A Guide to the Washington Park Neighborhood

Washington Park, or Wash Park as the locals call it, is one of the best neighborhoods to live in Denver. With one of the lowest crime rates in the city, beautiful single-family homes and abundant outdoor activities, you can see why so many people love it here. If you’re not familiar with Wash Park, or are new to the area, we’ve created this handy guide to get you up to speed.

Where It’s Located

The Washington Park neighborhood is located in South Central Denver. It’s central location makes it close enough to enjoy downtown, Capitol Hill and trendy Cherry Creek, but still far enough removed that it has a distinct residential neighborhood feeling.

The neighborhood itself is divided into two sections: East Wash Park and West Wash Park. East Wash Park is known for its gorgeous single-family homes and quiet family atmosphere. West Wash Park has more of a hip, young crowd with lots of bars, coffee shops and tattoo parlors.

What’s It’s Known For

Obliviously, the most well-known attraction is the Washington Park. The local like to compare it to Central Park in New York City, which may be somewhat of an exaggeration but it is quite beautiful. Covering 165 acres, it is one of the largest parks in Denver. Joggers, cyclists and dog-walkers all flock here, and in nice weather, volleyball nets are set up and open to the public to play a few games.

Broadway Street is also a popular area to hang out, both day and night. Try starting at Alameda and Broadway and walking north – you’ll find plenty of coffee shops, bookstores and cute boutiques to browse.

The Cherry Creek Trail also runs through the Northern part of the neighborhood, so if you’re coming on bike, just jump off on the Washington Street or Downing Street exit.

Top Places to Eat/Drink

Breakfast: Lucille’s Creole Cafe. Did someone say Cajun brunch? Lucille’s serves up spicy eggs dishes every Saturday and Sunday. But a word to wise, get there early as the place tends to fill up fast.

Lunch: Try grabbing a slice at one of the many pizzerias on Broadway, like The Pie Hole which features pizza by the slice, and a special flavor combination that changes daily, like greek-inspired slices, or even one with mango chunks. Or go down the street to the famous Fat Sully’s for some New York style pizza. Both options will leave you, and you wallet, satisfied.

Dinner: Max Gill and Grille is the perfect combination of relax and class. With specials and happy hours everyday, innovative fare and a straw tiki hut, how could you go wrong?

If you’re looking for something a bit more fancy to take your date to, try Beatrice and Woodsley. Their rustic, forest-like decor and adventurous seasonal dishes will make you feel like a character in A Mid-Summer’s Night Dream.

Little-Known Places

Mayan Theatre – The Mayan theatre is one of the country’s last standing theaters built in the Art Deco Mayan Revival style. If that doesn’t motivate you to check it out, then their awesome offering of foreign language and independent films will.

Also check out Old Gaylord Street for a trip to the past, and to support local Denver shop owners.

When To Go

The Washington Park neighborhood always has something to do every day of the week, every hour of the day. While the park can get a bit crowded on weekends, you’ll be happy to know that you’ll at least be surrounded by some of the nicest people in Denver!