Life in Denver: Congress Park Neighborhood
Head south a couple of long blocks from the Denver Zoo, and you’ll find yourself in the tree-lined urban paradise that is Congress Park.
Congress Park’s boundaries are: York Street (West), Colfax Avenue (North), Colorado Boulevard (East), Sixth Avenue (South).
Some Quick Congress Park History
As is the case with Platt Park and Jefferson Park, the Congress Park neighborhood does, in fact, contain a park. Buuuuut it started as…
… a cemetery.
Established in 1865, “City Cemetery” fell into disrepair fairly quickly, which the folks in nearby Capitol Hill didn’t exactly appreciate. In 1890, Senator Henry Tiller asked lawmakers to consider relocating the graves—which would make the area more attractive to residential developers. Congress agreed, and “Congress” Park was born.
Around that same time, Denver’s population boom—and the accompanying air pollution from expanding industry—inspired many residents to find some elbow room at the outskirts of town. Thanks to the addition of street cars, these folks were able to keep their city jobs while building their lives in their new community.
With the addition of single family homes, small businesses, and reservoirs, the Congress Park neighborhood has blossomed (literally!) into a gorgeous, family-oriented community.
Visit Congress Park Neighbors for a robust history of the area.
What the Locals Say About Congress Park
In a metro area as large as Denver’s it’s easy to feel a bit lost in the shuffle. Congress Park fixes that problem!
“Everyone seems nice and keeps the neighborhood real! I really appreciate the kind environment and it’s great for four legged friends.” - Trulia
“This is a very welcoming neighborhood! With all of the beautiful trees, safely tucked-away streets, and huge parks, this area has an amazing small-town feel that's missing in much of greater-Denver.” - Niche
"Congress Park is a friendly, tree lined oasis in the city. - Trulia
10 Reasons to Love Congress Park
#1 Congress Park, Obvi
The neighborhood park, located at 8th Avenue and Josephine Street, has a long history of stunning. In the early 1900s, the area served as Denver’s nursery, supplying trees and flowers for the new parkway system. These days, you’ll find nearly 20 acres of greenspace, with tennis courts, a swimming pool, sports fields, a playground, and picnic areas. Aaaaaaaand dogs. (Congress Park peeps love their dogs!)
#2 Denver Film
Congress Park is the home of nonprofit cultural arts organization Denver Film, which presents more than 600 films a year of every imaginable genre. Since the first Denver International Film Festival in 1978, Denver Film has introduced programs as varied as Summer Scream at Lakeside Amusement Park and Film on the Rocks at Red Rocks Amphitheatre (which is only the best place ever).
#3 OMG The Trees
It might seem odd, but these people are so stinkin’ proud of their trees. And they should be! The tree enthusiasts at DLC Arbor Services provide tons of tips and tricks for how to care for more than 10 species of trees lining Congress Park’s homey streets.
#4 Denver Botanic Gardens
Speaking of nature, on the western edge of Congress Park lies one of the most popular attractions in Denver. The Denver Botanic Gardens strives to protect and cultivate visitors’ love of plant life, especially species that can be found in the Rocky Mountain region. From education to research to sustainability, the folks at the Gardens are always ready to welcome you into the scenery.
#5 All the Food
Not only is Congress Park beautiful, but the community also offers some of the most delicious eats in Denver.
Remember how we said Congress Park residents love their dogs? That’s especially true of chef Tony Guard, who named his burger joint after his English Bulldog, TAG. Guard brings an element of fun and familiarity to his menu: build-your-own burgers with locally sourced ingredients, plenty of beer (20+ on tap at all times!), and brunch so good you’ll skip the snooze button.
If you’re in the mood for pasta and wine, Shells and Sauce is the place to go. Their passionate chefs handcraft classic Italian-American dishes that pair perfectly with their extensive wine list. The atmosphere is perfect for a family dinner, anniversary date, or your next event!
Everyone loves an after-dinner treat, right? (Duh.) The scratch-made delicacies at Sweet Cooie’s Ice Cream and Chocolates will curb any craving. From eccentric sundaes and shakes to intricate chocolate truffles, they’re sure to have something you’ll be sweet on.
#6 Wild Flowers
For 25 years, Wild Flowers has filled Congress Park homes with unique collectibles, luscious bath and body products, and garden accessories. They also go beyond retail, offering classes focused on succulent gardening and terrariums. Wild Flowers is seriously the perfect playground for experienced garden gurus and newbie plant parents alike.
#7 Sienna Wine Bar
Sienna Wine Bar provides tasting experiences for any budget. They consistently offer at least 20 wines by the glass, as well as a selection of 70 bottles for you to take home. Their hand-picked wine flights and cheese boards are the perfect excuse to gather friends for an unforgettable evening!
#8 Tattered Cover Book Store
For an incredible 50 years, Tattered Cover Book Store has attracted book lovers of all ages to their locations throughout Denver. The store on Colfax Avenue is especially impressive with its shop and cafe hosting hundreds of authors, events, and festivals every year. They strive to create a welcoming environment to facilitate education, adventure, and community engagement.
#9 Twist & Shout
When two high school teachers saw their favorite record store go to auction in 1988, they knew immediately it was their next adventure. Paul and Jill are now married and thriving in the music business, providing an impressive collection of LPs, CDs, DVDs, and more at Twist & Shout record store. The shop caters to music lovers of any style and even stocks rare and out-of-print selections. Their current location in Congress Park houses 11,000 square feet of music.
#10 Architecture
Because Congress Park includes part of Denver’s historic district (located on East 7th Avenue), it offers stunning architecture throughout the neighborhood. While a number of homeowners choose to modernize the interior of their Victorians and bungalows, the exteriors remain untouched to preserve the neighborhood’s historic beauty. Many businesses also choose historic buildings as offices, adding to the legacy of the neighborhood. All of this adds a lot to the small-town vibe Congress Park brings to the big city.
Love what you see?
Book a Discovery Meeting today to learn first-hand what makes Congress Park stand out!
Images courtesy of Tag Burger Bar and Denver Botanic Gardens Facebook Pages