Boulder is a nature-filled city known for its outdoor sports, biker-friendly downtown, vibrant downtown, and many local breweries. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Boulder?
You should plan to spend around $231 per day on your vacation in Boulder. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $94 on meals
- $51 on local transportation
- $204 on hotels
A one week trip to Boulder for two people costs, on average, $3,234. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
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One Week
Per person
$1,617
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2 Weeks
Per person
$3,234
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One Month
Per person
$6,930
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One Week
For a couple
$3,234
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2 Weeks
For a couple
$6,468
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One Month
For a couple
$13,860
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Boulder cost?
A one week trip to Boulder usually costs around $1,617 for one person and $3,234 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Boulder on average costs around $3,234 for one person and $6,468 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Boulder will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Boulder on average costs around $6,930 for one person and $13,860 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Boulder expensive to visit?
Boulder is a smaller city that attracts a broad range of travelers, encompassing various travel styles, spending practices, and budget options. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.
While Boulder can be quite expensive if you let it be, there are ways to lower your spending, such as eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying the free hiking trails.
On average, budget travelers spend $100 per day, mid-range travelers spend $231 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $463 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Boulder.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Boulder is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Raleigh or Kauai.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Boulder Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Boulder?
The average Boulder trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Boulder travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Boulder cost?
Boulder on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$44
|
$102
|
$202
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$23
|
$51
|
$98
|
|
Food 2
|
$40
|
$94
|
$195
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$14
|
$33
|
$62
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$6-18
|
$14-41
|
$26-78
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. Many people think they can visit Boulder on a tight budget, but most travelers aren't comfortable with a low "shoestring" budget. Think about what you enjoy during your vacations and how you typically travel. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you want to visit museums, sights, and participate in activities? Is dining out a priority? These factors will shape both your budget and your itinerary.
What Does It Mean to Be a Budget Traveler?
While you might think you're a budget traveler, without giving up many of your usual comforts, you'll likely need to spend more than the $100 per day that backpackers often spend.
Backpackers often work within this tight budget by staying in hostel dorms, eating fast food or street food, using public transit, and mainly visiting free attractions.
Boulder is packed with plenty of hostels, including Boulder Adventure Lodge. At hostels like these, you can enjoy affordable dorm accommodation and a lively social scene, but amenities might be quite minimal.
What Makes You an Average Traveler?
Couples and families enjoying a vacation will probably want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at popular dining spots, and explore the key museums and attractions that have entry fees. Tourists visiting Boulder generally aim to explore the major attractions, museums, and significant landmarks. Keep in mind that most activities cost money. Thus, it's reasonable to expect your daily budget to be around $231 per person, per day.
Want to Escape the Daily Grind in Style?
If you want an all encompassing getaway with top-notch amenities and exceptional service, get ready for a daily cost around $463. Staying in upscale hotels, dining at acclaimed restaurants, indulging in lavish activities, and using taxis or private drivers to navigate the city will require a more luxurious budget. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Traveling Spoon Private Online Mixology/Cocktail Making Class - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Boulder
The range of hotel prices in Boulder can be pretty surprising. Luxury hotels tend to offer more amenities, but come with higher price tags, especially during peak season. The average off-season room is $220, but during peak summer season the average price can reach $411. From $141 for budget hotels to $933 for luxury, there's something for everyone. Hostels are cheaper, especially dorms. Book early or travel during the off-season to save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Boulder for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $204. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $102 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Boulder? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Boulder include:
- Hotel Boulderado starting at $209
- Residence Inn Boulder starting at $222
- Hampton Inn & Suites Boulder North starting at $175
- Embassy Suites By Hilton Boulder starting at $204
- Residence Inn by Marriott Boulder Canyon Boulevard starting at $195
If you avoid summer and go during the low or shoulder season, you'll find better hotel deals and fewer tourists.
Transportation Budget in Boulder
Boulder lacks an efficient public transit system. There are buses that run around town, but you really need a car to fully experience everything that the city has to offer.
Boulder is easy to navigate on foot in some locations, which can help you enjoy the sights. The city has some nice walkable areas and it is very bike-friendly.
Public Transit: 
(moderate)
Walkability: (good)
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, past travelers have spent $51 per person, per day, on local transportation in Boulder. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Boulder is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$51
When you're driving, make sure that your hotel has convenient parking, and confirm how much you'll need to pay for it.
How much does it cost to go to Boulder? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Boulder will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Boulder
In Boulder, the food is tasty, but it's usually not the main hightlight for travelers. You'll uncover some hidden treasures around the city. This is an often overlooked foodie town, with great farmer's markets and restaurants to try. There are many casual places to eat as well as vegetarian and vegan friendly options everywhere.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Boulder can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Boulder is $94 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$94
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Boulder is around $94 ($94) per person, with previous travelers spending from $40 to $195. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Boulder are as follows:
- Breakfast: $9 to $28
- Lunch: $14 to $37
- Dinner: $28 to $66
- Coffee: $7
- Fast Food or Street Food: $14
Restaurants in Boulder and usually of high quality. The best restaurants can get quite crowded so reservations are recommended. There's a diversity of options for all budgets and styles. Mexican food is common and usually affordable and excellent. Chinese, Thai, Japanese, and Vietnamese are all available, along with many other international flavors. There are also some great steak houses in the area. For lunch there are delis, cafes, and casual dining options. For budget options look for restaurants near the university.
