“The best little known neighborhood in Denver,” according to its community association, Athmar Park has a ton to offer: a young-and-active vibe, multicultural energy, and some of the most charming (and affordable!) mid-century modern homes in the metro area. 

And some of the best pho you’ll ever have in your whole entire life. But we’re getting ahead of ourselves…

Athmar Park Boundaries:
Alameda Ave (North), South Platte River (East)
Mississippi Ave (South), and Federal Blvd (West)

A Brief History of Athmar Park

Beginning in 1902, the land now known as Athmar Park was annexed a bit at a time by the city of Denver. But it wasn’t until 1949 that developer Raymond Erb fully developed the area into three subdivision plats. Much of the success of the neighborhood can be attributed to the post-World War II housing boom, and many of those homes still stand today.

In 1965, Athmar Park suffered extensive damage, as did much of Denver, when the South Platte River flooded. But the neighborhood recovered well, and the flood prompted the Corps of Engineers to to build the Chatfield Reservoir. 

What the Locals Say About Athmar Park

Residents rave about this quiet, welcoming neighborhood with great amenities for the whole family.

Athmar Park in Denver is a unique little neighborhood close to Denver and accessible to the mountains, great for those who want to live an active lifestyle, with parks and bike trails nearby. Close to public transportation. – Trulia user

I love this cozy community… Many of the homeowners are still original homeowners from the early 1950s. There is a sizable and beautiful park with easy access to urban trails. – Trulia user

The Huston Lake Park is my favorite feature of our neighborhood. It is the perfect place to take the dog or go for a sunset stroll. The neighborhood is up and coming with many people buying houses to flip. It has amazing cultural diversity and offers amazing food in the surrounding areas. – Niche user

9 Reasons to Love Athmar Park

#1 The Athmar Park Neighborhood Association

Neighborhood pride is kind of our thing, so we can’t pass up an opportunity to mention the Athmar Park Neighborhood Association! The APNA was founding in 1991 as a way to “improve the health, safety, and spirit of the area.” Today, the volunteer resident- and business-led association presents regular community events, meetings, and a newsletter.

#2 Walk- and Bikeability

Several bike lanes that cut through Athmar Park its wide sidewalks are a community favorite! There’s also plenty of access to public transportation, meaning you can totally leave your car at home.

#3 Asian Cuisine Galore

Athmar Park is most well-known as a hub for Asian cuisine—and with good reason!  From Star Kitchen’s dim sum to Vinh Xuong Bakery’s bahn mis to Pho 555, there’s something yummy on just about every block.

#4 A Great Bar Scene

Whether you’re into craft beers or a good dive bar, Athmar Park has it all. Try one of 16 on-tap brews at Chain Reaction Brewing Company. Or, get a cheap drink and play pool at Athmar Lounge, the neighborhood dive.

#5 Eron Johnson Antiques

When you move to Athmar Park, you’ll be looking for some new-to-you furniture and décor. Look no further than Eron Johnson Antiques! This massive showroom has more than 3,000 pieces of furniture, lighting, and more from every decade and every corner of the world.

#6 Pacific Ocean Marketplace

This has to be the coolest supermarket ever. Pacific Ocean Marketplace is an Asian supermarket that includes a bakery, BBQ, deli, and groceries for multinational tastes. Locally owned and operated for more than 20 years, Pacific Ocean Marketplace also has some of the best and freshest seafood in metro Denver. It’s definitely worth a visit. Come hungry!

#7 Parks on Parks on Parks

Athmar Park has three notable green spaces: Huston Lake, Clifford Aspgren, and Vanderbilt Lake Parks. Huston Lake Park is the main attraction, situated in the center of the neighborhood. It boasts a bike and walking path, soccer and softball fields, tennis and basketball courts, and a playground. Named after one of the neighborhood’s original land owners, Huston Lake Park has become a neighborhood staple.

#8 Mosaic Game Tables

A decades-long public art project completed by local residents and school children has to be one of the most unique neighborhood features to date. Six mosaic game tables were created and placed around the neighborhood—three in Huston Lake Park and three in Aspgren Park. They serve as gathering places, encouraging interaction between Athmar residents. From flowers and memorials to beautiful mountain views, these mosaics are a must see!

#9 Athmar Recreation Center

If parks aren’t your thing, stop by the Athmar Recreation Center. Here you’ll find everything a health enthusiast could want—multipurpose room, weight and cardio room, gymnasium, and indoor pool. They also have an arcade and game room to entertain the kids while you get your sweat on! 

Ready to move?

Athmar Park is a diverse neighborhood, from long-resident 80-somethings to newly established families. This could be your home, too! Book a Discovery Meeting to learn more about Athmar Park and why it could be your next big adventure.

Images courtesy of Pho 555 and Athmar Park Facebook Pages