Nestled just northwest of downtown Denver, the Highland neighborhood stands as one of the city's most captivating destinations for travelers seeking an authentic taste of the Mile High City. With its tree-lined streets, Victorian architecture, and thriving local scene, Highland offers visitors a perfect blend of historic charm and contemporary culture that makes it a must-visit area during your Denver adventure.
Highland's appeal begins with its stunning architecture that tells the story of Denver's evolution from frontier town to modern metropolis. As you stroll through the neighborhood, you'll be greeted by beautifully preserved Victorian homes, charming bungalows, and converted warehouses that create a visual timeline of the city's growth. The area's commitment to preserving its historic character while embracing modern development creates a unique atmosphere that feels both timeless and current.
The neighborhood's walkable streets are lined with mature trees that provide a canopy of shade in summer and a spectacular display of colors in fall, making it particularly photogenic for travelers looking to capture Denver's residential beauty. The area boasts dozens of trendy boutiques, salons, coffee shops and restaurants along 32nd Avenue, creating a vibrant corridor that serves as the neighborhood's beating heart.
One of Highland's greatest draws is its exceptional dining scene that has become a destination in its own right. Award-winning eateries like Root Down celebrate locally sourced ingredients, representing the farm-to-table movement that Colorado has embraced wholeheartedly. Root Down, housed in a converted gas station, exemplifies Highland's creative approach to repurposing historic buildings while delivering innovative cuisine.
For those seeking more casual dining experiences, Highland Tap & Burger, Recess Beer Garden and The Post Chicken & Beer offer relaxed atmospheres perfect for afternoon meals or evening gatherings. Highland Tavern deserves special mention as a neighborhood institution that gained national recognition when it was featured on the Food Network's "Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives," showcasing the authentic local flavors that make this area special.
Duo Restaurant provides a treasure for those seeking a special dining experience tucked in Denver's hippest neighborhood, offering a relaxed and unassuming environment attracting diners who might wish to linger over a cup of coffee, a glass of wine at the bar, or to enjoy a hearty meal. This perfectly captures the Highland dining philosophy where meals are meant to be savored and enjoyed rather than rushed.
Coffee culture thrives throughout Highland, with Highlands Cork & Cafe serving as a comfortable neighborhood coffee and wine bar that transitions seamlessly from morning caffeine destination to evening wine spot. You can literally find a world of flavors up and down 32nd and 33rd streets, making food exploration a delightful adventure for visitors.
Highland's retail landscape offers a refreshing alternative to typical tourist shopping, emphasizing locally-owned businesses that reflect the community's independent spirit. The neighborhood's shopping district centers around 32nd Avenue, where Strut Boutique carries an extensive collection of shoes targeted to young artistic pioneers, representing the area's fashion-forward sensibility.
Ruby Jane Boutique serves as a charming treasure trove for fashion lovers, boasting an impressive selection of clothing and accessories that cater to diverse tastes. These boutique shopping experiences ensure that every visitor discovers something unique to take home.
Happy Bake Shop at 3434 W. 32nd Avenue offers gourmet cupcakes with vegan and gluten-free options, demonstrating Highland's commitment to accommodating diverse dietary preferences. The neighborhood also features specialty food shops and artisanal stores that celebrate Colorado's local producers and craftspeople.
Beyond fashion and food, Highland's retail mix includes vintage shops, art supply stores, and specialty boutiques that you won't find in typical shopping centers. This creates opportunities for serendipitous discoveries that make for memorable travel experiences and truly unique souvenirs.
True to Denver's reputation as an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, Highland provides excellent access to recreation while maintaining the urban conveniences that travelers appreciate. The neighborhood features several parks where you can relax, have a picnic, or simply enjoy Colorado's abundant sunshine and clean mountain air.
Highland's strategic location provides convenient access to Denver's extensive trail system, including paths along the South Platte River where you can walk, bike, or jog while enjoying scenic views of the city skyline and the dramatic Rocky Mountain backdrop. These trails connect to Denver's broader network of greenways, making it possible to explore significant portions of the metropolitan area on foot or by bicycle.
The neighborhood's commitment to walkability means that most destinations are easily accessible without a car, allowing visitors to experience the area at a leisurely pace while getting exercise and fresh air. This pedestrian-friendly environment encourages the kind of spontaneous exploration that often leads to the most memorable travel discoveries.
Highland's creative energy manifests in numerous galleries, studios, and performance spaces that showcase both local and visiting artists. The neighborhood regularly hosts art walks, outdoor festivals, and community events that bring residents and visitors together, creating opportunities for authentic cultural exchange.
Postino LoHi occupies the artfully revamped Denver Bookbinding Company's old building, exemplifying Highland's approach to preserving industrial heritage while creating contemporary gathering spaces. This wine bar represents the sophisticated yet approachable nightlife that characterizes the area.
As evening approaches, Highland transforms into one of Denver's most vibrant nightlife destinations. The neighborhood offers an impressive array of bars, pubs, and entertainment venues that cater to all preferences, from intimate cocktail lounges where you can engage in conversation to lively music venues featuring both local and touring acts. The area's nightlife scene maintains the neighborhood's welcoming character while providing the energy and variety that travelers seek.
One of Highland's most practical advantages for travelers is its prime location that provides the best of both worlds. The neighborhood sits just minutes from downtown Denver, making it easy to explore the city's major attractions, museums, sports venues, and business district while enjoying a more relaxed, residential base for your stay.
The area benefits from excellent connectivity to Denver's public transportation system, including bus routes and bike-share programs that make it simple to navigate the broader metropolitan area without needing a rental car. This accessibility reduces travel stress while allowing visitors to experience Denver like a local resident.
Highland's location also provides convenient access to Denver International Airport and the major interstate highways that connect to Colorado's mountain destinations, making it an ideal base for travelers planning to explore beyond the city limits.
Highland represents the authentic Denver experience that many travelers seek but struggle to find in more tourist-oriented areas. The neighborhood successfully balances historic preservation with contemporary innovation, creating an environment where visitors can experience both Denver's heritage and its forward-looking character.
Unlike some heavily commercialized tourist destinations, Highland maintains its genuine neighborhood atmosphere while offering all the amenities and attractions that travelers desire. This creates opportunities for authentic interactions with local residents and businesses, leading to insights and experiences that generic tourist areas simply cannot provide.
The area provides a more intimate and personal Denver experience, allowing you to observe and participate in the daily rhythms of one of the city's most desirable neighborhoods. Whether you're staying in Highland or dedicating a day to exploration, you'll develop a deeper appreciation for Denver's character and understand why the city has become such a magnet for people seeking high quality of life.
From morning coffee at a locally-owned roastery to evening drinks at a neighborhood institution, Highland offers experiences that create lasting memories and provide stories to share long after your visit ends. The neighborhood invites you to slow down, explore at your own pace, and discover the authentic spirit that makes Denver a truly special destination.
Plan to spend at least a full day in Highland during your Denver visit, and consider it as a base for exploring the broader metropolitan area. You'll quickly understand why this neighborhood has become a favorite among travelers who appreciate authenticity, quality, and the perfect balance between urban sophistication and community warmth.
June 3, 2025
TheCoList