Auraria

Auraria is a historic neighborhood in downtown Denver that serves as the city's higher education hub, home to the Auraria Campus - a unique shared campus housing three institutions: the University of Colorado Denver, Metropolitan State University of Denver, and the Community College of Denver. This makes it one of the largest college campuses in the United States by enrollment.

The neighborhood sits just west of downtown Denver, bordered by the South Platte River and Speer Boulevard. Auraria has deep historical roots as one of Denver's original settlements, founded in 1858 during the Colorado Gold Rush. Many of the area's original 19th-century buildings have been preserved and now serve as part of the campus infrastructure, creating an interesting blend of historic architecture and modern educational facilities.

The area is characterized by a mix of Victorian-era homes, academic buildings, student housing, and green spaces. The campus features the historic Tivoli Student Union (a former brewery), several museums, and performance venues. Auraria is well-connected to downtown Denver via light rail and is popular with students, faculty, and visitors exploring Denver's educational and cultural offerings.

Beyond its academic focus, Auraria offers easy access to the South Platte River Trail system and provides a quieter, more campus-oriented atmosphere compared to the bustling commercial districts nearby, while still being within walking distance of downtown Denver's amenities.

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