Mid-Summer in Boulder: How to Savor The Sweet Spot of the Season
Mid-Summer in Boulder: How to Savor The Sweet Spot of the Season
By July, summer in Boulder hits its stride. The days are long, the fruit is ripe, and the best way to spend your time has nothing to do with being busy. Instead, it’s about slowing down—just enough to soak in the sunshine, sip something local, and remember why we love this season in the first place.
Here’s how to make the most of mid-summer in Boulder, with easygoing adventures, farm-fresh flavors, and a few moments of well-earned indulgence.
Start Slow—with Coffee and a View
Aviano Coffee has officially arrived in Boulder, bringing its signature style and Intelligentsia beans to the lobby of the Moxy Hotel. With breezy garage doors, polished marble counters, and an airy, sunlit vibe, it’s the kind of place that invites you to linger. Whether you’re journaling, people-watching, or just enjoying a slow iced latte, this is your new go-to for a mid-morning reset.
Hit the Water: Paddleboarding at Boulder Reservoir (Or an Alpine Lake)
For a refreshing break from the heat, Boulder Reservoir offers 700 acres of shimmering blue perfect for paddleboarding. The views of the Flatirons are unbeatable, and Rocky Mountain Paddleboard makes it easy with on-site rentals and friendly tips for first-timers. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just testing your balance, it’s a summer must.
Shop the Season: Stone Fruit & Farm Stands
Summer in Colorado means stone fruit season—and Palisade peaches, nectarines, and cherries are in full swing. For the freshest picks, head to Cure Organic Farm or 7th Generation Farms, where the produce is locally grown and the people are just as sweet. Load up your market bag with sun-ripened fruit, crisp greens, and anything else that catches your eye—it’s all peak-season perfection.
Unwind with Outdoor Yoga (and Maybe a Mimosa)
Balance out your weekend with outdoor rooftop yoga at the St. Julien Hotel, offered every Saturday from 8–9 AM. Flow through your practice with mountain views and fresh morning air, then stick around for a mimosa or an Ozo Coffee-fueled brunch. Mats and infused water are included, and it’s just $10 to join—proof that self-care doesn’t have to be complicated.
Savor the Moment: Wine, Gelato, and Golden Hour Picnics
Boulder’s wine scene is having a moment, and Boulder Wine Merchant and West End Wine Shop are two of the best spots to grab a chilled bottle for your next picnic. Whether you're setting up at Chautauqua Park with friends or finding a shady solo nook to read and snack, the right bottle sets the tone. Bonus points for a cheese board that’s more curated than your playlist.
And when the craving for something sweet hits, Gelato Boy delivers. Their creamy, small-batch gelato—ranging from classic vanilla to fruity, dairy-free creations—tastes like pure summer. It’s the ultimate cooldown treat after a day in the sun.
Because here in Boulder, mid-summer isn’t about packing your calendar—it’s about soaking in every sun-drenched, stone-fruit-filled, wine-sipping moment.
