Denver‘s population is growing and changing rapidly, and the neighborhoods are no different. Many older communities have been reconstructed into shiny, new districts with shops, restaurants and brand new apartment complexes.
With all the variety that Denver boasts, it’s easy to find a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle. Here are 10 of our favorites.
Baker
Source: Rent. / Neon Local
Baker has what many Denver neighborhoods do not — a taste of old Denver. Picture a walkable, captivating neighborhood filled with Victorian houses, music venues, coffee shops, restaurants and shopping. Baker has the grit and charm that you won’t find in the newer, pristine districts of this city.
There’s easy access to the light rail and the bus lines, but there’s plenty to do in Baker without leaving. In the summer, Baker hosts the Underground Music Showcase festival and plenty of other events throughout the year. Young families and professionals alike will find a lot to love in this neighborhood.
Cheesman Park
If you like metropolitan energy but crave a taste of the outdoors, Cheesman Park might be just right for you. Locals love this small but mighty neighborhood for its eccentric history — it used to be a cemetery — as much as for its lively, vibrant present.
Cheesman Park boasts plenty of green space even though it’s one of the city’s more bustling areas. Here, you can visit the Denver Botanic Gardens, grab a seat for dinner at one of the city’s most coveted tables, hit up a dive bar and walk home in the evening.
Cherry Creek
Cherry Creek is an ideal neighborhood if money is no object, and you like the finer things. Nearly everything in Cherry Creek is chic, and the apartment rent prices reflect the neighborhood’s reputation as extravagant. Expect pricy, boutique stores with one-of-a-kind furniture and art pieces, restaurants where people are dressed somewhat formally (an anomaly in Colorado) and widely renowned art festivals.
If you miss the feel of old Denver, try Cherry Cricket, a classic burger dive known for unusual toppings like peanut butter, grape jelly, sauerkraut and pineapple.
City Park
In a city full of scenic, urban parks, City Park stands out as one of the most visually arresting locales. City Park dwellers love the proximity to downtown with the bonus of child- and adult-friendly activities like the Denver Zoo and Denver Museum of Nature and Science practically in their backyard.
Jazz in the Park happens each summer, and people come from all corners of the city to picnic and listen to live music. With a lake and a Spanish-style pavilion, the park itself is so stunning that it’s a popular location for parties of all kinds.
Five Points
Source: Rent. / Ballpark Lofts Apartments
Five Points is a historic neighborhood just north of downtown that has undergone massive gentrification over the last decade. But Five Points, formerly known as the Harlem of the West, isn’t all sparkling high rises and fancy condos. The area has thriving arts and brewery scenes.
Try Rosenberg’s Bagels for some of the best breakfast sandwiches in the state or Coffee at The Point, which serves caffeine, cocktails and ambiance in equal measure. From jazz and art festivals to some of Denver’s choicest restaurants and nightlife, Five Points has it all.
Gateway
Source: Rent. / STRATA
In the very northeast corner of the city, you’ll find Gateway, a tranquil spot for those who travel for work. A smaller neighborhood, Gateway has the best access to the airport in town. Nearby is the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, a wildly popular spot for animal spectators, hikers and kids who love scavenger hunts.
Keep in mind that you left the big city vibes of Denver about eight miles to your west, but you can enjoy the respite that a more remote location brings along with an affordable price tag.
Hampden
Source: Rent. / Hunters Run Apartments
In southeast Denver is Hampden, a central, primarily residential spot with a lot to offer. Close to Cherry Creek State Park, it’s the perfect jumping-off point for anyone who works in the booming Denver Tech Center. The comparably affordable rent prices, competitive schools and easy access to the light rail make Hampden an easy choice for families.
Park Hill
Source: Rent. / 4101 MLK Jr Blvd
A tree-lined charmer of a neighborhood, Park Hill sits just west of Stapleton and east of City Park. Without the suburban feel of Stapleton and less congested than City Park, Park Hill is the perfect place for families who don’t want to stray too far from city life but prefer better prices.
Enchanting, independent restaurants are easy to find here, as is the bus and light rail transportation around the city.
Sloan Lake
Sloan Lake, sometimes referred to as Sloan’s Lake, is no longer an undiscovered hamlet in Denver, thanks to its unmatched combination of city living and nature. There’s not a lot of shoreline in Colorado, so when locals find some, they tend to cluster around it.
Sloan Lake is a gorgeous mecca for runners, bikers, anglers, boaters and those who enjoy a good Dragon Boat Festival. This area is a quick trip away from downtown, with cheaper rent and arguably, a better view.
Stapleton
The Stapleton neighborhood, now known as Central Park, is an excellent location for those looking for a reasonable commute with public transportation options, affordable prices and a cozy, family-friendly feel.
You can expect to get to know your neighbors without the sacrifice of actually moving to the suburbs. Parks abound for those with furry friends, so Stapleton is perfect for keeping everyone active.
Find the best Denver neighborhood for you
Denver has an unrivaled combination of mountain tranquility, easygoing locals and city living. Whether you like nightlife, spending some quality time with nature or sampling the best arts, culture and dining that Denver provides, you’ll soon find a place to call home in the Mile High City.
