ELEGANT VICTORIAN in Boulder, a walk from downtown
Everyone who's stayed here loves the location, 1/2 block from the mountain trails, tucked away but a short walk to downtown Pearl Street mall, restaurants, CU campus, Chatauqua, Boulder Creek path & other trails. Perfect for CU graduation, the Conference on World Affairs and anything else in town or on the CU campus. Bikes are available for rental a few blocks away. Quite a few of them are electric bikes, great for managing the many hilly areas.
This unique open-floor plan remodeled Victorian home, designed by the current owner, an artist and graphic designer, was featured on Home & Garden TV and in a colorful coffee table book entitled, "Vintage and Artistic Homes of Boulder." The living room, front sun room and open dining area have high ceilings and hardwood red oak floors. The sun room has a desk, office chair and floor lamp for working. There's free wifi for getting online.
For those who play piano, there is a spinet in the sun room. The elegant style throughout the house seamlessly integrates charming Victorian details with contemporary fixtures and an open feeling of space and comfort. There is art on the walls and sculptures on a plexiglass pedestals. You can guess that the house is a bit like an art gallery and is not suitable for kids under 16. Sorry.
The two bedrooms are modest and Victorian in size, but have a full bathroom with access from both bedrooms. Sleeping accommodations in the second bedroom is a sofa sleeper with a comfy, super plush 2" Tempur-pedic topper. Please see the photos to be sure that this arrangement works for you. The sleeping arrangements, which are designated max 4) are designed for 1 couple, 2 couples or 1 couple and another person.
There are two sinks in the kitchen, one in the center island, and a brand new gas range. The Danish modern dining table pulls out to seat 10 and there are dishes, table cloth and service for a party of that size.
Double French doors lead out to the 2-level, wooden back deck, which has a gas barbecue grill, deck furniture, a long quartz counter top and is surrounded by trees, green and lush in summer, snow covered and a picture-postcard wonderland in winter.
Also: • Broadband Internet throughout • Cable TV in the kitchen & main bedroom • Easy parking • Washer & dryer • Central air conditioning • Vermont Casting propane stove in the living room
If you need to avoid WiFi radiation for health reasons, my house can be made WiFi-free with the flip of a switch. Just let me know.
Definitely no parties or events As I am allergic to pet dander, please no pets of any kind inside or out. Goldfish okay.
The house is kind of a work of art (I'm an artist, graphic designer and writer) and is not at all suitable for children under 16, so this has to be a hard and fast rule. I've been reluctant to switch to instant book, but I've been assured that guests are bound by this rule which will enable the accommodations to continue to be stellar. Thanks so much for your consideration.
PLEASE NOTE: You're invited to enjoy the washer & dryer and back deck with barbecue. Owner's quarters on the top floor have an entrance around the side. The owner's quarters are ALWAYS unoccupied when there are guests.
When inquiring about a stay in my house, I'd love to know why you are coming to Boulder (I may be able to help with suggestions) and how many people will be in your group (the configuration). Makes communication faster and easier.
I've loved Boulder for 25 years & hope you will too. Tina
I've been asked why I don't have more reviews here and the answer is simply that I have many, many glowing reviews, 5 stars in every category on the other major vacation listing site. I fact, I have SuperHost status there. Oh, I see now that those below are quite old...well, might as well leave them.:
Celeste, August 2017 A beautiful sacred space, special that Tina shares this with folks looking for a Boulder retreat.
Chandra, December 2017 Great location and comfortable surroundings. The home was well stocked with everything we needed. We even made a Turkey dinner on Christmas day and had everything we needed!
Jim & Cherryl, July 20 As my wife said " weeks surrounded by beauty." It's a wonderful home. I couldn't imagine a better location - quiet street, close to the hiking trails and Pearl. Just a few blocks from Alfalfa's (a great grocery store). And, Tina is a wonderful host - easy to work with, very helpful and keeps the house stocked with lots of good stuff. We had a great time!!
Victoria, June 2017 A uniquely beautiful home with a perfect location and wonderful outdoor space!! Nestled on the hill, the home is a short walk to all the restaurants and shops on Pearl Street. Tina is so kind, communicative and helpful with anything you'll need. I'd love the opportunity to stay here again!
Ami + Jeremy, May 2017 Tina is an excellent host. She's great with communication and did many of the little things that a host can do to make sure your stay is great. Tina's home is truly spectacular. The pictures do not do it justice. It is filled with a variety of creative artwork and exudes Victorian character. I strongly recommend Tina's place to all visitors.
