Dance Studio
ALCHEMY OF MOVEMENT
2436 30th St., 303-449-4410
Silver: Boulder Ballet
Bronze: Avalon Ballroom (Boulder Dance Coalition)
Write-in: Vertical Fusion Studios
Need to let off some steam? World getting you down? We may live in dark times, friend, but that’s no reason to sit around and mope. Dance for joy with the folks at Alchemy of Movement, our readers’ pick for best dance studio. They offer no shortage of dance class options: Party hip-hop, funk, contemporary, aerial hoop, Zumba and more. Not sure you’re a dancer? Check out the Awaken the Dance class to be “welcomed, just as you are.” In addition to weekly classes, Alchemy also hosts a variety of workshops and events featuring global dance styles like Bollywood, Bhangra and African music and Salsa.
Indoor Climbing Gym
BOULDER ROCK CLUB
2829 Mapleton Ave., 303-447-2804
Silver: Movement Climbing + Fitness
Bronze: The Spot Bouldering Gym
Write-in: Longmont Climbing Collective
If there’s one thing Boulder knows, it’s climbing. So when our readers say the Boulder Rock Club is their favorite indoor climbing gym, you can believe it means something. One of the first climbing gyms in the country, BRC now offers a combination of 200 high-quality routes and boulder problems to meet the needs of climbers at all levels — experts included. The staff sets routes three times per week, and no route or problem is more than two months old. This 10,000-square-foot facility offers programming for youth, adults and competition teams, as well as weights and cardio equipment, personal training group fitness and yoga classes.
Barber Shop
FLOYD’S 99 BARBERSHOP
2790 Pearl St., 303-442-2279
548 W. South Boulder Road, Unit C, Lafayette, 720-890-3868
589 S. Hover St., Suite 600, Longmont, 303-485-1150
Silver: Voodoo Hair Lounge
Bronze: Al’s Barber Shop
Write-in: Truman Barber Co.
Floyd’s 99 Barbershop is our readers’ choice for the best barbershop in Boulder County. The appeal likely starts with the staff at Floyd’s — they’re friendly, accommodating and highly skilled. Stop in for a haircut, color or shave, and you’ll leave feeling reborn, or at least a lot more well-groomed. You certainly won’t feel like your wallet’s a lot lighter. Open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week, book your next appointment today or walk-in for a short wait and a great haircut.
Skin Care Services
ALCHEMY FACE BAR
2701 Canyon Blvd., 303-817-1430
Silver: Dermatology Specialists — Boulder
Bronze: JLounge Natural Nail Bar and Spa
Alchemy Face Bar has been on a mission to redefine the traditional spa and salon experience by using health-based products and a holistic approach to skincare. The women behind this company were motivated to find pure, natural and American-made makeup products and services. When they couldn’t find suitable makeup that also contributed to the health of human skin, they created their own line: Alchemy Minerals. Stop by the storefront for a skin treatment that will leave you looking and feeling rejuvenated.
READER COMMENT: “Daryl Hannah lives in Boulder?”
Alternative Health Care
WHOLE BODY BALANCE
2995 Baseline Road, Suite 110, 303-444-0192
Silver: Apex Chiropractic
Bronze: Dr. Ida Rolf Institute
Write-in: ADIO Health Chiropractic
We live in a time, and in a location, where alternative health care has become mainstream, often the first line of defense against an array of afflictions. Our readers like Whole Body Balance, an integrative care clinic that specializes in acupuncture, chiropractic care and massage therapy. Combine its tried-and-true methods with a state-of-the art facility, friendly staff and a pricing structure that works with most major insurances, and you’ll be feeling better in no time.
Day Spa
SPA AT ST JULIEN
900 Walnut St., 720-406-9696
Silver: The Dragontree
Bronze: JLounge Natural Nail Bar and Spa
Write-in: Cactus WAX Studio
Self-care is not just the latest celebrity trend, it’s a necessary retreat to take care of the mind, body and soul, so that we can function and thrive every day. The Spa at St Julien is just the place to unwind, relax and treat yourself to any number of unique services and treatments. The St Julien offers guests handcrafted spa experiences with treatments made from the hotel’s fresh herb garden, as well as other sustainable product lines. With 12 treatment rooms, a full-service salon and inner relaxation room, plus a complimentary day pass to the fitness center, which has a plethora of aerobic and cardio equipment along with a private patio, there’s no shortage of self-care happening here.
