Blog Posts

Boulder, Colorado: Staycations Worth Taking

Boulder, Colorado, is an ideal destination for a staycation, offering a blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and luxurious accommodations. Whether you're a local looking for a refreshing break or a visitor aiming to experience the city like a resident, here are some curated ideas to make the most of your apartment-based staycation in Boulder. Embrace the Outdoors Boulder's natural landscapes provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities: Chautauqua Park : Explore scenic trails with views of the iconic Flatirons. Boulder Creek Path : Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along this picturesque path that winds through the city. Mount Sanitas : For a more challenging hike, ascend Mount Sanitas and be rewarded with panoramic views of Boulder. These outdoor excursions offer a perfect balance to your indoor relaxation. Culinary Delights Boulder's dining scene is diverse and vibrant: The Kitchen : A farm-to-table restaurant offering seasonal dishes in a cozy setting. Frasca Food and Wine : Experience fine dining with a menu inspired by the Friuli region of Italy. The Buff : A local favorite for hearty breakfasts and brunches. For a more casual experience, visit the Rayback Collective , a food truck park offering a variety of cuisines in a communal atmosphere. Arts and Culture Immerse yourself in Boulder's cultural offerings: Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art : Discover contemporary works by regional and national artists. Boulder Theater : Attend live performances ranging from music concerts to film screenings. Pearl Street Mall : Stroll through this pedestrian mall lined with shops, galleries, and street performers. Wellness and Relaxation Prioritize self-care during your staycation: St Julien Hotel & Spa : Indulge in spa treatments and enjoy amenities like a pool and fitness center. Yoga Classes : Join a local yoga studio for a session to rejuvenate your body and mind. Home Spa Day : Create a spa-like atmosphere in your apartment with candles, soothing music, and a warm bath. Shopping and Local Finds Explore Boulder's unique shopping scene: Boulder Farmers Market : Held on Saturdays, this market offers fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local crafts. Independent Boutiques : Browse shops along Pearl Street for unique clothing, jewelry, and home decor. Bookstores : Visit local bookstores to find your next great read. A staycation in Boulder lets you enjoy our city's charm at your own pace. By blending comfortable accommodations with outdoor adventures, culinary exploration, cultural experiences, and wellness activities, you can craft a memorable and revitalizing getaway without traveling far from home. The Habitat Apartments is situated in Gunbarrel, offering convenient shopping access in downtown Boulder and beyond. We provide apartments and townhomes featuring private patios, a heated pool, outdoor kitchens, pet-friendly amenities, and multiple floor plans. Contact us today to discover why we’re the perfect place to settle down.

Pet-Friendly Summer Adventures in Colorado

It’s difficult for many pet owners to leave their furry friends at home while enjoying the warm months. After all, the dog days of summer just aren’t the same without Roscoe and Rover. Fortunately, Colorado is a canine-friendly state, offering many adventures perfect for both the two-legged and the four. Consider packing a doggie bag and heading out to one of the following: Manitou Cliff Dwellings A privately owned tourist attraction that pays homage to Ancestral Puebloan-style cliff housing, the Manitou Cliff Dwellings offer an ideal opportunity to explore history and architecture. Plus, you can do this with Fido by your side! Dogs are welcome throughout the park as long as they’re leashed. They can even venture into the ruins and the museum. Garden of the Gods The Garden of the Gods allows dogs on park trails as long as they are on leashes no longer than six feet. With hordes of wildlife in the area, including deer and bighorn sheep, they must be controlled at all times; furthermore, they should avoid the horseback riding tours. Dogs with extra energy can run it off at the off-leash area located in the park’s southeast corner. Eldorado Canyon State Park Eldorado Canyon State Park is a hiking haven that serves as Boulder’s backyard playground. Renowned for its breathtaking sandstone, sweeping views, and hidden trails, this canyon welcomes canines with open arms (and open paws). Dogs must be leashed, and owners are encouraged to be alert to wildlife, which includes bobcats, foxes, coyotes, mountain lions, black bears, raptors, and bats. Union Reservoir Union Reservoir is a popular spot for dog owners because of its off-leash area and doggie swimming hole. This pup paradise is situated on the southeast side of the reservoir, where dogs must swim only in the designated area. Other parts of the reservoir welcome four-legged friends as well, but they must remain leashed. 88 Drive-In If your Akita is artsy, your Dalmatian loves drama, and your Beagle has a nose for great cinema, bring them to the 88 Drive-In . As the last remaining original drive-in in the state, this theater is a cherished warm-weather tradition for families from all walks of life. Dogs are allowed on the grounds as long as they’re leashed; the snack bar even provides poop bags. Enjoying summertime doesn’t have to mean leaving your dog behind while it pouts, frets, and judges you. Colorado is full of dog-friendly adventures. Try one of the above and earn your pooch’s unconditional love. The Habitat Apartments is situated in Gunbarrel, offering convenient access to shopping in downtown Boulder and beyond. We provide apartments and townhomes featuring private patios, a heated pool, outdoor kitchens, pet-friendly amenities, and various floor plans. Contact us today to discover why we’re the perfect place to settle down.

