At AptAmigo, we pride ourselves on our local knowledge. Our team of Denver apartment experts looks out for new apartment developments, rent trends, and hot Denver neighborhoods on a routine basis. And, based on what we saw in 2019 as well as the new construction currently underway, these four up-and-coming neighborhoods in Denver are officially on our radar.
We keep a constant eye on lease-up specials as brand new apartments open, so reach out to AptAmigo for your next dream apartment in one of these up-and-coming neighborhoods in Denver.
Related: Everything You Need to Know When Moving to Denver from NYC
Where to Live in Denver
West Colfax
Colfax’s storied history and legacy is best witnessed through the neon signs that span the stretch of the longest, continuous street in the U.S., Colfax Avenue. Before Denver’s turn-of-the-century boom, before the headache-inducing slog on the I-25 or the weekend battle to brave the I-70, Colfax Avenue opened a gateway to the Wild West and led visitors to the Rocky Mountains.
Like the legendary road itself, the surrounding Denver neighborhoods have seen their fair share of ups and downs over the years. As Denver continues to grow and attract residents from around the world, so too do its diversifying neighborhoods, including West Colfax.
Why It Made the List:
As one of Colorado’s most historic streets, developers realized Colfax Avenue’s importance and are taking a renewed interest in revitalizing it. The Colfax Business Improvement District was founded in 2006 and has been working on bringing art, affordable housing, and downtown connectivity to this neighborhood. “What if a Friday night consisted of deciding between LoDo, Cherry Creek, RiNo, or West Colfax?” said Bill Marino of the West Colfax BID. “We just wanted to be in that mix again. There are still plenty of problems to solve and things to do, but it’s becoming a destination again. We have over a dozen art galleries, hip and cool breweries, and restaurants. We are five or six years behind RiNo, but we are happy with our improvements.”
Plans for mixed-use space, pedestrian walkways, sustainable infrastructure projects, and fixing The Colfax Clover are all in the works. These ambitious plans to preserve the history of Colfax, while bringing new life to the area, will make West Colfax a highly sought after residential destination.
What Neighborhood Is It Most Similar to?
While the West Colfax neighborhood slowly makes a name for itself, the location, quiet homes, and amenities most closely resemble Platt Park. Locals covet the tree-lined streets and tranquil bungalows in Platt Park, which often remain unattainable for first-time home buyers. But, look just west and find similar stretches of calm neighborhood streets, little traffic, and direct access to Highway 6 and I-25. Abundant parks fill both Denver neighborhoods, and many fun restaurants, bars, and markets sit within walking distance.
Similar to RiNo, development projects focus on increasing the area’s aesthetic appeal by incorporating a family-friendly arts district. As prominent art galleries like Pirate move into the area, the 40 West Art District has emerged. This district is home to mural festivals, first Friday art walks, and miles of public art that make up The ArtLine.
Planned Developments:
In contrast to other Denver neighborhoods that have seen housing costs rise, affordable housing will remain a focus in West Colfax. Historically, single-family homes comprised this area, but after the development of the RTD W Line, developers started building more high-density units. Apartments like Vida, the largest affordable housing project that Denver has seen in the past 30 years, boast 175 units. Apartments similar to X at Sloan’s Lake, Vesty Park, and Regatta Sloan’s Lake will bring plenty of housing options to West Colfax this year. Luxe at Mile High opened in January of 2020, and The Raleigh is slated to open in May of 2020.
How It Will Change:
West Colfax will gain more amenities like innovative restaurants, quirky bars, and concert venues. Current development trends in Denver tend to preserve the historic and meld it with the modern, and West Colfax will be no different. “[West Colfax] used to be a vibrant, commercial destination,” says Bill Marino of the West Colfax Business Improvement District. “There are so many stories of people meeting their wives or going on dates on that strip. It was a destination with lighted golf courses in the 1960s, theaters, and [skating] rinks.” With the addition of these new community projects, the BID hopes Colfax will once again become a destination.
Location in Relation to Downtown Denver:
RTD’s W line opened in 2014, connecting this growing neighborhood with Union Station. Residents of West Colfax can bypass congestion and traffic on city streets with straightforward commutes into downtown. With easy connectivity to Union Station, residents have plenty of travel options, including a spontaneous trip to Summit County on the weekends via the Winter Park Express.
Top Spots:
Denverites don’t need a special occasion to visit their local breweries; however, Seedstock Brewery’s very own Altbier, Dusseldorf Alt, was named one of the “best beers of all time” by Beer Connoisseur Magazine. This West Colfax hot spot consistently draws a crowd and is fast becoming a local watering hole for neighborhood residents. After grabbing a beer, head to Sloan’s Lake Tap & Burger for some great burgers, including excellent plant-based options. Spend warm Saturdays frolicking in Paco Sanchez Park, or taking a jog along the creek at Dry Gulch Park.
