Sitting on a bluff just to the northwest of downtown Denver sits Jefferson Park, a bourgeoning urban neighborhood named for the beautiful 6.7-acre public park that lies at its heart.

Just west of I-25 and bounded by Speer Boulevard and Colfax Avenue to the north and south, and Federal Boulevard and the Platte River to the east and west, the city’s smallest neighborhood was made a focus by the city of Denver in the 1990s, bringing beautification efforts and investment in infrastructure. Since then, Jefferson Park’s proximity to downtown and neighborhood feel has drawn those seeking an urban lifestyle.

This hidden neighborhood is coming into its own. The secret is out!

Jefferson Park aka “Jeff Park” is marked by city views and a variety of housing styles and architecture. You can find a single-family home from the late 19th century next to an apartment complex built in the 1950s. Today, contemporary apartment buildings, condos, townhomes and row houses are shouldering out some of the area’s more historic structures.

If you are looking for a home with minimal landscaping to maintain, there is a large concentration of townhomes, making it a great neighborhood for you to consider, according to Bess.

For commuting, you’re minutes away from I-25, I-70 and Speer Boulevard. Plus, Jefferson Park is within walking distance of downtown, Elitch Gardens, the Children’s Museum, the flagship REI store, Downtown Aquarium and Empower Field at Mile High, which brings up the fact that Denver Broncos games do impact the neighborhood. It is always a blast to see the crowds of fans during game days. But if you park in the neighborhood, beware of the parking signs!

There is a thriving community at Jefferson Park and an active community organization, Jefferson Park United Neighbors (JPUN), which sponsors annual events like the Music @ Jefferson Park concert series and annual cleanup day.

Jefferson Park is home to some of Denver’s coolest eateries. Bess recommended home delivery from Sexy Pizza (2460 Eliot St.), a cold beer from the 10-barrel system at Little Machine Beer (2924 W. 20^th Ave.), the burgers at Federal Bar and Grill (2544 Federal Blvd.) and the funky atmosphere at 2914 Coffee (2914 W. 25^th Ave).

Another favorite is the Briar Common Brewery + Eatery, with its great rooftop patio, their own brewed beers and a funky food menu. And, for those who miss La Loma, chef Efren Velasquez opened the fajitas-forward El Cazo Cocina y Cantina.

If you live in Jefferson Park then you already know . . . what’s not to love?

Jefferson Park Highlights
Statistics from Niche.com

RANKINGS
Best Neighborhoods for Young Professionals in Denver: #1 of 73
Best Neighborhoods to Live in Denver: #19 of 73
Best Neighborhoods to Raise a Family in Denver: #25 of 73
Population: 956
Location: 10 minutes northwest of downtown Denver
Housing stock: Some Victorians and bungalows mixed with a healthy dose of contemporary multi-family options
Public schools: Denver Public Schools
Public high school: North High School
Nearest hospital: Denver Health
Nearby park: Jefferson Park
Fun fact: The land on which Jefferson Park sits was once a city dump.