Gym/Fitness Center
COLORADO ATHLETIC CLUB — BOULDER
1821 30th St., 303-501-1700
Silver: YMCA of Boulder Valley
Bronze: North Boulder Recreation Center
Write-in: Kondition Fitness
The Colorado Athletic Club — Boulder is much more than a gym — you might think of it more as a social club. Sure, they’ve got executive locker rooms that’ll make an NBA player say, “Niiiiiiiice,” and yeah, they offer expert personal training, top-of-the-line equipment, the hottest fitness classes and not one but two heated saline pools, but what sets the Colorado Athletic Club apart from other gyms is the environment. When you’re a member, you’re family, so why not go to one of their happy hour outings, or on a hike up the Royal Arch Trail? You’ll make new friends and find your growth edge at Colorado Athletic Club.
Acupuncture
ACUPUNCTURE CLINIC OF BOULDER, INC.
2500 Arapahoe Ave., Suite 290, 303-665-5515
Silver: Boulder Community Acupuncture
Bronze: Southwest Acupuncture College
Write-in: Beth Kearns Acupuncture
Our readers say the Acupuncture Clinic of Boulder, Inc. is their preferred place to get well. Espousing tenets of traditional Chinese medicine, the Acupuncture Clinic of Boulder offers a variety of services to help improve what ails you. Acupuncture, Chinese herbal therapy, cupping, dry needling, gua sha, moxibustion and ion treatment are all on the table at the clinic, and can be used to treat any number of maladies from addiction to mental health issues to respiratory, heart, digestive and muscle problems. Call and see what they can do for you.
Lasik Services
BOULDER EYES/BEYER LASIK
1810 30th St., Suite B, 303-499-2020
Silver: Boulder Vision Associates
Bronze: Eye Care Center of Northern Colorado
We’ve said it before, but we can’t stop feeling starstruck: Kevin Costner loves Boulder Eyes/Beyer LASIK. He heard Dr. Beyer was one of the best LASIK surgeons in the country, so he flew out from California to have his surgery right here in Boulder. He even recommended his son do the same (which he did). But the best testimonial of all is from our readers. They’ve crowned Eyes/Beyer LASIK the best LASIK in town for years now. They’ve been in business for more than 20 years, and they don’t just do LASIK. Boulder Eyes/Beyer LASIK has licensed optometrists on staff who treat many patients for years before they decide to have LASIK surgery. It’s a big deal for your doctor to truly know your eyes before recommending LASIK.
Chiropractor
APEX CHIROPRACTIC
305 McCaslin Blvd., Suite 6, Louisville, 720-328-1790
Silver: The Joint Chiropractic
Bronze: Boulder Sports Chiropractic
Write-in: ADIO Health Chiropractic
Many of our readers swear by the healing effects of chiropractics. Apex Chiropractic, which uses state-of-the-art technology to align your spine, is their choice for the best in Boulder County. Apex’s staff is highly qualified and their services can be used to treat sports injuries, pregnancy issues, children’s misalignments and much more. Gentle, affordable and reliable, Apex is the place, our readers say, to get you back on your feet, with a lot more comfort.
Martial Arts
EASTON TRAINING CENTER
2005 32nd St., 303-938-1275
Silver: Boulder Karate
Bronze: Tran’s Martial Arts and Fitness Center
There are a lot of reasons why taking Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes at Easton Training Center is a great idea. First, Easton’s instructors are some of the top athletes in the country when it comes to martial arts. Also, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu teaches a unique skill set; It’s all about leverage and joint manipulation. Translation: It’s the perfect self-defense martial art because a smaller person with the right training can defeat a much larger adversary. Even if you don’t think you’ll need the self-defense aspect, our readers tell us classes at Easton will keep you in great shape physically and mentally.
MMJ Evaluation Service
HOLOS HEALTH
3000 Center Green Drive, Suite 210, 720-273-3568
Silver: Ajoya
Bronze: Relaxed Clarity
The staff at Holos Health takes your medical cannabis evaluation seriously. Their process begins with a non-invasive wellness exam using their state-of-the-art InBody 770 Analyzer, which goes beyond traditional body composition analysis and takes a deeper look into body water and cellular health. After that, they offer a comprehensive consultation with one of their knowledgeable physicians, who will then provide you with in-depth cannabis education, specific strain recommendations for your condition, and a treatment regimen tailored just for you. There is a reason why our readers have chosen Holos as the best MMJ evaluation service for eight years in a row.
Massage
SPA AT ST JULIEN
900 Walnut St., 720-406-9696
Silver: Bodywork Bistro
Bronze: The Dragontree
Write-in: Whole Body Balance
At some point we all need a massage. Some folks need this ancient relaxing treatment a couple of times a week while others settle for an annual visit (thanks for that gift card, honey). So if you’re going to get a massage, why not get it at the place our readers say is the absolute best, the spectacular Spa at St Julien. After all, if the idea is to relax, rejuvenate and come out with a better attitude, then getting a massage at one of the state’s finest and most beautiful spas will go a long way toward accomplishing your goals.
