Nothing beats the fresh Colorado air and numerous sunny days. In Denver, nature meets big city living, and there is no shortage of things to do. Hi, I'm Marie, your ApartmentHomeLiving.com Local Expert for Denver, Colorado, and I'm here to introduce you to this beautiful, energetic city.
Whether you are looking for opportunities to enjoy nature, explore the city via public transportation, visit amusement parks, attend performances, visit museums, or indulge in exquisite dining, Denver has something for everyone. Come along with me as we take a look at this city and learn what the locals like to do.
Current Rental Pricing for Apartments in Denver
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $1,523 | $525 | $6,184 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $1,722 | $600 | $10,000+ |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $2,219 | $600 | $10,000+ |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $2,952 | $600 | $10,000+ |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $2,953 | $880 | $5,369 |
| 5 Bedroom Apartments | $3,771 | $2,695 | $6,595 |
Current Rental Pricing for Homes for Rent in Denver
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $1,375 | $900 | $2,350 |
| 1 Bedroom Homes | $1,568 | $575 | $10,000+ |
| 2 Bedroom Homes | $2,227 | $1,150 | $5,667 |
| 3 Bedroom Homes | $2,861 | $950 | $10,000+ |
| 4 Bedroom Homes | $3,457 | $900 | $10,000+ |
| 5 Bedroom Homes | $4,588 | $2,375 | $10,000+ |
| 6 Bedroom Homes | $4,203 | $750 | $10,000+ |
| 7 Bedroom Homes | $17,000 | $10,000 | $10,000+ |
Historic Neighborhoods in Denver
Do you enjoy Western movies? I do, and the early days of Denver featured Native Americans, the Gold Rush, railroad barons, saloons, and cowboys, everything that makes a great Western movie. Denver sprang up as a mining town in 1858 thanks to the Pike's Peak Gold Rush. Miners and prospectors flocked to the area and began shaping the city into what it is today. Over time, the city also became a home to jazz legends, poets, and activists. Immigrants also flocked to the city. My own great-grandfather spent time working in the steel mills of Denver. Through the years, many eclectic neighborhoods emerged. Here is a look at a few of the historic neighborhoods in Denver.
Globeville
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $1,782 | $1,027 | $2,738 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $2,114 | $1,313 | $5,665 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $3,059 | $1,645 | $10,000+ |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $4,073 | $760 | $10,000+ |
I'll start with Globeville because this is the neighborhood my great-grandfather lived in when he worked in the steel mill. Settled mostly by European immigrants, this community was incorporated in 1891 and sprang up around the Globe Smelting and Refining Company. This community is situated where Interstate 25 intersects with Interstate 70, and the South Platte River serves as the eastern boundary. Several historic churches are located in the neighborhood, including Saint Joseph's Polish Roman Catholic Church and Holy Transfiguration of Christ Orthodox Cathedral.
LoDo (Lower Downtown)
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $1,545 | $850 | $5,433 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $1,940 | $1,130 | $10,000+ |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $2,959 | $1,000 | $10,000+ |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $4,838 | $2,499 | $10,000+ |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $890 | $880 | $900 |
One of the oldest neighborhoods that dates back to the Gold Rush, LoDo is a hip place to hang out. This part of the city is home to Union Station, which was built in 1881, Larimer Square, which features Victorian architecture, shops, and restaurants, and Denver's first craft brewery, Wynkoop Brewing Company.
Capitol Hill
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $1,497 | $803 | $2,227 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $1,615 | $733 | $3,979 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $2,489 | $880 | $4,127 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $3,465 | $1,950 | $4,670 |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $2,500 | $2,500 | $2,500 |
Full of historic mansions and cultural landmarks, Capitol Hill is an area not to be missed. In this area, you can visit the Colorado State Capitol, the Molly Brown House Museum, and take in beautiful parks and historic architecture.
