Located a few blocks south of Capitol Hill, the Platt Park neighborhood is overflowing with rich history, tons of retail and dining, and updated amenities sure to keep you entertained and exploring.

Platt Park is situated between Mississippi Avenue (North), Downing Street (East), Evans Avenue (South), and Broadway (West). The neighborhood is a commuter’s dream, thanks to nearby I-25 and the Louisiana & Pearl RTD light rail station.

Some Quick Platt Park History

Platt Park was originally part of the Town of South Denver—a community which “began as a legal maneuver to keep Denver’s ‘liquor element’ from expanding south.”
This is wildly ironic, given the number of brewpubs there now… but we’re getting ahead of ourselves. 

As its first (and only) mayor, John Fleming is credited with launching the Town of South Denver in 1881. Originally from Pennsylvania, Fleming purchased 70 acres—most of which he sold to the railroad and to residential developers. He used his remaining land to build himself a mansion, and the surrounding grounds became known as “Fleming Grove.”

In 1891, Fleming retired to Arizona and sold his mansion to the Town of South Denver. Three years later, the Town was annexed to the City of Denver, and in 1897, Fleming Grove was renamed to honor a beloved Denver local, James Platt. And the Platt Park neighborhood was born.

BTW: James Platt’s widow, Sara Platt Decker, was a nationally known suffragette. We’ll say more about her in a minute.

What the Locals Say About Platt Park

Platt Park residents love (LOVE!) their community! 

• "I’ve lived in this neighborhood 40+ years, and seen a lovely transition from an undiscovered ‘little sister’ neighborhood to Washington Park, to its own vibrant identity. Very walkable, friendly, excellent location, and popular S Pearl St activities.” - Trulia

• “Platt Park neighborhood has always been a hidden gem. Many new restaurants over the past few years have made Olde South Pearl a very happening place. Great for families and young professionals, close to many parks. Quick jaunt downtown and very bike friendly!! Easy to access major thoroughfares to escape the city life and enjoy our beautiful mountains!” - Niche

• "The neighborhood is full of friendly people, who take pride in their homes." - Trulia

11 Other Reasons to Love Platt Park

#1 The *Actual* Platt Park

As we mentioned earlier, the 4.4 acre Platt Park at the heart of the neighborhood is named after James H. Platt—politician, physician, Civil War veteran, and owner of Platt Paper Company. Located at East Iowa Avenue and South Logan Streets, the park offers plenty of green space, a playground, and more.

#2 Craft Beer for Daaays

Although the original intent of this neighborhood was to deter the creation of saloons during the late 19th century, today it’s booming with local breweries to quench your thirst.

• Platt Park Brewing Co. is a standout in Denver’s microbrewery scene. They feature a tap and tasting room sure to entice beer experts and newbies alike, as well as cocktails, wine, ciders, and yummy food from Gates Deli & Grog. (Try the Sexy Tractor sammie. With bacon. You won’t be sorry.) (Unless you’re vegan, in which case get the One Love.) 

• If you’re maybe a little intimidated by the whole craft brew scene, you’ll loooooove Grandma’s Place. Grandma’s offers beers “made with love but free of pretension” plus craft activities and—get this—weekly Bingo nights. C’mon.  

#3 Antique Row

For a slice of Denver history, the shops located in the original historic buildings of South Broadway are an ideal stop. Structures originally built for Ford Motor Company and Gates Rubber now house more than 100 antique stores and boutiques! With some of these establishments in business since before the first iPod was released (30 years ago, y’all), the merchants, artists, and restaurants of the renowned Antique Row are always excited to share the legacy of the neighborhood.

#4 South Pearl Street

Platt Park offers another historic shopping district along South Pearl Street. There are adorable shops, plenty of restaurants, weekend music festivals, and a popular farmers’ market where you’ll always experience something new!

#5 Foodie Heaven

Platt Park has some delicious eateries throughout the neighborhood offering cuisine from all over the world! 

• Sushi Den flies in seafood fresh from Japan and invites guests to watch in awe as the sushi chefs create beautiful dishes.

• Kaos Pizzeria specializes in wood-fired pizzas, with gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options to pair with your favorite wine. 

• For a family-owned and authentic Mexican dinner experience, Adelitas Cocina y Cantina is the place to visit. Their traditional dishes and cocktails, served by the friendliest staff in town, never disappoint. 

#6 Fleming Mansion

Remember that mansion Mayor James Fleming built? It still stands today! Over the years Fleming Mansion has been used as City Hall, a library, a recreation space, and even the town jail. Today you can enjoy the landmark by taking a tour or booking it for your next event. 

#7 A Bookworm’s Paradise

Gallagher Books fits right into the scene on Antique Row! Since 1994, Gallagher’s has offered the experience of a lifetime for book lovers, history buffs, and vintage collectors. Rare titles and antique finds fill the shelves while employees are ready to share their vast knowledge of the collection.

#8 Decker Branch Library

Named after James Platt’s widow, Sarah Platt Decker, the Decker Branch Library is a historic building from 1913 that still functions today. The cozy library stands at the northeast corner of the neighborhood (1501 South Logan Street) and offers summertime activities for the kiddos.

#9 Coffee, Coffee, Buzz, Buzz, Buzz

The not-so-snobby coffee experts at Steam Espresso Bar are all about creating an experience for their guests. Their gorgeous, dog-friendly outdoor space, combined with specialty coffee drinks and pastries, is sure to give you a much needed pick-me-up. You may love it so much you’ll take some beans home with you!

#10 Wellness in Platt Park

Mkay, we’re huge fans of self-care. Huge. So we dig the Washington Park Wellness Center—a one-stop shop for acupuncture, massage therapy, counseling, and meditation. The welcoming, dedicated, and capable practitioners offer their services to all age groups. Yoga is another popular activity in the neighborhood. Karma Yoga Center offers tons of classes for all levels, as well as workshops, retreats, and other healing services.

#11 All the Love

The Platt Park People’s Association, or 3PA, strives for engagement within their unique community. They offer volunteer opportunities, events at neighborhood hotspots, and even family-centered nights for parents and their kids. These people really love Denver, Platt Park, and each other!

Interested in a Tour?

We’d love to show you around! Book a Discovery Meeting today!

Images courtesy of Platt Park Brewing Co, Sushi Den and Steam Espresso Bar Facebook Pages