Yoga Studio
YOGA POD
1890 30 St., 303-444-4232
Silver: Corepower Yoga
Bronze: The Little Yoga Studio
Write-in: Yoga Junction
There are many kinds of pods from the storage kind to groups of whales to the ones peas grow in. And then there is Boulder’s Yoga Pod. Our readers tell us this is hands down the best kind of pod because its where Boulder County residents can come and join a community built around the transformative practice of Yoga. With more than a dozen class offerings each day that vary from Earth Ways Yoga to podHOT to podFLOW, podFIT, podBASICS, a 200 hour teacher training program and more, you will definitely feel right at home in this community while sharpening your mind, toning your muscles and unlocking the secrets to a powerful and graceful practice. There’s a reason our readers love this place, so check it out soon.
Dental Care
NORTH BOULDER DENTAL GROUP
1001 North St., 303-447-1042
Silver: Alpine Dental Health
Bronze: Bouldersmiles
Write-in: Pearl Street Dental
At this point, you know the drill. Dentists are our friends, and yes, we do need to see them at least twice a year, every year. At North Boulder Dental Group, the whole family can go at once, making the process as simple as possible. Between the general preventative care, the corrective measures (fillings, sealants, crowns, implants and more), and more intensive cosmetic dentistry (whitening and veneers), you’ll get the care you need at North Boulder Dental Group, exactly when you need it.
Indoor Climbing Gym
BOULDER ROCK CLUB
2829 Mapleton Ave., 303-447-2804
Silver: The Spot Bouldering Gym
Bronze: Movement Climbing + Fitness
Write in: EVO Rock + Fitness
There was a time when the idea of an indoor climbing gym seemed like a crazy notion to folks in Boulder County who lived in the shadow of some of the world’s best rocks to climb in the great outdoors. At first, these indoor facilities, with their colorful resin holds, were treated like a training facility for climbers during inclement weather. But my, how things have changed! Indoor climbing has become a wildly popular sport and a workout all on its own. On any given day you can find climbers from 6 to 86 making their way up the creative lines on the overhanging walls or working on the boulder problems closer to the ground. Climbing is climbing and when it comes to doing that vertical dance indoors, and our readers say that Boulder Rock Club is their favorite spot. Whether you’re a beginner looking for instruction or a world class pro in search of competition, this club truly has it all.
Lasik Services
BOULDER EYES/BEYER LASIK
1810 30th St., Suite B, 303-499-2020
Silver: Boulder Eye Surgeons
Bronze: Boulder Vision Associates
We’ve said it before: If it’s good enough for Kevin Costner it’s good enough for us. That’s right, when it came time for Mr. Waterworld himself to have lasik surgery, Costner chose to have his procedure done by acclaimed lasik expert Dr. Craig Beyer of Boulder Eyes/Beyer Lasik. Obviously, celebrity clients are not the best reason to choose a particular lasik clinic, but knowing that our thousands of readers also chose Boulder Eyes/Beyer Lasik as the best does start to add up. If you think lasik could be a good fit for you, then drop by and have a chat with Dr. Beyer and his knowledgeable staff. Until then, tatonka.
Nail Salon
JLOUNGE NATURAL NAIL BAR AND DAY SPA
3003 Walnut St., 720-484-6669
Silver: Boulder Nail
Bronze: Contempo Nails
Write-in: Orange Poppy Spa
Nothing like a mani/pedi to make you feel like a new human. Our readers head to jlounge Natural Nail Bar and Day Spa when they’re looking to shape up their nails or soften their tootsies. But this is more than a nail salon. A trip to jlounge is an experience meant to refresh, re-energize and revitalize. They use only high-quality, natural and organic ingredients made from fresh herbs, flowers, oils and grains. Take a load off and get an 85-minute mani/pedi combo that’ll leave your feet and hands silky smooth, or drop by for a “quickie mani” to get your nails shaped, buffed and polished in just 20 minutes.
Martial Arts
BOULDER KARATE
1672 30th St., 303-442-4330
Silver: Easton Training Center
Bronze: Tran’s Martial Arts and Fitness Center
Write-in: Wolchek Academy of Martial Arts
Boulder Karate is a great place to learn the art of self defense in a supportive, family-friendly atmosphere. Gain expertise in Shaolin Kempo, a style of self defense that combines the circular, fluid motion of Chinese Kung Fu with the linear, powerful movements of Japanese Karate and the joint manipulations and grappling tactics of Jujutsu. Students at this dojo also incorporate the Five Values: attitude, integrity, respect, self-control and heart. Both students and instructors strive to practice these values in their everyday lives continually. It’s a great way for kids to improve their focus, coordination, confidence and safety.
