The Most Picturesque Neighborhoods in Colorado

An amazing review of some of the best neighborhoods in Colorado. One of prettiest states in the union, Colorado neighborhoods offer some of the best places to live, work and play.

Colorado

When you hear the name, it seems to immediately conjure images of John Denver, the old west, breathtaking scenery, and winter sports.  Instantly nostalgic, and at once a safe harbor to every adventuring soul that should happen this way, Colorado is home to some of the nation’s most picturesque neighborhoods.

It’s no wonder, Colorado and the rocky mountain range has seen some exponential growth over the last couple of decades, so if you are looking for the best place to live in Colorado, and you’re a sucker for scenery it helps to have a little insider information on where to buy your home in 2022. 

I moved to Denver in ‘95 and met my wife there a year later while she was attending DU Law. Ever since I’ve had a soft spot for the big, little town that provided my first awakening. A seeming overgrown resort town, show-stopping Denver has something for everyone. Let’s look at a few of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Colorado, and the best places to buy.

Related: Colorado Housing Forcast

Denver

1. When I think of the best places to buy a home in Denver, the first neighborhood that jumps out is Washington Park. Named for the amazing green space that is its central hub. The park is peppered with quaint cafes, sports bars, and eateries, many with alfresco options that leave you begging to stay. Popular with the Denver community who love to get outside, the view is nothing short of a classic. Washington Park was influenced in part by the famous philanthropist from the Titanic “unsinkable” Molly Brown in the late 1800s. With magnificent old-growth trees, a beautifully grand boathouse that sits watch over Smith Lake, and a 2.25-mile loop that encircles the park, Washington Park is a setting of peace and respite. Schools in the neighborhood are above average for the state, and most of the families and young professionals that call Wash Park home, own their own houses, providing a classic suburban feel mere moments from downtown. With its central location, price points are on the high end. The average home price in Washington Park is around 685K.
2. For a decidedly more urban feel, the neighborhood of Cherry Creek borders beautiful Washington Park on the northeast side. Filled to the brim with amazing shopping opportunities, galleries, and hip restaurants, Cherry Creek is a great neighborhood for locals and visitors alike. Residential housing is nestled right up close with a mixture of modern and classic architecture that never leaves you wanting for a beautiful setting. Plenty of bus routes, b-cycle stations, proximity to everything make Cherry Creek highly desirable to empty nesters. Pricing is a bit on the steep side, but here, you get the scenery you pay for.

Related: Buying vs Renting

Boulder

Nestled at the base of boulder canyon with its lush mountain scenery, over 140 miles of trails and a commanding view of the flatirons, it’s easy to see why Boulder is home to some of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Colorado. From the fun of Pearl Street to “the hill” Boulder has something for everyone.

1. The Chautauqua Neighborhood or “the hill” as it is known to the locals offers a view of the city and its charm. The streets are lined with gorgeous Victorians and massive trees providing a sense of serene calm.  Several trailheads that start in this neighborhood, bring outdoor adventure right to your doorstep. Chautauqua is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Boulder and home to the University of Colorado. Chautauqua has a diverse makeup, and while many homes here sell for over a million, there are many condo and townhome opportunities on tree-lined streets with ready access to open space.
2. Gunbarrel is an amazing area known for its hiking opportunities and wetland scenery. True diamonds among several local gems, Sawhill Ponds Wildlife area, and White Rocks Trailhead find their home in Gunbarrel.  However, hiking and fishing aren’t the only things worth a look in this tapestry neighborhood. Gunbarrel Brewery finds its place here nestled among several other craft breweries and unique eateries. The schools are great, it’s dog-friendly, and price points are a little more accessible than other areas in Boulder. All of this, and a view?

Colorado Springs

No wonder the Air Force Academy calls Colorado Springs. It’s home, this place screams Americana. Jaw-dropping views of Pike’s Peak, the Garden of the Gods and other natural treasures combined with cherished values and progressive access make Colorado Springs one of the best places to buy a home in 2022.

1. Old North End; an easy go-to for one of the most charming neighborhoods in the state, and maybe even the country.  A historic district with streets populated by hundred-year-old trees and lovingly restored antique homes that have sweeping front porches take you back to a place you may have never been before but always wanted to visit. Price points are higher here than in other sections of the city, but you won’t find a more picturesque place to live.
2. Old Colorado City is a very near neighbor to the Old North End and boasts a lot of the same quintessential beauty and charm. Add to the tree-lined streets one of the best farmer’s markets in Colorado, 19th-century architecture, quaint shops, museums, and cafes and you have found Old Colorado City.

Colorado Mortgage Rates Apr, 25, Thu, 2024

Not neighborhoods, but small towns, ski towns!

Crested Butte

Nestled high in the Rockies, Crested Butte is one of the most beautiful small towns in Colorado. At its beginnings a poor coal-mining town, Crested Butte became a ski-town in the 60s and now boasts some of the most gorgeous and expensive real-estate in the country. Otherworld beauty surrounds this historic town. Most of the town is a designated historic area, so any new construction must conform with historic standards. Crested Butte draws most of its income from tourists during what is known as the high season, but folks who live here year-round will find it very quiet most of the time.

Telluride

Another small mining town that emerged from the Victorian era, Telluride worked in silver and gold, and grew slowly at first, eventually taking on all the earmarks of a young boomtown in its earliest days. Telluride grew quickly and began establishing itself with every comfort, even touting a famous Opera house. Today, Telluride is the County Seat of San Miguel County and home to the most extravagant views mother nature can provide. Of course, pricing in Telluride will be close to the top of the list, but a premium must be paid for paradise at your door.

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The Simple Truth

No matter where you purchase your next Colorado home you are sure to enjoy the view. Be ready to get out and enjoy yourself! Colorado has this kind of contagious energy, maybe it’s the frontier spirit that started it all in the first place.

Need a Mortgage in CO?

Looking for the best neighborhood in town? Or have more questions about your Colorado home purchase? Let the mortgage professionals at Sammamish Mortgage guide you. Family owned and operated since 1992 in the Pacific NW, we know what you value. Let us help you understand the ins and outs of home financing and more. Sammamish Mortgage offers a variety of mortgage programs including FHA and VA mortgages. Regardless of your situation, we can guide you through the process. If you have questions about securing a mortgage in Colorado, or would like a rate quote, please contact our friendly staff. We look forward to serving you.