Located just south of the Mile High City, Highlands Ranch is a popular suburb of Denver for new families to settle into the Colorado lifestyle. Once a working ranch, Highlands Ranch is now largely residential and offers community members a variety of amenities — including shopping, dining, and outdoor activities. The area boasts many community parks and outdoor activities, such as convenient proximity to hiking, fishing, and golfing.
The Best Coffee Near Highlands Ranch
You don’t have to be in the middle of the city to enjoy thoughtfully brewed coffee and handcrafted lattes. Highlands Ranch provides a variety of options, from a freshly brewed Americano at Kneaders Bakery to a cup of hot tea and a newly released board game at Enchanted Grounds.
Wild Blue Coffee
3900 Grace Boulevard
You’ll find Wild Blue Coffee located on the Cherry Hills Community Church campus. Patrons will enjoy the Blue Jazz Java and the Compassion Tea, with proceeds helping to fund the Trash Mountain Project and rural medical missions in Africa. While you’re sipping your brew, take in mountain views and treat yourself to a freshly baked pastry or a light meal from a selection of sandwiches, soups, and salads.
Corner Bakery Cafe
1601 Mayberry Drive Suite 102
Not only can you grab a tasty breakfast at Corner Bakery Cafe, but they also have solid coffee options that are great for on-the-go customers. From hand-roasted coffee to cold brew and iced espresso drinks, you’ll have a multitude of options to keep you fueled for your day. Enjoy a caramel macchiato, truffle mocha latte, or even a hot chai latte for those mornings when a home-brewed cup of coffee just won’t do.
Kneaders Bakery & Cafe
1105 Sergeant Jon Stiles Drive
Kneaders make their tasty brews with Lavazza Coffee. More of a tea drinker? Enjoy the flavorful Maya Chai or the Mighty Leaf Tea. Whether you’re looking for something on the sweeter side, such as the cafe mocha or a decadent European hot chocolate or you want to keep it basic with a cafe latte or an Americano — Kneaders Bakery & Cafe has everything you need to get your morning off to a strong start. Pair your drink with a fruity raspberry cream cheese croissant or a classic cinnamon roll.
Enchanted Grounds
8800 South Colorado Boulevard
Serving the Denver Metro area for nearly two decades, Enchanted Grounds is dedicated to providing patrons with a family-friendly atmosphere that invites gamers of all ages and skill levels to enjoy a beverage and partake in some friendly competition. Espresso-based drinks are crafted with Coda Coffee and loose-leaf tea is sourced from The Tea Spot. The shop also has smoothies, frappes, and shakes on the menu. If you’re feeling peckish, enjoy burritos, sandwiches, and a selection of pastries and breads.
Where to Eat & Drink in Highlands Ranch
When you don’t feel like making the drive into Denver for dinner, Highlands Ranch has more than a few solid options for dining in. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night spot or a family-friendly restaurant, residents will have their choice of shareable appetizers, hand-crafted drinks and flavorful entrées.
Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar
43 Centennial Boulevard
Lazy Dog brands itself as a lodge-chic chain that serves a wide selection of comforting fare, such as pot roast, chicken parmesan, and battered fish and chips. The dessert menu shouldn’t be skipped, with tantalizing options such as the butter cake with minted strawberry compote and the s’more brownie sundae. Pair your meal with one of Lazy Dog’s signature cocktails, like the blood orange margarita or the mocha martini. If you enjoy sampling new beers, consider joining the Lazy Dog Beer Club. Members will enjoy a kit with eight craft beers and a beer glass, as well as priority seating, discounted takeout, draft samplers, and $39 off of your next dine-in check.
Old Blinking Light
9344 Dorchester Street
Enjoy the flavors of New Mexico in Highlands Ranch at Old Blinking Light, with braised pork taquitos, duck fat fries, and Baja-style grilled fish all rounding out the starter menu. Move on to a New Mexico Posole or a Taos taco salad before enjoying the main event. Opt for pizza, burgers, or an OBL standard such as the red chile crusted salmon, the king ranch green chile enchiladas, or Juan’s pesto pasta with spiralized zucchini and sweet potato noodles. Happy hour runs from 11:30 AM to 6:00 PM daily, with discounted martinis, margaritas, and glasses of house wine.
Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery
1505 Park Central Drive
Rock Bottom was first introduced in Denver back in 1991. Now with 17 locations around the United States, the chain is a favorite amongst Highlands Ranch residents. Patrons can enjoy a hearty bourbon blue cheese sirloin or a Texas fire ribeye with a spicy pepper crust. On the lighter side, enjoy a filet of glazed salmon or an order of cajun fish tacos. Rock Bottom makes their pizza dough from scratch and offers classic Margherita and pepperoni toppings, as well as a Nashville hot chicken and Hawaiian takes on this shareable entrée.
The Egg
8800 South Colorado Boulevard B
The Egg was established in 2017 and has become a favorite of many Highlands Ranch residents when it comes to hearty traditional American dishes and breakfast offerings. The breakfast menu features an assortment of omelets, Benedicts, breakfast burritos, and griddle favorites such as blueberry pancakes, biscuits and gravy, and French toast. Lunch and dinner options include patty melts, grilled Reuben sandwiches, enchiladas, chicken fried chicken, and sirloin steaks.
Can’t-Miss Shops in Highlands Ranch
While there may be fewer boutiques and locally owned shops in the suburbs, Highlands Ranch has all of your weekly necessities in one place. Luckily, Denver is only a quick drive for specialty shopping and unique markets with handmade goods.
