4 Denver Neighborhoods to Watch

At AptAmigo, we pride ourselves on our local knowledge. Our team of experts is always on the lookout for new apartment developments, rent trends, and hot Denver neighborhoods. Based on what we saw in 2019, and the new construction that we’ve seen, these are the four neighborhoods that are officially on our radar. We’ll be looking out for lease-up specials in these areas as brand new apartments open, so reach out to AptAmigo for your next dream apartment in one of these soon-to-be-booming neighborhoods.

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West Colfax

Colfax’s storied history and eternal legacy is best witnessed through its neon signs that span the stretch of the longest, continuous street in the U.S. Before Denver’s turn of the century boom, before the headache-inducing slog that is I-25 or the weekend battle to brave I-70, Colfax led visitors to the Rocky Mountains and was a gateway to the wild west. 

Like the legendary road itself, the surrounding Denver neighborhoods have seen their fair share of ups and downs over the years. As Denver continues to grow and attract residents from around the world, its neighborhoods are diversifying and growing, including West Colfax. 

Why it made the list: 

As one of Colorado’s most historic streets, developers realize its importance and are taking a renewed interest in revitalizing it. The Colfax Business Improvement District was founded in 2006 and has been working on bringing art, affordable housing, and downtown connectivity to this neighborhood. “What if a Friday night consisted of deciding between LoDo, Cherry Creek, RiNo or West Colfax?” said Bill Marino of the West Colfax BID. “We just wanted to be in that mix again. There are still plenty of problems to solve and things to do. But it’s becoming a destination again. We have over a dozen art galleries, hip and cool breweries, restaurants. We are five or six years behind RiNo, but we are happy with our improvements.”  

Plans for mixed-use space, pedestrian walkways, sustainable infrastructure projects, and fixing The Colfax Clover are all in the works. These ambitious plans to preserve the history of Colfax while bringing new life to the area will make West Colfax a highly sought after residential area.   

What neighborhood is it most similar to?

While the West Colfax neighborhood is slowly making a name for itself, the location, quiet homes, and amenities are most similar to Platt Park. The tree-lined streets and tranquil bungalows in Platt Park are covetable and often unattainable for first-time home buyers. But look just west and find similar stretches of calm, neighborhood streets, little traffic, and direct access to Highway 6 and I-25. Parks are abundant in both Denver neighborhoods and many fun restaurants, bars, and markets are within walking distance. 

Similar to RiNo, development projects are focused on increasing the aesthetic appeal by incorporating a family-friendly arts district. As prominent art galleries like Pirate and Next Gallery move into the area, the 40 West Art District has emerged. This district is home to mural festivals, First Friday art walks, and the miles of public art that make up The ArtLine. 

Planned developments:

In contrast to other Denver neighborhoods that have seen housing costs rise, affordable housing will be a focus in West Colfax. This area has historically been comprised of single-family homes, but after the development of the RTD W Line, developers started building more high-density units. Apartments like Vida boast 175 units and is the largest affordable housing project that Denver has seen in the past 30 years. Apartments similar to X at Sloan’s Lake, Vesty Park, and Regatta Sloan’s Lake, will bring plenty of housing options to West Colfax this year. Luxe at Mile High opened in January of 2020 and The Raleigh is slated to open in May of 2020.

How it will change:

West Colfax will gain more amenities like innovative restaurants, quirky bars, and concert venues. Current development trends in Denver have a tendency to preserve the historic and meld it with modern, and West Colfax will be no different. “[West Colfax] used to be a vibrant, commercial destination.” Said Bill Marino of the West Colfax Business Improvement District â€œThere are so many stories of people meeting their wives or going on dates on that strip. It was a destination— lighted golf courses in the 1960s, theaters and [skating] rinks.” With the addition of these new community projects, the BID is hoping Colfax will once again become a destination. 

Location to downtown Denver:

RTD’s W line opened in 2014 and quickly connects this growing neighborhood with Union Station. Residents of West Colfax can bypass congestion and traffic on city streets with straightforward commutes into downtown. With easy connectivity to Union Station, residents of West Colfax have plenty of travel options— even a spontaneous trip to Summit County on the weekends via the Winter Park Express. 

Top spots:

Denverites don’t need a special occasion to visit their local breweries, however, Seedstock Brewery’s very own altbier, Dusseldorf Alt, was named one of the ‘best beers of all time’ by Beer Connoisseur Magazine. This West Colfax hot spot consistently draws a crowd and is fast becoming a local watering hole for neighborhood residents. After grabbing a beer, head to Sloan’s Lake Tap & Burger for some great burgers, including excellent plant-based options. Spend warm Saturdays frolicking in Paco Sanchez Park, or taking a jog along the creek at Dry Gulch Park.

Five Points

To Denver natives, the area known as Five Points typically encompassed the now-highly sought after microneighborhoods of Curtis Park, RiNo, Arapahoe Square, and Ballpark. But as these neighborhoods within Five Points attracted more attention, other areas went overlooked. During the 1920’s through the 1950’s, Five Points was a lively destination for jazz and blues, soul food, and recreation. 

