Why Chautauqua Park Is a Top Location for Senior Pictures in Colorado.
I am going to start a series of blogs for my favorite locations. Generally when you book with me, I will provide you a welcome page with favorite locations for you to checkout and once you choose your location I will provide you with a location and session guide. However, that is all AFTER you book. So I would like to start showing case my favorite Colorado senior portrait locations on my blog as well. I want you to get to know the locations out here and a little about them before you even inquire.
Senior Photography Session at Chautauqua Park in Boulder, Colorado
Chautauqua Park Senior Photos: Iconic Boulder Views with Flatiron Backdrops
If you're searching for the best location for senior portraits in Boulder, Colorado, Chautauqua Park tops the list—for good reason. With breathtaking views of the Flatirons, this iconic spot is the most requested senior photo location by both high school seniors and University of Colorado graduates.
Whether you're visiting Colorado to celebrate your graduation or you're a local CU Buff ready to mark your milestone, Chautauqua captures everything that makes Boulder special. Beyond the stunning mountain backdrop, the park also features flower-filled trails, charming historic buildings, rustic fences, and seasonal wildflower fields—making it one of the most versatile and beautiful senior photo locations in Colorado.
Chautauqua Park is easily accessible
Chautauqua park is an easily accessible location within the Boulder City limits. This location is conveniently located less than a 10 minute drive from the highway 36 and less than 10 minutes from the CU Campus.
Chautauqua has a public parking lot with paid parking on both weekends and holidays. Parking costs $2.50 an hour and is payable at pay stations. It can be crowded at golden hour. Arrive early to find a parking spot. There is also street parking available.
This location has dirt trails to all scenic locations for gorgeous photographs with minimal off trail walking, there are dinning options, restrooms and a park with play structures, picnic areas with benches.
Due to the proximity to Boulder, the provided parking lot, the accessibility of the park with paved and dirt trails, bathrooms and benches Chautauqua is an ideal location for senior sessions. It is especially helpful for seniors who want that gorgeous view, but also want to bring along family members like parents, grandparents or friends. There are spots for these members to sit and relax while the senior session it taking place and many things to do while they wait.
Chautauqua Park location features
Chautauqua Park is crammed full of experiences, well beyond the senior photography session. Chautauqua park was founded in 1898 as part of a social movement to create locations for adult learning in rural parts to the United States. As a result Chautauqua for over the last 100 years has been adding features to the site. Some of my favorites include:
Dining Hall - COLORADO BISTRO CUISINE
One of the few nature inspired locations with an onsite restaurant. The victorian style restaurant was built in 1898 and serves breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner and does take reservations. The dining hall does have options for catering and hosts special events. To learn more about the Dining Hall, catering and special events click HERE. Click HERE to view the Dining Hall Menu. Getting reservations after your senior session can be a great way to enjoy the Chautauqua park experience to it’s fullest.
Music Venue
Chautauqua is home to two unique concert venues: the Chautauqua Auditorium and the Community House. The historic Auditorium, built in 1898, is open from May through September and hosts concerts with a max capacity of 1,313. I’ve attended concerts there myself (can you guess the band?), and the atmosphere is unlike anywhere else—intimate, open-air, and full of charm.
The Community House, built in 1918, is a smaller venue that holds up to 125 guests and offers events year-round. You’ll find everything from private concerts to film screenings and educational lectures here. Both spaces are not only active event venues but also fascinating pieces of Chautauqua’s rich history.
And if you're planning your senior photo session in Boulder during concert season? A day of photos, dinner, and a concert at Chautauqua makes for an unforgettable experience!
General Store
I have to laugh a little as I add the General Store to this list—but I can’t help myself! It’s such a charming, historic building, and I’ve even used it as a backdrop for senior photos because I love its vintage architecture and timeless aesthetic.
But beyond its photo-worthy charm, I’m including it here as a mom, too. If your kiddos are anything like mine, they love picking out a little souvenir. Whether you're in Boulder for a senior session or you're a local soaking up a special day, there's something sweet about giving your child a small keepsake to remember it by. The General Store is the perfect spot for that.
