Washington Park

Washington Park, often referred to as Wash Park, is a picturesque and highly desirable neighborhood in Denver, Colorado. Named after the expansive Washington Park, which serves as the area's focal point and is affectionately dubbed Denver's version of Central Park, Wash Park combines natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and a charming residential community.

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The 155-acre Washington Park is celebrated for its lush greenery, including two flower gardens (one a replica of George Washington's gardens at Mount Vernon), two scenic lakes, and well-maintained pathways. The park offers ample space for various outdoor activities like jogging, biking, picnicking, and team sports, as well as boating and fishing on Smith Lake and Grasmere Lake.

The neighborhood surrounding the park features tree-lined streets, historic homes, and a variety of architectural styles, such as Victorian, Tudor, and bungalow-style houses. Many properties exude charm and character, reflecting the rich history of the area.

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Wash Park is divided into two distinct areas: East Wash Park (east of Franklin Street) and Washington Park West (west of Downing Street). East Wash Park became a desirable residential area in the early 1800s, attracting well-to-do residents and prominent Denver figures. This area is known for its beautiful homes with views of the western mountains, many of which still stand today. Washington Park West developed around the same time, initially attracting a mix of working-class families and young professionals with a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, apartment buildings, and duplexes.

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Both sides of the park have evolved while maintaining their distinct characteristics. East Wash Park remains an upscale residential area with well-preserved historic homes and a strong sense of community. It features Old South Gaylord Street, a shopping and dining district with boutique shops, restaurants, cafes, and local businesses, creating a vibrant and walkable commercial scene.

Wash Park West has undergone revitalization in recent decades, becoming popular among young professionals, artists, and individuals seeking a more affordable alternative to East Wash Park. The neighborhood has seen the emergence of new businesses, restaurants, and a vibrant cultural scene along its main corridors, such as South Broadway.

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Residents enjoy the park's amenities, organizing social gatherings, picnics, and sports activities. The neighborhood fosters a strong sense of community, with various events and festivals held throughout the year. Wash Park is highly coveted for those seeking a balance between nature, recreation, and a welcoming community atmosphere in the heart of Denver, with easy access to everything.

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EAT + DRINK

• Devil's Food Bakery & Cookery: A popular spot on South Gaylord Street offering tasty treats. The bakery, which split from its joint business The Cookery At Myrtle Hill in 2021, has a rustic and quaint interior filled with antiques. Pastries are displayed in classic glass cases, and the café is bathed in natural light from the sunroof. They also offer to-go floral bouquets and great gluten-free options.

• The Green Collective: A fast-casual breakfast and lunch eatery serving smoothies, smoothie bowls, salads, toasts, adaptogenic lattes, coffee, and tea. Their menu is organic whenever possible, refined sugar-free, and superfood-forward. Order online if you're in a hurry.

• Homegrown Tap & Dough: A neighborhood pizza joint offering salads and games for kids and adults alike.

• Perdida: Opened by the team behind Park Burger and Birdcall in 2021, this sleek, beachy restaurant offers fish and shrimp tacos, fajitas, pozole, enchiladas, and higher-end dishes like ribeye carne asada, whole bass zarandeado, and scallops with rice fritters and guajillo coconut sauce. Great appetizers and a bar with a variety of margaritas and cocktails.

• Wash Park Grille

• Olivia: A pasta-focused restaurant offering classic Italian dishes and flavors from around the world, with expertly crafted beverages and an Italian-focused wine list. A quaint and elevated dining experience from chef Ty Leon, beverage guru Austin Carson, and hospitality maven Heather Morrison.

• Bon Ami: A French bistro known for its delicious beef bourguignon and many crêpe options.

• Uncle: The second outpost of chef Tommy Lee's modern ramen shop, offering creative small plates, ramen, entrees, craft cocktails, sake, beer, and wine. The L-shaped restaurant, designed by Denver architect Kevin Nguyen, is wide, open, and filled with natural light. Be sure to try the chilled tofu appetizer!

• Carmine's on Penn: Family-style Italian with a cute outdoor patio, serving big platters of Italian food since 1994. Owner Brad Ritter continues the tradition of providing a place for large groups to enjoy themselves.

• Mister Oso: Offering tropical vibes and Mexican cuisine, including tacos, empanadas, and ceviche, along with delicious frozen margaritas.

• The Kentucky Inn: A recently renovated Wash Park dive bar with a new menu, known for its delicious pimento cheese dishes.

• Candlelight Tavern: A neighborhood dive bar offering greasy grub, a full gamut of bar games, and welcoming staff and regulars.

• Lincoln's Roadhouse: A Blues bar and Cajun café featuring live music on Friday and Saturday nights, attracting a diverse crowd.

• Rosebud Café: A quaint café offering house-made chai, lattes, pastries, and breakfast and lunch items. Try the Persian breakfast with a French baguette instead of pita bread.

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EVENTS

• Wash Park West events: WWPNA Events

• East Wash Park events: WPEA Events