Summer in Boulder: Events, Festivals, and Activities You Can’t Miss

Summer in the Centennial State is a spectacular time. With warm weather, long days, and friendly communities, it’s the quintessential season to leave the living room behind for grand adventures. For those who live near the Flatirons, Boulder knows how to raise the stakes even further. A town filled with festivals and seasonal events, there’s something to do around every corner. Whether you’re a fan of music, Shakespeare, or satire, check out the following happenings: Bands on the Bricks Bands on the Bricks takes place during the mid-summer months, occurring on Wednesday evenings from June 11th to July 30th. Hitting the bricks of Pearl Street, this event showcases a variety of musical genres performed by seasoned artists. Enjoy these free, family-friendly shows and participate in an annual tradition. Boulder Comedy Festival The Boulder Comedy Festival is an excellent workout for your funny bone! Taking place from June 25th to June 29th, this festival highlights diverse comedians, particularly female comedians, and attracts performers from Comedy Central, Amazon, and Netflix to the stage. Colorado Shakespeare Festival The Colorado Shakespeare Festival is a summer staple in Boulder that invites both locals and visitors to don their proverbial togas and enjoy an evening with the Bard. Running from June 7th to August 10th, this event features The Tempest , Richard II , and Doctor Faustus . It takes place at the newly renovated Roe Green Theatre while the Hellems Building undergoes updates. Arts in the Park Arts in the Park is a celebration of artistic magic and cultural diversity, embodying the vibrant and eclectic-meets-electric Boulder community. Running from June 7th to August 3rd, this event takes place in the city’s Civic Area and showcases local talent, including the Boulder Ballet, Boulder Opera, and Boulder Symphony, among others. Opera in the Park Opera in the Park is an event that truly hits the high notes. This open-air concert celebrates Italian opera merged with American classics, featuring Mozart, Verdi, Bernstein, Gershwin, and more. It takes place on August 2nd and August 3rd at the Boulder Bandshell. General admission is $15, with discounts available for seniors, children, and students. There’s always something to do during summertime in Boulder. Head out to one of the events mentioned above or explore the many other local festivals throughout the season to enjoy the arts under the Rocky Mountain sunshine. The Habitat Apartments is situated in Gunbarrel, offering convenient shopping access in downtown Boulder and beyond. We provide apartments and townhomes featuring private patios, a heated pool, outdoor kitchens, pet-friendly amenities, and multiple floor plans. Contact us today to discover why we’re the perfect place to settle down.

What You Need To Know About the Boulder Creek Festival

The Boulder Creek Festival welcomes summer with a celebration centered around Colorado. This annual event attracts both locals and visitors from across the Front Range and the entire state, making it an ideal occasion to shop, eat, dance, and connect with the community. Here’s what you need to know before you go: When and Where The Boulder Creek Festival takes place at 1236 Canyon Blvd, nestled alongside Boulder Creek. It kicks off on May 23rd and continues through May 26th, giving people a chance to think beyond the barbecue come Memorial Day weekend. 30+ Bands and Dance Acts One of the marquee features of the Boulder Creek Festival is its eclectic display of music and dance. Whether you’re looking for a Bob Dylan and Grateful Dead tribute band, folk music, classical tunes, rock ‘n roll, or diverse types of dance from across the globe, you can find something to your liking. The following is just a sample of the acts and demonstrations scheduled : Magic Beans Green Buddha Boulder Karate Mile High Brass Band Wrenn Van Band Carolyn Shulman and Eric McEuen Tenbucksixer Teen music showcase Los Cheesies Tonewood String Band Tribal Misfits (transnational fusion belly dance) 200+ Artisans The Boulder Creek Festival is also known for its wide selection of artisanal goods , including jewelry, art, ceramics, clothing, crystals, and more. A sampling of the vendors featured includes the following: Chill Monkee Yamuna Designs Ridgeworks Abby Pittman Artwork Buena Vista Goods Mother Wolf Candle Company Woven Wisdom Moonflower Works Leona Sol Jewelry Daky Native Treasure 30+ Restaurants Of course, no festival is complete without a smorgasbord of fabulous food. Event attendees can choose from over 30 food trucks and local restaurants offering a wide variety of options, including sustainably sourced seafood, cheese bread, baked goods, vegetarian fare, turkey legs, and more. The entire vendor list isn’t available yet, but you can sign up on the festival website for email updates. Welcome summer with a bang (and a band or twenty) by visiting the Boulder Creek Festival. This free-to-attend event is the perfect way to enjoy the Rocky Mountain sunshine in a vibrant, colorful town. The Habitat Apartments is located in Gunbarrel, providing convenient shopping access in downtown Boulder and beyond. We offer apartments and townhomes with private patios, a heated pool, outdoor kitchens, pet-friendly perks, and multiple floor plans. Contact us today to learn why we’re the perfect place to settle down.

