Uptown Denver - Denver, CO

Part of the oldest residential area in Denver, Uptown saw its beginning in the mid-1800s. By the 1870s, city planners had already begun work on the expansive City Park, following a design inspired by New York City’s Central Park. As in neighboring Capitol Hill, the silver crash of 1893 hit the area hard, and the neighborhood shifted focus from building palatial residences to constructing apartments for middle-class families.

Throughout the 20th century, Uptown went through the economic peaks and valleys that affected Denver as a whole, but by the latter half of the 1900s had a considerable crime problem, even when compared with neighboring communities. Since then, gentrification and redevelopment have created contemporary housing options while largely preserving historic homes and boulevards, and today an influx of hip urbanites continues to diversify the neighborhood. They bring with them eclectic perspectives and occupations that coexist with the older residents and families, all of whom relish the healthy mix of old and new that Uptown has to offer.

Uptown has gained quite a reputation as a culinary destination, and most of the action revolves around “Restaurant Row,” a stretch of 17th Avenue from Park Avenue to City Park. This area also draws the after-dinner crowd, with plenty of bars, clubs and music venues keeping residents entertained to the wee hours.

Fit for a casual night out or a special occasion, Il Posto on 17th Avenue near Race Street offers northern Italian cuisine prepared in an open-air kitchen. Service-conscious customers find the resident sommelier irreplaceable, and with a wide wine selection, pairing possibilities abound. The menu features local ingredients, many organic, as well as specialty items flown in from Italy, all with an eye toward dishes that will transport the diner; the menu changes daily, so no two experiences are the same. Regulars advise trying the cooked-to-perfection gnocchi (when available) and snagging a seat al fresco in the warmer months.

Denver has become known for its craft beer scene, and just off 17th Avenue near City Park, Vine Street Pub and Brewery makes a worthy addition to this booming industry. With an attached brewery producing 5,000 barrels of beer annually, the pub features hearty American fare that pairs beautifully with their house brews. Diners rave about the burgers, particularly the S.O.B., where blackened seasoning meets green chiles, jalapenos, bacon and cheese on an all-beef patty.

Just north of Restaurant Row, Illegal Grounds Coffee House satisfies the early risers of the neighborhood. Housed in a converted historic Victorian, Illegal Grounds specializes in espresso art and fresh-baked pastries and provides a quiet place to work for area students and telecommuters.

Transportation options abound in Denver, though mass transit will not get you everywhere in the city. Many Uptown residents walk or bike to and from daily activities, since many work in or near the neighborhood. For those traveling downtown, the Regional Transportation District operates bus and light rail service throughout Denver. Though the latter offers limited service, bus route 20 runs direct to and from downtown.

Residents who drive usually find parking without too much trouble, though various garages provide an off-street option for a price. When all else fails, call a cab or request Uber, both of which should not set you back much more than $12 if traveling to or from downtown.

Residents and visitors alike view City Park as the crown jewel of Uptown. This expansive public park, covering 330 acres, lies at the far east end of the neighborhood and houses the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Park visitors also enjoy tennis courts and other athletic facilities, picnic areas, a golf course and two lakes, as well as stunning views of the Rocky Mountains beyond the city skyline. Numerous paths run through the park, offering walkers and runners a scenic place to exercise and a reprieve from the busyness of urban life.

Each summer sees an outdoor concert series in City Park, attracting thousands of music lovers from the city and beyond. In January the park holds the Martin Luther King March and Parade, the largest such annual rally in the country.

Housing costs in Uptown come in a bit higher than the Denver average, though the area continues to experience redevelopment, so a wide range of price options exists. Renters face a market starting at about $800 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.

Prices for other necessities have remained more in line with the rest of the city, despite the area’s downtown location. Residents also save on transportation costs due to the neighborhood’s high walkability and accessible amenities.

As a certified trendy neighborhood, Uptown presents ample shopping opportunities. Shoppers will find chains here, including Office Depot for office supplies and household needs, but those in search of independent stores will find plenty to like.

Soul Haus, located on 17th Avenue near Park Avenue, offers distinctive clothing for men and women, as well as accessories and gifts made by local designers. Buyers can face steep prices, but rest assured your money is well spent; a portion of all sales goes to local charities, and the owners actively participate in neighborhood greening initiatives.

For a dose of spirituality and relaxation, head to nearby Herbs & Arts. With its vast selection of ritual oils, incense and oracle cards, the store aims to promote peace and understanding while offering stress relief for the area’s busy residents. Herbs & Arts also draws visitors with regular classes on subjects such as Introduction to Aromatherapy and Integrative Earth Medicine.

Residents seeking groceries and everyday items find options for a range of budgets, from chains like Safeway to independent stores like Marczyk Fine Foods. Food lovers in search of farm-fresh fare can head just east of Uptown to the City Park Esplanade Farmers' Market, where producers sell farm-fresh fare on Sundays from June to October.