Playground
If you're visiting Chautauqua Park with young children, don’t miss the playground area tucked near the entrance of the park. It’s a perfect spot for little ones to burn off energy while you enjoy the beautiful surroundings. With shaded benches nearby and views of the Flatirons in the background, it’s a great place for families to take a break before or after a walk.
Hiking
Chautauqua Park offers an incredible variety of hiking options, with 10 scenic trails listed on AllTrails. Whether you're up for a challenge like the Green Mountain Trail—a 6.1-mile hike with a 2,631 ft elevation gain that takes about 4 hours—or prefer a more relaxed option like the Enchanted Mesa Trail, which is 3.1 miles with a gentle 577 ft gain (about 1.5 hours), there’s something for everyone.
👉 Click here to explore all of AllTrails’ recommended routes at Chautauqua Park and find the perfect trail for your next adventure.
Best Seasons to Book a Senior Photography Session at Chautauqua Park, Colorado
Chautauqua Park is open year round - it is a unique Chautauqua in the United States for this very reason. Thus, we can book anytime throughout the year; however, there are seasons that are much more preferable.
Late Spring and Summer:
Chautauqua park has gorgeous green fields in the late spring and summer, as well as, aspens and flowers blooming. The evenings are longer and the light is softer. This is great for maxi dresses and lighter color wardrobes.
Early and Late Fall
Chautauqua park has tall wheat grass fields in the fall. Early fall will have golden aspens; however, late fall aspens have lost their leaves. Sessions are booked in the late afternoon and the sun has a more golden light. Wardrobes can have darker colors with more earthy tones.
Winter
I do have the occassional senior that is all Colorado kiddo and a bit of a snow bunny. For the seniors who want to chase the snow we can book in Winter. I highly suggest late Feburary - to April to get both the snow and slightly warmer temperatures. Jan and Feb tend to be our chillest months and can make sessions a little rough. However, for the adventourus senior we can absolutlely plan snow sessions - reach out to learn more about planning for the snow!
Things to Do Around Boulder
Chautauqua Park is perfectly located near some of Boulder, Colorado’s best attractions.
I often photograph high school seniors who travel from out of state for their senior sessions—and honestly, can you blame them? Colorado is breathtaking, and when the mountains call… well, we go!
Whether you're visiting Boulder for photos or just soaking up time in this beautiful place, there are plenty of things to do near Chautauqua Park to round out your experience. Here are some of my favorite spots to explore, eat, and shop nearby:
🌟 Pearl Street Mall
A true Boulder gem, Pearl Street is just minutes from Chautauqua and is filled with boutiques, restaurants, street performers, and tons of charm. Great for shopping, grabbing a bite, or just enjoying a lively stroll.
While you’re there, check out:
Trident Booksellers & Café – a cozy mix of great coffee and a well-loved local bookstore.
Boulder Book Store – a three-story indie bookstore with a magical selection.
Rio Grande Mexican Restaurant (The Rio) – famous for margaritas and rooftop views.
(If you go after your senior session, tell them Kim sent you!)
🛍️ 29th Street Mall – A Catchall for Visitors
Just east of Pearl Street, the 29th Street Mall is your go-to for last-minute needs or a laid-back shopping day. Whether you're window shopping or realizing you forgot your chapstick or a hairbrush before your session, this spot has you covered.
Stores & highlights include:
Target
Whole Foods
Barnes & Noble
Sephora
Lululemon
Anthropologie
Five Guys
AMC Movie Theater
This is an especially helpful stop for travelers flying in or driving from Denver.
🥕 Boulder Farmers Market
If you’re visiting on a weekend, don’t miss the Boulder Farmers Market!
It runs Saturdays (8 AM–2 PM) and Wednesdays (4 PM–8 PM) during the warmer months. From fresh produce and local honey to handmade goods and live music, it's an amazing way to experience Boulder’s community vibe.
Bonus Tip: Celebrate Your Session!
Even if you're a seasoned local, I always recommend turning your senior session into a celebration. Book a dinner after your shoot—maybe on the patio at The Rio—to soak in the moment and honor this milestone. Trust me, these moments go fast, and making a memory out of it is worth every second.