Over fifty bars and clubs peppered Welton Street, attracting famous musicians including Billie Holliday, Nat King Cole, Miles Davis, and more— quickly making this locale the “Harlem of the West”. Over the years, as Denver’s economy cycled through booms and busts, Five Points became somewhat of a ghost town. Recently though, many businesses, residents, and developers have taken a renewed interest in this iconic neighborhood, planting roots along its historic streets and contributing to the revitalization and preservation of its history. 

Why it made the list:

Denver transplants flocked to RiNo as the trendy art district boomed. As RiNo’s sister-hood, Five Points has a unique historic residential feel, making it feel more like a mini-Brooklyn than anything else. It’s only a few blocks from the heart of downtown Denver and current residents enjoy easy commutes by foot or bike. Bustling coffee shops, quiet breakfast joints, and quirky dive bars pepper the sleepy streets while the skyline sits a testament to Denver’s growing status as one of America’s major cities. 

What neighborhood is it most similar to?

Out of all of Denver’s eccentric neighborhoods, Five Points is most similar to Capitol Hill, but without the hefty price tag. Each are historic Denver locales and have sleepy, tree-lined streets just a stone’s throw to the bustling urban center. Beautiful Victorian homes sit next to modern apartments and the area’s inhabitants come from all walks of life. There’s no shortage of delicious restaurants in Five Points, and commuting to nearby neighborhoods is simple and straightforward.  

Planned Developments

Because of the neighborhood’s rich history, there’s been controversy in regards to new development. Which is a good and bad thing for new residents looking to call this charming area home. Luxury skyscrapers are less likely to block your view and traffic may remain calmer than in nearby neighborhoods like LoDo or Ballpark. There are new apartment buildings, office spaces, and mixed-use retail shops going up in certain areas of Five Points but with conscious development, these projects seek to honor the neighborhoods history while revamping its economy. 

According to DenverInfill, several new developments are set to open in 2020. The Hooper will be a 9 story mixed-use development that will include retail space, office space, and micro-unit apartments.

The Rossonian Hotel, which was built in 1912, is being preserved and renovated in 2020. Craine Architecture, who has done great work in Five Points previously, is working with developers Palisade Partners to bring life back to this historic building. The final product will include “105 guestrooms, two resturants, a jazz club, fitness center, 60,000 square feet of collaborative office space, and 152 public parking spaces” according to DenverInfill. 

How it will change:

The neighborhood will continue to foster its artistic and musical past, while paying close attention to preserving the history. Galleries, music venues, and restaurants encompass a wide variety of cultures and Five Points is often sought after for its diverse cuisine. Admittedly, as Denver’s economy continues to boom and more people move to the city, Five Points will become increasingly desirable for its proximity to downtown. Residential space will increase but, with the neighborhood’s conscious residents, development will be less radical and more meticulous. 

Location

If you’re a Five Points resident working in any of the nearby neighborhoods, it’s probably quicker to bike most days. Drivers need only to commute 5 minute to be in the heart of LoDo and it’s only a ten minute drive to I-25. Union Station is just over a mile away, connecting area residents to wherever they need to be. 

Top Spots

Stop by Rosenberg’s Bagels for an authentic, New-York style bagel. If you’re looking for a cozy place to grab a drink, check out Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox, Spangalang Brewery, 715 Club, or The British Bulldog. See a show at Cervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom, brush up on your history at the Black American West Museum, and grab some fresh produce from the Mo’ Betta Greens Marketplace on Saturday’s. Breweries are aplenty and, with countless beautiful murals peppering main streets and alleyways, this is one of the Denver neighborhoods made for walking. 

Sloan’s Lake

The Highlands have long been the place to hang, work, and live— so it should come as no surprise that its next door Denver neighborhoods are attracting increasing attention. Sloan’s Lake sits directly west of The Highlands, and has even been given the nickname “SloHi” in typical Denver fashion. Years ago, Sloan’s Lake was known for its scenic body of water, great skyline views, and laid-back park. Now, there’s so much more than this main water feature attracting potential new residents and visitors alike. 

Why it made the list

Centrally-located Denver neighborhoods are notoriously expensive, but Sloan’s Lake falls just outside the urban bubble, lying only a few miles west of downtown. Rental prices are still affordable and with an abundance of new restaurants, bars, and venues, more people are moving a little further outside of the city to take advantage of all this neighborhood has to offer. Miles of trails wrap around the lake and paved sidewalks weave through sleepy Denver neighborhoods. Numerous festivals take place throughout this neighborhood and residents are just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the Highlands, Tennyson Street, and Mile High. 

What neighborhood is it most similar to?

City Park. Directly opposite Sloan’s Lake on the other side of town rests the tranquil neighborhood of City Park. It’s large amount of open space, myriad museums, and walkable restaurants make it comparable to Sloan’s Lake. However, its proximity to more expensive neighborhoods like Cherry Creek and Congress Park have driven City Park rent and home prices up. 

