Denver, CO, known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural beauty, and eclectic neighborhoods, is home to the Highlands, one of its most sought-after and historic areas. The Highlands in Denver offers a unique blend of old and new, with beautifully restored Victorian homes standing alongside modern eateries, boutiques, and community spaces. This article delves into the heart of the Highlands, exploring its history, attractions, lifestyle, and what makes it such a desirable place to live and visit.
Introduction to the Highlands
The Highlands is not just a neighborhood; it’s an experience that combines the charm of the past with the amenities of the present. Located just northwest of downtown Denver, it is easily accessible by car or public transportation, making it a hub for both locals and tourists. The neighborhood is divided into three main areas: Highlands Square, Lower Highlands (LoHi), and Northwest Highlands. Each sector has its unique character, ranging from the bustling commercial center of Highlands Square to the more subdued, residential areas of Northwest Highlands.
History of the Highlands
The Highlands has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the late 19th century. Originally, the area was home to several farms and ranches, but as Denver grew, so did the Highlands. By the early 20th century, the neighborhood had become a popular area for families due to its proximity to downtown and its affordable, fertile land. Over the years, the Highlands underwent significant transformations, with periods of growth, decline, and eventual revitalization. Today, it stands as a testament to community effort and urban renewal, with its historic homes, modern developments, and thriving local businesses.
Architectural Diversity
One of the defining features of the Highlands is its architectural diversity. The neighborhood is filled with beautifully restored Victorian homes, along with vintage bungalows, and even some of Denver’s earliest examples of modern architecture. This mix of old and new not only reflects the neighborhood’s history but also contributes to its charm. Recent developments have seen the introduction of contemporary apartments and condos, offering prospective residents a range of housing options from historic to sleek and modern.
Lifestyle and Attractions
The Highlands is renowned for its vibrant lifestyle and numerous attractions. From its delectable dining scene to its eclectic shopping spots, there’s always something to explore.
Dining and Nightlife
The dining scene in the Highlands is incredibly diverse, offering everything from artisanal eateries to craft breweries. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional American fare, international cuisine, or something entirely unique, the Highlands has a restaurant to suit every taste and budget. The neighborhood is also home to several bars and pubs, perfect for catching a game, enjoying live music, or simply relaxing with friends.
Shopping and Community Events
Highlands Square is the heart of the neighborhood’s shopping district, boasting a variety of boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy browsing through these unique shops, finding everything from handmade jewelry to rare books. The Highlands also hosts several community events throughout the year, including farmers’ markets, outdoor concerts, and holiday celebrations, which help foster a sense of community and belonging among residents.
Parks and Recreation
Despite its urban setting, the Highlands offers access to several parks and green spaces, providing residents with areas to relax, exercise, or enjoy outdoor activities. Pferdsteller Park, for example, is a popular spot for dog walkers and families, while the nearby Confluence Park marks the spot where the South Platte River and Cherry Creek meet, offering beautiful views and walking trails.
Living in the Highlands
For those considering making the Highlands their home, there are several factors to consider. The neighborhood offers a high quality of life, with its excellent schools, low crime rate, and strong sense of community. However, like many popular urban neighborhoods, the Highlands is experiencing growth, which can impact housing prices and availability.
Education
The Highlands is served by the Denver Public Schools district, with several highly-rated schools in the area. Parents have the option to send their children to public, charter, or private schools, depending on their preferences and the children’s needs. The proximity to downtown Denver also makes the Highlands an attractive option for families with older children attending college or university in the city.
Transportation and Accessibility
One of the advantages of living in the Highlands is its ease of accessibility. The neighborhood is well-connected by public transportation, including buses and the light rail, making it simple to commute to other parts of Denver without a car. For those who prefer to drive, the Highlands is close to several major highways, and there are ample parking options throughout the neighborhood.
Community Engagement
The Highlands is known for its strong community spirit. Residents are actively involved in neighborhood initiatives, from organizing community events to participating in local governance. This level of engagement not only enhances the quality of life for residents but also makes the Highlands a more attractive and welcoming place for visitors.
Conclusion
The Highlands in Denver, CO, is a unique and captivating neighborhood that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a place to call home, a vibrant area to explore, or simply a glimpse into Denver’s rich history and culture, the Highlands is a must-visit destination. With its blend of historic charm, modern amenities, and community spirit, it’s no wonder the Highlands remains one of Denver’s most beloved and sought-after neighborhoods.
| Neighborhood | Description | Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Highlands Square | Commercial center of the Highlands | Restaurants, boutiques, community events |
| Lower Highlands (LoHi) | Known for its trendy vibe and views of the city | Craft breweries, bars, pubs |
| Northwest Highlands | Residential area with historic homes | Parks, green spaces, family-friendly activities |
In conclusion, the Highlands in Denver, CO, stands out as a neighborhood that perfectly balances history, culture, and modern living. Its unique attractions, strong community, and appealing lifestyle make it an ideal place for both residents and visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring its historic homes, dining at one of its many restaurants, or simply soaking up the neighborhood’s vibrant atmosphere, the Highlands is sure to leave a lasting impression.
What is the Highlands neighborhood in Denver, CO?
The Highlands neighborhood is a historic and diverse area located in northwestern Denver, Colorado. It is bounded by Federal Boulevard to the west, Interstate 70 to the north, Broadway to the east, and Speer Boulevard to the south. The neighborhood is known for its charming streets, beautiful parks, and stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. The Highlands is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
The Highlands neighborhood is comprised of several smaller sub-neighborhoods, including Highland, West Highland, and Jefferson Park. Each of these areas has its own unique character and charm, with a mix of old and new homes, apartments, and condominiums. The neighborhood is also home to several popular attractions, including the Highlands Square, which features a variety of shops and restaurants, and the nearby Confluence Park, which offers stunning views of the South Platte River and the city skyline. With its rich history, cultural attractions, and natural beauty, the Highlands is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the best of Denver.