MMJ Dispensary
TERRAPIN CARE STATION
5370 Manhattan Circle, Suite 104, 303-954-8402, ext. 1
Silver: 14er Boulder
Bronze: Ajoya
Write-in: The Farm
Founded a decade ago, Terrapin Care Station has continually refined its services. As a self-described “consumer-focused cultivator, processor and provider of high-quality” cannabis products, Terrapin is dedicated to ensuring the best experience for every customer. One thing the Terrapin staff has learned over the past 10 years is the value of education, and as such, they’ve developed one of the most comprehensive cannabis training programs in the industry, teaching Terrapin’s nearly 250-person staff.
READER COMMENT: “Alpine Hospital for Animals is the most caring animal hospital I have ever been to. The doctors and staff are amazing.”
Hair Salon
VOODOO HAIR LOUNGE
2100 Pearl St., 303-449-4453
Silver: Twig Salon
Bronze: The SideDoor Salon
Write-in: Hairendipity Downtown
As humans, we use our hair to express our personalities. It’s a great feeling when you find a hairstylist who understands you and your hair dreams and then — wait for it — makes them happen. Voodoo Hair Lounge is where our readers go when they want to update their coif. From subtle highlights and low-maintenance ’dos to fantasy colored hair and artistic designs, the stylists at Voodoo are more than capable to pull off your new look. Its stylists are expertly trained in the latest techniques including scissor- and razor-cutting, skilled balayage and foil placement, along with bridal styling, makeup, men’s modern grooming and barbering. Have a glass of wine while you’re there. Unwind a little — your hair is in good hands at Voodoo Hair Lounge.
Psychotherapy
EDWARD MOCKUS, PHD, PLLC
5277 Manhattan Circle, Suite 102, 720-526-0579
Silver: Mental Health Partners
Bronze: John Guzzo, M.S, R.D, L.P.C, C.H.T.
Edward Mockus, or Eddie, as he likes to be called, is an alumnus of an impressive collection of academic institutions, all of which have informed and inspired his work as our readers’ favorite psychologist. He specializes in working with children, teens, families and young adults dealing with a wide range of emotional and behavioral difficulties. Eddie stays current with research and industry best practices as a member of numerous professional associations. When not working, you’ll likely find him on the trails, enjoying the beauty Boulder County has to offer.
Tanning Salon
AT THE BEACH
2100 28th St., Suite 4, 303-449-1499
Silver: Aspen Tan
Bronze: Veranda Sun
Strut into At the Beach and you’ll notice there’s something for everyone looking to achieve or maintain in glowing skin. Sunbed tanning is for those looking for a long-lasting bronze hue to their epidermis. Spray tans result in moisturized, glowing skin after each session. Red light therapy helps reduce signs of aging and inflammation, and improves acne, scars and skin complexion by stimulating collagen production and blood flow throughout the body.
Veterinarian Care
ALPINE HOSPITAL FOR ANIMALS
3210 Valmont Road, 303-443-9661
Silver: Humane Society of Boulder Valley
Bronze: Arapahoe Animal Hospital
Write-in: Pet Menders Animal Hospital
The team behind Alpine Hospital for Animals is almost too good to be true, as our readers are quick to point out. Doctors and technicians from around the country have relocated here to share their love of animals, the great outdoors and healthy, vibrant pet communities. Take in your pets for everything from emergency care to spa services, wellness exams, vaccinations and dentistry. Your four-legged BFFs couldn’t be in better hands.
Medical Facility
BOULDER COMMUNITY HEALTH FOOTHILLS HOSPITAL
4747 Arapahoe Ave., 303-415-7000
Silver: Boulder Medical Center
Bronze: Avista Adventist Hospital
Every year we have to start our description of the winner in this category with the same caveat: We hope you don’t find yourself needing any medical facility this year. That said, thank goodness there are some excellent ones in our neck of the woods. Our readers tell us that when they are hurt, sick or needing some preventative care they prefer to go to Boulder Community Health Foothills Hospital, if they have their choice in the matter.
Yoga Studio
YOGA POD
1890 30 St., 303-444-4232
Silver: CorePower Yoga
Bronze: The Little Yoga Studio
Write-in: Kondition Fitness
Whether you can jump into revolved dancer on-demand or you’re still getting used to the feeling of down dog, Yoga Pod is committed to bringing out your best self. Every class on the schedule is suitable for all levels, but the Pod has created a series of classes to specifically target student desires: podHOT classes are designed to build strength and balance; podFIT classes utilize resistance training and body-weight exercises to accelerate changes in strength and form; yin classes slow things down to focus on joint mobility and improving flexibility; and podFLOW classes incorporate creativity and inspire growth in everyone’s yoga journey.
