Image © Evan Hunter
While Boulder and its surrounding areas garner plenty of national attention for offering active lifestyles, some of the nation’s smartest residents, and beautiful scenery, some neighborhoods are more hopping than others. Here, a look at some of Boulder’s best boroughs and hotspots outside of downtown, both old and new.
University Hill
“The Hill,” as locals call it, has long been considered the epicenter of college student life in Boulder. Located just across Broadway from CU Boulder’s gorgeous campus, The Hill offers shopping, budget-friendly eats, and old Victorian homes lining the hilly streets. The Hill is also home to loud house parties, unkempt rental properties, and high property values due to the proximity to campus.
Mapleton Hill
Mapleton Hill is one of Boulder’s priciest neighborhoods for a reason. Filled with historic and well-preserved Victorian homes (including the oldest property in town, the 1865 Squire House), and towering old-growth silver maple and cottonwood trees, this neighborhood is one of Boulder’s most picturesque. The location feels miles away from town with its proximity to great trails like Mount Sanitas, yet residents are within walking distance of Pearl Street. This dreamy Boulder ‘hood doesn’t offer much commerce in the neighborhood, but the walkability and central location more than make up for it.
Image © Habitat Apartments
Gunbarrel
This up-and-coming neighborhood North East of Boulder is one of the fastest growing in the region. Home to The Habitat Apartments, Gunbarrel is attracting residents drawn to the bike paths, rolling hills, and a burgeoning retail district. Already home to IBM, one of the highest ranked advertising agencies in the country, and various restaurants, Gunbarrel residents enjoy the serenity of the country and the amenities of a city. Housing in this ‘hood is often times a great bang for your buck, as many stunning apartments and homes are available for competitive prices. Considering the area is completely surrounded by open space, it is only going to continue to grow.
South Boulder
Known as SoBo, South Boulder is a family-oriented neighborhood that’s known for its proximity to both the foothills and Highway 36. With more affordable housing than downtown, many are drawn here for a relaxed vibe and a bevy of both recreation and retail opportunities. The Table Mesa shopping center anchors the area, and with gathering spots like The Southern Sun, it’s a great casual meet-up place after a hike. As prices for real estate in Boulder continue to rise, South Boulder becomes a more and more sought after ‘hood.
North Boulder
Located just two miles from downtown, North Boulder, or NoBo, sometimes feels like a world away with the relaxed pace of life and quiet residential streets. Yet North Boulder boasts its own excellent restaurant and retail scene that just keeps growing, including local favorite, independent grocer Lucky’s Market. Beautiful Flatiron views combine with plenty of reasonably affordable housing, making this area popular and diverse. Plenty of hiking trails as well as a popular recreation center makes the area great for those with an active lifestyle.
Image © Bryce Bradford
Chatauqua
One of the oldest neighborhoods in Boulder, this area encompasses the homes that surround the iconic and gorgeous park of the same name. The stunning views and proximity to some of Boulder’s best trails make this area an expensive one. Many of the homes here are historic, and even those on the smaller side can often sell for millions. Chatauqua borders the University Hill, so there’s a decent amount of student-oriented condos as well. As for entertainment and retail, residents can enjoy the Chatauqua Dining Hall for farm-to-table eats in the summer, as well as concerts at the Chatauqua Music Hall. The Base-Mar shopping center to the East is also conveniently close. With the Flatirons as a backdrop and the central location, it’s no wonder why this neighborhood is so pricey.
Whatever you’re looking for, Boulder offers a borough suitable for most every budget and lifestyle. Whether you prefer the open spaces of Gunbarrel, or the lively student atmosphere of the University Hill, Boulder has got plenty of boroughs and hot spots worth checking out.