Blog Posts

Pet-Friendly Summer Adventures Around Boulder, Colorado

Summer in Boulder is hard to beat, especially when you have a dog that loves getting outside as much as you do. From scenic walking trails to dog-friendly patios, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season with your four-legged companion. If you live in Gunbarrel, many of these local favorites are just a short drive away. Take a Walk Around Twin Lakes One of the perks of living in Gunbarrel is having easy access to Twin Lakes Open Space . The trails around the lakes are perfect for a casual walk with your furry friend, and the mountain views make it easy to forget you’re only minutes from home. It’s a great spot for a morning outing before the day heats up or an evening walk after work. Check Out Boulder’s Open Space Trails Boulder has no shortage of trails that welcome leashed dogs. Davidson Mesa Open Space is a popular option thanks to its wide paths and incredible views of the Flatirons. If you’re looking for something a little longer, the trails around Boulder Reservoir offer plenty of room to explore while enjoying the fresh mountain air. Remember to bring water for both you and your pup, especially during the warmer months. Let Your Dog Burn Off Some Energy Sometimes dogs just need a place to run and play. The Twin Lakes Dog Park is a favorite among local pet owners because of its convenient location and open space. It’s a great place for dogs to socialize while owners catch up with neighbors and fellow dog lovers. Valmont Dog Park is another popular choice if you’re looking for a larger off-leash area. Grab a Bite on a Dog-Friendly Patio One of the best parts of summer is spending time outside, and many Boulder-area restaurants and breweries welcome dogs on their patios. After a hike or walk, consider stopping at a local spot where your pup can relax by your side while you enjoy a meal or a cold drink. Many businesses even keep water bowls available for visiting dogs, making patio season a little more enjoyable for everyone. Spend a Day by the Water If your dog enjoys being near the water, Boulder Reservoir is worth a visit. The surrounding paths provide plenty of space for walking, jogging, and taking in the views. Nearby Waneka Lake Park in Lafayette is another peaceful option for a relaxing afternoon stroll. These locations are especially beautiful during the early morning and evening hours when temperatures are cooler. Enjoy Summer Close to Home One of the advantages of living at Habitat Apartments is being close to so many outdoor destinations. Whether you’re heading out for a quick walk around Twin Lakes, exploring a new trail, or meeting friends at a pet-friendly patio, there are plenty of ways to enjoy summer with your dog nearby. Sometimes the best adventures are the simple ones, and around Boulder, there are plenty of opportunities to make the most of the season with your favorite companion by your side. At Habitat Apartments, it's easy to enjoy Colorado's outdoor lifestyle with your pet by your side. From nearby trails and open spaces to local dog parks and pet-friendly hangouts, you'll find plenty of ways to make the most of every season in Gunbarrel. Explore our available floor plans and see why Habitat Apartments is a great place for both you and your four-legged companion to call home.

Weekend Reset: Simple Self-Care Ideas Around Gunbarrel

Weekends have a funny way of disappearing. You make plans to catch up on chores, maybe run a few errands, and before you know it, Sunday night rolls around, and Monday is staring you in the face. Instead of trying to cram everything into two days, consider using part of your weekend as a reset. Not a complete overhaul of your life. Just a few simple things that help you feel rested, recharged, and ready for the week ahead. One of the perks of living in Gunbarrel is that some of the best ways to unwind are right outside your door. Start the Day with Some Fresh Air When the weather is nice, getting outside for even 30 minutes can completely change the tone of your day. The trails around Twin Lakes Open Space are perfect for a morning walk. You'll find water views, mountain scenery, and plenty of space to slow down and clear your head before the weekend gets busy. If you're feeling more active, hop on part of the LoBo Trail , which connects Boulder and Longmont and offers miles of scenic paths for walking, running, or cycling. Treat Yourself to a Slow Morning Not every weekend needs to start with a packed schedule. One of the simplest forms of self-care is giving yourself permission to slow down. Grab a coffee from OZO Coffee's Gunbarrel location , find a sunny spot, and spend an hour reading, journaling, or simply people-watching. It sounds simple because it is. Sometimes the little things are the most restorative. Give Your Apartment a Quick Refresh A reset does not always have to mean leaving home. Many people find that spending 20 or 30 minutes tidying up on Sunday makes the entire week feel more manageable. Put on your favorite playlist, open the windows, wash the sheets, and clear off the kitchen counters. You do not need to deep clean the entire apartment. Just focus on creating a space that feels calm when Monday arrives. Explore a New Spot in Boulder One of the benefits of living in Gunbarrel is how easy it is to enjoy everything Boulder has to offer without being right in the middle of downtown. Spend an afternoon strolling Pearl Street, visiting a local bookstore, or grabbing lunch at a restaurant you've never tried before. Sometimes a change of scenery is all it takes to break out of the workweek routine. Make Time for Something That Isn't Productive This may be the hardest self-care tip on the list. Not everything has to serve a purpose. Watch a movie. Read a novel. Sit on your balcony. Call a friend. Take a nap. There is value in activities that exist simply because you enjoy them. End the Weekend on a Calm Note A great weekend reset does not mean squeezing every last minute out of Sunday. Instead, try slowing things down in the evening. Prep a few meals, glance at your calendar for the week ahead, and spend some time doing something relaxing before bed. A little preparation can go a long way toward making Monday feel less hectic. Life Feels Better When You Have Room to Recharge One of the reasons so many people love living in Gunbarrel is the balance it offers. You have easy access to Boulder, beautiful open spaces, local trails, and quiet neighborhoods, making it easier to step away from the daily rush. At Habitat Apartments, that balance is part of everyday life. Whether your ideal weekend includes exploring the outdoors, enjoying local coffee shops, or simply relaxing at home, you'll find plenty of opportunities to recharge right here in the neighborhood. Explore our available floor plans and discover why so many residents love calling Gunbarrel home.

