Boulder is sometimes called the "Athens of the West" - a tribute to its dedication to education and the arts. The University of Colorado at Boulder and a host of private industries make the city one of America's leading science and research towns. Those moving to Boulder will also discover its commitment to the arts, presenting a number of renowned music, theater and arts festivals each year. The city's attractive setting near the Rocky Mountains and its abundant cultural and entertainment offerings make it a popular stop for business or recreation.
History:
In November 1871, Boulder was incorporated as a Colorado town, and "City" was dropped from the name. A site for the University of Colorado was chosen in Boulder in 1872, and the Colorado state legislature appropriated funds for the institution in 1874, the same year that Boulder's first bank opened its doors. The city grew steadily through the turn of the century. In 1880, the population totaled 3,000 people, but modern conveniences like the installation of electricity in 1887 and a new railway depot in 1890 boosted the population to more than 6,000 people by 1900. The 20th century brought moderate growth for Boulder. In the late 1950s and early 1960s, the development of high-technology industries had a great impact in the area. The development of the Boulder-Denver Turnpike further bolstered the area, driving Boulder's population from 20,000 in 1950 to 72,000 in 1972. The convergence of the university environment with research centers and science and technology companies fueled continued growth in the 1990s. By the turn of the century, however, the economic scene had begun to change. Despite media attention in the 1990s and a rocky economical start to the new century, Boulder is an evolving and forward-looking city. Today, Boulder consistently ranks high in polls by magazines and organizations that rate cities based on livability.
Economy:
The predominant industries in the Boulder are science and technology related. Aided by the research activity at the University of Colorado at Boulder, a large high technology, electronic, and aerospace industry has developed in and around the city. The phenomenal growth of these industries attracted the establishment of defense contractors, applied and pure research centers, and satellite and communications companies, which bring millions of dollars into the local economy each year. The technology boom has filtered down into other Boulder industries, increasing the city's manufacturing and retail base. Education, health care, and government are also important sectors of the Boulder economy. Boulder business managers and owners cite a high quality of life and a talented work base among the advantages of doing business in Boulder. The workforce is educated well above the national average, as 66.9 percent of Boulder residents had received a bachelor's degree or higher degree, compared with 24.4 percent in the U.S. as a whole. The university and the many technology- and research-oriented companies draw a large number of college graduates and professionals into the labor market.
Tourism:
Boulder has plenty of outdoor activities to test the limits of your adventurous side. Nestled at the foot of Colorado's Rocky Mountains, Boulder boasts hiking, climbing and biking trails that will satisfy your need for a casual day trip or a rigorous adventure. Boulder Creek Path is a paved 7.5-mile path for walkers, bikers and skaters leads from Boulder proper into the mountains, winding its way along Boulder Creek, a large park and a playground. Next, Celestial Seasonings Tea Factory is a place for peace and tranquility. Discover how tea is made on a tour that includes a video, a walk through the Celestial Herb Garden, a tour of the tea bag factory and a visit to the aromatic Mint Room. Then, the Chautauqua, originally established in 1898 to bring culture to rural areas, is a beautiful park now hosts cultural events, features rock climbing sites, lovely gardens and picnic areas and is the starting point for many hiking trails. For the shopper, Pearl Street Mall is situated in the heart of an energetic city is beautiful, historic Downtown Boulder. Four blocks of charismatic shopping, the mall features colorful, bright flowers and entertaining street performers. In the evening, enjoy a variety of entertaining events happening in downtown Boulder. Music festivals, art shows and community events throughout the year make historic Boulder a fun and exciting place to be.