Boulder, Colorado’s culture is built on its rich and unique history. What many people outside Boulder may not know is that in recent years the city has become sort of a Mecca for all things movie related. From festivals to film shoots Boulder sits atop the ladder as one of America’s premiere film festival locations. In addition to its unique culture the city is surrounded by 36,000 acres of conservation easements, recreational open space, and nature preserves that make this place perfect for bike and hike enthusiasts.
Hiking/Walking trails-
If there is one thing Boulder is known for it is its renowned hiking trails that weaved themselves throughout the city and surrounding regions. Places such as Chautauqua Park, Flagstaff, and Mount Sanitas are considered the most popular for either an easy stride. If mountain biking is more your speed, then ride to the south side of the city where the most popular bike trails are. For more information on great outdoor activities please look at the official website of Boulder Open Space.
Banjo Billy’s Bus Tours
Many cities have historical tours but what sets Banjo Billy apart from the rest is the manner in which they’re given. Unlike most tours which are content with trolleys, school buses and other forms of normal transportation, Banjo Billy delivers its tours from a hillbilly shack on wheels. Yep, you read that right. The tours are given through a retrofitted school bus made to resemble a Hillbilly shack. It’s not just the buses roof and sides that were changed, either. When guests board they find themselves set to choose from a sofa, horse’s saddle and even a recliner. Banjo Billy gives historical tours of both Boulder and Denver, Colorado and is 90 minutes long.
Tour prices are: Adults – 22 dollars, seniors (60+) – 18 dollars, Kids six to twelve just 12 dollars and anyone under 6 rides for free.
24 hours shoot up Boulder Festival
Can you make a 7 minute film in 24 hours? Well here’s your chance! Every year Boulder plays host to one of the strangest competitions in film today: The Shootout Filmmaking Festival. During the competition groups of novice filmmakers from all over Colorado gather together to create the best 7 minute movies ever. At the end of the filming period everyone gathers for a festival of the finished films and special prizes are awarded. Denver’s Westwood Weekly awarded the festival with the Best Local Film Fest award in 2009.
Boulder International Film Festival
In 2005 the Colorado Film Society began holding the Boulder International Film Festival. Since its inception BIFF has hosted over 150 filmmakers from around the globe and, in 2009, honored comedy actor Chevy Chase with an award. BIFF is held each February and is dedicated to giving a preview of many of the best new films from international cinema to the audiences of the Denver/Boulder metro area. After the shows there are usually short Q&A’s with the film’s directors, producers, and actors.
Boulder Ghost Walks:
This year Historic Boulder and Psychic Horizons will be hosting a two night ghost tour of one of the oldest sections of Boulder: Historic Highland Lawn. Guests will be treated to tales of the dark and tragic side to Boulder’s history as they tour the historic homes on their way to Columbia Cemetery. The event will be held Saturday October 22rd and Sunday October 23rd beginning at 6pm. Admissions are $15 for adult admission and $5 for children ages 7-12. Please visit www.historicboulder.org for a complete list of ticket availability.