Noteworthy Mention of the Highland Neighborhood in Denver

Befitting it’s name, Highland is perched northwest of Denver high above the banks of the South Platte River. This inner city neighborhood has enjoyed a rebirth over the last two decades and has become one of the “hot” neighborhoods due to its proximity to downtown and its charming tree-lined streets.

History of Highland

The townsite of Highland was laid out in 1858 at the confluence of the South Platte River and Cherry Creek. As Denver grew in the early 1900’s, the area attracted affluent residents seeking homes upwind from the smelters. It would remain a favored neighborhood until after World War II. Like many inner-city neighborhoods in Denver, Highland suffered from “white flight,” when much of its population moved to the surrounding suburbs in the 1950s and 1960s. It would take over three decades for people to start returning to this Denver urban enclave and when they did, it was in droves. Since 2010 alone, the population of this neighborhood has increased 22 percent.

Architecture and Homes in Highland

Today, the neighborhood is the center of rapid urban redevelopment and investment, again shifting both the physical and social character of the neighborhood. Denver’s Highland neighborhood is a highly sought after place to call home. It is lined with lovely single-family houses, new townhomes and condos, abundant restaurants and shops, and offers close proximity to downtown Denver. Being on the west side of the South Platte River, accessibility into downtown has historically been an issue. However, with the construction of the Highland (pedestrian) Bridge in 2006 and the upgraded 15th and 20th Street bridges, it’s now a breeze to commute between Highland, Lower Highland (LoHi), Lower Downtown (LoDo) and downtown.

The neighborhood possesses both history and charm, which is visible with its assortment of Queen Anne, Craftsman bungalow. Classic Cottage, Colonial and Dutch Revival and Italiante rowhome architecture. The Potter Highlands Historic District is located in the Highland neighborhood between Federal Blvd. and Zuni St., and 38th Ave. and 32nd Ave. These homes have been meticulously cared for and restored, and provide a glimpse of why Highland was a popular neighborhood at the turn of the 19th century as well as today. It is home to many young professionals and families who enjoy an uncomplicated commute to downtown.

Restaurants and Culture

Highland features a multitude of new and eclectic restaurants, bike and pedestrian friendly streets, grocery stores, fitness centers, large parks, and lakes. Popular Sloan’s Lake is just south of the Highland, providing a variety of boating and aquatic activities, and a panoramic backdrop of the Rocky Mountains and Denver skyline. The intersection of 32nd and Lowell, referred to as Highlands Square, and the Tennyson District are hubs for great food and drink, stylish boutiques, cafes, coffee shops, art galleries, live music and more.

Highlights Include:

• Highlands Farmer’s Market | “Located at 32nd Ave. and Lowell, this farmer’s market is open every Sunday through September. Enjoy farm fresh food, live music, drinks and more.”
• Highlands Square | “Historic Highlands Square is located along West 32nd Avenue from Perry to Julian and features a unique collection of independently owned boutiques, salons, cafes, restaurants and other services.”
• Park Burger | “Park Burger is a casual, family-friendly neighborhood restaurant, serving Denver’s prizewinning burgers, fries, shakes, and beer. They carefully craft the best burger using only the freshest, highest quality ingredients.”
• El Camino Community Tavern | “El Camino Community Tavern strives to create a unique gathering spot that nourishes both body and soul. They are a certified green restaurant, using locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible, and make all the food offerings from scratch. They also help community schools by donating a portion of their revenue to help educational efforts.”