Highland, Denver Travel Guide

Discover Highland in Denver, a trendy urban oasis where historic charm meets modern culture. Enjoy chic boutiques, gourmet dining, lively nightlife, and scenic parks.

Highland, located just northwest of downtown Denver, is a vibrant and trendy neighbourhood that seamlessly blends historic charm with modern allure. Known for its picturesque Victorian homes and tree-lined streets, Highland offers a unique glimpse into Denver's rich history while also embracing contemporary culture. Visitors to Highland can enjoy a plethora of chic boutiques, eclectic art galleries, and gourmet eateries. The neighbourhood's culinary scene is diverse, offering everything from farm-to-table restaurants to cozy cafes and bustling food markets. For those looking to unwind, Highland's numerous parks and green spaces provide the perfect backdrop for a leisurely afternoon stroll or a picturesque picnic. Highland is also renowned for its lively nightlife, with a variety of bars, breweries, and live music venues that cater to all tastes. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking to soak in the local atmosphere, Highland offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for tourists exploring Denver.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Highland.

Visit in the evening to experience the vibrant nightlife and local music scene.
Explore the historic Victorian homes and architecture on foot for the best experience.
Check out the local food markets and farmer's markets for fresh, local produce.
Take a stroll through Highland Park for a relaxing break amidst nature.
Use public transportation or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.

Explore Highland: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Highland

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Best Attractions

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Meow Wolf Denver | Convergence Station

Explore a mind-bending multiverse of art, story, and immersive experiences at Meow Wolf Denver's Convergence Station. A Denver must-see!

4.5

Highland Bridge

Connects Denver's Highland neighborhood to downtown, offering stunning views and pedestrian-friendly access to local attractions.

4.6

Greetings from Denver Mural

Capture the spirit of the Mile High City at the Greetings from Denver Mural, a vibrant postcard to share with the world. #GreetingsFromDenver #DenverMural

3.5

Denver Trolley

Relive Denver's electric transit history with a scenic trolley ride along the South Platte River. Open-air 'breezer' experience!

4.6

Best landmarks in Highland

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Meow Wolf Denver | Convergence Station

Discover a surreal world of art and imagination at Meow Wolf Denver: Convergence Station, where creativity knows no bounds.

4.5

Confluence Park

Experience the blend of nature and urban life at Confluence Park, Denver's premier outdoor destination for relaxation and recreation.

4.7

Four Mile Historic Park

Discover Denver's history at Four Mile Historic Park, a beautiful heritage museum featuring interactive exhibits and historic buildings in a scenic setting.

4.5

Colorado State Capitol

Explore the Colorado State Capitol, a historical landmark with stunning architecture and rich cultural insights in the heart of Denver.

4.5

Best restaurants in Highland

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Linger

Experience the vibrant flavors of global street food at Linger, Denver's unique restaurant nestled in a historic location with stunning skyline views.

4.5

Avanti Food & Beverage

Discover Denver's culinary diversity at Avanti Food & Beverage - where multiple cuisines meet in a lively atmosphere.

4.5

El Five

Discover Mediterranean-inspired tapas at El Five in Denver, where stunning skyline views meet exquisite culinary artistry.

4.5

Gaetano's

Discover the authentic flavors of Italy at Gaetano's in Denver’s Highland neighborhood - where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

4.4

Best bars in Highland

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Williams & Graham

Discover Williams & Graham, a vibrant cocktail bar in Denver's Highland neighborhood, offering innovative drinks and a lively atmosphere.

4.6

Postino LoHi

Discover Postino LoHi in Denver: A lively brunch spot and wine bar known for its delectable dishes, vibrant atmosphere, and local ingredients.

4.7

Recess Beer Garden

Discover Denver's vibrant beer culture at Recess Beer Garden, featuring a diverse selection of craft brews in a welcoming outdoor setting.

4.4

Highland Tavern

Discover the vibrant Highland Tavern in Denver, offering delicious American cuisine, craft beers, and a lively sports atmosphere.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Highland

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Williams & Graham

Discover the exquisite cocktails and cozy ambiance of Williams & Graham, a speakeasy-style bar in Denver's Highland neighborhood.

4.6

Forest Room 5

Experience the artistic allure and vibrant nightlife of Forest Room 5, a unique lounge and cocktail bar in Denver's Highland neighborhood.

4.2

Golden Hour Wine Bar & Social Club

Discover the perfect blend of fine wines and vibrant social experiences at Golden Hour Wine Bar & Social Club in Denver's Highland neighborhood.

4.6

The Nearby Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Denver at The Nearby Bar, where unique cocktails and a lively atmosphere await.

4.8

Best shops in Highland

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Ruby Jane Boutique - Denver Highlands

Explore Ruby Jane Boutique in Denver Highlands for unique women's fashion, stylish accessories, and charming home goods that reflect local flair.

4.8

Patterns & Pops

Discover unique women's fashion at Patterns & Pops in Denver's trendy Highland neighborhood, blending contemporary style with local charm.

4.8

Jolly Goods

Explore Jolly Goods in Denver for unique gifts, local craftsmanship, and a vibrant shopping experience in the heart of the Berkeley neighborhood.

4.8

Common Era

Discover the latest trends in women's fashion at Common Era, a boutique in Denver's Highland neighborhood that celebrates individuality and style.

4.8

Explore Highland on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Highland, mapped for you.

