Here’s a way to get to know four of Denver’s hottest and most historic neighborhoods, while enjoying the best food, seeing the most spectacular views and earning your 10,000 steps. 

This self-guided walking tour is about 4 miles when measured from Denver Union Station in Lower Downtown (LoDo) to Highland, West Highland and the Sloan Lake neighborhood. The last three neighborhoods are similar in character, where you'll see lush parks and gardens along tree-lined streets. The architecture is fascinating and eclectic, ranging from storybook Queen Anne-style homes to Craftsman bungalows and minimalist modern designs.

Other than a small hill in Lower Highland (LoHi), the route is basically flat and well shaded. Of course, you don’t have to walk the whole thing. You can hail a ride-sharing service or rent an e-bike or scooter between the major stops.

 

Act I: LoDo to LoHi

Breakfast

If you’re starting your day in LoDo, head to Denver Union Station and have a hearty breakfast at Snooze an A.M. Eatery, or, for something lighter, try Pigtrain Coffee Co. Other great comfort food options outside of Union Station are Snooze an A.M. Eatery, Sam’s No. 3 and Syrup. If you want to simply grab a drink and eat later in Highland, Fox and the Hen is a delicious choice, helmed by Carrie Baird (a.k.a. Head Hen) of the “Top Chef” TV show fame.

 

Sightseeing

From LoDo, it’s an easy walk over the Millennium Bridge to Confluence Park, where the South Platte River and the Cherry Creek meet. Take in the soothing rapids before heading across the first Highland Bridge that takes you over the river. The second Highland Bridge takes you over the interstate and into LoHi, where you’ll start to see gorgeous renovated homes and small shops. Continue northwest on 16th Street past a Denver icon, Little Man Ice Cream. You can’t miss the giant milk can on the hill. It’s been named one of the best ice cream shops in the country. Feel free to try it out since you'll be burning off the calories today. From there, the street turns into Tejon Street. Follow it to West 32nd Avenue and head west. You can follow it all the way to Highland Park. From Highland Park, you can cut across Green Court to get back on West 32nd Avenue.

 

Act II: Highland Square

 

A Brief History of Highland

The land that now makes up the Highland and West Highland neighborhoods was originally an oasis above the larger city back when Denver was still a rambunctious frontier town that would later morph into an industrial center. In the late 1800s, early residents planted a variety of shade and fruit trees, built churches and even discovered an artesian well while boring for coal. This area was all about clean living and was known as the Garden City of the Plains, according to the Denver Public Library. The area drew a variety of Scottish, English, Irish, Italian and Hispanic immigrants. The neighborhoods contain several historic districts, namely the Potter Highlands Historic District. Here you'll find a unique feature that you won't see elsewhere in Denver: large square blocks with interior carriage lots. That's why some blocks will have communal garages. If you want to know more, go on a Potter Highlands tour with Historic Denver Walking Tours.

 

Lunch

As you near Highland Square, a former trolley stop, there will be a wide variety of restaurants and some cafés along the street in the West Highland neighborhood. 

 

Sightseeing

If you happen to be there on a Sunday, May through October, the Highlands Farmers Market is a great way to experience live music, farm-fresh produce and artisan goods. After lunch, you can head south on Tennyson Street to Sloan's Lake Park. It's a nice tree-lined walk through a residential area.

 

Act III: Sloan’s Lake Park

 

A Brief History of Sloan's Lake

Denver's largest body of water may have been created by accident. Denver Public Library retells the legend that, in 1861, Thomas M. Sloan tapped into an aquifer while digging a well on his farm. It then created a lake overnight by spreading to 200 acres. It attracted onlookers who jokingly referred to it as "Sloan's Leak." The "overnight" part might seem a little far-fetched because it would've required a flow rate on the order of a river. Sloan later sold the property. In any case, it became a major attraction, once hosting Manhattan Beach, one of Denver's first amusement parks. One remnant that still stands, though, is Lake Middle School on the lake's southeastern edge. Built in 1926, the Moorish architecture stands out, looking like a medieval fortress. The students do have great views! The lake is the site of the annual Colorado Dragon Boat Festival.

 

Sightseeing

Sloan’s Lake Park has gorgeous mountain, skyline and lake views, especially at sunset. The vibe is laid back and chill. A 2.6-mile paved path follows the shoreline.

 

Dinner

If you’re craving craft beer, there are two breweries near the park boundaries: Odell Brewing Sloan's Lake Brewhouse & Pizzeria and Joyride Brewing. They both have rooftop patios overlooking the lake. Or you can cross the Sheridan Boulevard on the western side of the lake and head to Edgewater Public Market, a collection of local food and drink stalls. See more Sloan's Lake restaurant options.

 

Bonus Act

Tennyson Street Cultural District

In the adjacent Berkeley neighborhood, the Tennyson Street Cultural District (north of 38th Street) is a fascinating place to stroll with art galleries, fashion outfitters and jewelry shops. It’s full of surprises like the Denver Cat Company, a café where you can hang out with rescued cats, or Feral, a high-quality used outdoor gear and clothing shop. The street is especially fun during the Tennyson Street First Friday Art Walk each month when the art galleries and other vendors keep their doors open late.