What are the best things to do in the Highlands neighborhood?
The Highlands neighborhood offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. One of the most popular things to do in the area is to explore the many shops and restaurants along 32nd Avenue and Lowell Boulevard. The neighborhood is also home to several parks and green spaces, including Highland Park, which features a playground, basketball court, and stunning views of the city. Visitors can also explore the nearby Confluence Park, which offers kayak rentals, a bike path, and stunning views of the South Platte River.
In addition to its many parks and outdoor spaces, the Highlands neighborhood is also home to a variety of cultural attractions, including the History Colorado Center and the Denver Art Museum. The neighborhood is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with several bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. Visitors can also explore the many local breweries and wineries in the area, including the popular Great Divide Brewing Co. and the Infinite Monkey Theorem winery. With its rich history, cultural attractions, and natural beauty, the Highlands neighborhood has something to offer for every interest and activity level.
Where are the best places to eat in the Highlands neighborhood?
The Highlands neighborhood is home to a diverse and thriving food scene, with a wide range of restaurants and cafes to choose from. Some of the most popular places to eat in the area include the iconic Avanti Food & Beverage collective, which features a variety of restaurants and bars under one roof, and the popular Mexican restaurant, Los Chingones. The neighborhood is also home to several excellent Italian restaurants, including Pizzeria Locale and Gaetano’s, as well as several Asian fusion restaurants, including the popular Thai place, US Thai Cafe.
In addition to its many restaurants, the Highlands neighborhood is also home to several excellent coffee shops and cafes, including the popular Common Grounds and the trendy Huckleberry Roasters. Visitors can also explore the many local bakeries and patisseries in the area, including the famous Glacier Homemade Ice Cream and the popular cake shop, Azucar Bakery. With its diverse range of cuisines and dining options, the Highlands neighborhood is a food lover’s paradise, with something to offer for every taste and budget.
What are the best shops and boutiques in the Highlands neighborhood?
The Highlands neighborhood is home to a wide range of unique and independent shops and boutiques, including several excellent clothing stores, antique shops, and home decor stores. Some of the most popular shops in the area include the trendy boutique, Goldyn, which features a curated selection of women’s clothing and accessories, and the popular vintage shop, Rare Vintage. The neighborhood is also home to several excellent bookstores, including the iconic Tattered Cover Book Store and the popular used bookstore, West Side Books.
In addition to its many shops and boutiques, the Highlands neighborhood is also home to several excellent art galleries, including the popular David B. Smith Gallery and the nearby Rule Gallery. Visitors can also explore the many local markets and festivals in the area, including the popular Highlands Street Fair, which takes place every summer and features live music, food vendors, and local artisans. With its diverse range of shops and boutiques, the Highlands neighborhood is a shopper’s paradise, with something to offer for every interest and style.
Is the Highlands neighborhood a safe place to visit?
The Highlands neighborhood is generally considered to be a safe and welcoming area, with low crime rates compared to other neighborhoods in Denver. The area is heavily patrolled by the Denver Police Department and has a strong sense of community, with many residents and business owners looking out for one another. Visitors can feel comfortable walking around the neighborhood, exploring the shops and restaurants, and enjoying the many parks and outdoor spaces.
However, as with any urban neighborhood, visitors should still take common-sense precautions to stay safe. This includes being aware of their surroundings, keeping an eye on their belongings, and avoiding walking alone at night. The neighborhood is also home to several busy streets and intersections, so visitors should be careful when crossing the road and follow all traffic laws. With its strong sense of community and low crime rates, the Highlands neighborhood is a safe and enjoyable place to visit, with plenty to offer for everyone.
How do I get to the Highlands neighborhood in Denver, CO?
The Highlands neighborhood is easily accessible by car, with several major highways and streets passing through the area. Visitors can take Interstate 70 to the Federal Boulevard exit, which will take them directly into the heart of the neighborhood. The area is also served by several public transportation options, including the RTD bus system and the Denver Light Rail. The nearest light rail station is the Federal Center Station, which is just a short walk from the Highlands neighborhood.
In addition to its many public transportation options, the Highlands neighborhood is also bike-friendly, with several bike lanes and trails passing through the area. Visitors can rent bikes at one of the many local bike shops, including the popular Denver B-cycle program, and explore the neighborhood on two wheels. The area is also walkable, with many shops, restaurants, and attractions located within a short distance of each other. With its easy accessibility and convenient location, the Highlands neighborhood is a great place to visit, whether you’re coming from within Denver or from out of town.
What are the best events and festivals in the Highlands neighborhood?
The Highlands neighborhood is home to a wide range of events and festivals throughout the year, including the popular Highlands Street Fair, which takes place every summer and features live music, food vendors, and local artisans. The neighborhood is also home to several excellent farmers’ markets, including the Highlands Farmers’ Market, which takes place every Saturday morning from June to October. Visitors can also explore the many local art galleries and studios, which offer a range of exhibitions, classes, and workshops throughout the year.
In addition to its many festivals and events, the Highlands neighborhood is also home to several excellent holiday celebrations, including the popular Highlands Holiday Market, which takes place every December and features local vendors, food, and drink. The neighborhood is also decorated with festive lights and decorations during the holiday season, making it a great place to visit and get into the holiday spirit. With its rich cultural scene and vibrant community, the Highlands neighborhood is a great place to experience the best of Denver’s events and festivals, with something to offer for every interest and age.