Life in Denver: Cory-Merrill Neighborhood
OK, seriously: What could be more wholesome than a neighborhood named after its schools? Nothing, really. And that’s 100% the vibe of Cory-Merrill, the sleepy suburb-like spot in South Denver.
Cory-Merrill’s boundaries: S. University Blvd (West), E. Mississippi Ave (North), S. Colorado Blvd (East), I-25 (South)
A Super-Quick History of Cory-Merrill
Cory-Merrill was founded in 1858 as a dry town—an intentional “Take that!” to the saloon culture sweeping Denver at the time. Since then, the area has seen a number of evolutions: from prairie land to subdivisions, from “The Swamp” to I-25, from acreage to archdiocese, and from tract homes to mid-century charmers to modern McMansions.
As we mentioned, the neighborhood’s namesake are two of its schools—highly ranked Cory Elementary School and Merrill Junior High School. Add in the area’s oversized yards, tree-lined streets, and close proximity to Washington Park, and you get a recipe for a family-friendly urban oasis.
What the Locals Say About Cory-Merrill
Reading Cory-Merrill’s descriptions on Trulia, you’d think residents were talking about a sweet little town far from big-city life.
“Good community. … often see wildlife, foxes, hawks, deer.”
"Reminds me of the mid-western neighborhoods I grew up in back home. Few areas in Denver proper give you that feeling.”
“There is a very active parent community."
If you hear any complaint about the place at all, it’ll be this one: It’s one of the most expensive places in Denver.
Tree-lined street in Cory-Merrill neighborhood, Denver, CO
9 Reasons to Love Cory-Merrill
#1 Easy Access
Part of Cory-Merrill’s appeal is just how quiet the neighborhood itself is—but how close it is to the action. Not only is the neighborhood bordered by I-25, making it super accessible to the rest of Denver, but it also has a light rail station and plenty of public buses that run throughout the day. Or if you’d rather get a little exercise on your commute (more power to ya!), you can use the multiple bike trails in the neighborhood.
#2 Come Sail Away
Is your totally crazy, way-out-there, never-gonna-happen dream to sail around the world? It just so happens Cory-Merrill is home to Colorado’s oldest and largest sailing school! Founded nearly four decades ago, by Captain James Cook, the Victoria Sailing School is now run by his daughter and son-in-law. With nearly 100 years of experience among the instructors, the school offers courses at four local reservoirs for all levels of experience in multiple areas—basic sailing, celestial navigation, weather, docking, and more. (And yes, they do have an ocean-based course that sails out of Marina del Rey, California… so maybe your around-the-world dream isn’t so far-fetched after all.)
#3 John Paul II Center for the New Evangelization
In the middle of the Cory-Merrill neighborhood sits the John Paul II Center for the New Evangelization—home to two seminaries and a convent, a 160,000-volume library, the Archdiocesan offices, and the Archbishop himself. But even if you’re not especially (or at all) Catholic, this is a worthwhile stop. The main entry on South Steele Street opens to the spectacular 60-acre property’s gorgeous buildings and scenery. The grounds are perfect for an afternoon stroll.
#4 Boulevard Center
Cory-Merrill might not be the first place that comes to mind for shop-til-you-drop types, but Boulevard Center has a good variety of shops and restaurants in its relatively small footprint. For example:
The Colorado fitness fav Runners Roost offers top-of-the-line running and workout shoes, a weekly run club, and tons of events in the Denver area. They’ve created an awesome community since their start in 1977.
After your run, stop by Beard Papa’s for the best cream puffs you’ve ever had. Ever. With three filling options and eight (yes, eight!) shell options, Beard Papa’s is worth the calories.
Boulevard Center also houses some other yummy food options, a grocery store, more retail shops, and See’s Candies! (More on that later…)
#5 The Saucy Noodle
Not technically in Cory-Merrill, but close enough it might as well be, is The Saucy Noodle Ristorante—a family-owned Italian joint famous for their pizza, pasta, and red velvet walls (which are not edible, you weirdo). Owners Erin and Nathan Markham showcase mouth-watering dishes (we’re talking sauce that simmers all.day.long) that stay true to their saucy slogan, “If you don’t like garlic, go home!”
#6 Bonnie Brae Ice Cream
After dinner at The Saucy Noodle, walk a block or so south for dessert at Bonnie Brae Ice Cream. Trust us. Two-time winners of Colorado Parent’s “Family Favorite Ice Cream,” these folks know how to keep people wanting more. No one can pass up their traditional creams, refreshing sorbets, vegan options, or one-of-a-kind flavors. From Malted Milk Ball to Udder Budder to Blueberry Cheesecake, there’s no way you can sample only one!
#7 Cory-Merrill Neighborhood Association
The CMNA strives to create an inclusive, innovative, and all-around inviting community. They host events and meetings throughout the year (check out their food truck nights!) and keep members in the know with a seasonal newsletter. We realize a newsletter might not sound very exciting, but they have pet spotlights in every issue… Worth it!
#8 Architecture
Cory-Merrill is quite unique in its architecture, with a mix of mid-century ranches, sleek urban developments, and Les Tremblay small houses. Les Tremblay what now? Yep, “small houses.” Tremblay built these homes for soldiers returning from World War II, and what they lack in interior size they make up for in vast yards and lavish gardens.
#9 See’s Candies
See’s Candies is a one-stop shop (and heaven on earth, honestly) for treating your family and friends… and yourself, of course! For 100 years, they’ve been serving artisan chocolates, candies, and nut mixes in more than 200 locations across the U.S., and they have tons of options for common dietary needs. Stop in to pick up one of their back-to-school treat bundles or create your own custom mix!
Interested in a Tour?
Book a Discovery Meeting today to explore this little gem!
Images courtesy of Beard Papa's and The Saucy Noodle Facebook Pages