Visiting Boulder: A Quick Day Trip

Being in one state for more than a couple weeks would normally bore me to death. Fortunately, the state of Colorado is full of towns, hikes, and activities to keep you entertained. One of my favorite day trips, was visiting Boulder, Colorado this fall.

​Boulder is snuggled between the foothills and the Rocky Mountains. It was originally purposed as a supply town for the miners in the mountains. Now, with close proximity to Denver and the University of Colorado, there are plenty of things to do and experience. 

I spent the day roaming between cute shops at the Pearl Street Mall. It's rumored that Pearl Street is named after a wife of one of the founders. Now, you can discover a multitude of hipster shops, fun restaurants, and culture in this little college town.

A delicious lunch at Eureka!

I love discovering murals and was instantly endeared to the street art and hipster vibes of Boulder. One of my favorites was the psychedelic purple and pink painting on 19th and Pearl.​ Continuing down the street, I found a little feline company in my midst (photo at the bottom).

We had a delicious lunch at Eureka!​ right off Pearl Street. We started with an appetizer of Brussel sprouts and I had the most amazing chicken sandwich for lunch! I couldn't recommend this place more, but I'm positive the entire city is filled with great restaurants. 

Shopping on Pearl Street

While wandering through Pearl Street, I was immediately drawn to the used book store called Red Letter Second Hand Books. I love the feeling of walking into a store and being able to smell the dust and old books in the air. The entire shop was so filled with books, I could scarcely see the walls behind the shelves.

The books were haphazardly placed, I wondered what complicated system they were using to maintain a semblance of organization.​

Another favorite shop of mine was the Buffalo Exchange. A shop filled with gently worn clothing that gives you a glimpse into the previous life of the clothing. 

Of course you notice that my two favorite shops were reselling used items. I think that since I've become a backpacker, I find less value in expensive items. My funds are limited and I go through clothing, books, and well, everything, rather quickly. 

Before I buy something, I usually contemplate my purchase for a good couple of minutes. If I spend $20 on this shirt, will it make me happy? Would this money be better spent on a fancy meal in Thailand? Hence, my new found love for used stores.

Celestial Tea Factory

After spending the afternoon walking around Pearl Street, I wanted to do something other than shopping. To my surprise, I found out that the Celestial Tea Factory is conveniently situated in Boulder. They also offer free factory tours!

While on the tour, a woman started talking to me. A moment of clarity hit me and I realized I recognized her! I had met her in the bathroom of Union Station in Denver. She had a backpack and I started up a conversation with her while washing my hands.

What a coincidence to again meet her at the Celestial Tea Factory in Boulder! The world is a small place I tell you.