Lots of hotels throw breakfast into the room rate, but some will charge for it. The quality and price can differ by hotel. Understanding this in advance can help you figure out if you'll need to spend extra money. It may be worth splurging on the hotel buffet, or you could find a less expensive option at a nearby bakery or cafe.
Opt for a water bottle instead of constantly buying drinks. It's not only convenient but also eco-friendly.
Before booking a tour, make a point of knowing which meals are part of the package. You may be responsible for some of your food costs, which can increase your overall budget.
Listed below are typical food prices in Boulder, based on the actual spending of previous travelers. These figures provide an estimate of what you might expect to pay for meals. However, your personal expenses will depend on your dining preferences, the restaurants you choose, and what you decide to order.
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2 Coffees
$8.75
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Nice Dinner for Two
$71
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Boulder
It's no surprise that Boulder sees many visitors since it offers hiking, food, nightlife, and music.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Boulder typically cost an average of $33 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$33
Much of a visit to Boulder is about the nearby natural beauty. There is also a wonderful atmosphere around town so exploring neighborhoods without a specific destination in mind is recommended. Make sure you head to the Pearl Street Mall to see the street performers. They're out when the weather is nice. There are magicians, mimes, and musicians but perhaps the most unique and famous performer is the "zip-code man" He can tell you the zip code for anywhere in the entire world. This bizarre skill draws quite a crowd.
There are also a handful of sights around the University of Colorado at Boulder. The campus covers 600 acres and there are many beautiful gardens and interesting buildings on the grounds. The Heritage Center is found in the Old Main building and goes through a history of the university. There are also museums and art galleries around campus.
Boulder is a haven for outdoor sports. There are many places to go hiking with some of the most interesting being Boulder Creek Path, Chautauqua Park, Flagstaff Mountain, South Boulder Creek Trail, Eldorado Canyon State Park, and Boulder Ale Trail. There is also whitewater rafting, tubing, biking, and skiing in the area.
For live performances you can head to Fox Theater or Macky Auditorium. If you happen to be in town at the time, Boulder Open Studios Tour is held the first two weekends in October and you can visit the studios of many different local artists.
Hiking:
Discovering the hiking trails around Boulder is a delight. There are many accessible hikes in the area that take you through the mountains, by wildflowers, or up mountain peaks. Popular hikes that are nearby include the Bear Peak Summit Hike, the trails in Eldorado Canyon State Park, and Boulder Falls.
A nice way to explore destinations in Boulder is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Best Family Small-Group E-Bike Guided Tour in Boulder, Colorado for $100 details
- "Boulder Peaks & Wilderness Tours: Mallory Cave Trail" for $65 details
- Boulder Flatirons Private Photo Adventure for $85 details
Nightlife Budget in Boulder
For nightlife seekers, Boulder has some activities, but it lacks the vibrancy of other more favored destinations. The town has breweries, craft beer, and plenty to do in the evening. Live music is popular and many venues are smaller with a more personal atmosphere. Check out The Bitter Bar or License No. 1 for a local vibe.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $27 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Boulder per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
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Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$27
Nights out are fun, but limiting your alcohol consumption can help keep your travel costs in check.
When you're out at night and drinking, be aware of what's going on around you. You could become a target for pickpockets or other crimes, so it's safest to stay in groups.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Boulder. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Boulder Haunted Pub Tour for $34 details
Traveling in Boulder
Boulder, Colorado
Boulder is located on the edge of the Rocky Mountains in the state of Colorado. As home to the University of Colorado at Boulder, it's a college town with a liberal vibe and progressive values. In recent years, Boulder's economy has received a boost from the tech industry, which has grown rapidly in the area.
Boulder is also a great city to visit. It's surrounded by a beautiful mountain setting and there are countless outdoor sporting activities that you can enjoy. One unique aspect of Boulder is its role as home to many serious athletes who come here to train in the area's top facilities and programs.
Boulder's climate is similar to most of Colorado. It's a dry city with plenty of sunshine. Winters can vary dramatically from mild to incredibly cold and snowfall averages 44 inches a season. Summers are warm and dry with temperatures climbing above 90 degrees Fahrenheit during the warmest months.
Neighborhoods & Around
As a tourist, you're likely to spend most of your time in the Downtown area and Pearl Street Mall. Downtown Boulder has many restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Pearl Street Mall is a four block pedestrian-only area that is located downtown. It's lined with boutique shops and quaint restaurants which are housed in historic buildings, giving the area a nice atmosphere. You'll also find many street performers putting on shows in the area.
Another popular area in town is the University area, where you'll find no shortage of bars, restaurants, and activities. These facilities typically cater to a young crowd but it can be a great place to hang out and grab a cheap drink.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.