It's no big secret that Pearl Street is a really special part of Boulder. Ken and I love to sneak out for a quick dinner, a drink, and to enjoy a stroll through scenic downtown. Read on for some background on the area and a list of some of our favorite locally owned spots on and around Pearl.
Officially established in 1977, the Pearl Street Mall is a bustling city park, complete with public sculptures and several children’s play areas. In addition to shops and restaurants, you’ll find musicians, contortionists, and other street performers providing outdoor entertainment. Downtown Boulder hosts a number of seasonal events on the Mall including Band on the Bricks, Arts Fest, World Singing Day, and Munchkin Masquerade. Look up to visually explore the architecture of a number of refurbished historic buildings - some dating back to the late 1800’s. Also take a moment to appreciate the beautifully designed - and sizable - gardens spaced throughout the length of the mall.
What to Do on Pearl Street
Eat
Pearl Street is a great option when you’re looking for a place to eat. For a quick bite, fancy dinner, beer, or dessert, check out:
- Bohemian Biergarten - European beer, Central European food, live music
- Japango - Sushi and a live jellyfish tank!
- Pizza Colóre - Pizza, 20+ year old Pearl Street business
- Zoe Ma Ma - Homemade noodles, buns, street food
- Piece, Love & Chocolate - Beautiful artisan chocolates and other chocolatey treats
- Oak on 14th - Our favorite for a night out or try their sister restaurant Corrida for a really special steak and some of the best views in Boulder
- Avanti Boulder- there is something for everyone at this collective eatery. Try any one of their 7 food concepts and sip a drink on the awesome rooftop deck.
Shop (or Windowshop)
In addition to a variety of clothing and outdoor stores, Pearl Street is a great place to find gifts, artwork and kitchen wears. And over 80% of the shops on Pearl are locally owned! Be sure to visit:
- Two Hands Paperie - Artisan paper, art supplies, journals, cards,
- Into the Wind - Kites, games, toys
- Peppercorn - Cookware, cook books, gourmet foods
Read
Looking for something new to read? Stop by Boulder Book Store or Trident. Trident specializes in books on art, philosophy, history, and health and be sure to visit the second and third floors of Boulder Books.
Walk
In addition to the four blocks that officially make up the red-bricked Pearl Street Mall, there are plenty of shops and restaurants to visit between 8th and 21st. Start at one end and make your way down the street. For a longer walk, Eben G. Fine and Settler’s Parks are further down Pearl Street and are both great spots for picnicking and reading.
Listen
Many Pearl Street businesses and restaurants host live, indoor music events. Head to Bohemian Biergarten or The Laughing Goat for a more intimate setting or get tickets for a show at the Boulder Theater (located just off of Pearl on 14th street).
Maybe we will see on Pearl Street soon!