Eco-Friendly Living: Sustainability Tips for Apartment Dwellers

Living in an apartment doesn't mean you can't make a significant environmental impact. By reducing waste and conserving energy, small actions can add up. Here are some practical sustainability tips to help apartment dwellers live more sustainably. Reduce Energy Consumption Switch to LED Bulbs: These use up to 90% less energy and last significantly longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. Unplug Electronics: Devices continue to draw power when left plugged in. Use a power strip to turn off multiple devices at once. Utilize Natural Light : Make the most of daylight to lessen reliance on artificial lighting. Seal Drafts: Prevent heat loss using draft stoppers or thermal covering curtains. Minimize Water Usage Install Low-Flow Fixtures: Many apartments permit tenants to replace showerheads or faucet aerators to decrease water usage. Fix Leaks Promptly: Notify your landlord about leaks to conserve water and avoid damage. Time Your Showers: Limit your shower duration and gather excess water for watering plants. Embrace Waste Reduction Compost Food Scraps: Even in small spaces, countertop compost bins are available. Some cities provide composting programs. Recycle Smartly: Understand your local recycling guidelines to ensure correct disposal. Reduce Single-Use Plastics: Invest in reusable containers, water bottles, and shopping bags. Sustainable Shopping and Decor Buy Secondhand: Thrift furniture, decor, and household items to lessen demand for new resources. Support Eco-Conscious Brands: Opt for products with sustainable packaging and ethical sourcing. Use Natural Materials: Bamboo, cork, and recycled fabrics are excellent eco-friendly decor choices. Green Your Space Add Houseplants: Plants enhance air quality and bring a refreshing touch to your home. Create a Balcony Garden: Grow herbs, flowers, or small vegetables in vertical planters. Choose Air-Purifying Plants: Spider plants, peace lilies, and pothos are excellent for improving air quality. Community Involvement Join a Local Sustainability Group: Connect with neighbors for clean-up events or recycling programs. Swap and Share: Consider participating in a neighborhood swap for clothes, books, or household items. Sustainable living in an apartment is achievable through mindful choices and minor changes. By embracing these tips, you can lower your carbon footprint and encourage others to do the same. Every effort counts, making our communities and planet healthier for future generations. Start small, remain consistent, and see how your eco-friendly habits can create a significant impact! The Habitat Apartments is located in Gunbarrel, providing convenient shopping access in downtown Boulder and beyond. We offer apartments and townhomes with private patios, a heated pool, outdoor kitchens, pet-friendly perks, and a community garden. Contact us today to learn why we’re the perfect place to set down roots.

Spring in Colorado: What to Plant

Spring is just around the bend, meaning everything is coming up roses (and tulips and daisies). In Colorado, it might be easier to grow fruits, veggies, and plants than you think; even with Mother Nature’s surprise April and May snowstorms, all sorts of things thrive along the Front Range. If you’re pining for produce or have a hankering for herbs, consider joining our community garden and planting the following: Veggies Many vegetables are ready to veg out in your soil beds once those frosty mornings abate. Some that flourish in spring weather include the following: Lettuce (easy to grow) Onion (can tolerate cool temps) Carrots (known to take to crisp weather and Colorado soil) Cabbage (honor your favorite childhood toy and plant an entire patch!) Spinach (an uber-healthy addition to a variety of dishes) Peppers (do best in temps above 60 degrees) Fruits Knowing what to plant can help you enjoy a fruitful growing season. Some fruits to dig into during the Colorado spring include the following: Tomatoes (botanically a fruit although eaten as a veggie) Berries (including blackberries, gooseberries, raspberries, and blueberries, which grow best in acidic soil) Apples (particularly early-season varieties) Plums (peak in mid-summer but are considered an early-spring to late-fall fruit) Flowers Spring is when many types of flowers flourish , including daffodils, lily of the valley, azaleas, and tulips. Some varieties that thrive in Colorado gardens include the following: Bulbs (do best in sunny areas with well-drained soil and when planted after the last frost of the season) Annuals (certain annuals thrive in sunny areas—such as the torch flower, Mexican poppies, and the black-eyed Susan—while some—such as the Madagascar periwinkle—can tolerate a bit of shade) Perennials (grow exceptionally well in rainy areas) Herbs Gardeners tend to find the most success growing herbs in the spring by starting the seeds indoors and planting them in heavy-sun areas once the weather warms (although some herbs need protection from hot rays). Most herbs prefer enriched soil (as Colorado soil is low in organic matter) that drains well. Some herbs that growers have luck with include the following: Rosemary Thyme Basil Lemon balm Oregano Not every fruit, veggie, herb, or flower is appropriate for Colorado soil and the temperamental temperatures of Mother Nature. But many crops and plants blossom beautifully in the Centennial State. Consider the above when honing your green thumb and enjoy a fruitful (and veggieful!) season. The Habitat Apartments is located in Gunbarrel, providing convenient shopping access in downtown Boulder and beyond. We offer apartments and townhomes with private patios, a heated pool, outdoor kitchens, pet-friendly perks, and a community garden. Contact us today to learn why we’re the perfect place to set down roots this spring.