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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at CU Boulder chapter.

Hello there! Who is ready to kick off the fall semester? I know that I am happy just to get back to Boulder. Starting my senior year at CU, I’ve begun to reflect on all the things I did, and I thought it would be a good idea to create a list of my top 10 things freshmen should do within their first week at CU. With social distancing guidelines in mind, I did my best to come up with a variety of things to do, places to eat, and sights to see. Let’s get started!

 

Take a Hike!

There are plenty of hikes all around Boulder and in the neighboring cities. I think a must would be Royal Arch or Flatiron One. If you aren’t a Colorado native, I recommend taking it slow and making sure you have comfortable shoes and plenty of water.

 

Check Out Lost Gulch Lookout

Just a short drive up the winding road of Flagstaff Mountain, you’ll find the pull-off for Lost Gulch Lookout. Be sure to check out the stellar views of campus on the way up! The lookout is an excellent spot for a little picnic or the perfect Instagram-able pictures to make your friends back home a little jealous.

 

Take a walk down Pearl Street Mall.

Pearl Street is the perfect walking mall to grab a bite to eat, a souvenir, and do a little shopping at Free People or Urban Outfitters. I recommend getting dinner at Pasta Jays or BarTaco.

Pick your favorite: Boss Lady Pizza or Cosmos.

Now this one may be up for question, but as a new student at CU, you 100% have to weigh in on the debate. I love the diversity of the slices at Boss Lady, but I love the spicy ranch at Cosmos. I also have to add that yes, mac and cheese belongs on pizza. 

 

 

Go for a swim in the Boulder Creek.

A popular summer hangout spot is along the Boulder Creek. If ice-cold water isn’t your thing, taking a walk along the Boulder Creek Path is just as fun.

 

Brunch at The Buff.

Another Boulder must do: grabbing brunch at The Buff. This Boulder gem not only has some fantastic food, but a super cute iced coffee called the White Buffalo! The perfect spot for breakfast with your new roomies or before mom and dad leave.

 

Take a walk across campus.

While most of us will be online this semester (sad face), it’s important to know your way around campus. Here are a few of my fave places to snap pictures on campus:

 1. with the Ralphie statue in front of Folsom Field

 2. On the rooftop of the UMC 

 3. Anywhere on Farrand Field

 

Have a picnic at Chautauqua Park.

Chautauqua is not only the best place to get an Instagram worthy Flatiron picture, but is also a great place to have a picnic and hang out with friends on warm Boulder days.

Get your Village Coffee Shop V-card taken. 

This hole in the wall diner has been in Boulder since 1971. If you go, make sure to tell them you’re a village virgin! Great breakfast and an even better experience.

 

 

Check out the Boulder Farmers Market.

Open Saturday mornings and Wednesday evenings, the farmers market is a great way to check out local farmers and artisans. Check out their Instagram for more information about shopping reservations, vendors, and food trucks.

Thank you so much for reading! I hope you have an excellent time checking out the sights of Boulder and start making memories. Also, please remember to wear a face mask if you are in public places, stay socially distanced, and keep positive. 

Finally, from me to you, Welcome to Boulder and Sko Buffs!

 

Michaela Richmond

CU Boulder '21

Michaela is a rising Senior at the University of Colorado Boulder where she is majoring in psychology and working towards minors in education and leadership. Outside of the classroom, Michaela is a founding member of the Phi Mu Xi Alpha chapter and a 4-year member of Her Campus x CU. On the weekend you can find Michaela shopping on Pearl St. or driving up to the mountains.
Sko Buffs!