Related: Tour Denver Like a Local
Five Points
To Denver natives, the area known as Five Points encompasses the highly sought after micro-neighborhoods of Curtis Park, RiNo, Arapahoe Square, and Ballpark. During the 1920s through the 1950s, Five Points was a lively destination for jazz and blues, soul food, and recreation. Over fifty bars and clubs peppered Welton Street, attracting famous musicians, such as Billie Holliday, Nat King Cole, and Miles Davis, making this locale the “Harlem of the West.” Over the years, as Denver’s economy cycled through booms and busts, Five Points became somewhat of a ghost town. Recently though, many businesses, residents, and developers have taken a renewed interest in this iconic neighborhood, planting roots along its historic streets and contributing to the revitalization and preservation of its history.
Why It Made the List:
As the trendy RiNo art district boomed, Denver transplants flocked to this section of the city, now often thought of as a separate neighborhood that borders Five Points. As RiNo’s sister-hood, Five Points has a unique historic residential feel, making it feel more like a mini-Brooklyn than anything else. It is located only a few blocks from the heart of downtown Denver, and its residents enjoy easy commutes by foot or bike. Bustling coffee shops, quiet breakfast joints, and quirky dive bars dot the sleepy streets, while the skyline looms as a testament to Denver’s growth.
What Neighborhood Is It Most Similar to?
Out of all of Denver’s eccentric neighborhoods, Five Points is most similar to Capitol Hill, but without the hefty price tag. Each are historic Denver locales and have sleepy, tree-lined streets just a stone’s throw to the bustling urban center. Beautiful Victorian homes sit next to modern apartments, and the area’s inhabitants come from all walks of life. There’s no shortage of delicious restaurants in Five Points, and commuting to nearby neighborhoods is simple and straightforward.
Planned Developments:
Because of the neighborhood’s rich history, controversy in regards to new development tempers its approach to building, which is mostly good for new residents looking to call this charming area home. Luxury skyscrapers are less likely to block your view, and traffic may remain calmer than in nearby neighborhoods like LoDo or Ballpark. There are new apartment buildings, office spaces, and mixed-use retail shops going up in certain areas of Five Points, but with conscious development, these projects seek to honor the neighborhood’s history while revamping its economy.
According to DenverInfill, several new developments are set to open in 2020. The Hooper will be a 9-story mixed-use development that will include retail space, office space, and micro-unit apartments.
The Rossonian Hotel, which was built in 1912, will be preserved and renovated in 2020. Craine Architecture, who has done great work in Five Points previously, is working with developers Palisade Partners to bring life back to this historic building. The final product will include “105 guest rooms, two restaurants, a jazz club, fitness center, 60,000 square feet of collaborative office space, and 152 public parking spaces,” according to DenverInfill.
How It Will Change:
This neighborhood will continue to foster the artistic and musical character inherited from its past, paying close attention to preserving that history. Galleries, music venues, and restaurants embrace a wide variety of cultures, and Five Points is often sought after for its diverse cuisine. Admittedly, as Denver’s economy continues to boom and more people move to the city, Five Points will become increasingly desirable for its proximity to downtown. Residential space will increase, but, with the neighborhood’s conscious residents, development will be less radical and more meticulous.
Location in Relation to Downtown Denver:
If you’re a Five Points resident working in any of the nearby neighborhoods, it’s probably quicker to bike most days. Drivers need only to commute 5 minutes to be in the heart of LoDo, and it’s only a ten-minute drive to the I-25. Union Station is just over a mile away, connecting area residents to wherever they need to be.
Top Spots:
Stop by Rosenberg’s Bagels for an authentic, New York-style bagel. If you’re looking for a cozy place to grab a drink, check out Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox, Spangalang Brewery, 715 Club, or The British Bulldog. See a show at Cervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom, brush up on your history at the Black American West Museum, and grab some fresh produce from the Mo’ Betta Greens Marketplace on Saturday’s. Breweries are many, and, with countless beautiful murals peppering the main streets and alleyways, this is a Denver neighborhood made for walking.
Sloan’s Lake
The Highlands have long been the place to hang, work, and live, so it should come as no surprise that its next door Denver neighborhoods are attracting increasing attention. Sloan’s Lake sits directly west of The Highlands and has even been given the nickname “SloHi” in typical Denver fashion. Years ago, Sloan’s Lake was known for its scenic body of water, great skyline views, and laid-back park. Now, there’s so much more than this main water feature that attracts potential new residents and visitors alike.
Why It Made the List:
Centrally-located Denver neighborhoods are notoriously expensive, but Sloan’s Lake falls just outside the urban bubble, lying only a few miles west of downtown. Rental prices are still affordable and with an abundance of new restaurants, bars, and venues, more people are moving a little further outside of the city to take advantage of this neighborhood’s offerings. Miles of trails wrap around the lake and paved sidewalks weave through sleepy Denver neighborhoods. Numerous festivals take place throughout this neighborhood, and residents are just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the Highlands, Tennyson Street, and Mile High.
What Neighborhood Is It Most Similar to?
Directly opposite Sloan’s Lake, on the other side of town, rests the tranquil neighborhood of City Park. Its abundant open space, myriad museums, and walkable restaurants make it comparable to Sloan’s Lake. However, its proximity to more expensive neighborhoods like Cherry Creek and Congress Park have driven City Park rent and home prices up.
