Boulder, Colorado’s Pearl Street Mall is a uniquely interesting and entertaining place to shop and eat. The mall, which is a street with shops on both sides, is closed to traffic. In the middle aisle, street performers, musicians, and other people offering services such as massage or tarot card readings are present and ready to put on a great show for anyone willing to watch or participate. The mall is home to several original gallery-type stores and non-chain restaurants, which are usually all packed.

Boulder also hosts a farmer’s market six months out of the year where fresh fruits and vegetables can be purchased. This is destination frequented by locals, college students, and visitors or tourists to the city.

At one time, there was a large indoor shopping mall located in the heart of the city, but it closed in 2002 to make room for a new upscale shopping area. When the mall was in operation, a new one opened off the freeway going to Denver and many of the stores  had trouble staying in business.

There are many grocery store chains in the Boulder area, as well as plenty of locations to purchase organic foods. The natural foods chain, Wild Oats, started and is still headquartered here.

There are also several stores in the Boulder area that cater specifically to college student’s needs. Some of these stores include bookstores that carry textbooks, art supply stores, and accessory stores that cater to 18-22-year-olds.  There are great shops on University Hill near CU especially, Meow Meow for gifts and cards. Don't forget to check out the local bookstores downtown...Boulder Books, Word is Out (feminist and gay) and High Crimes (mysteries).