Denver Living Part 1: Movin’ on Up to Uptown

There may be an abundance of long-held myths about Denver (it’s a big mountain town, everyone gets around on skis, the airport is a cabal of lizard people), but most could not be further from the truth. In fact, the Mile High City is actually a culturally diverse and progressive area set almost smack dab in the center of the country. 

It offers a metropolitan vibe, diverse craft beer scene and breathtaking surroundings with views of mountains, valleys and fields. Like any popular city, Denver features several neighborhoods, each boasting unique characteristics. In a four-part series beginning today, we’ll highlight some of the most popular areas so if you’re thinking about moving here, you’ll be well-informed. 

Uptown

Fun and welcoming, Uptown prides itself on being the hip part of Denver. The destination neighborhood is popular among visitors and locals thanks to a blend of attractions, dining options and urban parks. It’s also surrounded by plenty of shopping, making it an enjoyable place to live. With the city surroundings and Rocky Mountains off in the distance, Uptown gets the best of both worlds and creates a setting where you can really feel at home.  

Shop ‘til You Drop

There’s a place for you in Uptown no matter what your style. From local shops to big-box retailers, the area has plenty unique and familiar options to fit your needs. So, whether you’re looking for your favorite brand or want to shop the local boutiques, the neighborhood makes it almost too easy to achieve some much-needed retail therapy.  

Shopping Destinations

• Cherry Creek Shopping Center: Dubbed Denver’s “fashion destination,” this mall offers more than 20 gourmet eateries and 160 premier brands.
• Denver Pavilions: This downtown hotspot features locally owned boutiques and international brands all under one roof -- well, it’s an open-air center, so it’s all under one big sky.
• Larimer Square: This block of bars, shops and restaurants offers one-of-a-kind fashions all under its signature canopy of lights.

Local Boutiques

• Talulah Jones: Calling itself a lifestyle boutique, this shop offers items for the home, your child and you.
• Decade Gifts: Contemporary clothing, vintage furniture, home accessories and more are available at this eclectic store that’s known for its wide variety of gifts under $20.
• Cry Baby Ranch: Known around the world for its popular western wear, this once pop-up shop now has roots in Uptown.
• FaFa’s Vintage Handbags: With its large collection of vintage handbags and accessories, this shop’s vibe lets you know right away that it’s not for mall shoppers or mall hoppers. 

To Drink and Dine in Denver

The food scene in Denver is straight up delicious. If you’ve ever felt self-conscious about dietary restrictions or preferences, have no fear because Uptown is more than welcoming and accommodating. You want comfort food? A vegan variation of it? Uptown has you covered. From cool coffee shops to smile bakeries, the area has a small-town vibe with big-city flavor.

• Steuben’s: A classic American café, this eatery prides itself on serving fresh lobster rolls, hand-cut french fries, ice cream churned in house and other authentic recipes.
• Denver Bicycle Café: This popular coffee shop offers various types of java in addition to breakfast sandwiches, assorted pastries and … beer.
• D Bar: With a claim that the “D” in its name stands for drinks, dining and dessert, this local joint offers seasonally inspired comfort food and very popular desserts.
• Watercourse Foods: Vegan comfort food fills the menu at this scratch kitchen that relies on local vendors and prides itself on sustainable business practices.
• Prohibition: Gastro-tavern fare (think 4-cheese mac and cheese, pot pies and braised short rib sandwiches) graces the menu at this restaurant also featuring classic libations and a selection of beers.

Exclusive Uptown Events 

From concert venues to jazz festivals, Uptown has plenty to do and experience all year long. If music isn’t your thing, Uptown is also home to the Denver Zoo, which hosts special events throughout the year. Whatever you’re into, Uptown has something for you. 

• Denver Zoo’s Zoo Lights: Nightly entertainment, animal encounters, lots of holiday lights and even Santa are present at this year-end extravaganza.
• City Park Jazz: Multiple summer concerts in City Park offer jazz, blues and salsa music.
• The Filmore Auditorium: The largest indoor concert venue for general admission seating, this space offers big-name bands and smaller gigs for all musical tastes.
• The Ogden Theatre: This venue, a national historic landmark, offers concerts, plays, live theater performances and more.
• Mercury Café:  From blues concerts and community theater to poetry and organic food, this popular local space features multiple rooms for the ultimate entertainment.

In Uptown, you can easily immerse yourself in Denver’s culture and atmosphere. Get around town with ease on the Denver light rail, the many B-cycles and E-scooters and several ride-share services. If you’re into leg-powered transportation, Uptown is bike-friendly with more lanes being created every year. 

If you’re convinced that Uptown Denver should be your new home, you may want to check out One City Block, our sustainable urban apartments in the heart of the neighborhood. 

Other Blog Posts You Might Be Interested In

• Here are a few tips on how to clean, store and organize your bike and accessories so you can head off on an adventure in some of our favorite cities.
• Greystar’s Denver office has been recognized as a Top Workplace for 2019 by The Denver Post. Learn more about this award and check out career opportunities.
• Ready to pack up and move to the Denver area? Check out our Moving Series that will help you prep, pack, manage the big day and more.

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