Life in Denver: Berkeley Neighborhood
Berkeley is the definition of good vibes. With its absolutely-in-the-city-but-damn-if-it-doesn’t-feel-like-a- small-town vibe, it’s a lovely spot for everyone from first-time home buyers to empty nesters and everyone in between.
Berkeley’s varied architecture offers something for everyone, too. Here you’ll find traditional Denver squares, tudors, and bungalows nearby modern townhomes and apartment buildings. While there’s a liiiiiiiitle trepidation about the area changing too fast, Berkeley leaders are serious about preserving what makes the neighborhood special.
Berkeley’s Boundaries: I-70 (North), Federal Blvd (East), 38th Ave (South), Sheridan Blvd (West)
A Quick History of Berkeley
Until 1995, Berkeley was best known as the home of Elitch Gardens.
The amusement park, which operated in the neighborhood for more than a century, actually began as one of the first zoos west of Chicago—and its opening was met with significant fanfare. In fact, P.T. Barnum (the actual guy, not Hugh Jackman) and the Thumbs (as in Mr. and Mrs. Tom Thumb) joined the celebration.
Elitch Gardens quickly grew into the place to go for entertainment in Denver, with nationally known actors and musicians performing at its Elitch Theatre (1892) and Trocadero Ballroom (1917). Next came the adventure. A carousel arrived in 1928, followed by a Ferris wheel (1936), Kiddie Land (1956), and, finally, the famous Mister Twister roller coaster (1965).
In 1995, the new Elitch Gardens opened downtown, and redevelopment began at its original site in Berkeley. Since then, the neighborhood has seen dramatic growth in residents, amenities, and property values.
What the Locals Say About Berkeley
Berkeley’s residents gush about their community’s walkability and suburban feel.
“A more neighborhood-y feel than many other areas of Denver in my opinion, near great restaurants/shops on Tennyson, and ~10-12 minute drive from basically all downtown amenities. In terms of quality of life, it really checks all the boxes.” - Niche review
“I love Berkeley! A lot less expensive, but with all the amenities.” -Trulia review
“It's a great mix of places to meet up with your friends and neighbors along with cute shops to browse through. … It's a very suburban feeling place but without the touch of any sort of big box stores and filled with older brick cottages.” - Niche review
9 Reasons to Love Berkeley
#1 Location, Location, Location
As we mentioned, the Berkeley neighborhood itself is exceedingly walkable. The community has the added benefit of bordering I-70, offering easy access to other Denver hotspots and, you know, the mountains.
#2 Tennyson Street
Once a cable car route, this main drag has literally everything: restaurants, shops, galleries, and even adoptable cats at Denver Cat Company!
Stop at Hops & Pie for a pizza or, if you’re lucky enough to be there on a weekday morning, a potato-style doughnut. (Vegan and gluten-free options FTW!)
Hit up FERAL Mountain Co. to buy or rent your weekend adventure gear.
Nab a sammy at Denver Biscuit Co.
Pick up a gift for a friend (or yourself) at Sarah O. Jewelry.
And then wash it all down with a cocktail from Billy’s Inn (or even join their tequila club!).
We could go on and on, but we’ll say this instead: On any visit to Tennyson Street, you’ll discover something new, unexpected, and *chef’s kiss* delish.
Pro tip: Parking can be tricky, so give yourself a little time buffer if you’re meeting friends or heading to the Art Walk. (See #6.)
#3 Lake Life
The neighborhood is home to Berkeley Lake Park and Rocky Mountain Lake Park, which (unsurprisingly) have gorgeous lakes surrounded by walking paths and lush scenery. Between the two, there’s plenty of recreation space, including one of Denver’s largest dog parks.
#4 The Oriental Theatre
The Oriental Theatre is undoubtedly one of the highlights of any indie band’s tour. They feature full seasons of concerts, shows, and events that bring an unmatched energy to the neighborhood.
#5 Coffee!
Looking for an afternoon pick-me-up during your Tennyson Street wanderings? Stop by one of the many artisan coffee shops for a delicious roast. Allegro Coffee Roasters, MOB Coffee, and Tenn Street Coffee all offer unique brews and welcoming settings.
#6 Art Walk
On the first Friday of every month from 6 pm to 10 pm, Berkeley hosts Denver’s oldest art walk. On these magical evenings, the community and residents come together in appreciation of the galleries, studios, and museums in the Tennyson Street Cultural District. The event also features tons of food vendors and family-friendly performers.
#7 Healing and Wellness
Folks in Berkeley are all about wellness and health in their community, so it makes sense that For Heaven’s Sake offers a wide variety of spiritual items. They specialize in aromatherapy, metaphysical and new age books, crystals, stones, and accessories for those interested in expanding their collections. They also offer special events where psychics give patrons personal readings and workshops.
#8 Keeping the Legacy Alive
The members of Historic Berkeley Regis (HBR) are not ones to take this beautiful neighborhood for granted. They’re committed to the preservation of historic Berkeley buildings such as Berkeley Park Chapel and Berkeley Bathhouse. HBR emulates the pride Berkeley residents feel for their beloved neighborhood.
#9 Ohana Yoga + Barre
If you’ve always dreamed of having a yoga class subscription, Ohana Yoga + Barre is your place! Committed to providing a space where “movement, community, and conscious living evolve together,” Ohana has plenty of in-person and virtual class options for all levels.
Wanna go for a ride?
Harkening back to its Elitch Gardens roots, Berkeley is also home to Lakeside Amusement Park—where you’ll find plenty of barf machines rides for kids and kids at heart.
If you’re not all that jazzed about roller coasters and spinny things, we’d be happy to show you around the neighborhood in our steady Subaru instead. Book a Discovery Meeting today!
Images courtesy of Hops & Pie, Downpours Coffee, and Lakeside amusement park and Explore Tennyson Facebook Pages