Highland Essentials

Highland is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Denver. If you're coming from downtown, you can take the light rail (D, F, or H lines) to the Union Station stop and then catch a bus or rideshare to Highland. Alternatively, the city’s bus system offers several routes that connect downtown to Highland, including the 32 and 38 routes. If you're arriving at Denver International Airport, you can take the A Line train to Union Station, followed by a quick transfer to a local bus or rideshare service.
Highland is a walkable neighborhood, with many attractions, cafes, and shops located close together. The Regional Transportation District (RTD) operates several bus routes that serve the area, including routes 32 and 38. For a more eco-friendly option, you can rent a bicycle from one of the many bike-sharing programs available throughout the city. Additionally, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely used and readily available in the area.
Highland is generally considered a safe neighborhood for tourists, but it’s wise to remain vigilant, especially at night. Areas near the riverfront can be less populated after dark. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded places. As a precaution, avoid displaying valuable items and keep your belongings secure.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital is St. Joseph Hospital, located just a short distance from Highland. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are available throughout the neighborhood for over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking. Don’t wear overly flashy or expensive jewelry to avoid attracting unwanted attention. Religion: Do respect local customs and practices, especially if visiting places of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous by offering your seat to those in need. Don’t engage in loud conversations or consume food on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile and a nod; handshakes are also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local restaurants and cafes, as Highland has a vibrant food scene. Don’t waste food; leftovers can often be taken home.
To experience Highland like a local, explore the neighborhood's parks, such as Highland Park and the scenic riverfront. Visit local coffee shops and breweries, where you can interact with residents and enjoy the community vibe. Attend local events and farmers' markets that provide a glimpse into the local culture. Additionally, take the time to walk along the historic streets and appreciate the unique architecture, blending old and new styles throughout the area.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Highland

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Highland. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haʊ-di]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [siː jə]
- YesYup
  [jʌp]
- NoNah
  [nɑː]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [pliːz/jʊr ˈwɛlkəm]
- Thank youThanks
  [θæŋks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon/Sorry
  [pɑːrdn/ˈsɔri]
- How are you?Howdy
  [haʊ-di]
- Fine. And you?Doing well. And you?
  [ˈduɪŋ wɛl. And jʌ]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [jə spiːk ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [aɪ doʊnt ˌʌndərˈstænd]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
  [aɪd ˈlaɪk tʊ siː ðə ˈmɛnjuː pliːz]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [aɪ doʊnt iːt mit]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [ʧɪrz]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
  [aɪ wʊd ˈlaɪk tʊ peɪ pliːz]
- Help!Help!
  [hɛlp]
- Go away!Go away!
  [ɡoʊ əˈweɪ]
- Call the Police!Call the Police!
  [kɔl ðə pəˈlis]
- Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
  [kɔl ə ˈdɑktər]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [aɪm lɔst]
- I'm illI'm ill
  [aɪm ɪl]
- I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
  [aɪd ˈlaɪk tʊ baɪ]
- I'm just lookingI'm just looking
  [aɪm ˈdʒʌst ˈlʊkɪŋ]
- How much is it?How much is it?
  [haʊ mʌʧ ɪz ɪt]
- That's too expensiveThat's too expensive
  [ðæts tuː ɪkˈspɛnsɪv]
- Can you lower the price?Can you lower the price?
  [kæn jʊ ˈloʊər ðə praɪs]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [wʌt taɪm ɪz ɪt]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [ɪts wʌn əˈklɑːk]
- Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [hæf pæst (10)]
- MorningMorning
  [ˈmɔrnɪŋ]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [ˌæftərˈnun]
- EveningEvening
  [ˈivnɪŋ]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [ˈjɛstərˌdeɪ]
- TodayToday
  [təˈdeɪ]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [təˈmɑroʊ]
- 11
  [wʌn]
- 22
  [tuː]
- 33
  [θriː]
- 44
  [fɔr]
- 55
  [faɪv]
- 66
  [sɪks]
- 77
  [sɛvən]
- 88
  [eɪt]
- 99
  [naɪn]
- 1010
  [tɛn]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [wɛrz ə/ðə]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [wʌts ðə əˈdrɛs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [kæn jʊ ʃoʊ miː (ɒn ðə mæp)]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [wɛnz ðə nɛkst (bʌs)]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [ə ˈtɪkɪt (tu ....)]

History of Highland

Long before European settlers arrived, the land that is now Highland was inhabited by Indigenous peoples, including the Arapaho and Cheyenne tribes. These groups thrived in the area, utilizing the rich resources of the South Platte River. The first documented European exploration of the region occurred in the early 1800s, as fur trappers and traders began to traverse the Colorado landscape, paving the way for future settlement.
Highland began to take shape in the late 1800s when it was platted in 1858 as a part of a larger vision for Denver's expansion. The neighborhood was initially a separate town known as 'Highland,' which was incorporated in 1875. Its proximity to the South Platte River and the establishment of the Denver Tramway Company in the 1880s contributed to its growth, making it an attractive location for new residents and businesses.
The name 'Highland' reflects the Scottish heritage of many of its early settlers. As the area developed in the late 19th century, it became home to a thriving community that celebrated its cultural roots. The construction of the Highland Bridge in 1891 further connected the neighborhood to downtown Denver, facilitating economic and social exchanges that fostered a sense of community among its residents.
Throughout the 20th century, Highland experienced significant urban development and demographic changes. The neighborhood became increasingly urbanized as industry and commerce flourished, leading to the establishment of various commercial establishments. Post-World War II, the area underwent further transformation with the construction of new residential buildings, reflecting the changing needs and preferences of its residents.
In the early 21st century, Highland began to see a cultural renaissance, driven by an influx of new residents and businesses. The neighborhood’s historic architecture attracted attention, leading to gentrification and the revitalization of its commercial districts. This transformation has given rise to a vibrant arts scene, with galleries, restaurants, and shops that celebrate both the neighborhood's history and contemporary culture, making Highland a dynamic part of Denver.