Pearl Street Mall is Boulder's beating heart—four blocks of brick-paved pedestrian paradise lined with locally-owned shops, excellent restaurants, and a constant parade of street performers. It's been the center of Boulder life since it was converted from a regular street in 1977.
Pearl Street Mall
Boulder's Heart & Soul
The Experience
The mall is alive from morning until late night. Grab coffee at Ozo or The Cup, browse Boulder Book Store, watch contortionists and magicians, and settle into a patio for dinner. The people-watching is world-class.
Shopping Highlights
Boulder Book Store: Independent bookstore since 1973. Three floors of books and a great local author section.
Peppercorn: Kitchen and home goods institution. Overwhelming in the best way.
Into the Wind: Kites, toys, and whimsy. A kid (and adult) favorite.
Dining
From the upscale Oak at Fourteenth to the beloved Illegal Pete's, Pearl Street has options for every taste and budget. The patios fill up quickly on nice days.
Pro Tip: Park in the 11th Street Garage (free on weekends) and walk the full mall. Street performers are best from late afternoon into evening. The courthouse lawn at 13th Street is a great people-watching perch.