Planned Developments

Last year, Sloan’s Lake made headlines when a new 16-story apartment project was approved. Many residents opposed the tower, noting that it would be out of place amongst the shorter buildings and modest homes that dot the neighborhood. However, half of the 300 units will be dedicated to low-income housing with the other earmarked for condominiums. Future plans to widen the path around the lake are in the works to accomodate more foot traffic. As for 2020: a beautiful community from Nava Development called Lakehouse will open in early across from Sloan’s Lake Park.

How it will change

Some speculate that new families or young couples will move a little further out of the city and land in Sloan’s Lake for its access to nature, walkability, and proximity to downtown. Those wishing to purchase larger homes or make a first-time buy are also setting their sights on this quiet hideout. 

Location

Southwest of The Highlands and directly west of Auraria, Sloan’s Lake is about a 20 minute drive into the heart of the downtown area. However, it has convenient Light Rail access and plenty of local amenities. Residents won’t need to travel far to run errands, catch a concert, or see a sporting event. 

Top Spots

Sloan’s Lake has a plethora of amazing dining options, including but not limited to Shiso Sushi & Oyster Bar, Rupert’s At the Edge, US Thai Cafe (super authentic Thai food), and Edgewater Public Market. Beverage options are aplenty as well with local favorites Joyride Brewing Company, Lakeview Lounge, and Happy Leaf Kombucha.  

South Broadway

For a perfect mix of quirky and cool, head to the loosely-defined section of Denver known as South Broadway. This vibrant area stretches from Ellsworth south and is widely acknowledged to encompass the retail shops, restaurants, and venues along Broadway, starting south of 6th Street. No matter where you draw the line, this eccentric collection of dive bars, galleries, hole-in-the-wall pizza joints, and vintage stores gives Denver a good dose of cool.  

Why it made the list

There’s not much that’s shiny and new about South Broadway, but that might be changing fast. Luxury living, towering condos, and multi-story coworking spaces are few and far between in this funky enclave. However, major developers from neighborhoods like LoDo and Uptown have submitted plans to bring high-density, multi-use buildings to the area. For folks desiring a bit more grit and character, this southern neighborhood is just the ticket. It has more of a city feel and only falls silent when the bars shut down at 2 am. 

What neighborhood is it most similar to?

While there’s no pinning down South Broadway’s look, feel, and style, we believe it’s most similar to the Lower Highlands. Walkability is high and there are many top-rated restaurants in both Denver neighborhoods. What LoHi lacks in variety, South Broadway makes up for. SoBo shops boast handmade jewelry, beautiful wool rugs, original art, and antique finds. Both LoHi and SoBo have their own collection of beloved dive bars with dedicated followings, and there’s never a shortage of things to do. Overall, South Broadway is a little less refined and a little more rough and tumble than LoHi. 

Planned Developments

There’s a steady influx of restaurants and bars all along the South Broadway strip and no shortage of evening activities. Office spaces are opening up in mixed-use format to provide ample space for new businesses, coffee shops, and retail stores.  

The Quayle was completed in 2019 and brought 102 units to the corner of Broadway and West 1st Avenue. Neon Local is set to open in 2020 and will be a massive new residential/retail building from Holland Partner Group, the developers responsible for Union Denver and The Platform in LoDo. Additionally, PDG Alameda Station, Atlantis Apartments, Modera West Wash Park, and 355 Logan will all open their SoBo doors in 2020.

How it will change:

As more people move to South Broadway, this heavily trafficked stretch of road will become even more congested, as it easily connects downtown with I-25, Englewood, and DTC. Antique Row will continue to flourish as it sees more business from the influx of people. Mixed-use spaces will bring new retail options, a variety of housing at a variety of price points, and more parking spots.

Location

With traffic, South Broadway is a 20 minute drive from downtown, but without traffic it’s an easy 10 minute jaunt into the heart of LoDo. Many SoBo residents already enjoy straightforward commutes via the RTD bus system. For those looking to put in a few miles before work, walking or biking via Lincoln Street or the Cherry Creek Trail is a quick way to get downtown. 

Top Spots

It’s hard to pick the top spots in this funky Denver neighborhood but there are a few notable mainstays that every new resident must check out. Herman’s Hideaway and Dive Inn are two fantastic dive bars that treat their customers like family. You’ll soon be a regular at either of these joints. For an elegant evening, spend happy hour at the sophisticated tiki bar Adrift, and then head down for dinner at Beatrice and Woodsley. If early mornings are more your thing, get a cup of joe at Corvus Coffee Roaster and shop for vintage clothing at one of the many unique shops on South Broadway, past I-25.

Denver is growing fast, but one thing is for certain: the local communities and organizations within it are fiercely committed to preserving the history and culture that makes each neighborhood special. We’re happy to be part of Denver’s growth, and can’t wait to see what 2020 has in store for each of these Denver neighborhoods! As Denver continues to boom, AptAmigo is changing the way people find apartments in this beautiful city. We’d love to help you find your next home— reach out to us here to get stress-free apartment hunting, and see why we’re the #1 apartment locating service in Denver!