Fusion of Latin Dance and Hula Hooping
O DANCE
Classes offered at a variety of studios within Boulder. odance.net, 303-918-6617
Kristina Sutcliffe has two dance passions in life: salsa dancing and hula hooping. She’s worked for years to perfect the fusion of the two to create SalsaHOOP. If the name didn’t give it away, this is a fun and *gasp* sexy dance class. In classes, Sutcliffe spends half the time teaching “on-body” (waist hooping) and “off-body” techniques, using hands, arms and upper back. You’ll pick up seemingly complex hoop techniques quickly as you add in footwork. It’s easy as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
Hair Salon
VOODOO HAIR LOUNGE
2100 Pearl St., 303-449-4453
Silver: The SideDoor Salon
Bronze: Twig Salon
Write in: Orange Poppy Spa
We’re beginning to see a trend here; Voodoo Hair Lounge is starting to dominate this very competitive category. And why wouldn’t they? This salon is both environmentally progressive and creative as all get out. Voodoo describes itself as a place “where art, culture and community collaborate with fashion and lifestyle,” and our readers tell us that is true. Voodoo’s hairdressers are allowed, even encouraged, to think and work outside the box. They invite their clients into the creative process so everybody has a good time. If you can picture it in your head, the folks at Voodoo can put it on your head. Their services cater to both men and women, whether it’s for everyday stylings or special events. No matter your needs, Voodoo’s got you covered, including styling, coloring, cutting and all your other hair-care needs. Don’t let anyone tell you experience doesn’t matter, it does. And that’s why all of Voodoo’s stylists have more than a decade of experience. Our readers love this place, so chances are, you will too.
MMJ Evaluation Service
HOLOS HEALTH
3000 Center Green Drive, Suite 210, 720- 273-3568
Silver: Colorado Medical Marijuana
Bronze: Relaxed Clarity
According to Holos Health, our readers’ choice for best MMJ evaluation service, “The journey toward physical, psychological, emotional and spiritual health can be difficult. Many stressors prevent people from being both well and happy. Determining and removing these triggers for disease is the first step on the road to true healing.” Our readers say Holos Health is the place to go to recognize and treat those triggers. They also provide medical marijuana education for those new to the treatment. And the kind folks at Holos even provide functional medicine and nutritional training.
Skin Care Services
DERMATOLOGY SPECIALISTS — BOULDER
2880 Folsom St., Suite 200,
303-442-6647
Silver: Rebecca’s Herbal Apothecary & Supply
Bronze: jlounge Natural Nail Bar and Spa
Write in: Alchemy Face Bar
Taking care of your skin can be hard in Colorado. It’s one of the driest, highest and sunniest places in the country, which can lead to all sorts of skin-care needs. But don’t worry, the fine folks at Dermatology Specialists — Boulder have you covered. They offer all sorts of dermatological services, whether surgical, medical or cosmetic. With the promise to “deliver effective long-lasting results,” our readers say this is the best skin care service provider in Boulder County. But it’s not just for your skin. Dermatology Specialists can help with hair loss, cellulite and so much more.
Pet Boarding
COTTONWOOD KENNELS
7275 Valmont Road, 303-442-2602
Silver: Camp Bow Wow
Bronze: Arapahoe Animal Hospital
Write in: Happy Hounds Dog Care Center
Nestled on a small farm just east of Boulder, you’ll find a perfect spot for a vacation in the country for your pet. Our readers have entrusted their furry family members (no, we’re not talking about Uncle Bob) to Cottonwood Kennels where it’s all about the pet-to-person connection. You won’t find gimmicky substitutes for human interaction here, only a very large staff of big-hearted, dedicated, hard-working people. Your pet’s eating, drinking, potty habits, disposition and attitude are carefully monitored, recorded and reviewed several times a day. While you’re away, you can call Cottonwood’s toll free number to get a progress report on your fluff baby.
Massage
SPA AT ST JULIEN
900 Walnut St., 720-406-9696
Silver: The Dragontree
Bronze: Bodywork Bistro
Write-in: Fixt Movement
Picture this: Hands rubbing the tension from your back and neck, the scent of essential oils wafting in the air, relaxing sounds of nature filling your ears. And, oh yeah, you have the peace of mind of knowing you’re in one of the unequivocally best hotels and spas in the country at the Spa at St Julien. The 10,000-square-foot facility hosts a highly trained staff, 12 treatment rooms, a full-service salon, locker rooms and more. Deep tissue, aromatherapy, pre-natal and other massages are available for the picking. Add a bevy of other treatments to your massage to make it a truly indulgent spa day.