Five Points
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $1,559 | $850 | $5,433 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $1,910 | $895 | $10,000+ |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $2,736 | $1,000 | $10,000+ |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $2,897 | $760 | $10,000+ |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $3,182 | $880 | $3,990 |
A hub for Denver's African American community, Five Points is home to historic jazz venues, murals, and other cultural landmarks. The rich jazz history and vivid arts scene bring locals and visitors to this community.
Denver Public Transportation
A car can be handy in Denver, but there are options for public transportation. The RTD bus system provides frequent service in Denver communities and into the outlying suburbs. This is an affordable option for visitors and residents. If you are going to explore the 16th Street Mall, Free MallRide can take you around so you don't have to worry about parking. Travel from Union Station to Civic Center Station for free!
The other option is light rail. The light rail system in Denver includes several lines that connect the city and suburbs. It's a great option for those traveling to major venues such as Empower Field at Mile High, Coors Field, or Ball Arena. A commuter train can also get you to Denver International Airport.
Performance Venues and the Arts in Denver
My husband and I enjoy traveling to Denver for shows. Most recently, we saw Phantom of the Opera at the Buell Theater. Other major performance venues in Denver include the Paramount Theatre, Bluebird Theater, and Denver Center for the Performing Arts. The Colorado Symphony plays at Boettcher Concert Hall at the Denver Performing Arts Complex in Downtown Denver. Whether you are into opera, plays, burlesque, or live music, there is something for everyone in Denver.
Denver Museums and Attractions
Many museums and attractions are located in Denver. Whatever your interests, there are a variety of options for adults and kids. Here is a list of the most popular museums and attractions in Denver.
- Meow Wolf
- Denver Botanic Gardens
- Denver Art Museum
- Denver Museum of Nature and Science
- Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum
- Downtown Aquarium
- Denver Zoo
- Molly Brown House
- Children's Museum of Denver
- Forney Transportation Museum
- Museum of Contemporary Art
- Colorado Sports Hall of Fame
- History Colorado Center
Amusement Parks in Denver
Everyone loves a good amusement park. Just after I turned 16, I drove a carload of friends to Elitch Gardens in Denver. It was my first time driving in such a big city, but I did it! It gave me confidence, and I still remember our adventure to this day. There are theme parks with thrilling rides and water parks in the area. Choose from massive parks with all the thrills, or smaller ones in the suburbs. Here are a few to consider.
Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park
Located in the West Highland neighborhood of Denver, Elitch Gardens has a rich history. It opened in 1890 as both an amusement park and a zoological garden. Because of size constraints, the park had to move after about 100 years to its current location and now features modern marvels. There is something for everyone here, including thrill rides, family rides, kids' rides, and water park attractions. Some of the most popular attractions include the Mind Eraser, Twister II wooden coaster, Twister III: Storm Chaser, Half Pipe, Boomerang, and the Sidewinder. The water park offers fast slides with steep drops, a lazy river, a wave pool, and splash zones.
Water World
Water World is located in Federal Heights, a suburb north of Denver, and opened in 1979. It offers water slides and fun for all ages. The park is open during the warmer months and features more than 50 water slides over 70 acres of land. I recently saw on the news that there are some exciting upgrades coming to Water World. A few of the oldest attractions are being retired, and some new attractions are on their way.
Lakeside Amusement Park
Find Lakeside Amusement Park in Lakeside, right next to Denver. This park opened in 1908 and is the oldest amusement park in Colorado that still operates in its original location. It is known for The Cyclone, which is a wooden roller coaster that opened in 1940. In addition to this and other coasters, the park features a scenic train ride around the lake, spinning rides, a merry-go-round, bumper boats and cars, and a 140-foot drop tower. There is also a Playland for the toddlers. This amusement park is a bit smaller and can be more affordable, especially with the free parking.
Smaller Water Parks Near Denver
I am not the biggest fan of huge crowds and high price tags, so I have opted to take my family to some smaller water parks near Denver. Paradice Island, which has a game theme, is located in Commerce City, and Pirate's Cove, which, you guessed it, has a pirate theme, is located in Englewood. Pirate's Cove even offers adult nights during the summer if you are interested in a kid free water park experience.