Smit, April 2017 This place may be one of the best kept secrets in town…a unique Victorian experience on a quiet tree lined street right in the heart of Boulder! It was like coming home to a fascinating art gallery every afternoon after exploring this charming town. It’s a short walk from just about everything you want to see. I arranged the house for my relatives when they came to visit me from India. They were blown away. It was exactly as described, wonderfully decorated and meticulously clean. We felt like we were the first guests to ever stay even a nick on the walls or errant dust on floor. Tina was a gracious host, meeting me and my relatives when they arrived and she was very responsive to any questions we had during the stay. A wonderful time was had by all. We highly recommend a stay here!
Response from Tina: You guys were terrific. You're always welcome back. T. April 2017
Marcia, November 2016 What a beautiful home! Light and roomy and full of art. It’s just a lovely 10 minute walk over the Boulder Creek bridge to the Pearl Street Mall, which is the heart of Boulder and has many great shops and restaurants. (Check out The Peppercorn, the best kitchen gadget & gear store I found anywhere.) Just a half block from fabulous hiking trails up into the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. A well appointed kitchen made making Thanksgiving dinner a breeze. The spacious back deck was great for lounging. Since it’s also just a few blocks from the CU campus, it was an easy walk for my niece and nephew. Perfect location. A warm and inviting place to gather with family. (I was happy to have the washer and dryer - so convenient.)
Looking forward to hearing from you. Tina RHL2016-0221
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Amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
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Sorry, but no smoking and no pets. The house is kind of a work of art and is not at all suitable for children under 16.
Mark, my son lives across the street
Police and fire 911
Water Shut Off: Red handles on left side of closet under the main stairway.
Electricity: Panel is in the basement thru large door, on left
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: No parties or events
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock
About the area
Boulder
Located in Central Boulder, a neighbourhood in Boulder, this holiday home is in the mountains and on a river. Arnett-Fullen House and Downtown Boulder Historic District are local landmarks, and travellers looking to shop may want to visit Pearl Street Mall and Twenty Ninth Street. Fiske Planetarium and Sommer Bausch Observatory are also worth visiting. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing and snowboarding, or try out other outdoor activities such as sledging and snowmobiling.
Downtown Boulder Historic District - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
Pearl Street Mall - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
Chautauqua Park - 18 min walk - 1.5 km
Folsom Field - 5 min drive - 2.6 km
Getting around
Arvada Ridge Station - 35 min drive
Broomfield, CO (BJC-Rocky Mountain Metropolitan) - 18 min drive
Restaurants
Alpine Modern Cafe - 11 min walk
Flagstaff House - 6 min drive
Attic Bar & Bistro - 13 min walk
Maisonette - 12 min walk
West End Tavern - 12 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Is ELEGANT VICTORIAN in Boulder, a walk from downtown pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at ELEGANT VICTORIAN in Boulder, a walk from downtown?
As of 15 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at ELEGANT VICTORIAN in Boulder, a walk from downtown on 25 February 2026 start from NZ$656, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at ELEGANT VICTORIAN in Boulder, a walk from downtown?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at ELEGANT VICTORIAN in Boulder, a walk from downtown?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at ELEGANT VICTORIAN in Boulder, a walk from downtown?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is ELEGANT VICTORIAN in Boulder, a walk from downtown located?
Located in Central Boulder, this holiday home is within a 15-minute walk of Boulder Creek and Pearl Street Mall. University of Colorado Boulder is 2.5 mi (4 km) away.
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Lovely, eclectic, artistic home… not just a house. Felt like we were staying at a family member’s home, provided peace & calmness & good vibes. Good location to get to our event in the mountains, close to university & Pearl St. for shops & food options. Fantastic kitchen, we bought groceries & made a few meals in also. Appreciated access to the washer & dryer.
A unusual and beautiful place. Unique decor worthy of exploration. Not a place for young ones as lots of beautiful art. nice quiet street with parking. everything needed in the kitchen. Host was very communicative and available. five stars.
We loved our stay. Nearly every day, after a morning hike, we would lounge on the large deck, then walk to one of the wonderful restaurant. The location was perfect as it was also easy to get out of the city to go on our hikes. We travel North, West and South to hiking destinations. Check-in/Check-out was very smooth. Lots of art and interesting decor in the house.
