Welcome to winter! This time of year, I think of one thing: hibernating, sitting by the fire with a warm drink and staying out of the cold. The days are shorter. It’s dark when you retire for the evening and dark when you get up in the morning. I always look forward to the Winter Solstice on Dec. 21 because then the days start to grow longer. The daylight savings time change helps a little, but doesn’t change my desire to stay in.
This all sounds nice and cozy, but there are so many things you can add to your hibernation experience that may brighten up your day. We have created another beautiful magazine for you that is chock full of ways to embrace winter in all its glory. Our latest winter/spring magazine is out now.
My goal this winter is to visit local restaurants that are new to us. As such, you’ll find that food is a major focus of this issue, with a stellar bucket list of 10 iconic restaurants — the ones you absolutely, positively must visit. For the love of chocolate, we spoke with the founder of Chocolove, Timothy Moley.
We visited the new restaurant Boulder Social and found a surprisingly eclectic menu brimming with delicious food and drinks. We also checked in with the experts at Hazel’s Beverage World and learned the backstory of the aviation theme.
I confess I have a sweet tooth! And if you do, too, here is the ultimate list of not-to-miss dessert places in Boulder County and beyond. We wrap up this issue with recipes from local restaurants that you can try at home (and for even more ideas, be sure to grab a copy of “A Bite of Boulder,” a cookbook from First Bite).
This issue also explores more things to do. Try cross-country skiing on local trails and visit some of our favorite museums in the area. Support the meaningful work of YWCA Boulder County in celebration of the organization’s 100th anniversary. Clean out your closet and visit the Boulder Sports Recycler for gently used outdoor gear.
Want to get away? Read about the amazing dude ranches that are worth planning your next vacation around. The experiences will be memorable, with activities for the whole family all year long.
We tip our hats to Stephanie Carter, CEO and co-founder of Wallaroo Hat Company, in our latest “Meet the Makers” interview.
I thank you for spending a few minutes with Travel Boulder Magazine. I encourage you to send us your thoughts.
Cheers to a new year!
— John R. Brice
Publisher and Co-Founder of Travel Boulder