Dining in Denver
Denver isn't really a city known for a particular type of cuisine, like Kansas City is known for BBQ or Boston is known for clam chowder. However, that doesn't mean it is lacking in good restaurants. It would take multiple articles to write about all of the great places to eat in Denver. There is not only good food, but beautiful outdoor dining options, thanks to the gorgeous Colorado weather and views of the Rocky Mountains. I am just going to feature five favorite restaurants in Denver.
Steuben's Uptown
Established in 2006, Steuben's Uptown is named after a restaurant in Boston that opened in 1945. It was a icon of the Boston nightlife scene and featured Jazz and Swing groups. In Denver, it is still a hot spot for music, trivia, and events. Plus, the food is well-liked. Find New England classics on the menu, such as cheesesteak, chowder, and Maine lobster rolls. There are also American favorites such as macaroni and cheese, burgers, fried chicken, and more.
Corinne Denver
Corinne hosts happy hours, Sunday brunches, and other social events each week. The menu features modern American fare that strives to use fresh, local ingredients. For dinner, try the Brush Creek Wagyu Burger, Wild Mushroom Bolognese, Scottish Salmon, or Spicy Shrimp Strozzapretti. The atmosphere is crisp, clean, and inviting, and it's a great place for a date or private event.
54Thirty Rooftop
As you might imagine, 54Thirty Rooftop is the highest open-air rooftop bar in Denver. It sits on the 20th floor of Le Meridien downtown. The views are amazing and the firepits offer an unmatched ambiance. The menu features globally-inspired selections and crafted cocktails.
The Fire Restaurant and Lounge
The Fire Restaurant and Lounge is situated on the fourth floor of the Art Hotel. Expect excellent service at this restaurant and find a menu that features American dishes with unique modern twists. High-quality, locally sourced ingredients are used, and guests can enjoy a wide selection of wine and craft cocktails.
Root Down
If you are looking to stay on the ground, consider Root Down. As the name infers, this restaurant is more down to earth and offers a feeling of nostalgia. Find a menu inspired by the earth that offers vegetarian and vegan options like Country Fried Tofu and Corn and Poblano Gnocchi. Meat eaters can also find plenty of options, such as Bison NY Strip and Pan Roasted Chicken.
Outdoor Recreation in Denver
Denver is known for its proximity to amazing outdoor adventures. Many people bike around the city, and there are opportunities for camping, hiking, and mountain biking nearby. Fishing is available in the South Platte River in Denver and also in nearby lakes and streams, and skiing is a short distance away. If you like the outdoors, Denver is a great place to be. In addition to these available outdoor adventures, there are many great parks in Denver. No matter where you live or are visiting in Denver, it is easy to find a nearby park to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. Here are a few favorite parks in Denver.
- Washington Park is located in south-central Denver. It is a large park with beautiful flowers and a garden area. It also features a recreation area with a pool, gym, and weight room. Visitors will also find tennis courts, a lily pond, and Smith Lake.
- Great Lawn Park sits in the Lowry neighborhood and is a great park for families with kids. There is a paved main path, a playground for kids, and several scenic areas.
- Bear Creek Park is unique because it offers an urban wilderness. Get away from the big city and walk among shrubs, trees, flowers, and a pond with waterfowl. There is also a terrific playground and well-maintained porta-potties.
- Inspiration Point Park is well named because it is perched above the city and offers fantastic views. Parking is limited, but all who visit enjoy the nice walk and scenery. There is a paved path, lovely flowers, and a playground for the kids.
- City Park is an urban park that offers a museum and informative exhibits, lake views, and convenient parking. The museum features information about local culture and heritage. There are winding paths to explore, and dogs are welcome on a leash.
It is impossible to include all of the amazing things that Denver has to offer in one article. The things mentioned above only scratch the surface. Whether you live in Denver or are just visiting, pick a few places and go exploring. I bet you will find even more amazing museums, parks, restaurants, amusement parks, and outdoor recreation opportunities than are listed here. The sky is really the limit in this mile high city. I feel lucky to live so close.
