Boulder Summer: What to do with the kids?

We look forward to summer. But sometimes as we look forward we also begin to wonder how we are going to keep our kids engaged, learning and having fun. Here are some suggestions:

1. Go camping. Check out Brainard Lake or Rocky Mountain National Park. You do have to make reservations, but both are within an hour of Boulder.

2. Go on a hike. Check out my list of local hikes here.

3. Play on Pearl Street. Head down to Pearl and go the fountain where you kids can play in the water feature, climb on some rocks, get a hot dog, eat some yummy street food in front of the Court House, stop into the Boulder Bookstore to read a book or just get some great reading suggestions, and/or play on the rocks.

4. Head to the Farmer’s Market. Wednesday evenings and Saturdays until 2 buy some delicious fruits and veggies, eat some prepared foods, listen to music, do an art activity [Saturdays in front of BMOCA], and meet up with some friends.

5. Walk along the bike path. Take a stroll along the bike path, watch the kayakers, bikers, dip your toes in the water just East of the Boulder Public Library where there is a nice kids area, consider bringing some fishing gear to the Kids’ Pond area just East of the Court House off of 6th and Canyon.

6. 29th Street Mall. Head over to Summer Skate, play at The Loft [nice indoor activity for those really hot days], and/or find yourself at the kids’ play area near Starbucks.

7. Go swimming. Boulder Park and Recreation has Spruce and Scott Carpenter outdoor pools or head to the Boulder Reservoir. You can pay each time or get a Splash Pass that gets you in all summer long.

8. Go biking. Head to the Valmont Bike Park for a day of riding. They have terrain for all abilities and a small snack shack.

9. Take a tour. Try Celestial Seasonings, NCAR, & The Denver Mint.

10. Listen to music. Meadow Music happens every Monday from 5:30 to 6:15 at Chautauqua, listen to live music each week at the Farmer’s Market [see link above], or listen to live music at Band on the Bricks on Pearl Street from 7 to 9pm throughout the summer. All music listed is free.

Or just head to any pond or creek to watch for some wildlife. Be observers. Take notes. Draw what they see. Ask many questions. Whatever you do, enjoy the summer!