_edited.jpg)
Weekending in Boulder: The Historic Boulderado
We are all so busy during the week, especially around this time of year! What brings me joy is planning a small escape from the daily routine. That being said, I love to visit Boulder, CO. Boulder is known for it's scenic Flatirons, the University of Colorado, and Pearl Street Mall. What it's less known for is it's history. I stayed at the first luxury hotel to be built in Boulder, The Boulderado. Here's what I learned.
HISTORY:
The Hotel Boulderado is a perfect example of how historic Boulder can truly be. That's why I always book a room there if I'm planning a trip to Boulder. The hotel is especially gorgeous during this time of year, with a REAL (and huge) Christmas tree in the lobby, decorated to perfection.
Since opening in 1909, the hotel has kept and refurbished so many historic pieces, including the 1908 Otis Elevator (see below). This elevator is still operational, one of the few in the country! You will also find a large grandfather clock, a historic water fountain, luggage/trunks, leftover items from the hotels original guests, historic photos, ice boxes, guest registries, and much more.
DINING:
The Hotel Boulderado has 3 restaurants: Spruce Farm & Fish, The Corner Bar, and a Speakeasy called License No 1. Each restaurant is unique in it's own way. I recommend checking each of them out during your stay.
Spruce Farm & Fish is an upscale restaurant with a variety of delicious dishes to chose form. My dinner was excellent at Spruce! Everything was so fresh - from the housemade fennel pasta (above) to the freshly shucked oysters (below).
The Breakfast in Bed was even better, featuring lavender mimosas (below), blueberry pancakes, and crispy bacon. They have a door tag where you can mark down which Breakfast items you'd like and hang it on the door, then it will be delivered to your room in the morning! I enjoyed my mimosa with a view of the Flatirons from my suite.
License No. 1 was formerly known as Catacombs. It has since been updated featuring a ton of space, live music, cocktails, and game rooms. They have a small bites menu that offers a good variety of snacks while you sip. I loved the speakeasy vibes here.
The Corner Bar has a more laid-back dining style, featuring all-american pub classics. They have a happy hour and are open until 12 AM for a late-night meal. This spot also features a outdoor patio, which is best for warmer days.
ENTERTAINMENT:
There are always events happening at The Boulderado and a list can be found on their website. They host teas, buffets, events, weddings, and so much more. The lobby is buzzes with guests and locals alike. There is usually live music and a schedule can be found on the website as well.
Since opening on New Year's Day of 1909 after a large kick-off party on NYE, the Hotel Boulderado has kept the tradition alive by hosting a New Year's Eve Gala every year to celebrate. This year will be their 101st Anniversay and they are celebrating Carnevale style. Carnevale di Boulderado will feature a lavish buffet dinner, desserts, cocktail hour, carnival performers, live music, and a photo booth. Come midnight, they will have a countdown, a balloon drop and a complimentary champagne toast.
The Hotel Boulderado also offers a FREE self-guided history tour on the 3rd floor of the hotel. I highly recommend checking this out if you really want to be blown away! Once finished with that, you can head out to the Pearl Street Mall - which is a block away from the hotel. There is a ton of history to be seen there, along with shopping and other entertainment.
Ready to book your Weekend in Boulder? Follow the links below!