Recreational Dispensary
THE FARM
2801 Iris Ave., 303-440-1323
Silver: Terrapin Care Station
Bronze: Native Roots Dispensary
Write-in: Starbuds
he Farm is exactly what Boulder County all about: a locally owned and operated business conveniently located in Boulder that focuses on high-quality products. The Farm takes great care to grow strains that are pesticide-free, which sets them apart from many businesses in the ever-growing cannabis industry. They offer great prices every day, and fantastic weekly specials you can check out online before you head to the store. Speaking of online, you can even order from the comfort of home; simply pick up your order within 24 hours of placing it. Flower, vape pens, oils, edibles, it’s all available at The Farm, our readers’ favorite recreational marijuana dispensary.
Golf Course
FLATIRONS GOLF COURSE
5706 Arapahoe Ave., 303-442-7851
Silver: Indian Peaks Golf Course
Bronze: Boulder Country Club
Write-in: Sunset Golf Course
Open year-round, Flatirons Golf Course is an 18-hole golf course and practice facility operated by the City of Boulder Parks and Recreation, holding space for instruction programs and equipment repair. The 125-acre course, insulated by robust greenery, provides sweeping views of the jagged Flatirons and insulates you from the nearby streets, affording a feeling of seclusion in a relaxed mountain setting. Make a reservation online or stop by to set a tee time any day of the week to enjoy yet another beautiful face of the good Boulder County living.
MMJ Dispensary
TERRAPIN CARE STATION
5370 Manhattan Circle, Suite 104, 303-954-8402, ext. 1
Silver: Helping Hands Herbals
Bronze: The Dandelion
By now, we know how beneficial marijuana is for people suffering from a variety of ailments. Whether it’s mental or physical mending, cannabis often can provide a healing solution. Our readers turn to Terrapin Care Station when they need to fill a medical marijuana prescription. Its products are top-of-the-line, the staff is well-trained and the selection is hard to beat. Extracts, edibles, topicals and gear round out the list of supplies you can snag at Terrapin. With multiple locations, it’s easy to get your hands on the medicine you need.
Chiropractor
THE JOINT CHIROPRACTIC
2525 Arapahoe Ave., Suite C2, 303-440-8019
Silver: Apex Chiropractic
Bronze: Whole Body Balance
Write-in: Boulder Sports Chiropractic
Taking care of your spine and joints can help with myriad ailments, from reducing muscle spasms to enhancing immune systems, improving digestive function and encouraging tissue regeneration. The folks at The Joint Chiropractic are invested in natural, drug-free approaches to healthcare and this place is a one-stop shop for all facets of chiropractic care, with flexible scheduling opportunities and affordable personalized care plans. At the end of the day, whatever your ache or discomfort, The Joint’s got your back.
Alternative Health Care
WHOLE BODY BALANCE
2995 Baseline Road, Suite 110, 303-444-0192
Silver: Rolf Institute of Structural Integration
Bronze: Chautauqua Health
Write-in: Community Holistic Health Center
With a full suite of wellness offerings that include acupuncture, massage, chiropractic care, rolfing and cold laser therapy, a visit to Whole Body Balance, according to our readers, will leave you feeling your absolute best. The varsity team of chiropractic, massage and acupuncture professionals are intuitive and work to holistically heal body, mind and spirit. Perhaps the best part: the monthly wellness plans that make the whole experience more affordable and convenient. And who doesn’t like feeling their best? Consider Whole Body Balance as the fast track.
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.
It’s like old-school class meets new-age individuality. At Floyd’s 99 Barbershop, uniqueness shines. The talented stylists and barbers at Floyd’s offer nearly unlimited options for all of your hairs. This includes haircuts, coloring, shaves and waxing services for both men and women. All are welcome in Floyd’s rock ’n’ roll themed parlors. And if you didn’t know Floyd’s 99 has a radio station, now you do, and you can tune in online to grove along with nostalgic delight.
Day Spa
SPA AT ST JULIEN
900 Walnut St., 720-406-9696
Silver: The Dragontree
Bronze: jlounge Natural Nail Bar and Spa
Write-in: Orange Poppy Spa
When it’s time to treat yourself, you need to do it right. Thankfully, our readers make a good self-care recommendation easy: Spa at St Julien. As you enter the 10,000-square-foot full-service spa and salon, you’re provided a robe and slippers and encouraged to relax in the steam or sauna room, or enjoy the 50-foot indoor lap pool prior to your treatment. The service menu includes therapeutic massages, body scrubs and wraps, manicures and pedicures, and facial work for men and women — all of which feature chemical-free, hydrating ingredients and products that leave you refreshed inside and out.
Acupuncture
ACUPUNCTURE CLINIC OF BOULDER, INC.