Planned Developments:
Last year, Sloan’s Lake made headlines when a new 16-story apartment project was approved. Many residents opposed the tower, noting that it would look out of place amongst the shorter buildings and modest homes that dot the neighborhood. However, half of the 300 units will be dedicated to low-income housing, with the other earmarked for condominiums. Future plans to widen the path around the lake are in the works to accommodate more foot traffic. As for 2020: a beautiful community from Nava Development called Lakehouse will open across from Sloan’s Lake Park.
How It Will Change:
Some people speculate that new families and young couples will move a little further out of the city and land in Sloan’s Lake for its access to nature, walkability, and proximity to downtown. Locals wishing to purchase larger homes or make a first-time buy are also setting their sights on this quiet hideout.
Location in Relation to Downtown Denver:
Sloan’s Lake is about a 20-minute drive into the heart of the downtown area. However, it offers convenient Light Rail access and plenty of local amenities. Residents won’t need to travel far to run errands, catch a concert, or see a sporting event.
Top Spots
Sloan’s Lake has many amazing dining options, including, but not limited to, Shiso Sushi & Oyster Bar, Rupert’s at the Edge, US Thai Cafe (super authentic Thai food), and Edgewater Public Market. Beverage options abound as well, with local favorites Joyride Brewing Company and Lakeview Lounge nearby.
South Broadway
For a perfect mix of quirky and cool, head to the loosely-defined section of Denver known as South Broadway. This vibrant area stretches south from Ellsworth and is widely known for the retail shops, restaurants, and venues along Broadway, starting south of 6th Street. No matter where you draw the line, this eccentric collection of dive bars, galleries, hole-in-the-wall pizza joints, and vintage stores gives Denver a healthy dose of cool.
Why It Made the List:
There’s not much that’s shiny and new about South Broadway, but that is going to change fast. Luxury living, towering condos, and multi-story co-working spaces are few and far between in this funky enclave. However, major developers from neighborhoods like LoDo and Uptown have submitted plans to bring high-density, multi-use buildings to the area. For folks desiring a bit more grit and character, this southern neighborhood is just the ticket. It has more of a city feel and only falls silent when the bars shut down at 2 am.
What Neighborhood Is It Most Similar to?
While there’s no pinning down South Broadway’s look, feel, and style, we believe it’s most similar to the Lower Highlands. Walkability is high, and there are many top-rated restaurants in both Denver neighborhoods. What LoHi lacks in variety, South Broadway makes up for. SoBo shops boast handmade jewelry, beautiful wool rugs, original art, and antique finds. Both LoHi and SoBo have their own collection of beloved dive bars with dedicated followers, and there’s never a shortage of things to do. Overall, South Broadway is a little less refined and a little more rough and tumble than LoHi.
Planned Developments:
There’s a steady influx of restaurants and bars all along the South Broadway strip and no shortage of evening activities. Office spaces are opening up in mixed-use format to provide ample space for new businesses, coffee shops, and retail stores.
The Quayle was completed in 2019 and brought 102 units to the corner of Broadway and West 1st Avenue. Neon Local is set to open in 2020 and will be a massive new residential and retail building from Holland Partner Group, the developers responsible for Sentral Denver Union Station and Griffis Platform in LoDo. Additionally, PDG Alameda Station, Atlantis Apartments, Modera West Wash Park, and 355 Logan will all open their SoBo doors in 2020.
How It Will Change:
As more people move to South Broadway, this heavily trafficked stretch of road will become even more congested since it connects downtown with the I-25, Englewood, and DTC. Antique Row will continue to flourish as it sees more business from the influx of people. Mixed-use spaces will bring new retail options, a variety of housing at a variety of price points, and more parking spots.
Location in Relation to Downtown Denver:
With traffic, South Broadway is a 20-minute drive from downtown, but without traffic it’s an easy 10-minute jaunt into the heart of LoDo. Many SoBo residents already enjoy straightforward commutes via the RTD bus system. For those looking to put in a few miles before work, walking or biking via Lincoln Street or the Cherry Creek Trail is a quick way to get downtown.
Top Spots:
It’s hard to pick the top spots in this funky Denver neighborhood, but there are a few notable mainstays that every new resident must check out. Herman’s Hideaway and Dive Inn are two fantastic dive bars that treat their customers like family. You’ll soon become a regular at either of these joints. For an elegant evening, spend happy hour at the sophisticated tiki bar Adrift. If early mornings are more your thing, get a cup of joe at Corvus Coffee Roaster and shop for vintage clothing at one of the many unique shops on South Broadway, past the I-25.
Related: Denver’s Top Breweries
Move to an Up-and-Coming Neighborhood in Denver
Denver is growing fast, but one thing is for certain: the local communities and organizations within it are fiercely committed to preserving the history and culture that makes each neighborhood special. We’re happy to be part of Denver’s growth and can’t wait to see what 2020 has in store for each of these Denver neighborhoods. As Denver continues to boom, AptAmigo is changing the way people find apartments in this beautiful city.
We’d love to help you find your next home! Reach out to us to get stress-free apartment hunting help and see why we’re the #1 apartment locating service in Denver.
