The Highlands is easily one of the coolest neighborhoods in Denver. It’s filled with independent shops, art galleries, beautiful green spaces, and Victorian-era homes that still have their historic charm.
The Highland neighborhood of Denver is a destination for visitors and a sought-after location for homeowners looking for a peaceful yet vibrant Denver neighborhood.
In this guide, we’ll tell you all there is to know about the Highlands to help you decide if this is the right place for you.
If you’re looking for the best neighborhoods in Denver for families, make sure to check out our next neighborhood guide on West Colfax, Denver.
A short history of the Highlands
General William Larrimer established the Highlands in 1858. His goal was to join his new township in Northwest Denver to Denver City, but it was originally considered its own city. Eventually, it was divided into districts and became what we know as the Highlands today.
In the late 1800s, the population was originally made up of immigrants from Scotland, Wales, and Germany, but these were followed by Italian, Irish, and Hispanic immigrants later on.
Today, the Highlands has a rich heritage and is still filled with character and charm.
Top things to do in Highland, Denver
The Highlands is split into three districts: Highlands Square, Tennyson Street, and Lower Highland (LoHi).
Highland Square
This district is filled with small boutiques, wine shops, and bookstores, as well as some incredible restaurants and bars.
Tennyson Street
This is Highland’s cultural district. You’ll find antique shops, photography studios, and art galleries showcasing local artists. There are also a few live music venues and delicious international restaurants.
LoHi
LoHi is known for its architecture and has a wonderful mix of historic buildings and ultra-modern additions that give it a unique personality. LoHi is also home to some of the city’s most incredible restaurants and the best views of Highland Bridge and Downtown Denver.
Annual Events
Each year, the Denver Highland host several events you won’t want to miss:
- The Highlands Square Farmers’ Market
- The Highlands Street Fair
- Taste of Highlands Festival
- The Harvest Festival
- Holiday in the Highlands
Real estate in Highland Denver
Highland is a very popular neighborhood, with many spacious Victorian houses on tree-lined streets. It’s also an expensive neighborhood, and house prices are 77% higher than the national average in the United States.
The median house price in Highland is $849K, but some Highland homes sell for up to $2.5M, depending on the district.
To rent, you’ll pay anywhere from $1.1K to $6K a month, depending on the size of the property and the area.
Our favorite places
There is plenty to keep you busy in the Highlands and something for the whole family to enjoy.
Art + Culture
- The Tennyson Street District is filled with art galleries displaying everything from local paintings to stage costumes.
- The Highlands Street Fair in June fills the streets with live music, arts and crafts, and even a classic car show.
- The Colorado Dragon Boat Festival takes place in July and celebrates Asian culture with food, art, and dragon boat races.
Restaurants + Bars
- Avanti F&B is a unique collective that brings different restaurant concepts together, each housed in a shipping container.
- El Five offers fantastic city views from a rooftop deck and some incredible flavors.
- Root Down is an award-winning restaurant known for locally-sourced ingredients and creative food.
- The Family Jones Spirit House is the perfect spot for custom cocktails and tasty snacks.
Outdoor life
Sloan’s Lake Park is a must-visit if you love the outdoors. It has breathtaking mountain views and a quiet path to walk along the water.
If you’re a little more adventurous, there’s also stand-up paddleboarding available on the lake.
Cost of living & employment
Sought-after neighborhoods come with a higher price tag and the Highlands is no different. The cost of living in Highland is 14% higher than the Denver average and 26% higher than the national average.
However, it’s a great place for employment, with the average household earning an income that is 47% higher than the national average.
Unemployment is also fairly low in Highland – 22% lower than the national average.
Is Highland the right neighborhood for you?
Highland is the perfect blend of city living and suburban appeal. It has everything you need on your doorstep but retains a rich heritage that gives it a quaint charm. And the community events and festivals throughout the year give it a close-knit vibe.
If you’re thinking about moving to Denver and you’re searching for the best neighborhoods, make sure to check out our next area guide all about Cherry Creek, Denver.
