Livin’ The High Life
If you’re into brunch, you’ve probably been to Denver’s Highlands.
By Chris Arneson
The Highlands are bordered by Federal and the South Platte River, rounded out by Speer and 38th. The residential neighborhood is a quirky mix of classic homes mixed with some extremely modern ones.
Living in the Highlands ain’t cheap. The median home price is around $500k for a couple bedrooms, but that’ll get you a brand-new, contemporary townhome in LoHi. If you’re renting, expect $1.5k for a smaller single-bedroom unit.
Mostly a white-collar demographic, a majority of the residents there are non-families in their 30s. The crime rate is a little above the national average, mostly due to burglaries.
The neighborhood’s two biggest parks are Highland Park and Viking Park, with plenty of big grassy areas. If you’re looking for an awesome view of downtown, check out Jefferson Park.
Highlands Square is the heart of the West Highlands, offering several blocks of boutique shops as well as a ton of neighborhood events. The 32nd Avenue Farmer’s Market runs from June through September every Sunday morning. This year on Saturday, June 20, is the neighborhood’s biggest party, the Highlands Street Fair, featuring several blocks of vendors and live music. There’s also a Harvest Festival at the end of October. .
In a breeding ground for Italian and Hispanic culture, you’ll find some of Denver’s first restaurants. For traditional Mexican fare, try Los Carboncitos or Patzcuaro’s. Patsy’s has been around since 1920, and it offers charming, old-world Italian cuisine. A few blocks away is Gaetano’s, which is an old mob hangout.
Converted restaurants seem to be a niche for the Highlands. Linger is a former mortuary, and Root Down used to be a filling station. If you can’t get into brunch at either (be prepared to wait), The Universal is a great alternative.
For dinner, the recently remodeled Highland Tavern is a gem. You have to try their tavern tots or the Bombshell — a Reuben with an egg on it. Highland Tap and Burger also has a brilliant burger selection.
If you want a more unique night out, check out Forest Room 5 for a breathtaking outdoor space. Williams and Graham is also a must, featuring a speakeasy-style atmosphere.
The Bug Theatre is one of the best entertainment spots in the ,hood … if not the city. With campy stage productions based on cult movies, not to mention hilarious variety shows, the former movie house is a laid-back space making you feel like you’re on the edgier side of theatrics.
Biking downtown is super easy, especially if you hop on the Cherry Creek Trail via Confluence Park. Speer Boulevard can also get you there in minutes. But this is one neighborhood you probably won’t need to escape too often.
Average monthly rent for a 2/2 place: ~$2300
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