I recently moved to Boulder, Colorado, which means that I’ve had to find new venues to feed my movie, comics and music fetishes. Rather than hoard this information for myself, I figured I would share my findings with all of you. After all, whether you’re a resident or a visitor there’s always things to discover in the city. Be sure to give me a ring if you’re in the area.
Time Warp Comics
Time Warp are finalists this year to win the Will Eisner Spirit of Comics Retailer Award at San Diego ComicCon. A Boulder icon for 20 years, Time Warp has maintained itself on the cutting edge. They have an Ebay store as well, in case you don’t feel like leaving your house to pick up a copy of Peter Panzerfaust #10. As well keeping a good stock of all the newest books they maintain a hefty back issue stock, and even bargain bins for the curious browser and broke ex-film students like myself. A fairly regular stream of signings, tournaments and other celebrations is also kept rolling through.
Mile High Comics – Jason Street location
This place is HUGE. World record huge. It’s essentially a warehouse full of comics, cards and anything else you might be looking for. There are hundreds of thousands of back issues from the big publishers all the way down to self-published books. The owner, Chuck Rozanski, tries to keep 6 months of the newest comics in stock. He also hosts various events when he can, including a recent cosplay/drag ball to benefit kids who have been the victim of sexual abuse.
Mile High has 3 sites around Denver in addition to the Jason Street location. Google reviews indicate that the staff are friendly and knowledgeable, but you may have some issues finding new books.
Nomad Vinyl
Mostly wandering Denver, but occasionally getting out to Boulder and surrounding towns, Nomad Vinyl has an impressively canny selection considering their limited space. I saw them at the Hill Flea back in August and they were the exact kind of knowledgeable that you want your vinyl dealer to be. I even found a strange, self-pressed record in their collection, asked a few questions and they were kind enough to play it for me. A strange, rare album played under a tent where every question you might have will be answered is a thing not to be missed.
They also have a very cool selection of odd antiques and vintage maps. It makes for a truly lovely browsing experience.
Cinemark Boulder
Every Tuesday is $5.50 movies all day. Even 3-d movies are significantly cheaper at $8.75. Of course cheap tickets will tempt you into buying soda and popcorn, but such is life. It’s a fine place to catch the latest superhero smash up, and they also host an ever changing selection of indie flicks like The Skeleton Twins and Hector and the Search for Happiness. There’s plenty of food and shopping nearby. The main drag of Pearl Street is within easy walking distance. It’s a great mix of cheap, mainstream films, quirky indie faire and a reasonable amount of post-movie diversion. That’s right, it’s a lovely geek date destination!
Absolute Vinyl Records
A simple, charming record shop next to a simple, charming breakfast spot. It’s completely packed with gorgeous vinyl, and every time I’ve been there the same friendly, knowledgeable dude with a fantastic beard is behind the counter. They’re happy to order anything you can’t find. The bargain racks out front are always a perusal. If you’ve got a turntable begging for new material and don’t feel like tracking down the nomads then this is the place for you.
