On Pearl Street in scenic downtown Boulder, Colo., one of the city's most beloved bookstores makes its home.

Boulder Book Store is a must-stop when shopping and exploring all that this famous Front Range town has to offer. From the bright and inviting atmosphere to the community building events, this bookstore is the place for bookworms desirous of the next bestseller; classics; or just a good ol' cheap, pre-loved book with crinkled pages. 

Boasting three floors and 20,000 square feet of space, Boulder Book Store is the largest independent bookstore in town. The bookstore's owner David Bolduc has championed the "shop local" cause for over a decade in the community, in an effort to ensure that local business owners are able to thrive in the area. 

Spring at Boulder Book Store — Photo courtesy of Boulder Book Store

What makes Boulder Book Store so special?

"BBS is a special place for a number of reasons. Being on Pearl Street and in a cool historic building are high on the list," says Stephanie Schindhelm, the bookstore's marketing manager. "But I think the biggest reason that our store is so special is because we are a reflection of the people of Boulder."

For example, the store features a huge cooking section – including books on alternative eating lifestyles – which seems to fit right in with this foodie and health-conscious town. And Boulder's known for an active lifestyle. Thus the tons of books on yoga, ultrarunning and CrossFit.

"What I'm saying is, if you're visiting Boulder and want to know what kind of a place this is and what kind of people live here, come to our store and look at the books we carry, and you will know," Schindhelm explains.

But what exceptional bookstore would be complete without an offering of amazing events and clubs? The upper floor of the store, known as The Ballroom, is a large, cozy meeting space for well-known authors, special events, book readings and more.  

For those interested in the benefits of a raw food diet or wellness in general, Tuesday, Aug. 4, is your chance to hear Shari Leidich – author of Two Moms in the Raw – discuss her journey of self-healing through food and how a successful business was born from her personal quest for health. 

Bookclub Night, taking place Monday, Aug. 10, is a summer event where book clubs can talk with publishers and booksellers about their favorite titles. 

Adding to this already charming store is the fact that it's located on Boulder's most famous and successful pedestrian malls: Pearl Street. Dining, shopping and entertainment abound; street performers can be seen year-round; and beautiful flowers can be admired in the spring, while the twinkling and festive lights of Christmas dazzle during the winter months.

When supporting Boulder's local businesses, there's simply no better place to spend your time than at Boulder Book Store.