Highlands - Denver, CO

Denver founder William Larimer, Jr. laid out the land for Highland just one month after founding Denver itself, and by 1859, the town was already planning the construction of the Platte River bridge. The flood of 1864 led many residents to seek refuge in the higher lands. Highland's growing 19th-century population had a strong Protestant presence and little cultural diversity until later years when the neighborhood's suburban character began attracting new families to town.

From the historic homes throughout the neighborhood to its residential art galleries, Highland creates a rich atmosphere for the culturally inclined. Head to the famous Navajo Street Art District to visit the Zip 37 Gallery, an artist-run gallery with eclectic and nature-inspired works. You can also see some great local performances at the Bug Theater across the street.

If you're looking for something else to do on your days off, branch out to the greater Highland area to attend the Highland Street Fair, a free annual festival with live music and more than 150 vendors selling everything from hand-crafted jewelry to leather goods.

Once a popular destination for Italian and Hispanic immigrants, Highland has developed a rich mix of cultural cuisine ranging from Cuban and Mexican restaurants to fine Italian dining. You can also find plenty of down-home American eateries and taverns. With eclectic restaurants of all price ranges scattered throughout the neighborhood, residents enjoy plenty of local gems hidden around every corner.

An American restaurant with some French flair, Lou's Food Bar serves up some of the best fried chicken in northwest Denver and was featured in 303 Magazine. Join the locals for brunch to enjoy bottomless mimosas, an unbeatable duck confit Benedict and steaming coffee prepared in a personal French press. If you're feeling adventurous, order your fried chicken "spicy style" to add some extra kick to the crispiness.

If you need to satisfy a craving for Mexican food, stop by Tamales by La Casita for authentic burritos and stuffed tamales served by the dozen. This family-owned local favorite has been feeding its loyal foodie following since opening in the 1970s. Order the combo plate if you're feeling indecisive, and be sure to get some green chile and cheese tamales to take home.

When it comes to nightlife, Highland has become notorious for its prohibition-era speakeasies such as Gaetano's, an Italian cocktail bar and restaurant that once served as a hangout for some of Denver's biggest mobsters. These days, locals flock here to sip on pomegranate mimosas while talking over the latest snowfall. Stop by on Friday nights to talk to the spot-on Frank Sinatra impersonator.

With easy access to downtown Denver via Interstate 25, Highland has become an ideal neighborhood for commuters. Traffic never gets too heavy, and aside from some street meters in the more popular shopping areas, you have plenty of free street parking throughout the neighborhood. A few buses make stops in the neighborhood, but Highland best suits residents who drive. If you need a ride to the Denver International Airport, just call an Uber driver or a taxi service for a fast pick-up.

Exploring Highland on two wheels presents something of a challenge since few bicycle lanes exist in the area, but a beautiful bike trail snakes along the river for a scenic ride. If you choose to travel on foot, enjoy plenty of shops and amenities within easy walking distance of your front door.

Highland delivers a distinct metropolitan feel mixed with a taste of the suburbs, but its public parks transport you to small-town Colorado. Drive down to the City of Cuernavaca Park along the Platte River to play a game of kickball with the locals, go for a family bike ride or walk your canine companion on the grassy hills. This little-known gem rarely gets busy, and the view of the Denver cityscape hovers over the river scenery.

For your basic family-friendly retreat, stop by Hirshorn Park to let your kids run rampant on the playground. The sandy floor creates even more fun opportunities for little ones, and a constant backdrop of kids' baseball games brings the little park to life.

Highland's affordable food and entertainment options help to ease the financial aspect of living here, but its upscale housing market keeps the overall cost of living above average for Denver. The neighborhood has seen some major redevelopment over the years, adding some modern elegance to the spread of historic homes.

Some luxurious new apartment complexes have been popping up over the years as well, raising the median rent above the city's average. Expect to pay around $960 for a one-bedroom apartment.

A flurry of unique boutiques give Highland its trendy flavor. Residents love to shop at high-end fashion boutiques such as Sous le Lit, and great deals on consignment clothing are available at bargain havens such as Rags Consignment. More upscale shopping options exist near the river, while the simpler stores lie scattered throughout the neighborhood.

If you want to dress fashionably without breaking the bank, stop by Inspyre Boutique where every item has a price tag of under $100. Find basic hipster fashions for men and women, and be sure to check out the back of the store for some special discounts.

For your weekly groceries, head to Leever's supermarket for discount food items, or pick up some grass-fed beef at Western Daughters Butcher Shop. During the summer, make your way to the local farmers market to pick up goodies such as kettle corn, purple carrots and fresh tamales.