without disturbing them. Also check out the affiliated Wild Horse Refuge in Craig, where rescued native mustangs run freely on 29 square miles.
If You Want to See: Raptors and bison
Go to: Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
Once a war-time manufacturing site, this wildlife sanctuary in Commerce City was established to protect bald eagles who nest and seek shelter in the cottonwood trees, as well as other creatures. During the snowy season, bison graze on the
TOP and BOTTOM: Courtesy of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
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TOP LEFT and BOTTOM: Courtesy of Wild Animal Sanctuary; TOP RIGHT: Courtesy of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
grounds while raptors like ferruginous hawks and bald eagles hunt for rabbits and prairie dogs. Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent place to spot animals without leaving your car. Just cruise the 11-mile Wildlife Drive, which takes about one hour and 45 minutes. (Note: During winter storms, the refuge may delay opening to plow the roads.)
If You Want to See: Elk Go to: National Elk Refuge
While visiting the National Elk Refuge requires a trip to Jackson, Wyoming, the attraction is a road trip-worthy destination for wildlife watching year-round. That includes the winter months, when visitors can catch sights of elk, bighorn sheep, bald eagles and coyotes amid the backdrop of the snow-cloaked Teton Mountains. For an extra-special experience, book a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the refuge to take in the best views of the elk herds and learn all about the mammals from a friendly guide.
Read More Online: travelboulder.com/15-things-to-do-for-animal-lovers
Perfect Pours
Where To Drink Now
By Patricia Kaowthumrong
Colorado distilleries produce exemplary spirits that showcase the state’s one-of-a-kind terroir by using ingredients like Rocky Mountain spring water and locally grown heirloom grains and botanicals. Boulder County has its own roster of talented spirit makers, so you don’t have to travel far to enjoy everything from barrel-aged whiskeys to herbaceous gins.
Winter is the perfect time to spend a cozy afternoon inside a tasting room, playing games or catching up with friends while sipping a craft cocktail. Add these spots to your winter bucket list.
Dry Land Distillers
Dry Land Distillers’ spirits are a love letter to Colorado’s wild landscapes. A delicious example? This summer, the Longmont distillery released a 100 percent malted straight rye whiskey produced with regenerative grain sourced from the Jones Farms Organics in the San Luis Valley. Other creations include a mezcal-like spirit made with smoked prickly pear cacti and a gin steeped with native elderberry, juniper, bee balm and other Colorado-grown botanicals. Drop by the distillery’s mid-century-modern, wood- and iron-accented tasting room to linger over a gin-forward Last Word with green chartreuse and a spread of seasonal snacks, such as mushroom pâté and house-marinated olives. drylanddistillers.com
Boulder Spirits at Vapor Distillery
Boulder Spirits’ whiskeys are inspired by the traditions of owner Alastair Brogan’s Scottish homeland. Brogan and his team distill malted barley and Eldorado Springs water in a Scottish pot still and age the result in charred, virgin American white oak barrels to produce ultra-smooth American malt whiskeys. This past fall, the distillery released two coveted bottles: a Leave No Trace American Single Malt Whiskey (a combination of peated malt, sweet Pedro Ximénez sherry and local barley farmed and malted in Larimer County by Root Shoot Malting) and a 2024 Cask Strength Straight Bourbon Whiskey (a marriage of 15 different barrels). Sidle up to the bar at the petite, no-frills
Photo courtesy of Dry Land Distillers
Photo courtesy of Boulder Spirits
tasting room to enjoy a bourbon on the rocks or a drink shaken with one of the company’s other spirits, such as gin, vodka and Ginskey (barrel-rested gin). boulderspirits.com
DEKi Distillery
If flavored liqueurs are your forte, DEKi Distillery in Old Town Lafayette is a must-stop. The company, owned by David and Helene Synder, offers 10 spirits. That means you can elevate your bottle collection with staples such as bourbon and vodka and more unique DEKi spirits, like blackberry vodka, spiced rum and lavender gin. We love the caramel-scented coffee liqueur, the perfect base for any espresso martini. Grab a seat on the sunny patio or in the light-filled, industrial-chic tasting room to try a flight of four spirits or a pineapple- and coconut-kissed Island Mule. dekispirits.com
Spirit Hound Distillers
Spirit Hound was founded in 2011 by a crew of Boulder County pals, including Craig Engelhorn, the creator of Oskar Blues’ Dale’s Pale Ale. Since then, the distillery’s creations have won more than 70 awards, which are crafted in Engelhorn’s hand-made copper still. While Spirit Hound’s inventory includes stellar rums, vodkas, gins and liqueurs, its bourbons and whiskies have drummed
up the most buzz. In fact, their Colorado bourbon earned gold at the 2023 Denver International Spirits Competition and their straight malt whisky won Whisky of the Year at the 2022 London International Spirits Competition. At the English pub-style tasting room in Lyons, order the flight of four straight malt whisky pours (it also comes with a taster of moonshine) with a cheese and charcuterie board. spirithounds.com
Abbott & Wallace Distilling
Grains grown by Longmont’s Schlagel Farms and Root Shoot Malting serve as the foundation of Abbott & Wallace’s products, which include rum, whiskey, amaro, gin and a line of canned cocktails. You can pick up bottles and cans to sip at home—but the distillery (named after founders John Abbott Young and HK Wallace) has a comfy bar and cocktail lounge that invites patrons to connect and savor the spirits together. Check the events calendar for happenings such as game and trivia nights, plus live music and comedy nights. Sip classic cocktails like sazeracs or negronis, or choose something from their rotating, seasonal menu. abbottandwallace.com
Read More Online: travelboulder.com/meet-alastair-brogan-of-boulder-spirits
Photo courtesy of Spirit Hound Distillers
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