Life in Denver: Whittier Neighborhood
Hang a left outside the Denver Zoo gates, go about a mile, and you’ll find yourself in the southeast corner of Denver’s Whittier Neighborhood. This quaint and comforting hidden gem is rich in history and community.
Also? It has a freaking beer spa. But we’re getting ahead of ourselves.
Whittier’s Boundaries: MLK Jr. Blvd/32nd Ave (North), York St (East), 23rd Ave (South), Downing St (West)
A Brief History of Whittier
Whittier is a nod to John Greenleaf Whittier, a mid-1800s political lobbyist and abolitionist author for whom the neighborhood’s elementary school is named. Although Whittier himself never lived in Colorado, his anti-slavery philosophy is central to the neighborhood’s core identity: ethnic integration.
Whittier Elementary School hired Denver's first African-American teacher in 1938—Marie Anderson Greenwood. Upon completion of her three-year (!!) probationary period, the school district opened opportunities for other Black teachers.
Although Whittier was on the leading edge of integration, Black families nevertheless suffered racial injustice early on. For example, red-lining practices prevented them from living on particular streets in the neighborhood.
These days, Whittier is fully again integrated—populated by Black, Hispanic, and White folks. But the neighborhood association reminds us, “While portions of that history are painful, they should not be forgotten.”
What the Locals Say About Whittier
Whittier’s residents are clearly smitten with their neighborhood—and with each other:
“Love the community here. Great neighbors and a sense of togetherness.” - Trulia review
“I love my neighborhood because I always feel safe and welcomed wherever I go. … The diversity … has been very inspirational to me while I was growing up and as it increases it will continue to inspire the younger kids as they grow up. With the strong sense of community and support I would not want to live anywhere else.” - Niche review
“This is a true community where we look out for one another.” - Trulia review
9 Reasons to Love Whittier
#1 So. Many. Parks.
Whittier has five (yes, five!) parks in its boundaries offering extensive amenities for humans—and their doggos. Get exact locations for each of these greenspaces at Find a Park.
Fuller Park: This park’s off-leash area offers plenty of space for furry friends to socialize and work out their zoomies. And your human best friends will enjoy Fuller’s playground and basketball court.
Douglass Park: Named after African American abolitionist Frederick Douglass, this quaint park offers picnic tables and a playground surrounded by gorgeous trees.
Morrison Park: Running along MLK Jr. Boulevard is George Morrison Sr. Park, where you’ll find a tree-lined bike/pedestrian path.
Williams Park: With picnic areas, basketball courts, and a playground, Dr. Daniel Hale Williams Park has something for everyone.
Madam C.J. Walker Park: Last, but certainly not least, is Madam C.J. Walker Park. Walker was a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and the first female self-made millionaire in the U.S. She started her own business in Denver and worked her entire life to empower other Black men and women in their own business ventures. The park is currently under restoration to maintain this beloved slice of Denver history.
#2 Architecture
Along every stunning, tree-lined avenue in Whittier, you’ll find incredible architecture. When the neighborhood formed in the late 1800s, the unique brick homes were built for the working class—and you can actually see the personal touches added by these bricklayers and carpenters. While most of the historic homes were built before 1940, they are well loved and cared for alongside the more modern buildings.
#3 Whittier Café
And now, friends, we’ll be transitioning to the many, many dining options in this sweet little community.
First up is the Whittier Café. Not only does this bright spot offer high-quality espresso, beer, and wine exclusively from African countries, but it’s also been nicknamed the “the activist’s coffee shop” by its patrons.
Learn more information about Whitter Café’s justice fund, community work, and weekly Ethiopian Coffee Ceremonies on their website.
#4 Genna Rae Wings and More
In 2016, owner Genn brought his passion for food and Caribbean heritage together to create an incredible experience for diners at Genna Rae Wings and More.
And yes, there are wings—along with 10 homemade sauces to accompany them. But “and More” isn’t just an afterthought. Genn and his team hand-craft burgers (“the size of your head,” according to one reviewer), meat platters, fish, and delectable desserts. Go get you some!
#5 Donuts Galore
So cool they don’t even have a website, PF Donut Shop offers donuts, muffins, savory breakfast, and quick lunch options at seriously affordable prices. Stop into their shop at 2855 York Street for a fancy donut and yummy cappuccino!
#6 Hayati Mediterranean Grill
Resting on the western edge of Whittier is Hayati Mediterranean Grill, a local joint absolutely dominating with their worldwide flavors. Owners Ali and Mohamed opened the Grill in 2019 after years of travel and tastings. From Mediterranean staples like gyros and shawarma to a classic American Philly cheesesteak, the dishes at Hayati are *chef’s kiss.*
#7 The Beer Spa
Yes. The Beer Spa. And there’s really no better way to describe the place than their slogan: “Relax differently.”
This full-service getaway features private Beer Therapy Rooms for singles or couples, which have amenities of beer baths, saunas, and rain showers, a space-themed Relaxation Lounge for an out-of-this-world (heh) full body massage, and Taproom featuring new Colorado brews every month. Literally heaven on earth!
#8 Get Physical
After eating your way through Whittier, you might be inclined to work off some of those calories. (More power to ya. We’ll save you a seat at The Beer Spa!)
Seriously, though: Whittier is home to Denver’s best training and wellness center. Apex Human Performance prides themselves on the fitness and nutrition plans created by founder Austin Rowe and his team. Whether you want to sweat it out at home or their facility, Apex offers semi-private classes in boxing, CrossFit, kickboxing, and recovery taught by highly skilled coaches ready to help you feel your best.
#9 The Whittier Neighborhood Association
Dedicated to preserving the history of Whittier and engaging residents with events and restoration projects, the Whittier Neighborhood Association has served its community well since 1981. They also love to support new small businesses, aiding with permits and promotions.
OK, but seriously… shall we spa?
Wanna meet up and check out The Beer Spa? Or have a pooch playdate at Fuller Park? Or share a plate of ribs at Genna Rae? We’d love to show you around the neighborhood and see if it feels like your next home!
Images courtesy of Whittier Cafe and The Beer Spa Facebook Pages