2500 Arapahoe Ave., Suite 290, 303-665-5515
Silver: Boulder Community Acupuncture
Bronze: Boulder Sports Acupuncture
Write-in: Whole Body Balance
In traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is used to treat everything from alcoholism to asthma, infertility, insomnia and constipation. Acupuncture Clinic of Boulder, Inc. specializes in the treatment of acute and chronic variations of any physical or mental ailments, and uses a collaborative approach to ensure all a patient’s needs are met. Sign up for a session with Erin Pass, Cailey Halloran and Cassandra Krug and experience the transformative powers of traditional acupuncture, Chinese herbal therapy (using herbology concepts to reduce flu symptoms or chemotherapy side effects, for example), cupping, dry needling, Gua Sha (using friction on the skin to induce blood flow), and other invigorating alternatives to medication or a doctor’s visit.
Pilates Studio
BOLDER PILATES
3012 Folsom St., 303-544-5930
Silver: Boulder Bodyworks
Bronze: North Boulder Pilates
Write-in: Mecha
Donna Ligon, head trainer and founder of Bolder Pilates, endured severe lower back pain for most of her life. After 15 years of seeking a solution, she discovered Pilates, which strengthened her entire body, healed her back pain and completely changed her life. Now Donna, with an experienced team behind her, has helped change the lives of many of our readers. Bolder Pilates offers private training sessions, semi-private duets, group classes and corporate classes. Check out Bolder Pilates’ website for information on new client special packages and to get a sense for how Pilates can help change your life.
Tanning Salon
ASPEN TAN
1810 29th St., Suite 2012, 720-565-2826
Silver: Veranda Sun
Bronze: At the Beach
It’s always sad to see aspen trees lose their golden, shimmering leaves in the winter. But you don’t have to lose your beautiful golden glow when winter rolls around if you head to Aspen Tan. It’s our reader’s favorite tanning salon, and for good reason. Originally founded in 2009, Aspen Tan has grown to serve more than 20,000 clients at various locations, including its locations in Boulder County. With both the industry’s best in UV tanning technology and sunless tanning options, this is the place to go to look and feel good all year round.
Medical Facility
BOULDER COMMUNITY HEALTH — FOOTHILLS HOSPITAL
4747 Arapahoe Ave., 303-415-7000
Silver: Boulder Medical Center
Bronze: Kaiser Permanente
Look, going to the doctor usually isn’t fun — chances are you’re sick or injured. But our readers say Boulder Community Health — Foothills Hospital is the best place around for what ails you. First of all, the facility is state-of-the-art and easily accessible. And then there is the talented and compassionate staff of doctors, nurses, technicians and administrative staff. They are truly some of the area’s best. So when you do have to make that unwanted hospital run, this is definitely the place to come.
Veterinarian Care
ALPINE HOSPITAL FOR ANIMALS
3210 Valmont Road, 303-443-9661
Silver: Humane Society of Boulder Valley
Bronze: Arapahoe Animal Hospital
Write-in: South Boulder Animal Hospital
Pets are part of the family, and just like you want the best medical care for your human family members, you need a trusted vet for your pet. And that’s where Alpine Hospital for Animals comes in. For more than 50 years, Alpine has been serving the domestic animals of Boulder County using both Eastern and Western medicine. With an ethos of compassionate care, Alpine offers everything from surgery to vaccinations to nutritional counseling, dentistry and acupuncture to help keep your pup, kitten, parrot or iguana happy, healthy and thriving.
Dance Studio
ALCHEMY OF MOVEMENT
2436 30th St., 303-449-4410
4800 Baseline Road, Suite D206, 303-449-4410
Silver: The Avalon Ballroom
Bronze: Boulder Ballet
Write-in: Tara Cluck Dance Center
lchemy of Movement is not your average dance studio. Replete with an invigorating mix of kirtan, conscious burlesque, Brazilian music, singing bowls and dance parties, eclectic is the word for this studio. By cultivating a body-positive, supportive space, our readers think Alchemy of Movement is the best place to let loose and learn some new moves. Sign up for one of the Soul Sweat or Pole Fit classes, a yoga session, Zumba or a TwerkCardio class and you’ll unlock parts of yourself only possible by shaking and shimmying in a shame-free, judgment free environment.
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: Movement Climbing + Fitness
With 40,000 square feet of space, you’ll find an indoor cycling studio, a cardio and strength training center, hot yoga and pilates studios, and indoor and outdoor swimming pools at the Colorado Athletic Club — Boulder. Find your groove and work out on your own or schedule sessions with a personal trainer. When you’ve hit your max reps, wind down with an on-site massage or refresh yourself in the full-service locker rooms. Don’t leave without refueling at the Energy Bar | Cafe with a breakfast or lunch smoothie or sandwich.
