I might have some ideas for you! Will you be going with or without your pooch?
Boulder is an adorable little town-it's exactly how most people think about Colorado, as it feels like it's surrounded by mountains. In downtown Boulder, there is the "mall," that is full of great little shops and restaurants. Whether in Boulder or Denver (I prefer the Denver one), try the Rio Grande (aka, "the Rio") for the BEST margaritas.... just be careful! There's a 3 margarita limit for a reason!!!! Hiking opportunities will surround you; can't think of any particular great trail, but you really can't go wrong playing in the "flatirons."
North of Boulder is Estes Park; it's beautiful and there is some GORGEOUS hiking and horseback riding in that area. Might be a tad chilly this time of year, so bundle up!!!!
In Ft. Collins (again, not too far from Boulder), I recommend the Fat Tire Brewery....so fun!!!!
In Denver, hmm....you could go to the U.S. Mint. As for restaurants, I recommend Vesta Dipping Grill. The Buckhorn Exchange is the quintessential Denver restaurant- it was the first restaurant in Denver and Buffalo Bill allegedly frequented the place often. The menu is weird, but something to experience- you can try rattlesnake, elk, buffalo, venison, etc. It's famous for it's wild game menu. And, as I mentioned, you need to end with a drink at the Rio.
If you have your dog in Denver, don't miss meeting with the locals at Cheeseman Park around 6:oopm...It's a great bunch of dogs/owners and they might have some more ideas for you....but, just a warning, it's sort of unofficial, so there's a bit of a ticketing danger (people go anyway...I went everyday for 2 years and was fine).
Have a great time!!!
