anemone720

We'll be traveling to CO at the end of June and we'll have 5 days. We'll be spending about 2 days in Denver, but we'll also have about 2-3 days to go somewhere besides Denver. We're trying to decide between Boulder and Colorado Springs. What are the vibes of these two different areas? If we go to Boulder, we'll get to visit RMNP and Eldorado, but if we go to Colorado Springs, I think we'll do a river float and see the Royal Gorge and Garden of the Gods.

I would love some opinions to help us make a decision. Thanks!

Gretchen

I think maybe you have posted previously also. You can find ALL your posts and keep them consolidated under one heading by clicking on your name, rather than reposting the same question.
I think both trips have great merits and you won't go wrong with either. River float trip may be problematic because of the high melt/runoff that is being experienced right now, but may be better by the end of June.

jayne1973

I think of Colorado Springs as a more touristy than Boulder, and also more conservative. Both are really nice -- you can't go wrong either way.

anemone720

I have posted previously, but I wasn't sure whether I should post in the same one or post a new one since the old question was about hotels in Boulder and Denver and this question was about Boulder vs. Colorado Springs.

Thanks for your response. Maybe I'll call up a couple rafting outfits and see what they think about the melt and river conditions.

Grassshopper

For visiting you could find plenty to do at either one, but if it were me and I just spent time in Denver, I'd head up to the mountains. Go to Summit County and find a condo on Lake Dillon (www.vrbo.com). Stop in Georgetown and ride the loop railway. Rent bikes and ride on the miles and miles of bike trails in Summit County.

sjde53

I'd go to Boulder and then check out Rocky Mountain National Park.

Sue

BetsyG

I agree with grassphopper

hansman

I live near Boulder and have been to CS a few times. CS didn't impress me. Garden of the Gods is nice but I think there is more scenery up the Boulder way. Boulder is a beautiful city and a great place to people watch, especially the Pearl St. Mall. There are tons of great restaurants and lodging there. If you want to stay closer to RMNP, try Estes Park, though lodging is more limited.

ellen_griswold

Of the two, i'd chose col sprgs. In addition to whats been mentioned, the air force academy is inspirational to see.

RMNP is stunning - be prepared for snow showers in june - but estes park is almost too touristy. And i love being a tourist lol

A bit south of boulder is golden, co, with a delightful little downtown, some good cafes and also the Coors Brewery. The tour is one of the best manufacturing type tours we've taken, complete with its own cafe and full sized samples

sarge56

I've been to both, several times. (sister in Boulder for 30 years, and another sister in CS!)

I love Garden of the Gods. But I think there is more to do in Boulder/RMNP/Estes area. I love Pearl Street Mall.

Great hotel is the Westin Westminster. Not in Boulder, but just a few miles away. The rooftop pool rocks! Lovely views, excellent amenities. I highly recommend it.

anemone720

Thanks to everyone for your suggestions! I think we'll head up to Boulder then. I'll plan my itinerary and come back to post about it.