Auraria is Denver’s oldest neighborhood, predating the city itself. Known mostly for the Auraria Higher Education Center, a campus serving three Colorado colleges — CU Denver, MSU, and CCD — the area has a ton to offer in culture, history, and community events:
🍺 Tivoli Brewing Co.: This brewery purports to be the very first in Colorado, with a history that dates back to 1859. Today, the taproom pours pints of signature lagers and ales alongside classic pub fare.
🎢 Elitch Gardens: ‘Tis the season for roller coasters and funnel cakes — you’ll find the best of both at Denver’s historic Elitch Gardens amusement park, set against the iconic city skyline. Plan your visit now, as this may just be one of Elitch’s final seasons at its current Mile High location.
🌳 Confluence Park: Located at the very tip of Auraria’s neighborhood boundaries, Confluence Park is a buzzing hub of activity this time of year where you’ll see biking and strolling on the Cherry Creek and South Platte River trails, picnicking on the lawns, and tubing / kayaking / swimming in the water.
🏠 Ninth Street Historic Park: Take a stroll through a Denver of a different era. This 3-acre park is the oldest restored residential area in the city and holds a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s lined with 14 historic Victorian homes — all built between 1872 and 1906 — as well as university offices, restaurants, and other businesses.
🌮 Los Molinos: Taste a Denver of a different era at this longtime family-owned Mexican staple that’s been dishing up heaping plates of tacos, gorditas, and burritos for nearly four decades.
🎟️ Tivoli Quad: This 4-acre green space is the perfect place to kick back and soak up the sun. Check out the Tivoli Quad calendar for community events, including sports game watch parties and foodie festivals, like the upcoming Burger Battle.
