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Things to Do, Eat, and See in Parker

Things to do in Parker CO

Parker is beloved for its small-town charm and natural beauty. The vibrant community enjoys access to the Cherry Creek Trail and has embraced their designation as “Tree City USA” in recognition of their commitment to environmental stewardship and urban forestry. Living in Parker provides residents with access to nearby big city amenities, as well as local cafes, restaurants, eateries, coffeehouses and more.

The Best Coffee in Parker

Want to skip the home-brewed coffee this weekend? Try out these local coffeehouses and cozy cafes for your daily caffeine fix!

Fika Coffee House

Where? 19559 Mainstreet

Fika is conveniently located on Mainstreet in the heart of Old Town Parker. The shop is proud to introduce the Swedish custom of “fika” to Colorado locals, which loosely translates to “meet over coffee.” The coffeehouse provides a comfortable spot to meet with friends over a freshly brewed cup of coffee. There’s no need to rush. Instead, linger a while and strike up a conversation with a new friend. You’ll find fair trade Kaladi Coffee, which has been air-roasted for precision and consistent flavor each and every time. Fika is also serving famous espresso and a range of organic and herbal teas from Two Leaves Tea Company. Sip on a chai latte, an americano, a cappuccino, or even a hot chocolate on those brisk winter days when you want something rich and decadent!

Kunjani World Coffeehouse

Where? 10009 Jordan Road

Kunjani is serving up a wide variety of premium coffee beans from around the globe. Coffee drinkers of all experience levels and palates will find espresso drinks for them, whether they prefer americanos, lattes, cortados, mochas or caramel macchiatos! There is a medium or dark roast of the day, as well as flavored coffee like Irish cream and vanilla almond. Sip on the amazing cold brew that’s derived from a blend of Ethiopian Harrar beans or inquire about the specialty drink offering that changes with the seasons. If you’re not a coffee aficionado, sip on a flavorful assortment of teas or chais like cinnamon toast, pumpkin spice, flying monkey, baked alaska, Madagascar vanilla, or the famous London Fog. Want something extra refreshing on a hot day? Try one of the blended espresso frappuccinos or a fruit smoothie. Of course, pups aren’t forgotten at Kunjani! Order a puppuccino for your furry best friend.

Convict Coffee Company

Where? 19519 East Parker Square Drive

​​Founded by Dan, an ex-convict turned entrepreneur, Convict Coffee Company blends aromatic self-roasted coffee, filthy pop, teas, and food with a mission to combat recidivism and create equitable pay within the industry. Every cup you buy at Convict Coffee Company fuels change in the community. Join them for video games, board games, paint nights, bingo, and overall good vibes in a refreshing change from your typical corporate coffee shop. Drinks on the menu at Convict Coffee Company include the Witch Slap, which is a pumpkin spice and salted caramel latte topped with whipped cream and cinnamon, and the dirty chai latte which boosts your favorite chai flavors with a shot of espresso. You can even snag a grilled cheese, a Danish, or a Treasure of Hope muffin if you’re feeling peckish!

Where to Eat & Drink in Parker

If you’re craving Colorado Mexican cuisine or you’d prefer to dive into your favorite brunch dishes, Parker has you covered on all fronts!

20 Mile Tap House

Where? 12543 North Highway 83, Suite 210

If you’re in search of a go-to neighborhood pub, 20 Mile Tap House might just fit the bill. The concept behind the restaurant is all about great beer, great friends, and great food. This winning combination delights residents across Parker and Denver. The tap house features 18 beers on tap, with a focus on local Colorado craft brews and spirits. The made-from-scratch menu features affordable options that use fresh ingredients and there is even a covered patio with mountain views if you want to sit by the fire and enjoy the cool breeze and an iconic Colorado sunset! If you love sports, the tap house has the NFL Ticket and Big 10 Network, so you can catch your favorite teams in action across 18 big-screen TVs.

Casa Mariachi

Where? 9771 South Parker Road

This Parker Mexican restaurant is locally owned and operated. You’ll find authentic and homemade Mexican fare, as well as outdoor seating options! Whether you’re craving enchiladas, flautas, burritos, tostadas, or a refreshing and crisp jalapeño margarita. Soak in the flavors of a beach vacation with a banana cabana cocktail or stick to your favorite draft beers. At Casa Mariachi, you can create your own combo with choices such as tacos, burritos, tamales, quesadillas, chile rellenos, and more. The sizzling fajitas are crafted with your favorite grilled proteins, as well as a side of frijoles a la charra, guacamole, sour cream, lettuce, cheese, salsa, and warm tortillas.

Bread & Butters

Where? 18901 Mainstreet

Formerly known as “The Egg & U,” Bread & Butters has rebranded but still features your favorite menu items. Dig into Colorado Mex cuisines, such as the huevos rancheros with homemade pork green chili, the border quesadilla with scrambled eggs, onions, green pepper, and jack cheese and the Chile rellenos with green chile strips, jack and cheddar cheese, eggs and pork green chili. Benedict options include the classic, as well as Florentine, California, and southern variations. Hot off the griddle are pancakes, chicken and waffles, sweet cakes, and more. Snag a seasonal juice from the juice bar or a delicious cup of coffee to perk you up.

Parker Garage

Where? 19420 Mainstreet

Parker Garage is located in a historic brick building and is a favorite spot amongst many residents for drinks, lunch, dinner, brunch, and even happy hour! Patrons will enjoy an array of seasonal ingredients used in tasteful and interesting ways. The menu is intentionally crafted, with tasty appetizers like the charcuterie board, the smoked pork belly, the calamari, and the baked goat cheese and wine tomatoes. Order dinner entrees such as the steak frites au poivre, the wild boar bolognese, or the habanero bacon blue burger on a house made brioche bun. Signature dishes include the sumac chicken with saffron rice, fingerling potatoes, spiced Greek yogurt, and naan bread, and a bourbon maple pork chop with braised red cabbage, roasted apple, and horseradish mashed potatoes.