The unit is the entire first floor of a large house. It's very spacious, and is full of interesting works of art by the owner and others - she has put a lot of thought into the place. It was clean and well equipped (though we actually had to move stuff a little to make space), and the owner makes herself available to help out if necessary. The downtown and university areas are within a healthy walking distance, and we also did a great short hike into the foothills, which begins a small distance down the street from the unit. We had a wonderful stay and would gladly visit again.
We spent Thanksgiving in Boulder with our children who just moved to Boulder.
The location was great and the house was very comfortable and it made for a great and special time to spend with the family.
I was in town for sorority moms' weekend and the house was perfect for a small get together and peace and quiet when needed. The host was so welcoming. Everything was clean and ready for our arrival. The house had every amenity possible for cooking small and large meals. (Even a Nespresso machine, which we loved!). We will definitely be back as the location was perfect to both the hill, and pearl street. Five out of Five stars!
The property description is spot on and Tina is a conscientious host who thinks of everything. 9 days of some work, seeing friends, and enjoying Pearl Street passed in a blink!
Roger O.
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 13 August 2021
Thanks so much, Roger. You guys are welcome back any time. Tina
Boulder is a unique place with its own special atmosphere, and this house perfectly captures its essence. A beautiful home in a historic neighborhood, populated by a plethora of wonderful objets d'art. We especially enjoyed relaxing on the back deck after a strenuous day of hiking. I'm already looking forward to a return trip!
Gerardo L.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 12 October 2020
Thanks Gerardo. I look forward to having you back. Tina
This home takes your breath away! Gorgeous Victorian meticulously restored by Tina Collen, the owner. Perfect location … easy walk to Pearl Street. Everywhere you look is gorgeous artwork or antiques. And… a wall of family photos in the kitchen. Having photos of the original house and showing the rebuild was great. Spent hours reading on the tree covered back deck . And a piano if you can play! Possibly my favorite vacation rental ever!!!
Fantastic house for a couple and maybe one or two adult children. We have three adult children (one lives in Boulder – so he slept at his house a few blocks away). Yet, the five of us spent much of the day together including a LOT of time on the wonderful back porch leisurely reading in the sunshine! The kitchen was well-stocked with dishes and cookware. Tina was wonderfully welcoming and communicative. Her interior displays much of the artwork she has created as well as family photos and events clustered on a wall of the kitchen. All of the home’s personality, neatness, and amenities so well-complemented our excursions of nearby hikes and horseback riding. We definitely will return!
I'm sure many other reviewers have written about the beauty of this home. The best places are the common. areas, including a spacious, well-functioning kitchen. delightful living room, and a deck and backyard that called out to us every day.
We also want to thank Tina for her almost immediate
responses to any question we had, including coming over so we could meet this special person.
Finally, the neighborhood is perfect for morning and evening walks down shady streets and interesting older homes on the way to the Boulder Creek path, about 15 minutes.
Thank you again, Tina
My girlfriend and I had an absolutely magnificent stay. 5 minutes from flagstaff restaurant (highly expensive but the best meal we have ever had.). The property was beyond our expectations in a myriad of ways, first was the communication. Tina was in touch and I don’t think when I messaged her I had to wait 2 minutes at any point in time. Second, the house itself is simply magnificent. As my Aunt from Denver said, “this is so Boulder!” It’s unique, fun and personal. I cannot thank Tina enough for sharing her home with us. When we come back to Boulder this will be where we stay. We enjoyed our trip and this beautiful home more than words can describe.
This beautiful Victorian home has plenty of lovely spaces to relax and spread out. It’s filled with curios and beautiful artwork to enjoy. I would work at the desk in the sunny alcove while my husband read the paper in the living room, stretching out on the wrap around couch. The kitchen is fully stocked. We enjoyed a glass of wine on the deck every evening, overlooking the private, tree lined yard. There was great lighting, whether you want bright overheads or prefer to use lamps. The neighborhood is quiet, you can walk to CU and it’s just minutes from Pearl Street and hiking trails. Tina is an easy and pleasant hostess. . She sent instructions the day before we arrived rather than waiting just a few hours before arrival as many hosts do, (big stress reliever) and responded to questions right away, The house is immaculate and the master bed is very comfortable. We are looking forward to our next visit.
Ricki C.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023
Verified
2/10 Terrible
Forrest C.
