Cool Neighborhoods in Denver | Urban Phenix Colorado

In addition to great weather, blue skies, and classic rocky mountain charm, the unique lifestyle Denver has to offer is attracting people from all over the country. Lucrative job opportunities, astonishing topography, and the earnest culture have made the Mile High City one of the fastest-growing and most sought-after places in the country. Whether it’s just for a visit or a permanent stay, the Mile High City is surely the place to be and there are some really cool neighborhoods in Denver.

Often acclaimed for being a great place for young singles and millennials, almost every neighborhood in Denver is being dubbed as ‘up-and-coming’ hot spots for food and drink, art, and culture. From the laid-back suburbs suddenly grabbing the spotlight to the historic districts exhibiting a modern renaissance while still maintaining its authentic atmosphere, Denver is encompassed by neighborhoods meant to suit a variant of lifestyles.

Other than its great walkability and thriving economy, there are several other factors that make the Denver area so compelling.

Nature and Outdoor Amenities

The Denver area offers a plethora of outdoor amenities and is home to some of the country’s best city-parks and gorgeous mountain views. Acting as an outdoor playground and fitness paradise, hiking, skiing, biking are just some daytime pursuits enjoyed by locals and visitors looking to make the most out of Denver’s 300 days of sunshine a year.

Food and Drink

Many neighborhoods in Denver are home to some of the best restaurants and bars in the city and as a matter of fact, Denver is the craft beer capital of the world. There is an abundance of both regional and international cuisine offerings along with a tremendous selection of bars, cocktail lounges, coffee shops, and local distilleries, sure to please adventurous eaters and drinkers.

No matter what neighborhood you’re in, stepping out for some grub and pub in Denver is an experience sure to be enjoyed by you and your taste buds.

Music & Nightlife

Denver’s nightlife is nothing short of fresh and innovative, continuously attracting the city’s ‘it’ crowds looking to have a good time. Clubs, bars, and lounges are sprinkled throughout the city, serving as both a fun and refreshing way to explore the neighborhood’s particular social scene.

Whether it’s for a relaxing hangout at the bar or a night of hitting the hottest clubs, Denver has something for everybody.

Festivals

Lining up plans is never a hard thing to do as seasonal festivals and community gatherings are prevalent in some of Denver’s trending neighborhoods. There are plenty of farmers’ markets in the summer months, offering endless amounts of unique and local foods, chef events, live music, and more.

The fun doesn’t stop when the summer ends as there is an overabundance of winter festivals such as the Denver Winter Brew Fest, which features hundreds of beers, ciders, and spirits, from 40 different breweries.

Ranking the Coolest Denver Neighborhoods

Although Denver is great as a whole, it’s its neighborhoods that showcase the unique personalities and characteristics that make it so loved by locals and visitors.

Here are some distinct neighborhoods that make Denver such a standout city.

Washington Park

Washington Park, the namesake of this neighborhood, is perfect for anyone looking for the peacefulness of the suburbs within the city. Spotting two lakes, a hiking trail, and various picnic locations, the area is considered one of the more family-friendly neighborhoods in Denver.

Washington Park also houses art galleries, fashion boutiques, and beloved local eateries built within the stunning architecture of old brick structures and contemporary mansions. The neighborhood is always filled with locals walking their dogs, running, biking, or boating and is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors in comfort and style.

Uptown

Home to dozens of attractions, landmarks, and activities, Uptown is known for being one of the most diverse and burgeoning neighborhoods in Denver. The neighborhood’s main street, 17th Ave, features a long line of hip restaurants, local cafes, bars, and boutiques favored by young professionals and lunchtime office crowds.

Uptown’s City Park also features various attractions such as the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, the beloved park is also known for being one of the best places to catch a Rocky Mountain sunset.

Capitol Hill

Home to the Colorado State Capitol Building, Capitol Hill is one of Denver’s most densely populated neighborhoods. The diverse selection of restaurants, bars, and nightlife can be attributed to continuously attracting young and fresh crowds.

The neighborhood also displays a thriving art scene with plenty of art galleries and museums, including the Denver Art Museum, and offers an abundant amount of green space for outdoor activities, music festivals, and community gatherings.

Glendale

With a smaller population density than other Denver neighborhoods, Glendale is becoming a sought-after neighborhood for young individuals and families because of its affordability and focus on new development.

Despite being a small community, Glendale retains plenty of restaurants, shopping centers, and parks including Mir Park. The district is perfect for individuals looking for a peaceful atmosphere with easy access to the amenities and city-life Denver has to offer.

Cherry Creek

Dubbed as the more ritzy ‘hoods in Denver, Cherry Creek is known for its upscale housing and luxury shops. This posh side of townhouses over 300 stores, boutiques, eateries, art galleries, and spas, making it a perfect destination for those who love to enjoy the finer things in life.

The chic neighborhood also features a scenic bike path and the prestigious Cherry Creek Arts Festival, an annual three-day celebration of visual, culinary, and performing arts.

Five Points

Standing as one of Denver’s oldest neighborhoods, Five Points is historically known for being the epicenter of Colorado’s jazz scene and is home to the annual Five Points Jazz Festival. The rejuvenated district has countless bars, restaurants and innovative food halls settled within the area’s eclectic street art scene.

Loved by locals and visitors alike, Five Points is the melting pot of Denver’s heritage and modern city living.

Lower Highlands (LoHi)

Considered one of the most desirable neighborhoods to live in in Denver, the Highlands is filled with Victorian-era brick buildings and lush parks. The up-and-coming neighborhood is trending restaurants, cafes, and shopping centers amidst the walk-friendly streets and charming brownstones.

In the warmer seasons, the quirky neighborhood hosts community events such as farmers markets and street fairs making it an enjoyable destination for people of all ages. The Highlands is also home to Little Man Ice Cream, where you’ll often find patrons lining up for their service of world-famous ice cream.