2022 rank: 26
After dropping off last year, Washington Park’s slightly more accessible sibling is back in our ranks. Its return was buoyed by increased home sales, high-performing Lincoln Elementary School, and a solid safety rating. As we predicted back in 2021, the neighborhood’s green space–adjacent bungalows, Cape Cods, Queen Annes, and contemporary builds have only grown more exclusive, topping $1 million on average for the first time this year.
Other reasons to fall in love with the area: two grocery stores; a decent culinary scene; and easy access to the vibrant Baker ’hood, cheery Platt Park, and I-25.
Neighborhood Rankings
How we got these numbers: We utilized the city’s official list of 78 neighborhoods (only 73 had enough data to be included), and ranked them using four variables: home prices, crime dataschool rankings, and an X factor score that accounts for things like access to open space, proximity to public transportation, and restaurant and shopping options. For more on our methodology, return to the main page.
Your Itinerary
Eat and Drink
After a pick-up volleyball match at the park, freshen up for dinner at Bittersweet, where chef Olav Peterson’s ever-changing menu incorporates ingredients from the restaurant garden, or family-owned Bruno’s Italian Bistro. Hey Bangkok!’s kaw soy curry is among the most slurpable in town (and the restaurant’s indoor Thai street scene mural serves as decent mealtime eye candy). Pho Haus is a reliable option for the Vietnamese noodle soup (get the haus pho for an even more savory broth). On game nights, everyone wins with Fire on the Mountain’s wings slathered in house-made sauces.
For libations, two locals’ favorites—dive bars Candlelight Tavern and Kentucky Inn—are just five blocks apart. The 1920s-inspired Roxy on Broadway serves shared plates and live music seven nights a week, and Adrift Tiki Bar, the Irish Rover Pub, Sputnik, and a slew other Broadway bars are just a few blocks to the north.
Wash Perk Coffee House is a gathering spot with plenty of outdoor seating, and the Molecule Effect coffeeshop hosts a variety of cultural and community events.
Break a Sweat
Weather not cooperating for your afternoon rollerblading sesh? Lucky for you, there are plenty of ways to burn some calories inside in Wash Park West. The Pilates Studio, Fierce45, Pearl Street Fitness, Yoga Center of Denver, Barre Forte, and Orangetheory Fitness all operate studios here.
Spots to Eat
About This Neighborhood
- Washington Park
- Hilltop
- Berkeley
- West Highland
- Cherry Creek
- University
- Congress Park
- Washington Park West
- Sloan’s Lake
- Rosedale
- Southmoor Park
- Platt Park
- Highland
- City Park
- Regis
- Lowry Field
- Gateway - Green Valley Ranch
- Sunnyside
- Indian Creek
- Five Points
- South Park Hill
- Cole
- North Park Hill
- Central Park
- Jefferson Park