Nestled between West Highland and Sunnyside, sits the Berkeley neighborhood. Berkeley offers residents a plethora of unique dining options, bustling local art galleries, lush parks, and an eclectic mix of home styles. This fun and funky area is bursting with local flavor and all the perks that come with living in West Denver! Residents also enjoy convenient access to I-70 for a quick downtown commute or a weekend trip into the mountains.
Although home sales have grown at a slower pace this year, Berkeley remains one of Denver’s most sought-after and fastest-evolving neighborhoods. Its unique mix of architectural styles and amenities make for an ideal combo for young families, first-time homebuyers, and empty nesters. Berkeley is also home to one of the city’s 12 dog parks! Anchored by the fabulous restaurants, bars, and shops along Tennyson Street, Berkeley has a little something for all Denverites.
History:
Did you know that Berkeley (38th and Tennyson) was home to the original Elitch Gardens? From its opening in 1890 until the amusement park moved to downtown Denver in 1994, Elitch was situated right here in Berkeley.
The original Elitch was more than just an amusement park. It was also the first zoo west of Chicago, Denver’s original Botanic Garden, and the site of Denver’s first motion picture theatre!
Berkeley is currently still home to a historic theatre, the Oriental Theatre. Opened in 1927, the Oriental Theatre is registered with the National Register of Historic Places. It regularly hosts live music, comedy, and film events.
Food & Drink:
Thankfully, Berkeley has a food fix for whatever mood you’re in: Choose from more than 50 sandwich options at the Grateful Gnome Sandwich Shoppe & Brewery. Snag some Texas-style BBQ at Post Oak Barbecue. Sample vegetarian and vegan fare from Vital Root. Try some fry bread, an Native American specialty, from Tocabe. (Local tip: For five mornings a week, pizza joint Hops & Pie does double-duty as a doughnut shop. You’re welcome).
First, if you’re searching for your morning caffeine fix, you should make the trip to Allegro Coffee Roasters or Downpours Coffee for a hot cup of deliciousness. Later on, head over to BookBar, a combination book shop and wine bar, or visit the Tatarian for handcrafted cocktails in a visually stunning space. Beer lovers also have a number of options to choose from in Berkeley, including local husband-and-wife-owned Empourium Brewing Company.
Shop:
Strolling down the Tennyson Street corridor offers plenty of places to spend some cash. Real Baby sells adorably trendy clothes and toys for little ones. Locally owned Feral Mountain Co. can help ensure you’re prepared for Colorado outdoor adventures. They even rent gear! Lady Jones stays stocked with unique boutique fashions. Guys might care to peruse the all-natural grooming products at Spruce, dubbed one of the “eight coolest barbershops in America,” according to Men’s Journal.
R&R:
Take a stroll through Berkeley Lake Park. It’s popular with dog owners for its generously-sized pup park. (If you’re searching for something more active, Lakeside Amusement Park sits just across Sheridan Boulevard.) Rocky Mountain Lake Park hosts tennis courts. Cesar E Chavez Park is loved by locals for its playground and green space.
With so many features to love, it’s no surprise that so many Denverites are looking to call Berkeley home! If you’re one of them, give us a call!
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