Pearl Street Mall, Boulder

The Boulder Mall is great during the day. Lots of eclectic small shops with unusual items or clothing. No chain stores or restaurants actually in the outdoor mall. It's a pleasant area to leisurely stroll around, and lots of activities for little kids. There are buskers, street vendors, and great for "people watching. The area is safe and well patrolled from pickpockets, purse snatchers, con men, drug dealers, etc. However, you will find, like anywhere in the U.S., numerous homeless and street people, who will not hesitate to beg, but generally won't bother you. They have a right to be there just like anyone else. However, only 4 stars because after 10:00 pm, the mall is done. Nothing open, including restaurants. It's still safe and very well lit for walking...on your way to a restaurant or club that IS open after 10 pm. Being a huge town for college kids, its not hard to find places that are open until 2:00 am, but you won't find them on the Boulder Mall. BTW, if you ever do the annual "Boulder Mall Crawl," be prepared to be trapped in crowds of 100s of drunk people, being pushed against your will, and could possibly be trampled and seriously injured.

Makes for a great night out on the town! Always a great time getting to see all parts of Boulder. Once you find a spot to park, walk around and take advantage of the different shops/restaurants around the area!