Berkeley - Denver, CO Area Guide

Berkeley came into being as an expansion of the City of Denver. Homesteaders settled the land in 1863, and as the settlement grew, it came to be known as the Town of North Denver. The original homesteads were sold and merged to form Berkeley Farms, which gave the area its identity. The name changed to Berkeley in 1898, and the town was officially incorporated as a Denver neighborhood in 1902.

Driven by the opening of the Elitch Gardens in 1890, cultural activities played a significant role in Berkeley's development. The Elitch Theatre showed Denver's first moving pictures and drew top actors such as Grace Kelly, Lana Turner and Mickey Rooney to the stage. The Trocadero Ballroom brought further cultural refinement and entertainment power with performances by famous musicians such as Tommy Dorsey and Benny Goodman. The popularity of the Gardens drew people to the area, increased ridership on the Berkeley Motor trolley line and helped to encourage the development of the corridor.

Berkeley proudly continues its rich cultural tradition. First Friday Art Walk is a treasured monthly event and a must-see highlight for visitors. Stroll Tennyson Street for a market-style experience of art exhibits, live music, good food and retail delights.

Whether you're looking to enjoy a filling weekend breakfast, pub fare and drinks or a quick casual bite, Berkeley delivers.

For friendly service and large portions of good breakfast or lunch items, head to DJ's Berkeley Cafe on Tennyson. Be sure to get there before 11:00 am on weekdays if you're planning to savor one of their specialty eggs bennies such as the California Benedict with avocado and tomato. Another favorite is the Kitchen Sink, a signature breakfast stack of home fries, green chili, cheese, eggs and bacon with a warm tortilla. Look for gluten-free and kid-friendly menu options.

Stop at Patrick Carroll's neighborhood pub for a bite to eat and a few drinks late into the evening. Sample a bowl of Dublin stew made of lamb, potatoes and veggies with a hint of Irish whiskey, or go for traditional beer-battered fish and chips with Guinness on tap. Be sure to get in on the meal deals from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Monday to Wednesday to enjoy pub-style cheeseburgers, turkey melts or buffalo chicken sandwiches with fries for $5. Daily afternoon and late-night happy hours feature specials ranging from $2 domestic drafts to $4 house wines.

Take a shopping break and energize with an espresso caffeine boost, a nourishing fruit smoothie or a sweet pastry snack at Tenn Street Coffee & Books. While there, send an email at one of the computer workstations, browse the shelves of used books or admire the displayed work of local artists. Live music is featured on weekends and some weekday evenings. Talented regional musicians perform an eclectic mix of jazz, blues, country and R&B to create a folksy, coffee-house vibe.

City buses run along the neighborhood's border streets for trips in and out of the community. A short 10-minute trip via Federal Boulevard takes you to Sports Authority Field to see the Broncos. A bus route cuts across central Berkeley along 44th making, making most neighborhood destinations north and south of the route easily accessible.

A few bike lanes provide safe passage routes and give cyclists a comfortable and healthy way to enjoy the neighborhood's green spaces. For journeys outside of public transportation you pick up a Zipcar or rental car in nearby Highland, request an Uber or call one of Denver's many cab companies.

Green space is one of Berkeley's biggest attractions, and its three beautiful parks are well visited.

Located at the northwest corner of the neighborhood, Berkeley Park offers a bevy of outdoor entertainment options. Walk or jog the path alongside the lake, take out a paddle boat or kayak, watch the kids frolic in the playground, or socialize with the dogs as they romp in the dog park.

Rocky Mountain Lake Park takes up the northeast corner. This scenic park features shady picnic spots, serene lake views and terrific bird-watching opportunities. Kids love the playground, and dog are welcome as long as they remain on-leash and don't disturb the birds.

Close to the Tennyson shopping area, Cesar Chavez Park provides the neighborhood's central green relief. Dogs take to the grassy fields, and kids beeline to the play area. If the day is calm and without a breeze, try your hand at table tennis on one of the park's unique cement tables.

In Berkley the median household income comes in slightly higher than the state median. About one-third of residents in Berkeley are renters, and urban living does not come cheap. Depending on the building's age and the services or appliances included, one-bedroom apartments range from $800 to $1,650 per month, and most are at the higher end.

Tennyson Street is the primary commercial corridor for Berkeley shopping, providing retail therapy for residents and visitors.

Prepare to be dazzled by the sparkle and shine of traditional and contemporary jewelry at Ooh Aah Jewelry. If you have a wedding coming up, browse the engagement rings or discuss custom designs with the owner. This little shop does gorgeous custom work that exceeds expectations.

The Stitch Boutique provides a one-stop shop for stylish clothing and accessories. Prices range widely here, but no matter what your budget, you can find something special to take home. The store also participates in several events throughout the year.

At 44th and Lowell, Safeway is the central supermarket. In addition to bakery, deli and general grocery items, this Safeway carries Redbox movie rentals, flowers, liquor and Starbucks coffee. For fresh produce, nothing beats Sprouts Farmers Market at the southern border.