Highland and HiLo Denver Neighborhoods

Discover Denver’s Highland Neighborhoods: A Guide to Highlands, LoHi, and Surrounding Area

Sandra E Hanson
3 min readMay 6, 2024
View of Downtown Denver and the Highland Bridge from Highlands, Denver, Colorado. Photo by: Jeffrey Beall

Denver’s Highland neighborhoods, comprising the areas of Highland, West Highland, and the adjacent communities of Berkeley, Sunnyside, and Sloan Lake, offer a delightful mix of Victorian-era charm and contemporary flair. This area has become a top destination for both visitors and locals alike, thanks to its blend of historic architecture, lush parks, trendy eateries, and vibrant shops.

The Heart of Highland: A Blend of Old and New

Highland, often divided into Highlands Square, Lower Highland (LoHi), and Platte Street, is predominantly residential but has seen substantial growth over the years. This “up-and-coming” neighborhood is perfect for those who enjoy an eclectic mix of activities, from dining at innovative restaurants and sipping drinks at local bars, to shopping at unique boutiques.

  • Highlands Square: Centered around West 32nd Avenue and Lowell Boulevard, this area radiates with boutiques, wine shops, and popular dining spots, making it a bustling hub for shopping and leisure.
  • LoHi: Known for its stunning mix of old and ultra-modern architecture, LoHi offers some of the city’s most innovative eateries and bars, not to mention incredible views of the Highland Bridge and downtown Denver.
  • Platte Street: Experience the quieter side of Highland with charming bookstores and quaint cafes, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

Cultural Exploration in Tennyson Street Cultural District

Located in the nearby Berkeley neighborhood, the Tennyson Street Cultural District is a paradise for art lovers and foodies. Spend an afternoon browsing through antique prints, photographs, and paintings by Colorado artists, or enjoy live music and a diverse array of international cuisines.

Local Businesses, Home Improvement

Highlighting local entrepreneurship and community spirit, the Highlands neighborhood is home to several standout businesses:

  • Daeco Painting — As the top choice for both interior and exterior painting in the Highlands, Daeco Painting has been the preferred contractor called upon to enhance the aesthetic of Highland homes. By preserving the neighborhood’s historic appeal and revamping newly constructed homes, they bring new life to each property.
Photo by: DAECO PAINTING

Refresh and Recharge

  • The Family Jones Spirit House: Dive into custom cocktails and small plates in an inviting atmosphere.
  • Spirit Hound Distillers — Denver Tasting Room: Discover your next favorite spot with their award-winning spirits.
  • Pinwheel Coffee: Not just a cafe, but a learning environment for local Montessori students, this spot offers excellent chai lattes and a chance to support student-run businesses.
  • Waldschänke Ciders + Coffee: Located in Sunnyside, this Swiss-inspired cidery provides a cozy environment to enjoy cider and coffee, paired with tasty offerings from the EuroWagen food truck.
View of Downtown Denver and the Highland Bridge from Highlands, Denver, Colorado. Photo by: Jeffrey Beall.

Enjoy the Outdoors

  • Highland Park: Ideal for family outings, this park offers wide open spaces, a playground, and a public library, making it perfect for a day out with the family.

Shopping and More

The Highlands neighborhoods are a shopper’s paradise with stores like Ruby Jane Boutique, Rustic Thread Boutique, and Kate Maller Jewelry. Stroll through the main avenues and discover local treasures in clothing, jewelry, books, and more.

Community and Giving Back

  • Little Man Ice Cream: Every scoop purchased here results in a donation of food to communities in need globally, making each treat a little sweeter.
  • The Inventing Room: For a dash of whimsy and innovation, try their nitrogen-frozen desserts that turn dessert into a spectacular show.

Conclusion

With its unique blend of historic and modern elements, along with a strong community focus, Denver’s Highland neighborhoods offer a vibrant and enriching experience that caters to all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking to explore local art, enjoy fresh culinary delights, or simply soak in the area’s laid-back vibe, the Highlands promises to be a memorable destination.

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Sandra E Hanson

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