Highlands Ranch Farmers Market
9288 Dorchester Street
During the springtime (April 7th to April 28th), the Highlands Ranch Farmers Merchant Market takes place on Sundays in the Highlands Ranch Town Center. The market runs from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM or until sellout. Shoppers can count on the market being open rain or shine, allowing them to support their favorite artisans and vendors. From May 5th to October 27th, farmers sell the freshest produce at the same location.
Promenade Shopping Center
2660-2690 East County Line Road
This Highlands Park destination features BikeSource, Club Champion Golf, Fitness Gallery, Taste of Philly, Vesper Salon Studios, and much more. Visit Rajeunir Medical Spa for a hydrofacial before you head to Frenchies Nail Salon for more self-care. In the market for a hot tub or fireplace? You’re in luck because IHT Spas does both. Whether you’re looking for a one-stop shop for an afternoon outing or you want to do some window shopping before dinner, there are always events being planned to keep you entertained. WiFi is available while you shop, allowing you to stay in touch or work remotely with a change of scenery.
The Nightlife Scene Around Highlands Ranch
You don’t have to drive to downtown Denver for a selection of nightlife activities. Highlands Ranch is home to several breweries and sports lounges where you can grab a few drinks, watch the game, and spend time catching up with friends after the sun goes down.
Sports Lounge Off Broadway
44 West Centennial Boulevard
Highland Ranch residents enjoy Sports Lounge Off Broadway for casual weeknight fare and lively watch parties. This locally owned spot prides itself on hosting sports fans of all kinds and hosts daily specials to create a welcoming atmosphere. Swing by for $5 slices of cheese pizza any day of the week and half-price wings on Sundays. Karaoke runs on Sunday nights and there is a weekday happy hour from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
Max Taps Co.
2680 East County Line Road A
Max Taps Co. keeps an updated food truck calendar, featuring bites from the Cousin’s Maine Lobster truck, the Rustic Nomads truck, and the Gyros King food truck. Check out the calendar for other exciting events, such as Wednesday night dart leagues, themed trivia, and even free comedy shows. At the Highlands Ranch location, Max Taps Co. currently has pickle shots, peach iced tea, and seasonal ciders. Sample a diverse selection of IPAs or order your favorite sour to enjoy while you take in the ambiance and catch up with friends.
The Sportsbook Bar & Grill
52 Springer Drive
The Sportsbook Bar & Grill welcomes fans of all leagues, whether you’re an avid spectator of rugby, basketball, UFC, baseball, or football — you can count on the game being on. Enjoy a refreshing beverage anytime, with bonus deals to be had during the weekday happy hour between 11:00 AM and 6:00 PM. There’s no bad seat in the house, with over 40 HD TVs to choose from, as well as a massive LED wall. Brunch is served on weekends until 1:00 PM.
Outdoor Spaces in Highlands Ranch
Residents looking to get their daily dose of vitamin D have their choice of community parks, featuring picnic tables, sports facilities, and playgrounds. However you choose to enjoy the fresh air, Highlands Ranch provides members of the community with over 25 parks to enjoy the beautiful Colorado weather.
Civic Green Park
9370 South Ridgeline Boulevard
Civic Green Park features amenities such as BBQ grills, picnic tables, a pavilion, restrooms, and a playground for the kids. Dogs are allowed on the soft-surface trails located on the east side of the park and there is a splash pad that operates from mid-April to mid-May. There are plenty of trees that provide adequate shade during the warmer summer months and there is a sizable open green space perfect for flying kites and kicking a soccer ball.
Northridge Park
8800 South Broadway
Community members can enjoy basketball, bocce ball, table tennis, and more at Northridge Park. Other amenities include drinking fountains, picnic tables, a sand play area, and a sheltered area perfect for picnics and family gatherings. There are BBQ grills available, as well as electrical outlets and restrooms that make for a comfortable afternoon picnic.
Highland Heritage Regional Park
9651 South Quebec Street
Highland Heritage Regional Park is an expansive green space, featuring an off-leash area for the pup, multiple natural and synthetic turf fields, a playground, and an abundance of parking. The facilities are open to the public, including the picnic shelters, the fitness court, and the sports fields. Additionally, there are three miles of paved surface trails for those looking to get their daily steps in.
Places of Interest in Highlands Ranch
Despite the modern Highlands Ranch community being founded in the 1980s, the history of Highlands Ranch goes much further back. Settlers began building homes in this area over a century ago and residents can step back in time to this storied past during a tour of the Highlands Ranch Mansion.
Highlands Ranch Mansion
9950 East Gateway Drive
The Highlands Ranch Mansion is open to the public for tours, as well as community events and educational programs throughout the year. The calendar is kept updated with activities and private event closures. The property reflects the historic lifestyle of early settlers of Highlands Ranch and visitors will enjoy exploring the rooms and The Historic Park with beautifully landscaped greenery and colorful flowers.
Play Street Museum
9370 South Colorado Boulevard A-2
Parents of young children will enjoy the convenient outing to the Play Street Museum, which has been designed to be both an educational and exciting space designed specifically with little ones in mind. The museum has an array of hands-on activities that are geared toward your child’s interests, age, and learning style. Check out upcoming special events such as the Marvelous Mushroom Gnomes fairy crafting activity.
Want to Learn More About Living in Denver’s Highlands Ranch Suburb?
Despite being a relatively new community, Highlands Ranch is a popular destination for those looking to settle outside of the bustle of the city while still staying within a convenient proximity to Denver’s big city amenities. Reach out today to RE/MAX Professionals and one of our friendly and knowledgeable team members can provide additional information about the neighborhoods within Highlands Ranch and all that the community has to offer.