Can’t-Miss Shops in Parker

Are you in the mood to shop until you drop? Check out one of Parker’s boutiques or hit up the local candy shop and search for your favorite childhood goodies or stock up on treats for all your favorite people!

Parker Panache

Where? 19561 Mainstreet

Parker Panache carries an array of styles for women, all the way from chic casual to dressy outfits for a formal occasion. This boutique stays on top of the latest fashion trends. The friendly staff is eager to help you rediscover confidence when you find your perfect fit. You’ll find reasonable prices and distinctive styles that will help you stand out from the crowd. Peruse the accessories as well, which allow you to tie together an outfit with that perfect, one-of-a-kind finishing touch.

Rocket Fizz Parker

Where? 10920 South Parker Road

This Parker retailer offers a massive selection of candy and bottled sodas, some of which you won’t find anywhere else! If you have a sweet tooth that’s never satisfied, this should be your next destination for all things sugary and delicious! Whether you’re shopping for a birthday gift or something sweet for a special occasion, Rocket Fizz is a unique shopping concept that delights visitors of all ages. Adults will love the nostalgic treats and kiddos will love the wide selection of colors, flavors, and textures.

The Nightlife Scene in Parker

Fancy a few beers before calling it a night? Check out one of Parker’s favorite saloons or hit up a local brewery for some adult beverages with your friends!

Wild Goose Saloon

Where? 11160 South Pikes Peak Drive

The Wild Goose Saloon is proud to feature all genres of live music, from regional acts to national bands. You’ll find great food options, as well as patio dining if you want to enjoy the cool breeze during an evening out in Parker. Happy hour runs from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM and live music is hosted three nights a week on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Order $5 shots all the time, including Fireball, Skrewball, Pink Whitney, and more! Weekly specials help to keep the energy high, such as Tequila Tuesdays, Ladies Night Wednesdays, and Sunday Funday!

Downhill Brewing

Where? 18921 Plaza Drive

At Downhill Brewing you’ll find an array of craft brews, as well as exciting community events such as trivia nights and bingo nights. The brewery recently opened a second location in Greenwood Village but the Parker location deserves plenty of love. On the brew list, you’ll find the Apres Amber, the Orange Crush, the Fresh AF, and the Not Berry Farm ale just to name a few. Whether you’re into seltzers, hazy IPAs, malt liquor, or even a peanut butter brown ale — Downhill Brewing invites you to come to check out what’s on tap and try a few for yourself.

Parker’s Outdoor Spaces

Parker doesn’t lack in outdoor parks and green spaces. Whether you want to swing by your neighborhood playground or you want to visit one of the larger regional parks, you’ll find outdoor recreation opportunities just around the corner.

O’Brien Park

Where? 10795 Victorian Drive

O’Brien Park is situated at the northeastern corner of Parker Road and Mainstreet, with parking lot access off of Victorian Drive. The 10.7-acre park features a basketball court, a lighted softball field, two playgrounds, and an ADA-accessible play structure. During the summer months, splash around in the H2O’Brien outdoor pool or enjoy a picnic under one of the shade structures. There is also a gazebo in the park, which serves as the backdrop to many local events such as outdoor concerts and the Mayor’s Holiday Lighting. Kiddos of all ages and abilities can enjoy the playground, which was recently renovated in 2023. The structure welcomes inclusive play and has unique additions such as swing bench seating and musical instruments!

Challenger Regional Park

Where? 17299 Lincoln Avenue

This 64-acre community park is fun for all! Featuring lighted ball fields, a playground, a multi-purpose soccer field area, three outdoor inline hockey rinks, and shaded picnic tables — all families can find ways to stay active at Challenger Regional Park. The park is located west of the Cherry Creek Trail and is owned and managed by Douglas County Parks, Trails, and Building Grounds. The sports fields are leased for programs but there is plenty of open green space to explore, enjoy, and to toss the ball around!

Parker’s Points of Interest

Parker is home to an iconic automobile museum, as well as an arts and culture center that showcases the community’s best performances.

Parker Arts, Culture & Events Center

Where? 20000 Pikes Peak Avenue

Parker has a flourishing arts community and the Parker Arts, Culture & Events Center serves as a hub for everyone to gather, share ideas, and put on performances. Shows and events hosted at the center include art gallery exhibits, magic shows, musicals, and even special member-only events. The center boasts state-of-the-art tech and a variety of inspired rooms and spaces that allow artists, actors, musicians, and more to showcase their work as it was meant to be viewed, heard, and experienced.

Vehicle Vault

Where? 18301 Lincoln Meadows Parkway

Vehicle Vault is a woman-owned business that’s passionate about showcasing the historical significance, pride, and artistry found in the automotive industry. Take a deep dive into the automotive museum where you can view iconic, rare, and exotic automobiles. The gallery features vehicles from key segments and points in history, including the Brass Era, Prohibition, and Pre-War. You’ll find classic rides, muscle cars, custom builds, hot rods, and everything in between. Everyone has a special connection or memory tied to a vehicle and at the Vehicle Vault, you’ll find a community that is passionate about commemorating these moments and appreciating how intricately life is woven into automobiles.

Want to Learn More About Parker?

If Parker sounds like it could be your dream spot to settle, our helpful team at RE/MAX Professionals would be excited to show you around. Let us introduce you to the local market and help you find the perfect home for you and your family! Parker has a little bit of something for everyone, whether you’re a busy professional, a young family, or even a retiree! Enjoy local community events and see why Parker is known for its small-town charm!

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