Recreational Dispensary
THE FARM
2801 Iris Ave., 303-440-1323
Silver: Terrapin Care Station
Bronze: Starbuds
Write-in: Village Green Society
The founders of The Farm came from a background of health and wellness, and also art and design. These passions intersect at The Farm’s dispensary, which is not only locally owned, but also sources 100 percent of its own cannabis in-house. Expert cultivators are on staff and use organic, sustainable growing techniques to achieve the highest quality plants anywhere in the country. The whole staff sees themselves as cannabis ambassadors, so don’t be shy next time you go: Say hi and ask some questions.
Staff Pic: Section of Boulder Creek to Wet Your Feet
Eben G. Fine Park
101 Arapahoe Ave.
Next time you run, bike or walk along the Boulder Creek Path with the sun pounding your shoulders, make your way to Eben G. Fine Park. Situated right at the mouth of Boulder Canyon, large stone steps lead down to the creek and provide the perfect staging area for kicking off your shoes and dunking your feet in for a little cool-down. The large shaded trees keep the sun off your back so you can relax aided by the peace of the water’s flow.
Nail Salon
JLOUNGE NATURAL NAIL BAR AND SPA
3003 Walnut St., 720-484-6669
Silver: Boulder Nail
Bronze: Contempo Nails
Write-in: Eagle Nails
There are two J’s behind JLounge: Julie and Jennifer, two entrepreneurial friends, who, years ago, were on a mission to find a fun and modern day spa experience. When they couldn’t find something that met their exact needs in Boulder, they decided to create their own. JLounge offers a full range of spa treatments, like facials, manicures and pedicures, waxing, and massage and acupuncture — all priced fairly and guaranteed to satisfy.
Pilates Studio
BOLDER PILATES
3012 Folsom St., 303-544-5930
Silver: Boulder Bodyworks
Bronze: Mecha
Write-in: Club Pilates
The guiding philosophy of Bolder Pilates is that you should love the body you live in. The studio and its expert staff is situated to help everyone achieve that reality. With a cohort of supportive, experienced and motivational teachers, students are encouraged to strengthen their mind-body connection through physical workouts that can be adapted for any level of experience.
Golf Course
FLATIRONS GOLF COURSE
5706 Arapahoe Ave., 303-442-7851
Silver: Haystack Mountain Golf Course
Bronze: Boulder Country Club
Golf has come a long way from Mark Twain’s famous ire. (“Golf is a good walk spoiled.”) As New York Times bestselling author Rick Reilly recounts, what was once an elitist game has become mainstream with help from golf legends Arnold Palmer and Tiger Woods. Lucky for Boulder County, we have the 18-hole Flatirons Golf Course to remind us what the game is really about: Walking the greens, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying good company, all with a little friendly competition thrown in. After all, a nice day is spoiled without golf.
Staff Pic: Dog Park
Valmont Dog Park
5300 Valmont Road
With just about three acres of room to roam, any four-legged pal will love this park. Big dogs and small dogs are welcome to run free in this enclosed area (there’s also a special “small dog” section fenced off along the side), which includes plots of grass, picnic tables, obstacles to run up and over, and water spigots and bowls. Pro tip: Bring your pup at sunset, and you’ll catch the orange hues dancing above the Flatirons, which stand in perfect view along the western skyline.
Dental Care
NORTH BOULDER DENTAL GROUP
1001 North St., 303-447-1042
Silver: bouldersmiles
Bronze: Alpine Dental Health
Write-in: Louisville Dental Associates
They say going to the dentist is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Whether you’ve got an ache, need a check-up or are otherwise looking to improve your chompers, the folks at North Boulder Dental Group are here to help. They provide education and care for the entire community by helping each patient achieve and maintain oral health. By offering high-quality, compassionate care, our readers say our readers say a trip to North Boulder Dental Group is their choice for the place to get dental work done.
Pet Boarding
COTTONWOOD KENNELS
7275 Valmont Road, 303-442-2602
Silver: Camp Bow Wow
Bronze: Arapahoe Animal Hospital
Cottonwood Kennels is nestled on a beautiful farm where they thrive on mountain views and good vibes. They are all about the pet-to-person connection, and the family feel. You will not find gimmicky substitutes for human interaction here. You will find a very large staff of big-hearted, dedicated, hard-working people. The variety of activities, from group play to long walks, keep your pup active, stimulated and happy! Cottonwood Kennels is thrilled to have such amazing clients, and love seeing their friendly fur-kid faces come through the door! They also love making new friends! Are you next?
