I can't speak for NM but CO has one of the lowest, if not the lowest rate of obesity. Largely due to it's abundance of outdoor activities. The front range area, of which Denver and Boulder are part have numerous opportunities and are close to all kinds of recreation - from biking to skiing, hiking, skate or snow boarding, etc. Depending on where you are coming from, you'll need to adjust to altitude in either CO or NM. Drink lots of water and use your sunscreen. There is an 'artsy' area in Denver on south Broadway - galleries and such though it's not in my sphere of interest so unfortunately can't supply more details.

Congrats on graduating and enjoy your trip!

I always recommend Pearl Street for browsing interesting shops, and particulary Five Green Boxes--two stores a block or so apart. This is in Denver, not Boulder.

Actually the art district is on South Santa Fe south of 6th ave. Just a note on street naming. We only have "south" streets in Denver. There are no "north" streets. It is either Broadway - north of 1st Ave and South Broadway south of 1st Ave.

And another fun part of Denver to explore is Old Littleton.

AND the Highlands.

Lodging choice in Boulder are either expensive, upscale hotels or older, dated motels. You will get a better deal in Denver. If you want access to both, stay in Broomfield or Louisville, which are 5-10 minutes outside of Boulder on Rte 36. On your way to NM, try to stop at Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. It's near the highway and well worth a visit.

Guys, the OP has already booked a place in Boulder.

Yes, but for September. Lots of time to rethink reservations.

It doesn't make much sense for the OP to give up a room IN Boulder for $123.

I really like Betasso Preserve for a hike near Boulder (I live here) - http://www.bouldercounty.org/os/park...opreserve.aspx - it's a little drive up Canyon, you can stop at Boulder Falls as well - http://www.colorado-hiking-vacations...der-falls.html. The hike at Betasso is about 3 miles and really lovely. The drive is great as well - and will show you a bit more of the canyon & Boulder Creek path - http://www.boulderdowntown.com/visit/outdoor-activities.

The Med & Rio are both great. If you're into breakfast we have a couple favorite spots - http://www.luciles.com/locations-a-m...ocation-a-menu and http://www.snoozeeatery.com/boulder

Our favorite Happy Hour is at Brasserie Ten Ten - http://www.brasserietenten.com/

And if it's sushi you crave - Sushi Zanmai is tops - http://www.sushizanmai.com/

Oh - and seriously - if you like pizza - Pizzaria Locale is amazing - http://www.pizzerialocale.com/

If you want to pick up some picnic supplies check out Cured, just across the street from Pizzaria Locale - http://www.curedboulder.com/

Hope you have a great time here in Boulder!