July 2026 Events in Boulder, Colorado

Summer is officially here, with warm-weather activities in full swing and a variety of options, from adventure to avocado stands, around every corner. As a Colorado gem tucked next to the fabulous Flatirons, Boulder doesn’t disappoint, offering seasonal staples like patio people-watching, farmers’ markets, Chautauqua hiking, and more. But July invites something else. Chock-full of events beyond the traditional Boulder benefits, it offers you a chance to explore something new. Mark your calendars for the following: Bands on the Bricks Live from Pearl Street, Wednesday nights only! Bands on the Bricks takes place each week in July, ending on July 29th. From 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm, music lovers, shoppers, and those out for an evening stroll can enjoy free concerts featuring local musicians and up-and-coming bands. The beer garden, open to those 21 and over, offers happy hour from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Lafayette Fireworks Show Boulder doesn’t host a public fireworks show this Fourth of July, but you can find the rockets’ red glare just down the road. Lafayette’s Independence Day celebration kicks off at 4:00 pm and features food trucks, live music, a family fun zone, and a fireworks finale over Waneka Lake. It’s a fun and festive way to celebrate America’s 250th birthday! Colorado Music Festival The Colorado Music Festival returns for its 50th anniversary, kicking off July 9th and running through August 9th. This year’s festival is headlined by a wide-ranging, eclectic, and uber-talented lineup of musicians, including pianists, violinists, and clarinetists. Concerts take place at the historic Chautauqua stage on Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays, and Tuesdays. Buy tickets here ! Boulder Cruiser Rides Boulder Cruiser Rides are back because riding a bike is, well, riding a bike. These free rides depart from Greenleaf Park every Thursday at 7:30 pm through Halloween. With a slow, steady pace, they’re open to everyone, from inexperienced riders to fitness buffs, and include music, lights, and a dance party afterward! Pearl Street Arts Fest Channel your inner artist because the annual Pearl Street Arts Fest is returning! Taking place July 17–19, the festival features more than 100 artists showcasing their work across 13+ artistic disciplines. First held in 1978, it’s been an annual tradition for decades and has become one of the region’s best-known festivals. July might be 31 days long, but it goes by in the blink of an eye! Take part in one of the above and make the most of the month! The Habitat Apartments is in Gunbarrel, with convenient access to shopping in Boulder and beyond. We offer apartments and townhomes with private patios, a heated pool, outdoor kitchens, pet-friendly amenities, and multiple floor plans. Contact us today to learn why we’re the perfect place to set down roots.

