An Oasis in the City

Denver’s University Hills neighborhood, bounded by Colorado Boulevard, Hampden Avenue and I-25, has always felt like an oasis of solitude. Bonus: it offers easy access to nearby restaurants, groceries, theaters, retail stores, parks and all the great things Denver has to offer. Centrally located, the area offers residents easy access I-25  light rail stations at Colorado Boulevard and Yale Avenue to get anywhere in the metro area.

Mid-Century Modern Ranches

University Hills was originally annexed into the City of Denver and developed in the 1950s, and people who live here continue to enjoy its mid-century modern ranch-style homes, a look that’s regained popularity and has been used in new construction. Like central Denver’s bungalows, the neighborhood’s style gives the area a special character and charm. 

The University Hills neighborhood is thriving with both new and old homes active on the real estate market. Developers have recognized the draw of the area and have introduced new building projects, including the Observatory Row homes with luxury amenities and Dickenson Place, a cul-de-sac of new semi-custom “mid-century modern” homes.

Community Perks

Along with its inviting architecture and well-kept lawns, the neighborhood has an almost rural feel because of its winding streets, meandering highline canal and the Mamie Dowd Eisenhower Park. It’s hard to believe it’s practically in the heart of the city—residents are frequently seen strolling, jogging or biking in the area. The Eisenhower Rec Center has a fitness center, a swimming pool and offers myriad classes from tai chi to painting. The Ross-University Hills Branch of the Denver Public Library is also in the neighborhood and offers several community events in addition to regular library services. The neighborhood is also home to several excellent schools, including Denver Academy, Bradley International School, the Rise School of Denver and the Cherry Creek School District.

Shopping Centers

Along Colorado Boulevard are University Hills Plaza and University Hills South Shopping centers. The Landmark Chez Artiste theater screens independent and foreign films. Residents also have most of their shopping needs right at their fingertips, with a King Soopers and a Sprouts at University Hills, Denver’s only Total Beverage and a Natural Grocers at Evans and Colorado and a United Artists Theater and IMAX at the Colorado Station complex.

Dining Gems

University Hills residents don’t have to go far to enjoy top-notch eateries. Poppies, a classic diner, serves American and Mexican favorites. Colorado Boulevard is lined with

ethnic restaurants featuring Mediterranean, Indian and Salvadoran cuisine. Some popular options include Kiki’s, Kokoro, Marrakech Grill, Baghdad Restaurant, Damascus Grill and Pupusas Lover.

University Hills is truly a classic Denver neighborhood, with a character and charm that took decades to establish. Today, the neighborhood is being “rediscovered” as a desirable place to live a Colorado lifestyle.

Paul Suter is a media consultant and freelance writer based in Denver (www.sutermediarelations.com).