City Guide / Denver

Denver Neighborhood Guide: Highland

By Bri Hand | Jul 19, 2021
View of Highland neighborhood in Denver, CO.

If you’re planning on moving to Denver, Colorado, you’re likely trying to figure out the best neighborhoods in Denver, and which one would be the right fit for you. Highland isn’t your average residential neighborhood in Denver, Colorado. Bustling with trendy restaurants, shopping, and outdoor activities, Highland offers plenty to explore, no matter if you’re a neighborhood newbie or a seasoned veteran. 

Considering moving to the Highland area? Here’s our guide to the best restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores, outdoor attractions, gyms, nightlife, and transportation in the neighborhood. 

Where to eat in Highland 

Sassafras American Eatery is a true local foodery known for its delicious brunch beverages and Southern comfort food. 

Try out Señor Bear for a unique Latin-inspired restaurant and bar that is named in part after its executive chef Blake Edmunds, aka “Whiskey Bear.” You won’t want to miss this refined Latin American restaurant and its outdoor patio.

A modern and decidedly global take on Israeli cuisine, with ingredients and flavors from across Europe and North Africa, Ash’Kara offers shareable dishes from the restaurant’s wood-fired oven. Try the roasted vegetables, house-made pita and hummus, and any dish cooked in traditional tagine clay pots.

Where to grab drinks in Highland

Zuni Street Brewing Company is a small-batch brewery founded by middle school friends that has grown into a popular neighborhood spot. This bar really reflects the local reverence for the great outdoors. 

The recipes and service at Babe’s Tea Room are heavily rooted in the original owner’s English heritage, but you’ll certainly feel like it’s a fresh take on the traditional tea room. Get ready to raise your pinkies! 

The Juicing Tree, a boutique juicery, presses small, handcrafted batches of raw juice. They even stock their coolers all day long for grab-and-go convenience! 

Where to get coffee in Highland 

From its speakeasy roots to its current status as an open-air coffee house, Black Eye Coffee is a communal gathering place steeped in history. This spot offers a relaxing environment to enjoy a good cup of brew and free Wi-Fi. 

Sapor Coffee & Concepts is a coffee lover’s dream spot and amazing for all things espresso. The coffee here is so good that we even suggest taking some beans to make your own coffee at home.

Check out Swork Coffee for a community-focused cafe with a prolific menu of coffee and tea—and some pretty creative latte art, to boot. 

Where to get groceries in Highland

With four generations of family-run grocery stores and unparalleled customer service and value, Leevers Locavore promises the most unique food-buying experience in the Denver area. You can also check out King Soopers, a well-established chain complete with all things grocery-related (and a bonus Starbucks inside!). 

Consider Max Market Delicatessen your downtown Denver source for groceries, deli sandwiches, coffee, beer, and more. 

Recreation options in Highland

If you’re interested in a full outdoor experience—paddling, snowshoeing, scootering, hiking, etc.—the Denver Outdoor Adventure Company is the place for you. You can also get outdoors at Rail Yard Dog Park, the only off-leash dog park in Denver with lighting, making it a perfect place to take your pooch even if it’s a little dark after work. 

Looking for a gym? TruFusion (9&Co) is a nationally popular boutique fitness franchise that invites you to find your edge with its training, workshops, and group classes taught by trusted professionals. 

Nightlife in Highland

For a night out on the town that’s off the beaten path, head to Occidental, a bar that prides itself on its allegiance to counterculture. Come for the beer and craft cocktails, and stay for the delicious food truck and retro arcade games.

Going out with friends? Check out Howl at the Moon! Not your typical nightclub, this lively venue features dueling pianos and novelty drinks. 

If punk rock and metal are more your style, be sure to check out shows at Summit

Transportation in Highland 

Public transit on the light rail, bus, and train is accessible in Highland, but it’s also a good neighborhood to have a car or rely on rideshare options like Lyft or Uber. Highland has a walkability score of 2.7/10. 

Land in a great apartment in Highland

If you like the idea of moving to Highland in Denver, Landing offers fully furnished apartments with flexible lease terms, concierge services, seamless transfers, and all the amenities you need. Browse our available apartments in Highland here, or contact us to learn more about how Landing works.

Still looking for the right Denver neighborhood for you? Browse our other Denver neighborhood guides, including:

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Bri Hand

Bri Hand is Landing's Content Marketing Manager. She currently lives in Salem, Massachusetts, with her partner and dog, Arlo, but relishes any opportunity she can to travel so she can try new foods, see gorgeous sights, and daydream about living somewhere new after visiting there for less than 24 hours.