Washington Park—affectionately dubbed “Wash Park” by the locals—is one of Denver’s most beloved neighborhoods. It draws retirees, young families, and singles alike to its beautiful scenery, historic architecture, and fantastic amenities.

Washington Park Boundaries:
Cherry Creek (North), South University Blvd (East),I-25 (South), Downing St (West)

A Quick History of Washington Park

Originally a rural community, Washington Park developed into one of Denver’s first suburbs. The population continued to skyrocket with the establishment of the neighborhood’s major park in 1899. 

The park, designed by landscape architect Reinhard Schuetze, with influence from “The Unsinkable” Molly Brown, is a tourist draw to this day. It’s even been compared to New York City’s Central Park!

At the park’s east edge is the Field House—former home of Denver journalist and famed children’s poet, Eugene Field. Fittingly, Field’s home served as a branch of the Denver Public Library for a number of years. Field is further memorialized in Wash Park by a statue of his most well-known poem, "Wynken, Blynken and Nod.”

Today, you’ll find a variety of homes in the neighborhood—from Victorian structures to brick bungalows constructed between 1900 and 1940 to contemporary buildings. With such varied architecture, plus low crime, high-scoring schools, and all the shopping and dining you could want, there’s plenty to love about Wash Park.

What the Locals Say About Washington Park

Wash Park residents love—like, LOVE—their neighborhood. You’ll see what we mean in a sec…

The Wash Park neighborhood is a great place to raise your kids. It is home to a broad mix of ages and the properties are generally well kept. – Trulia Review

LOVE this neighborhood! I feel safe and there is always something fun to do here. Many great restaurants nearby as well as the park. – Trulia Review

I LOVE living in Wash Park. This offers a residential feel with a short commute to downtown. Additionally, being on the south end of the city, I am closer to the mountains…  – Niche Review

6 Reasons to Love Wash Park

#1 Washington Park

The neighborhood’s namesake is a beautiful, 155-acre park with two lakes. It also features lots of beautiful flowers—replicated from George Washington’s Mount Vernon home—lush trees, wide fields, tennis and volleyball areas, a recreation center, and regular community events. This park is consistently rated Denver’s favorite! 

#2 The Denver Folklore Center

Music lovers unite! The Denver Folklore Center is one of Denver’s oldest and most renowned acoustic music shops. Whether you’re looking for something regular-shmegular or hard-to-find, this place never misses the mark.

#3 Old South Gaylord

Just four blocks west of the park is another tried-and-true neighborhood feature: Old South Gaylord. Here you’ll find all the shops, restaurants, coffee shops, and bars you could ever want. According to historians, the area became a popular shopping destination back in the 1920s, when it was the end of a streetcar line

South Gaylord is also home to the Memorial Day Weekend Block Party, featuring music, art, street painting, and tons of family-friendly attractions for the littles.

#4 Seasonal Events

Another shopping staple near Washington Park is South Pearl. Originally home to Denver’s first trolley cars, South Pearl is now known for its annual festivals: Summer Music Festivals from June to August, BrewGrass in June, Blues and Brews and Harvestfest in August, Oktoberfest in September, and Winterfest in December! South Pearl is also host to a Sunday farmers’ market from June-October.

#5 Sweets and More

If you’re anything like us, you’re a sucker for sweets. Try Devil’s Food Bakery and their extensive assortment of delicious pastries. Or, for the ice cream lover, try one of Bonnie Brae’s 35 flavors—ranging from your classic chocolate to adventurous chai tea.

#6 Walkability. Bikeability. Public Transportation-ability.

Wide sidewalks and close proximity to Denver’s Central Park makes Wash Park especially walk-friendly. Prefer to be on wheels? No problem! The small community and bike lanes help to make this a particularly Schwinn-friendly area. 

And if you’d rather get where you’re going faster, Washington Park is known for its access to public transportation. Located near I-25, Wash Park offers easy access to downtown (or wherever) by light rail or bus. 

Want to make a move?

We love Washington Park, and think you will, too. Book a Discovery meeting to talk all things Wash Park and how we can help you find your dream home!

Images courtesy of Visit Denver and Bonnie Brae Facebook Pages