18 June 2021
Liked: Check-in, communication, location
Disliked: Cleanliness, listing accuracy
Not As Expected, House Is In Need Of Repair, Cleaning, and Removing All the Clutter
We really liked the neighborhood and the location, close to Pearl Street and hiking. It's a quiet area with nice old homes. However, the house was not what we expected. It is actually a house that has been divided to make 2 homes. The main floor was what we had and the staircase you see in the picture is blocked off with a gate because the upstairs is rented to another party. Their access is a staircase on the outside of the house. So, the area we rented did not seem like it was ever meant to be a 2 bedroom house, it was more like they converted the rooms to bedrooms with a 'Jack-and-Jill' bathroom between the 2 rooms which was very small. The Queen size bed was a thin mattress on a wood plank about 6 inches off the floor. (It looked like it was an Ikea Bed) There were no night stands on either side of the bed and no chests of drawers in either bedroom. Our clothes had to be placed on the floor and the bed was so low on the floor it was difficult getting up. The closet in the main bedroom was filled with so much stuff, a TV, boxes, bags, etc. The sheets on the bed were very old and had holes in them. One of the pillow shams had old blood on it. The sink in the bathroom and the bathtub did not drain properly so dirty water filled up and sat for a while before it drained out. The Refrigerator freezer was packed to the brim with dog food and old used bottles of salad dressing. The ice cube maker was broken. The patio furniture which the owner shows on the listing as being very nice and clean was covered with pitch that fell from the pine tree that came over the porch. We had to go the the store and buy 6 yards of fabric to cover the furniture so we could sit on it. The first day, at my request, the owner came over with a handy man and put Liquid Plumber in the sink and bathtub and she removed all the food and dog food from the refrigerator. She was very nice, but seemed a little confused as to why I asked her to do it. She said most people just come to her VRBO to hike. That seemed a little strange to me, since renting a house means you get a kitchen and do not have to go out for 3 meals a day.
The entire place was filled with knick-knacks and potted plastic plants everywhere. They were all covered in dust and made the place feel like it needed cleaning.
The owner was nice about fixing the sink and bathtub and removing the old food, we didn't complain about the other things because we wanted to enjoy our trip.
Forrest C.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 20 June 2021
I’m really stunned to read this review. I’ve been having guests at my house for 5 years and, as you can see, all the reviews are stellar. In all that time the 2 shelves I leave available in the freezer have always been adequate, but when these guests asked that I remove everything entirely, I did so within minutes (including the condiments I usually leave in the door section for guests who want salad dressing or a touch of tabasco sauce, etc. ).
I saw no dirty water in the drains, but that the water was draining slowly. My handyman, who was over there immediately, remedied that on the spot.
This is Boulder Colorado and my back deck is partially surrounded by large pine trees that shed needles, etc. with every evening breeze. I try to keep up with it, but hear that it is time to replace or recover the cushions, etc. and will follow up and get them. Still, I stunned.
Here’s the review from the guests preceding these folks:
This is one of the best possible stays you could possibly have in Boulder. Not only does it feel like a home away from home, but it’s a living art gallery. From the gorgeous backyard to the piano sunroom — we were completely inspired the whole time. Not to mention the perfect location, walking distance to downtown and trails right out the doorstep. We will be back!
And this was “The guest’s private feedback:”
“This was a dream stay. I’m inspired by your unique flare and will remember your home when building our own. Thank you so much. “
This elegant Victorian home was the perfect abode for our Boulder getaway. The location was excellent...within walking distance of a quaint downtown with great shops and awesome eateries. Less than a mile away, the university provided fantastic museums and a spirit filled football game. Additionally, scenic hiking trails were abundant.
The house itself offered a magnificent setting for a peaceful stay. Set in a quiet corner of town, this artfully remodeled Victorian had been resurrected as a comfortable and absolutely stunning home. Beauty does not begin to describe its elegance. We relished the time to relax, read, play cards or just enjoy breakfast while catching up on the daily news via the convenient T.V. above the kitchen island. Tina, the hostess and owner, told us that a recent guest was unhappy with the two T.V.s in the house so Tina's actually installing an additional large flatscreen T.V. this week! Her help with this is just one example of the attentive care Tina generously provided throughout our stay. Simply put our vacation in Boulder was greatly enhanced by staying at 651 University Avenue. Heartfelt thanks, Tina!
Robert M.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2022
About the host
Hosted by Tina
Hi there, Just so you know, if you need to avoid WiFi radiation for health reasons, my house can be made WiFi-free with the flip of a switch.
I will be available to help with any questions or concerns.
I've loved Boulder for 25 years and hope you will too. Tina
What makes this property unique
The location can't be beat. A quiet residential neighborhood a short walk from everything you want.