Originally Posted by
KNRG
I eventually gave up on Boulder-proper and i'm sort of nearby (it didn't seem like a far drive and the maps say 20mins) at the Westin Westminster.
It was several years ago since I stayed there, but the hotel was good (from another visit about the same time, I would place the Renaissance slightly higher, but not a lot). Location is excellent. Adjacent to the hotel is the Westminster Promenade, which has several entertainment options (movie, Dave and Busters, bowling, ice rink) and some very good restaurants (Hibachi (best in the area IMHO), Carinos, Tuk Tuk (Thai), and brewery. There are several good restaurants across US 36 as well.
Going west on 104th will take you to Wadsworth Blvd., from which there is relatively easy access to the Flatirons and the plains immediately to the east for trails, etc.
Time to Boulder will depend primarily on whether or not you are in rush hour. In summer, but for accidents and rush hour, you typically should be able to get from 104th to Arapahoe (Boulder) in under 20 min.
Enjoy your visit.