Denver’s City Park features more green space than it does urban square footage. The neighborhood is centrally located, making it ideal for those seeking a residential feel that doesn’t sacrifice convenient access to the city. The amenities in the neighborhood are plentiful, including the Denver Zoo and one of the Mile High City’s favorite museums.
The Best Coffee Near City Park
Before you embark on an exciting day of visiting the zoo and picnicking at Ferril Lake, grab an iced latte or a warming cappuccino to keep you energized. Many of City Park’s coffee shops also double as bakeries, serving up homemade goods that are freshly baked and that pair perfectly with your morning espresso.
Omonoia Bakery
2813 East Colfax Avenue
Omonoia Bakery is locally owned and operated and serves up homemade Greek baked goods. The small and cozy bakery is known for its traditional baklava and honey cookies, as well as espresso and fresh tiramisu. If you’ve never tried Greek coffee, the bakery is more than happy to serve you a cup. It’ll be difficult to resist pairing it with a slice of rich lemon cake or any number of the authentic baked treats.
Hooked on Colfax
3213 East Colfax Avenue
Hooked on Colfax has been operating in Denver since 2005. The full espresso bar offers counter service and limited seating. Their full range of caffeinated beverages includes coffee, tea, and many espresso-based beverages such as iced mochas and lattes. Their chai and cold brew are a must-try, as well as their vegan and gluten-free pastry options that accommodate a range of diners and dietary restrictions. Aside from caffeinated beverages, Hooked on Colfax also serves kombucha, beer, wine, and an awesome whiskey selection.
Sprout’s Market Corner Coffee
3625 East Colfax Avenue
Sprout’s Market Corner Coffee offers a range of baked treats, muffins, cookies, and pies. Whether you need a quick stop for a coffee on the way to work or a pick-me-up after your trip to the grocery store, the small location serves up beverages efficiently and consistently. The friendly and helpful staff provide tasty drinks, both hot and iced, and a range of quick-serve options for everybody on the go.
Where to Eat & Drink in City Park
City Park is home to the well-loved Bastien’s and the award-winning Tacos Tequila Whiskey, as well as several spots serving up affordable and delicious eats.
Bastien’s
3503 East Colfax Avenue
Bastien’s is home to the famous Sugar Steak. Paired with the iconic sign, the signature steak rub has garnered a cult following within Denver. The hearty, homestyle method of cooking invites diners to sit back and relax in the retro steakhouse. The family-run business dates back to the 1930s and serves steaks and classic sides. The sugar and spice rub is created specifically for marbled cuts of beef. Those wanting a spot on the patio should call ahead and set a reservation, as the space can be limited.
Okinawa Japanese Cuisine
2301 East Colfax Avenue
Okinawa Japanese Cuisine hosts a daily happy hour between 2:30 PM and 5:30 PM. During this time, guests can order hot sake and beer with a BOGO special offer. The authentic Japanese dishes come with an affordable price tag, as well as a range of lunch specials that provide budget-conscious discounts. Kitchen entrees include Colorado lamb chops, Chilean sea bass, calamari steak, and miso black cod. If sushi is more your thing, the restaurant has an impressive list of rolls that are made to order, as well as noodle and rice bowls and teriyaki dishes.
Tacos Tequila Whiskey
1514 York Street
Tacos Tequila Whiskey has won multiple restaurant awards and has even been named one of the Top 50 new Restaurants in the Nation by Bon Appétit Magazine. The restaurant’s menu is a modern twist on traditional Mexican street food, as well as offering a significant collection of small-batch tequila and whiskey. Using local produce, the chefs stay true to the authentic regional recipes. The street taco menu includes carnitas, asada, pollo agave, and barbacoa. Save room for the churros and tres leches and naturally, one of the many margarita options available.
Pepper Asian Bistro
2831 East Colfax Avenue
Pepper Asian Bistro is another popular City Park eatery, serving up solid portions for affordable prices. Appetizers include crab cheese wontons, spicy edamame, and satay chicken. Aside from the classic favorites such as sesame chicken, beef and broccoli, and Szechuan beef, the bistro also serves Thai curries and seafood options such as Hunan shrimp and sweet and sour shrimp. Party trays are great for feeding a family gathering and the mango sticky rice is a popular addition to any order.
Denver Biscuit Company
3237 East Colfax Avenue
Denver Biscuit Company originated as The Biscuit Bus in 2009 and has since morphed into several brick-and-mortar locations around the city. Serving up southern favorites, such as gourmet sandwiches and biscuit entrées, the restaurant has grown increasingly popular after being featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. Those in search of a boozy brunch will find a full bar, tap beers, and a menu of morning cocktails at Denver Biscuit Company. The signature Sully’s Fries are smothered in house-made sausage gravy and pimento cheese sauce and pair well with any of the biscuit sandwiches or the shrimp and grits.
Can’t-Miss Shops in City Park
City Park has a handful of unique, locally owned shops. Whether you want to shop for your next vintage find at Fever Dream or a handmade artisan candle at SpiritsWay, you can easily dedicate an entire afternoon to checking out City Park’s retail offering.
