Locally known as SoBo, this popular Denver neighborhood has transformed from a transport corridor to a funky mix of boutiques, music venues, and eateries.
If you’re looking for a fun neighborhood in Denver to call home, you won’t get bored of SouthBroadway’s rooftop patios, craft breweries, and outdoor spaces.
In this guide, we’ll show you what the South Broadway neighborhood in Denver has to offer and help you decide if it’s the right place for you.
If you’re thinking about buying a home but you have no idea where to start, we explain the entire house-buying process in our guide.
A short history of South Broadway, Denver
In 1864, Broadway marked the eastern border of the congressional grant that covered 960 acres set aside for Denver. The street ran from Cherry Creek all the way to 20th Avenue.
South Broadway started out as a major transportation corridor for Denver. Early photos show it as a rough dirt road used for hauling produce into the city.
Today, the South Broadway neighborhood is home to Antique Row, and you’ll find an eclectic mix of vintage stores, bookstores, eateries, art galleries, and more.
Top things to do in South Broadway, Denver
From the rainbow crosswalks to the unique restaurants, SoBo is a fun and inviting neighborhood with lots to explore.
Search for antiques
Antique Row is a bargain hunter’s dream. There are almost 100 antique stores packed into 18 blocks. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it on South Broadway.
Underground Music Showcase (UMS)
In the summer, Denver’s premier indie festival comes to South Broadway. It features over 200 local and national music artists that perform in 20 venues over three days. It’s one of Denver’s most anticipated music events of the year and brings the community alive.
Visit Punch Bowl Social
You’ll have hours of fun at Punch Bowl Social. It’s a 27,000-square-foot factory with three bars, a restaurant, and some great arcade games. Karaoke and craft cocktails are also popular choices, not to mention playing pool and life-size Jenga.
Real estate
SoBo is an expensive neighborhood, and houses go quickly. There’s an eclectic mix of single-family and multi-family homes, townhouses, and luxury apartments in a mix of styles.
The median price for a house in South Broadway is $693K. But prices range from ranging from $275K to $695K, depending on the size.
If you’re not in the market to buy, the average rent for a three-bedroom apartment in SoBo is $3,965.
Favorite places in South Broadway, Denver
If you’re visiting SoBo, there are a few places you should add to your itinerary.
Art + Culture
- Gallagher Books – sitting on Antique Row, this is the place for rare and unusual books.
- Mayan Theater – independent films are screened at this 1930s theater. It’s a historic landmark, and the Mayan Revival architecture is something to see.
Restaurants + Bars
- Beatrice & Woodsley – a rustic American eatery that lets you dine in an aspen grove.
- Adrift – the perfect spot for tropical cocktails and island fairs.
Outdoor life
Just like the rest of Denver, South Broadway embraces the outdoors and keeps walkability in mind for residents.
Platt Park is a well-maintained green space in SoBo covering a city-square block. It has plenty of walkable green space, a senior recreation center, and a public library.
You’ve also got a lot to explore right on your doorstep:
- Ruby Hill Park (3km away) – a ski and snowboard terrain park.
- Bear Creek (4.5km away) – a stunning tributary and great walking path.
- Cherry Creek Park (6km away) – an 880 surface-acre lake where you can enjoy boating, jet and water skiing, sailing, fishing, swimming, biking, horseback riding, and more.
Top reasons to live here
It can be tough choosing the best neighborhood in Denver to call home. Here are some of the main reasons why so many people love South Broadway.
Outdoor space
There is great access to parks, trails, and nature-filled attractions in SoBo. As well as all the green space in the neighborhood, you have plenty of parks and trails right on your doorstep.
The nightlife
South Broadway is known for its hip nightlife and an inventive foodie culture. Whether you love craft beer or unusual cocktails, you’ll find a venue you love in SoBo.
The location
It’s less than 20 minutes from Downtown Denver, so SoBo is a walkable neighborhood. Not to mention it has great transport links and local amenities for residents.
Cost of living & employment
SoBo is mainly made up of married couples and a lot of young professionals. The small area is dominated by retail stores, bars, and restaurants, so there are tons of opportunities for full and part-time retail work in the area.
Pay ranges from $10.20 an hour up to over $50,000 a year, depending on the job and experience level, but you’ll find plenty of opportunities.
Is South Broadway right for you?
If you’re looking for a buzzing community in Denver to call home, South Broadway might be perfect for you. The mix of antique stores, fun restaurants, and open space makes it a vibrant and interesting neighborhood. With the help of trusted Denver movers, your transition into this energetic part of the city can be quick and hassle-free.
If you’re not sure if South Broadway is right for you, we have plenty of area guides to help you decide. Up next is our guide on the Golden Triangle, Denver.