2026 NASPA Region IV-West Conference

October 25-28, 2026 • Boulder, Colorado

Bring Layers, Take it Easy, Stay Hydrated and Explore!

Getting to Boulder:

 

Most conference attendees flying into Colorado will arrive at Denver International Airport (DEN). DEN is approximately 45 minutes from CU Boulder by car, depending on traffic.

When planning your arrival, remember that travel time can increase during Denver-area rush hours, bad weather, or other traffic delays.

 

Option 1: RTD AB1 — Budget-Friendly

The RTD AB1 airport bus provides direct service between DEN and Boulder, with stops near campus.

Estimated travel time: 70–85 minutes

Estimated fare: $10–$13 one way

The AB1 departs from the airport's transit area and provides an affordable connection to Boulder.

 

Option 2: Airport Shuttle

Shared airport shuttles provide transportation directly between DEN and Boulder-area hotels and accommodations.

Estimated cost: $40–$70 one way

Estimated travel time: 60–90 minutes

Advance reservations are strongly recommended during conference periods.

 

Option 3: Uber or Lyft

Uber and Lyft are available at DEN, with pickups located on Level 5 of Jeppesen Terminal.

Estimated cost: $55–$100

Estimated travel time: 45–60 minutes

Prices can vary based on demand.

 

Option 4: Rental Car

Rental cars are available from major providers at Denver International Airport.

Do you actually need one?

If your plans are primarily conference-related, you may not! Boulder is highly walkable and bike-friendly, and local RTD buses connect campus, downtown, hotels, and nearby neighborhoods.

A rental car may make more sense if you plan to explore outside Boulder or take a day trip during your visit.

 

 

Where to Eat & Connect:

 

A CU Boulder Dining Guide featuring restaurants within walking distance or a short rideshare from campus.

 

Looking for an easy meal?

The Hill is closest to campus and offers student-friendly restaurants, coffee shops, and bars.

Pearl Street Mall is a great choice for a larger concentration of dining, shopping, and nightlife.

Downtown Boulder offers everything from casual cafés to fine dining.

 

Need caffeine before your first session? These spots are highlighted in the conference dining guide as breakfast, brunch, or coffee options near campus.

Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

Lucile's Creole Cafe

Crepe Therapy Cafe

 

Traveling Solo? - Don't eat alone!

One of the best parts of NASPA is meeting colleagues from across the region. If you're traveling solo or simply want to meet someone new, use the Conference Meal Meetup Form to connect with other attendees for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Come hungry. Leave with new colleagues!

 

Getting Around Boulder:

 

Boulder is highly walkable and bike-friendly, and many conference hotels, restaurants, and attractions are within walking distance of campus. Local RTD buses also connect campus with downtown Boulder and surrounding neighborhoods.

 

Explore on Foot or by Bike

Take advantage of Boulder’s pedestrian- and bike-friendly streets while you're here.

The Boulder Creek Path is a popular walking and biking route that runs through downtown Boulder and campus areas.

 

What to Do for Entertainment: 

 

Outdoor Activities & Scenic Spots

 

Chautauqua Park
Historic Boulder landmark with hiking trails, mountain views, and easy access to the Flatirons.
Website: https://bouldercolorado.gov/locations/chautauqua-park

Boulder Creek Path
Popular walking and biking path running through downtown Boulder and campus areas.
Website: https://bouldercolorado.gov/services/boulder-creek-path

Mount Sanitas Trail
Favorite local hiking trail offering panoramic views of Boulder.
Website: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/mount-sanitas-trail

Pearl Street Mall
Pedestrian-friendly downtown district with shops, restaurants, live performers, and galleries.
Website: https://boulderdowntown.com/

 

Live Music, Theater & Arts

 

Fox Theatre
Iconic Boulder music venue featuring touring artists and local performances.
Website: https://www.foxtheatre.com/

Boulder Theater
Historic downtown theater hosting concerts, comedy, and events.
Website: https://www.z2ent.com/boulder-theater

CU Presents
University arts and performance series including music, theater, dance, and film.
Website: https://cupresents.org/

Dairy Arts Center
Community arts center featuring independent films, theater, galleries, and performances.
Website: https://thedairy.org/

 

Breweries, Bars & Nightlife

 

Avery Brewing Company
One of Colorado’s best-known craft breweries with a large taproom and restaurant.
Website: https://www.averybrewing.com/

Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery
Classic Boulder brewery known for local beer and a casual atmosphere.
Website: https://www.mountainsunpub.com/

License No. 1
Underground cocktail lounge located beneath the historic Hotel Boulderado.
Website: https://www.hotelboulderado.com/dining/license-no-1

The Bitter Bar
Craft cocktail bar popular with locals and visitors alike.
Website: https://www.thebitterbar.com/

 

Museums & Cultural Attractions

 

Museum of Boulder
Local history museum with rotating exhibits and rooftop views.
Website: https://museumofboulder.org/

Fiske Planetarium
Planetarium on the CU Boulder campus offering astronomy shows and immersive experiences.
Website: https://www.colorado.edu/fiske/

CU Museum of Natural History
Free museum featuring exhibits on natural science, anthropology, and Colorado history.
Website: https://www.colorado.edu/cumuseum/

 

Day Trips & Nearby Adventures

 

Rocky Mountain National Park
World-famous national park about 1.5 hours from Boulder with scenic drives and hiking.
Website: https://www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm

Nederland
Small mountain town west of Boulder known for music, breweries, and mountain scenery.
Website: https://www.colorado.com/cities-and-towns/nederland

Eldorado Canyon State Park
Popular destination for hiking, climbing, and scenic canyon views.
Website: https://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/eldoradocanyon

Weather

 

October in Boulder can bring a mix of crisp autumn days, cool evenings, and changing weather conditions. We encourage attendees to check the local forecast before traveling and throughout the conference to plan accordingly. Dressing in layers and bringing a jacket are recommended so you can stay comfortable as you travel between conference activities and explore the area.

For the latest forecast, current conditions, and weather alerts, click the button below.