Elegant couple downtown shopping in summer

Denver is a beautiful, historic city that continues to evolve and change with each passing month. The city is filled with rich, diverse cultures, a myriad of art and entertainment, lush parks, and new properties springing up every week.

Perhaps the Highlands neighborhood exemplifies this better than most. This exact combination of history, newness, and trendiness makes the area a perfect destination to explore for both visitors and residents. With its proximity to downtown, the area has quickly become one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in all of Denver.

Comprised of three very different districts–the Tennyson Street Cultural District, Highlands Square, and Lower Highland–the Highlands is a great place to start in understanding Denver’s evolving cityscape.

Tennyson Street Cultural District

Tennyson Street is one of Denver’s fantastic arts districts, featuring a number of art galleries and live music venues. Spend a couple hours popping in and out of galleries, browsing paintings and photographs from local artists. Many local stores and restaurants also display the work of local artists on their walls. Stop by on the first Friday evening of every month, where artists and businesses open up their doors and invite you to stroll in for a look at the neighborhood.

While you’re here, check out the historic Oriental Theatre. This intimate venue dates back to the 1920s and features live music, performance, and theatre.

The funky neighborhood is also filled with boutiques, coffeehouses, and reasonably priced food joints. Check out the growing number of breweries, biergartens, and craft beer bars in the neighborhood. Berkeley Untapped and Call to Arms Brewing Company are two local favorites!

Highlands Square

In Highlands Square, you’ll find a variety of hip restaurants and bars, bookstores, wine shops, and boutiques. The quaint architecture makes it a quiet, local favorite. Check out the number of boutique fitness studios here to get your exercise on.

Come for the fantastic Farmer’s Market on Sunday mornings. You’ll find an amazing, inspiring selection of local goods, along with the farmers and producers to tell their stories.

For dinner, check out Himchuli, a modern dining establishment serving up delicious Indian and Nepali cuisine. The vibe is cool and contemporary, and the food is thoroughly authentic. This neighborhood favorite is highly rated.

On the way out, also check out Mondo Vino, a local wine store, and neighborhood cornerstone. Since 1999, Mondo Vino has been offering unique wines, beers, and spirits. The staff is very knowledgeable, and they also hold tastings every Friday and Saturday evening.

Lower Highland (LoHi)

You’ll know LoHi when you see the stunning views of downtown and the Highland Bridge. Here you’ll find a fascinating mixture of historic and contemporary buildings, as well as the city’s trendiest and cutting-edge restaurants.

The culinary scene is not to be missed. Check out Linger for globally-inspired small plates and great vegetarian and vegan options. If you’re not sure what you’re in the mood for, Avanti F and B is a contemporary food hall, offering selections from a variety of local vendors. To finish up, stop by Little Man Ice Cream, an ice cream shop located in a 28-foot tall cream can. The lines get crazy, but their delicious dairy and non-dairy ice cream is phenomenal.

Another must-see is the REI Denver Flagship store. Even if you’ve been to other REIs, this one is located in a huge, lofty converted warehouse building, and features special events, kid-friendly activities, and a positively huge selection. There’s also a giant climbing wall to top it off.

The Highlands area is just one of many wonderful neighborhoods we have in the Denver area. We would love to help you discover more. Please contact us to discuss how you can be a part of our beautiful community.