Fever Dream Vintage & Modern
1506 Fillmore Street
Fever Dream Vintage & Modern was born in San Francisco, where it began as a primarily online vintage shop that specializes in funky vintage finds and modern designer pieces. Ultimately finding their way to Denver, the business now has a more refined style that can best be described as “chic chaotic.” Shoppers will find interesting patterns, durable materials, and clothing organized not by gender or style but by color. Aside from a shopping experience, customers can also bring pre-2003 items to be purchased. Whether you’ve got a unique piece of clothing or an accessory, a piece of jewelry, or pair of shoes — Fever Dream is interested in taking a look.
SpiritsWay Denver
3301 East Colfax Avenue
SpiritsWay Denver has been locally owned and operated for nearly three decades. The store offers readings and classes, as well as an impressive collection of metaphysical products and unique creations by local Colorado artisans. Carrying over 60 essential and fragrance oils, shoppers are bound to find just what they’re searching for. There is also a large selection of jewelry, including sterling silver, copper, and gemstones.
Flax & Twine
3321 East Colfax Avenue
Flax and Twine is the premier Denver destination for all things crafts. Founded by Anne Weil, an author, DIY blogger, and designer, the business provides crafters with kits, patterns, tools, and a range of fiber options. Whether you enjoy knitting, weaving, crocheting, or embroidery — you’ll find everything you need to fulfill your creative outlet at Flax & Twine.
The Nightlife Scene Around City Park
City Park has a fair bit of nightlife, mostly centered around live music and bars. Bluebird Theatre is one of the central attractions within the neighborhood and hosts various musical acts several times a week.
Bluebird Theatre
3317 East Colfax Avenue
The Bluebird Theatre is an iconic Denver music venue, claimed by Rolling Stone as one of the best clubs in America. The 500-person capacity ensures an intimate experience, with the three tiers of space providing everybody with a view of the show. The sound and lighting are exceptional, which adds to an overall unforgettable experience when you catch a performance here. Upcoming acts include The Drums, Bay Ledges, and Youth Lagoon. Even if you’re not interested in any of the acts, the venue was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1997 and should be added to your bucket list.
Middleman
3401 East Colfax Avenue
Middleman is a fun neighborhood hangout in City Park, with an industrial yet comfortable vibe. The signature and seasonal cocktail menu is limited, which encourages guests to try something out of their comfort zone and perhaps find a new favorite spirit. Located near the Bluebird Theatre, this is a great spot to pregame a show or to even sip on a cocktail and discuss your thoughts after an event.
City Park’s Outdoor Spaces
It should come as no big surprise that one of City Park’s main outdoor spaces is in fact, City Park itself. Residents will enjoy lake access, as well as sports fields and playgrounds aplenty.
City Park
2001 Colorado Boulevard
Denver’s premier park, City Park, takes up over half of the neighborhood and spans 330 acres. Containing the Denver Zoo, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and two lakes — Ferril Lake and Duck Lake. There are multiple sports courts and fields, including tennis, horseshoes, baseball, football, and soccer. The kids will enjoy the two playgrounds and various picnic sites.
Carla Madison Dog Park
2405 East Colfax Avenue
The Carla Madison Dog Park is a small off-leash area where pups can run freely and socialize. The ground cover is predominantly gravel and there are plenty of surrounding trees offering shade during the heat of the day. Owners can relax in the sitting area while their pup gets a taste of freedom. There are no waste bags or water supply so prepare and bring your own.
City Park’s Places of Interest
City Park is a neighborhood blossoming with tourist attractions, including the Denver Zoo and the Museum of Nature and Science. Not only do millions of locals and tourists alike visit these destinations, but they also provide memberships and yearly discounts for those who live nearby and want to take advantage of their proximity.
Denver Museum of Nature and Science
2001 Colorado Boulevard
The Denver Museum of Nature and Science is one of Denver’s top family attractions. The 500,000-square-foot museum features many permanent exhibits, as well as a rotating schedule of traveling special exhibitions. The museum houses over a million objects related to nature and science, creating endless opportunities to learn more about subjects spanning fossils, Egyptian history, outer space, and even wildlife. A few of the current exhibits include Expedition Health, Gems and Minerals, North American Indian Cultures, Prehistoric Journey, and Egyptian Mummies.
Denver Zoo
2300 Steele Street
The Denver Zoo is home to more than 3,500 animals and continues to champion many research projects across the globe. The 80-acre zoo features daily animal talks and demonstrations, such as informative discussions about the African buffalo, mandrills, llamas, Asian elephants, and clouded leopards. Guests are required to have an online timed ticket reservation for entry, which reduces overcrowding in the zoo. The Denver Zoo is one of the only in the country that has a full-time curator on staff that’s dedicated to animal behavior and enrichment.
City Park Farmers Market
2551 East Colfax Avenue
The farmers market in City Park is taking place between May 13th and October 28th for the summer 2023 season. The market runs on Saturdays from 8 AM to 1 PM. Shoppers are invited to peruse the local vendor booths and listen to live music. The City Park market features over 100 local producers and is both pet and family-friendly. All disposable goods served at the market can be composted, which is beneficial to the environment and reduces plastic waste.
Want to Learn More About Living in Denver’s City Park?
City Park borders Denver’s premier urban park, as well as a range of recreational activities and destinations that attracts thousands of people to the neighborhood each week. The neighborhood is attractive to many young professionals due to the urban charm and opportunity for nightlife activities and outdoor hangs. If you’re interested in learning more about the neighborhood, the RE/MAX Professionals team would be happy to introduce you to what’s available on the market.