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CU Buffs

Campus Tailgate Itinerary: A Boulder Game Day, Hour by Hour

An hour-by-hour Boulder game day for CU Buffs fans, from a Pearl Street breakfast to Folsom Field and The Hill.

CU Buffs • 6 min read

Boulder game days are made for walking. The Flatirons frame the skyline, the campus is compact and The Hill is a short stroll away. This itinerary is a fan's suggested rhythm, not an official schedule. Times shift with kickoff, so work backward from your game and confirm details with the venues you plan to visit.

Morning: Breakfast and Warm-Up

Start with a slow breakfast downtown. Pearl Street offers plenty of cafes, and a big plate sets you up for a long day outdoors. Wear black and gold, and layer up: Boulder mornings can be cold and the afternoon sun warm. Drink water early; at this elevation you will feel the dry air faster than you expect.

If you are driving in, check parking and transit options in advance. Parking near campus can be limited on game days, and rules and prices change, so read the posted signage and official campus information. A bus, bike or carpool often beats circling blocks.

Midday: Campus and Pre-Game

Walk through campus and soak in the atmosphere. Students, alumni and families all find their own spots, and a friendly tailgate is part of the fun. If you set up a gathering, follow campus and city rules about alcohol, grills and open flames. Bring snacks that travel well and do not need a full kitchen.

For a college crowd, be thoughtful: many fans are under 21, so keep things inclusive and responsible. Plan a designated driver or a safe ride home.

Gametime: Folsom Field and the CU Events Center

Folsom Field hosts football and the CU Events Center hosts indoor games. Check which venue your game uses and allow extra time for security and entry. Bring only what the venue allows, and check its policy on bags in advance. Once inside, find your seats early to catch the pre-game energy.

  • Tickets on your phone or in hand
  • Layers and a rain shell
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses
  • A refillable water bottle if permitted
  • A plan for meeting friends if cell service gets crowded

After the Game: The Hill

When the final whistle blows, take your time. Walk toward The Hill and settle in for a post-game meal or a drink. The Sink, a long-standing college bar, is part of Buffs lore, but hours, capacity and offers change, so confirm with the venue directly. Be patient with crowds and kind to staff.

Head home before you are tired. If you are staying in Boulder, walk. If you are driving, a sober driver is non-negotiable. Look after your friends and, when in doubt, leave the car where it is.

A Few Reminders

Weather in the foothills changes quickly. A sunny kickoff can turn windy and cold by the fourth quarter, so keep an extra layer in a bag. Respect neighbors, stay off private property, and recycle when bins are available.

ColoFandom is an unofficial fan community. We are not affiliated with the University of Colorado, its athletics department or any venue named here. For up-to-date game information, rely on official sources, then bring your own black-and-gold energy.