18 Best Shopping in Boulder and North Central Colorado, Colorado

Boulder's largest independent bookstore stocks thousands of new and used books, including a great selection of photography, history, and art books about Colorado. The bookstore hosts hundreds of community events each year.

This bustling farmers' market brings a hive of activity to 13th Street between Arapahoe Avenue and Canyon Boulevard on Wednesday afternoon from early May to early October, and on Saturday, from April through mid-November. This growers-only market, which has been named the number one farmers' market in the country, features produce, baked goods, flowers, wines and spirits, cheeses, meats, and more straight from the local producers (cherries and peaches are prime in late summer).

Among Boulder's many outdoor equipment stores, Neptune is the longtime local favorite that has been outfitting Boulderites for rock climbing, skiing, camping, and mountaineering since 1973. It’s the real deal, and shopping here comes with a direct view of the Flatirons. The shop is home to one of the largest selections of climbing gear in the country, and it displays one of the largest collections of mountaineering artifacts in the world in its on-site museum. Bonus: Refuel on food, local beer, and coffee at the Neptune Café and Bar.

The gorgeous alpaca garments here—including sweaters, hats, socks, and gloves—as well as cotton and linen dresses, are mostly from Peru.

With more than 40 years in business, Colorado's largest antique print and map dealer is the place to go if you're looking for rare maps or historic photos of Colorado. Framing and puzzles are also available.

Locally owned and operated, this gift shop is a treasure trove of trendy collectibles and unique home accents from around the globe.

A Boulder institution since 1977, Grandrabbit's is every kid's dream come true, with shelves stocked from floor to ceiling. The independently owned specialty toy store has grown to three Colorado locations and is known as the place to go to find toys that contribute to learning and development. It's not uncommon to find adults wandering the aisles, sans children, enjoying the offerings.

In addition to carrying traditional and out-of-the-ordinary kites, this shop carries an imaginative selection of unique toys and quirky gifts.

Shop here for fashionably casual and unique women's clothing and accessories, as well as clever, appealing gifts.

A Boulder institution, McGuckin Hardware stocks home appliances and gadgets, hardware, and a mind-boggling array of outdoor merchandise. The seemingly omniscient salespeople know where everything is.

A Boulder mainstay, this shop offers a dizzying selection of crockery, cookware, table linens, and kitchen utensils, as well as upscale food items and cookbooks. Kids love the balloon artist who often lingers outside the front door (although he's not affiliated with the store).

The Boulder branch of REI sells a broad range of outdoor equipment, and rents snowshoes, bear canisters, and trekking poles. The store also has full-service professional bike and ski/snowboard shops, offering maintenance and repair.

At this expansive, fine art gallery on the Pearl Street Mall, you can browse an eclectic mix of contemporary and traditional art, including glass, bronze sculpture, jewelry, and paintings from some of the most distinguished artists in the nation.

You never know what you might discover here as you browse the glorious antique and midcentury furniture, home decor, jewelry, and other treasures. Inventory moves fast, so get it while you can.

Channel your inner explorer here while browsing an eclectic collection of new and used books that focus on art, adventure, spirituality, poetry, culture, and literature. At the attached café, you can read while you sip tea in the back garden decorated with street art. Your barista is most likely an owner, too.

Elegant European stationery, handmade paper, and handcrafted, leather-bound journals are among the finds here. The store cultivates a sense of community through art classes, craft parties, and community-making events. It carries a large selection of items from local artists.

Come here for quirky T-shirts, CU and Colorado souvenirs, and a variety of trinkets.