Life in Denver: Capitol Hill Neighborhood
Capitol Hill—fondly known as Cap Hill—is your must-see destination for all things arts, culture, and Colorado history. Rated #2 best neighborhood for young professionals, this swanky area has everything you could want and more!
Capitol Hill Boundaries: Colfax Ave (North), Downing St (East), Seventh Ave (South), Broadway (West)
A Quick History of Capitol Hill in Denver
Capitol Hill was originally home to Denver’s elite—like the politicians who worked at the neighborhood’s namesake. These families constructed elaborate and stately mansions that now exist as some of Denver’s most unique boutique hotels.
Then, thanks to the Silver Crash of 1893 and the growth of interstate travel, the neighborhood took a dramatic economic hit. More middle-class families and transient renters began to fill the area.
Capitol Hill’s revival began in the early 2000s as young bohemians, artists, and musicians found their way to the neighborhood. It’s now Denver’s most densely populated neighborhood, and for good reason.
Today, its businesses and residents thrive in this mixed-use neighborhood.
What the Locals Say About Capitol Hill
Residents can’t stop raving about this arts-heavy, activity-filled, ultra-charming neighborhood.
I’ve lived in Capitol Hill for over 2 years. It has history and it is beautiful. I love the old homes and the parks and sense of community here. – Trulia Review
Capitol Hill is a beautiful neighborhood! Great place to walk around and be outside. There are a lot of restaurants and shops within walking distance. Lots to do during the day and at night. – Niche Review
The location is great, not too close, not too far from downtown, and near all the sights… very walkable with shops and stores nearby. I think my favorite thing about it is the charm… the unique turn of the century buildings on the tree-lined streets. – Trulia Review
Capitol Hill is the perfect neighborhood for young, active professionals, dog lovers, foodies, and café seekers… the perfect refuge from the craziness of the city… If you love cozy vintage homes in an artsy and eclectic neighborhood, then Capitol Hill is a great option for you! – Niche Review
7 Reasons to Love Capitol Hill
#1 Colorado State Capitol
This gold-domed building is the neighborhood’s claim to fame. If you’re an architecture nerd (guilty!) you’ll love the stained glass and countless murals. Or, if you’re more into history, they have free tours Monday through Friday.
#2 East 13th Avenue
East 13th is the center of Denver’s punk subculture and home to Wax Trax Records. This record store features used and new vinyl LPs, 45s, CDs, cassettes, 8-tracks, and all the band paraphernalia you could ever want. Wax Trax has always been on the cutting edge of music, bringing eclectic sounds to Denver’s Cap Hill neighborhood since “Stayin’ Alive” topped the charts. (That’s 1978. John Travolta was just 23.)
#3 Night Life for Days
If you love a good nightclub, Capitol Hill is definitely your spot! With plenty of music venues and late-night bars to choose from, you’ll never be bored. Check out the country’s largest arcade bar at 1UP Colfax! Or enjoy live music at these community staples:
The Fillmore Auditorium, playing everything from SZA to Blue October.
The Ogden Theater, featuring contemporary rock shows.
The Bluebird Theater, offering a wide range of classic favorites and up-and-comers.
#4 Inclusivity
Capitol Hill is one of the most LGBTQIA+-friendly areas in Denver! Its Civic Center Park hosts Denver’s annual Pride parade and festival every year.
#5 Parks on Parks
Civic Center Park hosts live music and food trucks throughout the summer and fall months. To work off all those delicious eats, try a free exercise class with Civic Center MOVES. And with its 25,000 square feet of flower beds, this park is not to be missed!
Cheesman Park, originally designed in 1898, includes a stunning pavilion, lush trees, gorgeous esplanade, and lavish gardens. It’s the perfect place to walk with the dogs and kids! And if you’re into all things spooky, consider a ghost tour of one of America’s most haunted places.
#6 Capitol Hill United Neighborhoods
This isn’t your typical community association. Capitol Hill United Neighborhoods (CHUN) was founded in 1969 by a group of young residents looking to make a difference in their community. They recognized the beauty of their neighborhood and organized to revitalize and protect its most important assets. They now sponsor countless civic and social upgrades across Cap Hill.
CHUN also hosts social events, like the Annual People’s Fair. This premier arts and crafts fair happens every June!
#7 Molly Brown House
Built in 1889, The Molly Brown House features the one-of-a-kind story of “unsinkable” Margaret Molly Brown. Her story, including her time on the Titanic’s infamous voyage, is laid out before your eyes with fascinating guided tours.
Ready to get moving?
Capitol Hill is suuuuper walkable. And we’d love to tag along! Book a Discovery Meeting today to schedule a one-on-one for all things Cap Hill real estate. See you soon!
Images courtesy of Ogden Theatre Facebook Page and Wikipedia