4th of July Events In and Near Boulder, Colorado

America is commemorating its 250th birthday. This means it’s time to gather with friends and family, celebrate freedom, and bask in life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness! From the mountains to the prairies, Boulder and nearby areas offer a wide range of Fourth of July events to help you indulge in independence, including the following: Avery Brewing’s Fourth of July 4K Avery Brewing’s Fourth of July 4K is the perfect way to get your steps in before honoring the holiday with hot dogs, hamburgers, and other traditional fare. Now in its 17th year, this annual event features a flat, fast course and welcomes runners and walkers of all skill levels. It’s followed by a post-race party packed with live music, breakfast burritos from Savory Cuisines Catering, and Avery Brewing Company beer (naturally). Please note: Baby strollers are allowed on the course, but dogs are not (including dogs in baby strollers). Arts in the Parks Independence Day Boulder Symphony Concert While America might be more rock ‘n roll than a string quartet, the Boulder Symphony always brings its A game. The Arts in the Parks Independence Day concert is a ticketed evening event held on the nation’s birthday, inviting attendees to sit back, relax, and let music (and freedom) ring. It takes place in the Civic Area and features performances for all ages, as well as food and drink vendors. Boulder Farmers Market The Boulder Farmers Market is a weekly summer tradition that extends beyond American holidays. This year, however, it falls on the Fourth of July. An ideal way to start your Independence Day, the market offers visitors a chance to buy budget-friendly, homegrown produce, support local farms and small businesses, and explore homemade and gourmet products. Don’t forget to stock up on red radishes, blue corn, and white peaches! Boulder Reservoir Although it’s too early to know how hot it’ll be come July 4th, summer tends to peak early, with temperatures often in the 80s and 90s and beyond. This makes Boulder Reservoir the quintessential place to cool off. A go-to haunt among Boulderites, it offers a swim area, reservable picnic grounds (amenable to groups of all sizes), and boating opportunities. The Great American Picnic There’s no fireworks show within Boulder’s boundaries this year, but nearby Broomfield simulates the rockets’ red glare and bombs bursting in air. Broomfield’s Great American Picnic is one of the city's marquee events and features a children’s carnival (with inflatables, face painting, and NurfTurf games), two beer gardens, an all-ages bike parade, and live music, including a performance by That Eighties Band. The fireworks show, the evening’s beautiful bookend, kicks off at 9:15 pm, right after sunset. The Habitat Apartments is in Gunbarrel, with convenient access to shopping in 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 set down roots.

Best Picnic Spots in Boulder Near Gunbarrel

When the weather warms up in Boulder, locals head outside. Few activities feel more Colorado than packing a picnic, grabbing a blanket, and spending the afternoon surrounded by mountain views, open space, and sunshine. If you live at Habitat Apartments , you are in a great location to explore some of the best picnic spots in Boulder without driving far from home. From quiet neighborhood parks to scenic lakes and foothill overlooks, Boulder offers plenty of picnic-friendly destinations for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors. Why Boulder Is Perfect for Picnics Boulder’s combination of public parks, mountain scenery, bike paths, and open space makes it one of the best cities in Colorado for outdoor dining and relaxing. Many picnic spots include: Mountain and Flatirons views Walking and biking trails Shaded grassy areas Dog-friendly spaces Lakes and creek access Easy parking or bike accessibility Living in Gunbarrel also gives residents quick access to both east Boulder nature areas and central Boulder parks, so you can choose between peaceful local spots and more active community gathering spaces. Best Picnic Spots Near Gunbarrel Twin Lakes Open Space Located just minutes from Gunbarrel, Twin Lakes Open Space is one of the most convenient and underrated picnic areas near Habitat Apartments. Twin Lakes offers: Waterfront views Fishing access Walking trails Plenty of open grassy space Mountain backdrops without large crowds This is a great choice for a quick after-work picnic or a relaxed weekend afternoon. The trails around the lakes are relatively easy, making the area very accessible to everyone. Eaton Park Eaton Park is another nearby option popular with Gunbarrel residents. The park includes large shaded trees, open green lawns, playgrounds, and picnic tables. Why locals love it: Quiet neighborhood atmosphere Easy parking Great for folks of all ages Plenty of room for lawn games or casual gatherings If you are looking for a low-key picnic spot close to home, Eaton Park is one of the easiest choices. Coot Lake For people who want scenic water views and a little more space to spread out, Coot Lake is a local favorite. Located north of Boulder near Gunbarrel, Coot Lake offers: Calm lake views Walking trails Picnic areas Birdwatching opportunities Access to nearby Boulder Reservoir trails This area feels peaceful while still being close to town. Early evenings here are especially beautiful during summer. Classic Boulder Picnic Spots Worth Visiting Chautauqua Park No list of Boulder picnic spots would be complete without Chautauqua Park . Located beneath the Flatirons, this iconic Boulder destination combines incredible scenery with open grassy areas perfect for a picnic. What makes Chautauqua special: Direct Flatirons views Historic atmosphere Hiking trail access Large picnic lawns Easy access to downtown Boulder Weekends can get crowded, especially during the summer, so arriving earlier in the day is a smart move. Best Picnic Spots in Boulder for Families North Boulder Park North Boulder Park is ideal for larger groups. Highlights include: Playground areas Open fields Nearby cafes and coffee shops Shade trees Walking paths Its central location also makes it easy to combine a picnic with a stroll through nearby Boulder neighborhoods. Scott Carpenter Park Scott Carpenter Park is especially popular during warmer months thanks to its splash pad and recreational amenities. This park is great for: Casual weekend gatherings Group picnics Outdoor recreation The large grassy sections give visitors plenty of room, even on busier days. Best Scenic Picnic Spots in Boulder Boulder Reservoir Boulder Reservoir offers one of the best picnic experiences in the Boulder area if you want water views and mountain scenery together. Visitors enjoy: Sandy beach areas Swimming and paddleboarding Picnic tables Sunset views Open space for relaxing For Gunbarrel residents, the reservoir is especially convenient because it is nearby, avoiding a trip through downtown traffic. Foothills Community Park Foothills Community Park combines open space, ponds, and excellent Flatirons views. This spot works well for: Sunset picnics Photography Walking after dinner Larger gatherings The wide-open layout gives it a more spacious feel compared to some of Boulder’s busier parks. What to Bring for a Boulder Picnic Colorado weather can change quickly, even on sunny days. Before heading out, it helps to pack a few essentials: Sunscreen Water bottles Layers or light jackets Picnic blanket or folding chairs Reusable containers Trash bags for cleanup If you are planning a picnic near trails or open space, comfortable walking shoes are also a good idea. Living Near Boulder’s Best Outdoor Spaces One of the biggest advantages of living in Gunbarrel is easy access to Boulder’s parks, lakes, and outdoor recreation areas. Residents at Habitat Apartments can quickly reach scenic picnic spots while still enjoying a quieter residential atmosphere away from downtown congestion. Whether you prefer a lakeside afternoon, a mountain-view picnic, or a quick neighborhood park meetup, Boulder offers options for every kind of outdoor lifestyle. Explore Boulder One Picnic at a Time Picnics are one of the simplest ways to enjoy everything Boulder has to offer. From Twin Lakes and Coot Lake near Gunbarrel to iconic destinations like Chautauqua Park and Boulder Reservoir, there is no shortage of beautiful places to relax outdoors. Looking for an apartment near Boulder’s parks, trails, and outdoor recreation? Explore life at Habitat Apartments and discover why Gunbarrel is one of Boulder County’s most convenient and connected neighborhoods.

