The Denver Deal: Fiske and Frisk on the Hill - Planetarium, Cafe Aion, Shopping and your pick of History or Theater

This week's Colorado itinerary takes you to 'The Hill' in Boulder. For those not familiar with the University Hill, it refers to the neighborhood around Colorado University. Full disclosure, if you visit during a semester, there will be a fair amount of college students around. Personally I like the energy and the pace of the area. A 1/2 off Groupon featuring Fiske Planetarium was the inspiration for this collection of places to visit. Please leave feedback and let me know what you think of this day trip. For the most part, all the below suggestions are in walking distance of each other. In addition to some of the recommended restaurants, I have also included a links for other restaurants in the area that currently have deals.

Cafe Aion - Brunch 11 am

Cost: $6-$15
http://www.cafeaion.com/

Start your day with brunch at Cafe Aion. Many of the dishes are designed for sharing. Spanish and Moroccan flavors are apparent in the menu. The fried cauliflower is surprisingly one of the stand out Tapas - fair warning, you may not want to share. In addition to coffee and juice, they also have a full bar. I am particularly fond of their Bloody Mary's, made with chili infused vodka and crispy bacon.

Bloody Mary @ Cafe Aion

Fiske Planetarium - CHECK SHOWTIME AND GET TICKETS

Cost: $11 for 2 tickets with Groupon (Reg. $10 per ticket)

https://fiske.colorado.edu/beta/events

The Fiske Planetarium features the Ziess, one of the most advanced stargazing machines in the world. Furthermore, CU has recently invested in an all-new fully immersive theater system, making it one of the most sophisticated planetariums in the country. Since the planetarium was the inspiration for this day trip, I suggest that you select what show you would like to go to, as there is different programming throughout the day. https://fiske.colorado.edu/beta/events

Use the below suggestions to fill the time in before or after the planetarium show.

Shopping on the Hill

Cost: Varies $-$$$

http://www.thehillboulder.com/businesses/

Frisk Jewelry - They have been in business for over 10 years and features vintage and unique jewelry finds - http://www.girlsforfrisk.com/

Meininger's - Go get your craft on! Actually if you time your trip right, you can take a free art class with part of the Demo and Dialogue series that is hosted at Meininger's in conjunction with the Art Student's League. As a bonus feature, a coupon is usually given to those who participate in the class- http://www.meininger.com/demo-dialogue/

Albums on the Hill - One of the last true record stores. They don't seem to have a website; just a Facebook page...go figure. Oh well, keep an eye out for upcoming in-store-performances. - https://www.facebook.com/Albums-on-the-Hill-135666886484838/

Colorado University: Natural History or Theater

Cost: Free - $$ (admission to some theater events)

Since you are pretty much on CU's stomping grounds, you might as well check out some of the culture on campus. Two points of interest are the Natural History Museum and the University Theater.

CU Museum of Natural History - Free/ Suggested donation of $3 - https://cumuseum.colorado.edu/
CU Theater and Dance (usually there is a 2pm show on Saturdays and Sundays as well as evening shows, but check calendar for current shows) http://www.colorado.edu/theatredance/events

Restaurant Deals - Up to 40% Off

Here are just a few food options that are reasonably priced and in the area. A couple of the recommendations are neighborhood favorites and the other three have good Yelp reviews and Groupons!

Terra Thai - No coupon on this one, but with most of the menu ranging from $3-$8, why would you need one? Great food here, however, they are not open on Saturdays
The Sink - What does Barack Obama and Anthony Bourdain have in common? They both ate at this burger joint when they were in town.... not together, of course ;)