Welcome to Highlands
A community that’s equal parts trendy and historic
Highlands is a bustling residential neighborhood that overlooks downtown Denver. Lined with historic homes and trendy bars and restaurants, Highlands, Denver real estate is popular with those who want to enjoy the perfect blend of history and novelty. The area has three districts: Highlands Square, Tennyson Street, and Lower Highland (LoHi) — all of which offer different vibes and perks. There are plenty of green spaces, ideal for strolling and sports, as well as several major shops and retailers. Parts of the neighborhood are adjacent to Highland Bridge, which makes for beautiful waterfront views. Highlands is ideal for young people and families alike!
What to Love
- Historic ambiance with modern flair
- Unbridled Colorado beauty
- A chic selection of restaurants and bars
- Luxurious houses and homes for sale
Lifestyle
The lifestyle in the Highlands is defined by mobility and novelty. People are always heading to that new cocktail bar on the corner or eager to try the popular sushi spot. The city itself never has a dull moment, so if you’re the active type, you’ll feel right at home. It’s also a very popular spot with young people, which adds to the work-life balance vibes that define the area.
Dining, Shopping, and Entertainment
Where to begin? The Highlands are full of innovative dining options, and it seems like new options arrive every day! One of the coolest spots in town is Avanti Food & Beverage. This bi-level shipping container sells food from a variety of vendors, such as Gorlami Pizza and Meta Asian Kitchen. There’s also an awesome rooftop bar, where you can enjoy craft cocktails with a view. For a penthouse experience, you’ll want to head to El Five. This upscale restaurant serves Spanish and Eastern Mediterranean small plates on a large rooftop patio, which provides incredible access to views of the skyline.
Looking for another restaurant in the clouds? Linger is a hot spot. This former mortuary has been transformed into an upscale lounge with cocktails and a global menu.
Speaking of repurposed spaces, Root (which was once a filling station) is now a high-energy New American restaurant with artsy decorations and all-natural, fresh foods. People love Root for its funky, mid-century vibes.
If speakeasies are your thing, you’ve got to check out William & Graham. This Prohibition-style bar lives in a corner bookstore and serves up some of the best craft cocktails, small plates, and desserts around.
Beer lovers enjoy Recess Beer Garden, a casual patio with picnic tables, games, and (of course) craft beer. Pair beer with some of their bites for the ultimate experience.
For a casual slice (or pie), there’s Happy Camper. This chain has a popular outdoor astroturf patio where you can enjoy their delicious pizzas alongside craft cocktails. Have room for dessert? Head to Little Man Ice Cream for a sweet treat! Located inside a bottle-shaped structure, this store serves homemade ice cream until midnight and is the perfect way to end an evening.
Things to Do
When people in Highlands aren’t dining out, they’re enjoying the local sites and events that make this area so fun! Commons Park runs along the South Platte River, which makes for lovely views during walks or runs. There are also several benches where you can relax and picnic throughout the day.
Connecting Highland to Downtown Denver is the Highland Bridge. It’s a pedestrian bridge as well as a modern architectural masterpiece. Walk along the bridge and take advantage of the photo ops!
Highland prides itself on being an artistic, cultural neighborhood, and this is exemplified by its First Friday Art Walks. Santa Fe Drive shuts down to allow hundreds of artists to open their gallery doors, studios, and co-ops or to set up shop in the streets and alleys. Residents love strolling along (dogs are allowed!) and taking in all of the beautiful art. There are also plenty of food trucks to keep you fed!
Highlands Square is also home to the Real Farmers Market. The market represents a diversity of farms and vendors and specializes in fresh, natural foods. Shop for locally grown produce, baked goods, craft beer, and other treats. The market supports local farms and businesses and is a great way to get involved.
Schools
The Highlands neighborhood is part of the Denver school district and has several prestigious academic institutions:
- Bryant Webster Elementary School, five-star rating
- Embark Education, grades 6-8, an independent micro-school
- Denver North High School, Close to University of Colorado - Denver Campus, and Community College of Denver