June 2026 Events in Boulder, Colorado

Summer might not have technically started yet, but the warm-weather festivities are already in full swing. Sunny days and long nights offer plenty of seasonal sustenance, with plenty of activities to fill your calendar. A handful of events coming to Boulder this June include: The Colorado Shakespeare Festival A Boulder tradition for nearly 70 years, the Colorado Shakespeare Festival is the perfect way to spend a midsummer night! It kicks off on May 30th and runs through August 2nd, with a variety of shows on weekends and select weeknights. Choose from Twelfth Night and Julius Caesar (two of The Bard’s classics), Shakespeare in Love (based on the award-winning movie), and Friends/Romans/Countrymen (a humorous take on the Roman Empire). Mumford & Sons Mumford & Sons will be playing Folsom Field on June 6th. A folk-rock band from Greater London, they formed in 2007, rose to prominence in 2011, and broke out with Babel , their Grammy-winning album. Folsom Field is the only venue in Colorado where they’re scheduled to play this year. Boulder Jewish Festival The Boulder Jewish Festival takes place on June 7th on Pearl Street. An annual event with a 30-year history, the festival celebrates Jewish culture and community. It’s free to attend, and participants are invited to enjoy food, art, and music and to take part in a remembrance of the terrorist attack on the Boulder Run for Their Lives. The event will also feature an enhanced security presence, including K-9 units, undercover police officers, and aerial and rooftop monitoring. Boulder Pridefest 2026 Boulder Pridefest 2026 takes place on June 13th in the Boulder Main Library parking lot. Welcoming all, the event features activities, pride merchandise, a variety of vendors, giveaways, and diverse speakers and performers. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets for performances. Flatiron Sounds Music Festival Consider spending Father’s Day at Chautauqua! The Flatiron Sounds Music Festival takes place on June 21st. A free, family-friendly event, it showcases an eclectic mix of music (and the beauty of the Flatirons). It starts at 1:00 pm and runs into the evening, featuring a lineup that includes Lindsay Lou, Armchair Boogie, Neal Francis, and more. Food and craft beer vendors will also be on site. Whether you’re looking to celebrate community, enjoy live music, or meet new people, June in Boulder offers plenty of opportunities to get out of the house and experience summer in style. The Habitat Apartments is in Gunbarrel, with convenient access to shopping in 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 set down roots.