/ Neighborhood Guide2025 rank: 40
Cherry Creek was noticeably absent from our list last year, largely due to a significant dip in home prices, but it’s back and ready to reclaim its rightful spot in our top 25. Its modern luxury and traditional ranch-style properties continue to attract affluent Denverites in search of upscale urban living. Average home prices in the area saw a modest three percent year-over-year jump, now clocking in at just over $1.8 million. Plus, Bromwell Elementary School continues to earn top marks.
But what really catapults Cherry Creek into this collection is its abundant amenities—shops, restaurants, fitness studios, etc. (Tip: When your family overstays their welcome, encourage them to book a room at one of the ’hood’s trendy boutique hotels, such as Halcyon, the Clayton, and Hotel Clio.) Access to the bikeable Cherry Creek Trail, which winds its way directly into downtown, doesn’t hurt either.
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 data, school 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 & Drink
Don’t be distracted by the chains in this commercial district; there are plenty of local gems hidden among the Starbucks and Shake Shacks. For special occasions, head to Barolo Grill, Matsuhisa, Toro, or Quality Italian. For more approachable bites, consider the Denver classic burger joint Cherry Cricket or new Mexican eatery Ash & Agave. James Beard Award finalist Johnny Curiel recently debuted two fresh, reservation-worthy concepts inside the Clayton Hotel: Alteño, which showcases the cuisine of Curiel’s childhood home of Jalisco, and Mar Bella Wine Bar, a Spanish tapas spot.
To fuel your shopping, grab to-go java at Aviano Coffee or sip and stay awhile at Olive & Finch, an all-day cafe with a robust lunch and dinner menu.
Speaking of liquid joy, watering hole options abound, from the Miami-inspired cocktail lounge Ay Papi to low-key Milwaukee Street Tavern. North Italia has a dangerously good happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m., when some of its signature boozy beverages are only $12. For a unique experience, head to the alley behind Halcyon. Here you’ll find the entrance to B&GC, a true speakeasy where bartenders whip up custom cocktails.
Shop
There are countless ways to make a dent in your wallet in Cherry Creek, starting, of course, at the Cherry Creek Shopping Center. (The ground floor play zone has long been a favorite of families.) Or shop al fresco by perusing some of our favorite spots for retail therapy along Cherry Creek North’s wide sidewalks: Lou Collective and Garbarini for women’s clothing; Suitsupply for men; White Peacock or the Den for home goods; the Hermitage Bookshop for rare reads; Bee and Pollen for flowers; and Artisan Center for handcrafted gifts.
Break a Sweat
Cherry Creek brims with fitness studios, including celebrity-backed imports like Barry’s and SoulCycle. Really, you can take your pick from any genre of workout: Rumble (boxing), Lagree Luxe (reformer Pilates), YogaBox (yoga). Whatever you pick, treat yourself to professional recovery at StretchLab and replenish lost electrolytes at Prime IV Hydration & Wellness.
Spots to Eat
About This Neighborhood
- Washington Park
- Washington Park West
- South Park Hill
- Platt Park
- City Park
- Congress Park
- West Highland
- Wellshire
- Hilltop
- Skyland
- Baker
- Southmoor Park
- Cherry Creek
- City Park West
- Lowry Field
- Speer
- University
- Sunnyside
- Regis
- University Park
- Indian Creek
- Union Station
- North Park Hill
- Five Points
- Berkeley
