Whittier - Denver, CO Area Guide

Named after John Greenleaf Whittier, this Colorado city has been inclusive from its inception. Whittier, an abolitionist poet, envisioned a town of racial harmony and set out to create one. Deeply grounded in his Quaker faith, Whittier spoke out strongly against racism and the hypocrisy of the nation. Other former residents include pioneers of architecture, agriculture, and industry.

A collection of museums line the outskirts of Whittier. For a deeper appreciation of the African-American experience in the Old West, spend an afternoon at the Black American West Museum, located on California Street. Or for a different type of history, try the Denver Museum of Miniatures, Dolls, and Toys. Step inside the doors of the historic Pearce-Mcallister cottage to enjoy a wide array of toys and memorabilia from a bygone era and feel as though you've stepped back in time.

You will have to leave the streets of Whittier to enjoy a restaurant experience but look no further than the northern edge of Denver to find some fine or fun dining options for your family. From casual American lunch fare to fresh-made German sausage, this area has the food you need to satisfy your craving.

The Chop Shop Casual Urban Eatery comes highly recommended by locals. Fresh food, locally sourced when possible, hits your table on wooden carving boards, delivered by friendly servers. Described by locals as "elevated comfort food", The Chop Shop's menu is simple, classic and perfectly portioned.

Located in the heart of Whittier's historic quarters, The Whittier Pub offers a diverse menu of traditional brunch and lunch favorites alongside more sophisticated fare. The Art Deco-era decor of this popular pub speaks to Whittier's history. Come enjoy a dressed-up burger under the beautiful pergola on the bar's patio.

Another wise choice, The Queen of Sheba, serves the region's best Ethiopian food from an unassuming storefront on Colfax Avenue. Discerning locals rave about the vegetarian samosas and the honey wine. Often, the cook will converse with customers from the kitchen, lending a homey vibe to this charming little restaurant.

With its proximity to downtown and an assortment of nightlife venues within its borders, Whittier does not suffer from a shortage of fun. Music lovers have plenty of options in the northeast corner of Denver. Fully restored and renovated to its original 1913 charm, The Bluebird Theatre hosts exciting live acts ranging from acoustic crooners to electronica-fueled dance parties.

The retro vibe inside the Lost Lake Lounge pairs 1970s kitsch decor with modern local bands for a unique nightlife experience. Stiff drinks that are reasonably priced served inside what feels like a secret cabin bring Colorado natives back again and again.

Another key location on Colfax, The Lion's Lair, is unashamedly known as the best dive bar in the area. Obscure bands, cheap drinks and black walls characterize this Denver staple so put on your jeans and sneakers and enjoy a Pabst Blue Ribbon on tap. But bring cash and be prepared to pay a cover.

The Ride, a light rail travel option provided by Regional Transportation District at the 30th Avenue and Downing Station, provides access to nearby destinations such as downtown. Park and ride to your destination. Four bus lines run through Whittier, making transportation even easier for residents.

Whittier is a biker's paradise. It has numerous bike lanes that crisscross major thoroughfares and the interconnectivity of the area streets. But if your bike is not handy, most errands can be accomplished on foot as well. Whittier ranks as a highly walkable town with many restaurants and convenience stores within walking distance. If your destination requires a car, brush up on your parallel parking skills to utilize public parking along the streets.

A short drive south through residential streets will get you to State Highway 287, and for destinations east or west of Whittier a short drive north will land you on Interstate 70, a major vein of travel through the Denver area. Encapsulated as it is among other outlying neighborhoods, catching a cab in Whittier may require a phone call but riding in style with Uber is also only a phone call away as they serve the Denver metro area.

Whittier encompasses two free public parks, and is adjacent to the 330-acre City Park which is home to the Denver Zoo and the Museum of Nature and Science. Within the confines of Whittier lies Fuller Park, Denver's second oldest park. Though it is small, the dog park located here draws visitors from all over central Denver. With a sand and dirt enclosure for your furry friend, Fuller Park provides hours of outdoor fun.

Another fun outdoor space stands on 30th Avenue, The Madame CJ Walker Park. Named after a prominent African-American entrepreneur, this park spans one acre and offers a picnic area. Keep your pets on a leash at this park.

Nearby, Denver's largest and most prestigious park, City Park provides residents with natural beauty and access to a boathouse for adventures on the lake. Also inside its borders stands the Denver Zoo, home to over 4,000 animals. A family-friendly venue, the Denver Zoo exhibits animals in natural enclosures rather than typical iron-bar cages. Children and adults alike revel in an up-close look at the Zoo's inhabitants. So, whether you long for a picnic on the grass or the excitement of discovering a new species, City Park is the place for you. City Park hosts several annual events, including Christmas light displays in December at the zoo and a Fourth of July fireworks show in City Park.

Overall an affordable place to live, Whittier's median rent for a one bedroom unit hovers near $900 which is higher than the Denver city average of $770. The median home value here nears $300,000 as compared to the city average of $346,000, a 15 percent difference.

Besides housing costs, the cost of living in Whittier is slightly lower than other Denver neighborhoods. You can turn up a cold pint at the local pub for $3, and a ride to the city center will cost you $2.25. The neighborhood gas average sits at 3 percent less than the national average.

Colfax Avenue houses a selection of retail establishments that serve the Whittier area. Load up on produce for a great price at Sprouts Farmers Market or fill your buggy with household necessities at the Stapleton Super Target location.

For a quick food run in the neighborhood, Gem Food Mart is the place. This eye-catching orange and green building, situated on the corner of 30th Avenue and Downing Street, provides easy access to grab groceries and go.

Denver bibliophiles love the Tattered Cover Book Store. This Indie bookstore offers patrons with a cozy, inviting place to browse through new and used book titles and amply furnished nooks and crannies to hide away and get lost in a fictional world.

For funky accessories, men and women's clothing and an assortment of unique gifts, visit the Peppermint Boutique, located on 17th Avenue. Merged with Soul Haus and owned by the same proprietors as the nearby Pandora jewelry store, this shop has a little something for everyone.